Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is the study of the structure, functions, diseases, and pathology of the digestive system. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat conditions related to the intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and stomach.

The most common procedures performed by physicians at Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital – Sherman are colonoscopies and endoscopies.

  • What is a colonoscopy?

    A colonoscopy procedure enables your doctor to examine the lining of your colon (large intestine) for abnormalities by inserting a flexible tube into the rectum and slowly advancing it through the colon. A colonoscopy is well-tolerated, and you are asleep throughout the procedure.

    The American Cancer Society recently changed their recommended age for first colon screening for average-risk patients from 50 to 45. This change was made, in large part, because of the rise in colorectal incidence rates in a younger population over the last few years.

    A colonoscopy is recommended for everyone age 45 or above. Polyps are known to develop by this time.

    Polyps are abnormal growths in the colon lining that are usually benign and non-cancerous. They vary in size from a tiny dot to several inches. Your doctor will send removed polyps for analysis because he or she cannot always tell a benign polyp from a malignant (cancerous) polyp by its outer appearance. Because cancer begins in polyps, removing them is an important and effective means of preventing colorectal cancer.

    If you have a family history of polyps or colon cancer, or you are experiencing blood in your stool, problems with digestion or abdominal pain, you may need a colonoscopy before age 50.

  • Your colonoscopy:

    You will lie on your side, be sedated, and your doctor will slowly advance a colonoscope through your large intestine to examine the lining. Your doctor will examine the lining again as he or she slowly withdraws the colonoscope. The procedure itself usually takes 15 to 60 minutes, although you should plan on two to three hours for the admission process, preparation and recovery.

    After a colonoscopy, your physician will explain the results of the examination to you, a family member or your designated representative. Because you have been sedated during the procedure, someone must drive you home and stay with you. Even if you feel alert, your judgment and reflexes could be impaired for the rest of the day.

  • Direct Screen Colonoscopy Program™

    Screening for Colon Cancer Saves Lives!

    Did you know screening for colon cancer is one of the most important things you can do for yourself? Colorectal cancer is typically asymptomatic until it reaches late stages and has a high cure rate IF caught early with a colonoscopy screening. Screening is highly recommended after the age of 45 and MOST INSURANCE PLANS WILL COVER THIS SERVICE AT 100%.

    Our Direct Screen Colonoscopy Program™ offers a simple solution to your preventative care needs by eliminating an unnecessary office visit. We schedule you direct through Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital – Sherman with one of our Board Certified Physicians.

    At Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital – Sherman, we have made scheduling your colonoscopy screening easy: simply call 903-813-3761. This call could save your life.