Other Procedures
Our highly experienced staff works hard to ensure patient comfort and
privacy during the many procedures we perform at the Digestive Health
Center. The most common procedures carried out at the center are
colonoscopies and gastroscopies.
- Gastroscopy procedure shows the inside of the esophagus (food tube), stomach and the first section of the intestine.
- Bronchoscopy procedure allows the physician to look directly at the passageways of the lung for evaluation.
Cool tools
We strive to obtain the most advanced technology for finding and treating digestive problems. Here are just a few examples:
Motility and pH studies
Measures the movement of the gastrointestinal tract, searches for the
cause of acid reflux or heartburn. St. Luke's performs the most studies
in Cedar Rapids.
Bravo pH testing
The first catheter-free pH monitoring system for those with chronic
heartburn. Patients maintain their regular diet and activities without
the embarrassment and discomfort associated with the traditional
catheter system, which is inserted through the nose.
Swallow a camera?
St. Luke's is the first in Cedar Rapids to offer capsule endoscopy.
The patient swallows a tiny camera encased in a capsule that travels
through the digestive tract. This remarkable little camera records color
images to a small device, worn at the waist. The patient continues with
daily activities throughout the exam.
After several hours, the images are downloaded to a computer for
evaluation by the doctor. The capsule is naturally excreted and not
recovered. This technology enables the doctor to view areas where X-rays
often give inadequate results.
Sorry, it doesn't replace colonoscopy. But it does go where no other
scope can reach to find ulcers, small vessel bleeds and help doctors
diagnose Crohn's disease and other diseases of the small intestine.