Elevating the boundaries of Gastro care.
Aster’s Medical Gastroenterology Centre possesses modern state-of-the-art equipment backed by advanced intensive care units. Equipped with a high-tech diagnosis facility to provide excellent diagnostics of diseases of the digestive and hepatobiliary systems in children and adults, our gastroenterology specialists offer expert care in a complete range of Gastroenterology.
Gastroenterology specialists at Aster Hospitals provide global clinical services in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the digestive tract and liver. Our gastroenterologists investigate and manage complex and chronic gastrointestinal, pancreatic, liver, and biliary disorders.
The centre ensures that the most modern infrastructure supported by world-class technology is made available for our physicians to assist them in their pursuit of excellence in medical care.
Aster Hospitals is known for its multidisciplinary collaborations that pair India’s leading experts to provide world-class and effective gastro care.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
The Department of Gastroenterology offers outpatient and inpatient consultations. Our Gastroenterologists perform comprehensive evaluations to diagnose various gastrointestinal disorders. assess patients' medical history, perform physical examinations, and order appropriate diagnostic tests such as laboratory tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans), endoscopic procedures (such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or enteroscopy), or other specialized tests to determine the underlying cause of symptoms.
Recognizing the critical role of diet in gastrointestinal health, our registered dieticians provide comprehensive nutritional assessments for our patients. Nutritional assessment and counseling are essential components of our gastroenterology care. Our dieticians help in identifying malnutrition, planning appropriate dietary interventions, managing symptoms, supporting treatment and recovery, preventing complications and monitoring treatment response. By addressing nutritional needs, our dieticians optimize patient outcomes and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with gastrointestinal disorders.
Therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a specialized procedure used in gastroenterology for therapeutic purposes. It combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to visualize and guide interventions within the gastrointestinal tract and adjacent organs. Therapeutic EUS enables the drainage of fluid collections, placement of drainage stents, injection of therapeutic agents, delivery of radiofrequency ablation for tumor treatment, and sampling of deep tissue lesions. It provides a minimally invasive approach for targeted interventions, aiding in the management of pancreaticobiliary disorders, gastrointestinal tumors, and other complex gastrointestinal conditions. We can also diagnose and treat conditions such as draining cysts, celiac plexus block for pain management in chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer and place stents in the bile or pancreatic ducts, and EUS-guided gastrojejunostomy.
Therapeutic endoscopy refers to a set of minimally invasive procedures performed using a colonoscope to treat various gastrointestinal conditions. It involves interventions such as removing polyps or tumors, dilating strictures, placing stents, treating bleeding lesions, and delivering targeted therapies. Therapeutic endoscopy offers a less invasive alternative to surgery, allowing for precise and effective treatment while minimizing patient discomfort and recovery time. It plays a crucial role in managing a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders and improving patient outcomes.
This covers a range of procedures, such as polypectomy (removal of polyps), endoscopic dilation (stretching of a narrowed area), variceal band ligation, hemostasis (stopping bleeding) for ulcer bleeds, esophageal and duodenal stenting, helping treatment of many GI disorders without the need for invasive surgery.
FibroScan is a valuable tool for assessing liver fibrosis, typically used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory evaluations to provide a comprehensive assessment of liver health. The results of FibroScan, along with additional tests and patient history, help gastroenterologists and hepatologists in diagnosing liver diseases, monitoring disease progression, and determining appropriate treatment strategies.
The FibroScan procedure involves the use of a specialized ultrasound probe to measure liver stiffness. The patient lies on a table, and the probe is placed on the skin surface over the liver. The probe sends a vibration through the liver, and the resulting shear wave speed is measured. The liver stiffness is then calculated based on the speed of the shear waves, which correlates with the degree of fibrosis.
It's primarily used to assess the presence and extent of liver fibrosis, a condition often associated with hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver, and chronic liver diseases (cirrhosis of the liver).
It is a non-invasive, quick, convenient, and repeatable procedure that reduces the need for Liver Biopsy.
This diagnostic procedure combines endoscopy and ultrasound to obtain detailed images and information about the digestive tract and the surrounding tissue and organs. It involves the insertion of an endoscope equipped with an ultrasound probe through the mouth or rectum, providing high-resolution images of the digestive tract wall layers and surrounding structures. It is used for various indications, including diagnosing bile duct stones, bile duct strictures, chronic pancreatitis, evaluating gastrointestinal cancers, evaluating pancreatic lesions, guiding fine-needle aspirations for tissue sampling, and assisting in the placement of drainage devices. It is also used to obtain tissue biopsy from the abdomen and mediastinum(chest) for diagnosis (histological examination).
ERCP combines endoscopy with fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile ducts and pancreas including bile duct stones, strictures (Narrowing), leaks, and cancer. It involves the insertion of an endoscope through the mouth, passing through the stomach and duodenum to access the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. ERCP is used to remove obstructions and perform interventions such as stent placement or tissue sampling in cases of biliary or pancreatic diseases.
It is a non-invasive procedure that involves swallowing a small capsule containing a camera to capture images of your digestive tract, particularly the small intestine. It's typically used to diagnose lesions located in the small intestine that are not accessible to conventional endoscopy. This procedure is beneficial because it does not require surgery or anesthesia, and it is a less invasive way to diagnose diseases and abnormalities of the digestive tract. Furthermore, the images captured by the camera allow for a more accurate diagnosis.
