Special Procedures

Special Procedures Offered:

Capsule Endoscopy

Patient care is further enhanced in our practice by an innovative procedure, the Capsule Endoscopy, a less invasive test that is helpful in detecting the site of unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding. Dr. Mark Allen was the first physician to perform Capsule Endoscopy in this area when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the procedure in August 2001.

PillCam ESO Capsule Endoscopy

The PillCam ESO capsule offers a simple, safe and less invasive alternative to the traditional endoscopy. The camera capsule is about the size of a multi-vitamin and is easily swallowed. It travels through the entire length of the esophagus. The images captured during the procedure may identify abnormalities such as inflammation of the lining of the esophagus.

H. pylori Breath Test (Urea Breath Test)

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach and upper part of the small intestine (duodenum) causing ulcers or inflammation of the stomach lining. The H. pylori breath test provides a safe, non-invasive method for detecting an active H. pylori infection.

Hydrogen Breath Test

The hydrogen breath test is a test that uses the measurement of hydrogen in the breath to identify lactose or an abnormal growth of bacteria in the intestine. Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. An abnormal growth of bacteria can result from slow transit of food through the bowels. Both conditions can cause a variety of symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, gas, and diarrhea.