Gastroenterology

Holland Hospital’s Gastroenterology Department cares for patients with digestive disorders of the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas and esophagus. Our highly skilled specialists diagnose and treat a number of conditions, including Crohn’s disease, peptic ulcers, intestinal polyps or tumors, gastrointestinal bleeding, acid reflux disease (GERD), acute pancreatitis, cholangitis and celiac disease.

The Hospital’s state-of-the-art facility is equipped with sophisticated endoscopic technology to perform a variety of tests, including:

• colonoscopies

• upper intestinal endoscopies

• gastroscopies

• pH and manometry tests

• small bowel exams

Endoscopy uses a flexible, lighted fiber optic or video endoscope to visually examine the digestive system from the esophagus to the colon. Detailed images from the procedure help physicians identify tumors, polyps, ulcers and other irregularities. This procedure also is used to remove polyps and gall stones, obtain biopsies, and perform esophageal dilatation or banding.

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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Recently, Holland Hospital enhanced its capability to more precisely diagnose the cause of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) with the use of the new Bravo pH monitoring system. Often confused with heartburn, GERD can become a serious condition if untreated.

The Bravo system uses a transmitter and receiver to collect information on acid reflux. Using a catheter, a small capsule is attached to the esophagus wall. The capsule records information on the amount of acid produced by the stomach that flows back to the esophagus, and transmits this data to a receiver worn by the patient. Data from the device along with a journal kept by the patient help gastroenterologists chart the best course of treatment.

New Endoscopy Center

The Endoscopy Center helps diagnose and treat a variety of diseases and disorders. Visit the new Endoscopy page for more information.

Digestive Disorders Feature Story

Simple Treatments May Still Help Irritable Bowel

Some find success for hard-to-treat symptoms with traditional therapies

Traditional, old-line treatments -- including peppermint oil and fiber -- might be better than new, high-priced drugs for treating irritable bowel syndrome. full story»