It is primarily used for colorectal examination. It involves the insertion of an endoscope through the rectum to visualize the entire colon and rectum. It allows direct visualization and sampling of tissues (biopsies) for further analysis. This involves examining the large intestine for abnormalities like hemorrhoids (Piles), anal fissures, polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases (Ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s), intestinal tuberculosis, cancer, etc. A colonoscopy also allows for the biopsy or removal of suspicious lesions and is a crucial tool in colon cancer screening and prevention.
Also known as Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) involves the insertion of an endoscope through the mouth for internal examination. It is commonly used to evaluate symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained weight
UGI Endoscopy
Colonoscopy
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Enteroscopy
Liver Biopsy
Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS)
Sigmoidoscopy
Side Viewing Endoscopy
- UGI Endoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- Enteroscopy
- Liver Biopsy
- Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS)
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Side Viewing Endoscopy.
Endoscopic Ultrasound EUS
For CBD stones, mediastinal node, pancreatic biliary cancer cytology and biopsy
Endoscopy
a. Facilities
Endoscopy suites with dedicated recovery area.
High definition endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound system.
Dedicated high resolution fluoroscopy unit.
Digital spyglass and laser system.
Paediatric endoscopy, colonoscopy, ERCP
Automated endoscope disinfection and reprocessing unit.
b. Diagnostic endoscopy
Including magnification NBI for early cancer
Enteroscopy, EHS and paediatric endoscopy
c. Therapeutic endoscopy
For bleeding, foreign body impaction, bile duct stones and treatment of early cancer
Manometry and PH
Oesophageal, anorectal, pH-impedance and biofeedback.
Breath Testing
Hydrogen and urea breath test
Multidisciplinary care
The department of gastroenterology is an integral part of the multi-disciplinary teams which includes GI and oncosurgery, GI and interventional radiology, Hepatopancreaticobiliary care, liver transplant and GI pathology which are involved in the management of complex gastroenterology conditions.
The unit provides round-the clock clinical services (outpatient, inpatient and emergency) in managing GI and liver diseases, in both adult and paediatric.
Some of the best technologies in the hospital includes:
Kerala’s third Da Vinci surgery robot
Highly advanced infection control HEPA filters to remove air borne particles
Highly advanced diagnostic equipment to detect and diagnose various liver conditions.
Upper GI and Lower GI Endoscopy (Diagnostic & Therapeutic)
ERCP
Capsule Endoscopy
Double Balloon Enteroscopy
Endoscopic Ultrasound- Diagnostic & Therapeutic
Oesophageal and Anorectal Manometry
24 hr GI Bleed Care
Liver Clinic- for patients with Liver & Gall Bladder diseases
IBD Clinic- Special care for ulcerative colitis &Crohn’s diseases
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
What should I bring to my appointment?
On your first visit, you should bring all your previous medical records, a list of medications (including dose), previous prescriptions if any related to the problem, an insurance card, and any valid Identity proof. You can also create a list of questions you'd like to ask during your visit. Make sure you jot down the physician's response. You should also bring cash, check, or credit/debit card to cover any visit co-payments.
When I visit a Gastroenterologist for the first time what should I expect?
Your doctor will study your files along with previous test reports to evaluate and diagnose your problem. If required the doctor may prescribe further diagnostic and blood tests for appropriate diagnosis and a plan for your medical treatment accordingly.
What problems can a gastroenterologist treat?
A gastroenterologist treats, diagnoses, and manages conditions of the gastrointestinal system as well as digestive organs. This includes everything from the esophagus and stomach to the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
What is fatty liver? What leads to this problem?
fatty liver is the condition of accumulation of fat in liver. It can lead to inflammation in the liver and eventually lead to a variety of health problems. The Fatty lever is generally associated with many lifestyle factors. The most common cause is obesity, as well as excess alcohol consumption, diabetes, and high cholesterol. An unhealthy diet may also play a role in the development of fatty liver, as well as certain medications and certain medical conditions.
Why do I need to see a Gastroenterologist?
If you have complaints related to the digestive system such as frequent abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or heartburn for a prolonged time you might need to visit a Gastroenterologist. Also, If you are 45 years or older and have a family history of GI cancer it is advisable to seek frequent checkups from a gastroenterologist.
How can I prevent colon cancer?
To improve your health and reduce your risk of colon cancer, you can make several easy lifestyle changes, such as limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
What are the first signs of liver damage from alcohol?
Alcohol abuse is linked to many health problems, including liver damage. The signs of liver damage from alcohol include elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, ascites, and swelling in the abdomen.
In more advanced stages of liver damage from alcohol, the liver can become significantly enlarged and tender. This is known as hepatomegaly. Additionally, fibrosis, or scarring of the liver, can occur and lead to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver is permanently damaged and can no longer function properly.
What is the difference between endoscopy and colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the entire large intestine from the rectum to the cecum. During the procedure, a doctor will look for any abnormalities, such as polyps, ulcers, or tumors. The procedure can also be used to diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or diverticulitis.
An endoscopy, on the other hand, is a procedure that examines the entire digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Unlike a colonoscopy, endoscopies are often used to diagnose or treat conditions of the stomach, such as ulcers, blockages, or cancers. Endoscopies can also be used to identify any problems in the small intestine, including Crohn's disease and celiac disease.
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