Digestive Health

Do you suffer from frequent heartburn after eating?

You may be experiencing acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), conditions involving stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus. Our treatment may include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, and in some cases, prescription medications or surgery.

Do you have sharp pain in your upper right or center abdomen?

You may have gallstones, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder that can cause significant pain and other symptoms if they block the flow of bile. The typical treatment for gallstones is surgery to remove the gallbladder (known as a cholecystectomy) to prevent future issues. In some cases, nonsurgical options like medication or procedures like lithotripsy may be considered, particularly for smaller stones or if surgery isn't an option.

Do you have upper abdominal pain?

You may have Peptic Ulcer Disease, a condition where ulcers, or open sores, develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. Treatment for this disease is usually a combination of medications to reduce gastric acid and help protect and repair your tissues. You’ll also need antibiotics if you have an infection. It’s important to eliminate the underlying cause of your ulcer.

Do you feel bloated, have diarrhea or constipation?

You may be suffering from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or various types of IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease), both long-term conditions affecting the digestive system. With IBS, treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and medications to manage symptoms. With IBD – which includes Chron’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis –treatment might include medications to reduce inflammation, surgery to remove damaged sections of the gut, and other treatments to manage symptoms.

The surgeons at Southwestern Medical Center are leaders in the use of minimally invasive surgery, including the use of robotic surgery, which means smaller incision size, less pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery times for our patients.

Laparoscopy 

One of the first types of minimally invasive surgery was laparoscopy. This type of surgery is done through small incisions using small tubes and tiny cameras. Continual innovations of minimally invasive surgery make it beneficial for people with all types of conditions. Ask your provider if you think you might be a candidate.

Robotic Surgery 

Robotic Surgery is designed to provide surgeons with enhanced capabilities, including high-definition 3D vision, and a magnified view. Though it is called robotic surgery, the machine cannot act on its own: Instead, the surgery is performed entirely by your doctor.