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Gastroenterology Services > Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett's
Esophagus
The
gastroenterology program at Loyola University Health
System (Loyola) treats Barrett’s esophagus, a condition
that can be a precursor to an increasingly common type
of esophageal cancer. Loyola’s gastroenterology specialists
have been involved in research into the causes of and
treatments for this condition. Their research has resulted
in a range of treatment options.
Barrett's
esophagus is a condition in which the normal membrane
that covers the esophagus from the inside (squamous
mucosa) is replaced by different type of membrane, called
a columnar epithelium. This likely happens as a result
of chronic gastroesophageal reflux. This is a concern
because it is related to an increased risk for developing
cancer in this type of membrane.
Your physician may require
that you have an endoscopy to positively diagnose Barrett’s
esophagus. A thin flexible tube will be put down your
esophagus; this allows your physician to view the tissue
of your esophagus. A
biopsy, where tissue samples are taken of your esophagus
and sent to a lab for tests, also may be done.
If you are
diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, your doctor may
recommend one of the treatments below, depending on
the stage and severity of your condition.
Lifestyle
changes
Lifestyle changes are designed to control the gastroesophageal
reflux disease (GERD) that can lead to Barrett’s esophagus.
These changes are meant to keep your condition from
getting any worse. Recommendations may include that
you:
- Avoid foods and activities
that often trigger GERD
- Eat small meals more
often
- Elevate the head of
the bed
- Lose weight
- Monitor your caffeine
and fat intake
- Sit straight up during
and after eating
- Stop
smoking
Medication
Your doctor may prescribe
medications to help you reduce stomach acid. This may
be done in conjunction with lifestyle changes or as
a secondary treatment. You also may be prescribed medication
to heal any sores in your esophagus.
Medication
to reduce stomach acid is a common treatment if you
have Barrett’s esophagus. Medications do not cure
the disease but help keep it in check. Barrett’s
esophagus with what is called a high grade dysplasia
is considered highly precancerous and requires additional
treatment beyond medication.
Surgery
If your Barrett's esophagus is severe or is not controlled
by medication, your doctor may recommend surgery. Your
surgeon will review your case and make an individualized
recommendation for the most appropriate procedure. Among
the types of procedures we perform for this condition
are:
- Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a procedure
that involves removing the diseased part of the esophagus
through an endoscope using various devices. The procedure,
which spares the removal of your esophagus, can be
done on an outpatient basis. In most cases, you may
return to your normal activities the next day.
- Radiofrequency ablation
involves placing an electrode directly on the diseased
tissue in the esophagus. The electrode destroys the
disease using heat. Several sessions of ablation may
be needed before the Barrett's esophagus is completely gone.
This is an outpatient procedure. Some patients experience
minor chest pain the first week following the procedure,
but this is managed with prescription medication.
Surgery is performed if the endoscopic treatments are
not possible, are not recommended or may be ineffective
for your particular situation.
- Esophagectomy is a major surgery in which part of
the esophagus is removed. The remaining part may be
connected directly to the stomach so that you can
swallow. This is a significant surgery that will cause
permanent lifestyle changes. It is reserved for patients
with invasive esophageal cancer and some patients
with severe reflux disease.
Locations
and Contacts
A full spectrum of gastroenterology services is available
in Maywood at:
Loyola
University Hospital
Loyola
Outpatient Center
If
you would like to make an appointment or need assistance
to find an appropriate physician, please call us at
(888) LUHS-888.
Director
Jack
Leya, MD
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