Gastroenterology
For more information or to request an appointment, call (660) 263-0524
From diagnostic procedures to treatment services, Moberly Gastroenterology offers a range of care for digestive health. The gastroenterologist has the training and knowledge to treat everything from ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome to colorectal and stomach cancers.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an internal examination of the colon (large intestine) and rectum, using a thin, flexible tube with a camera called a colonoscope. The doctor uses a video monitor to look for abnormalities such as ulcers, polyps, tumors or areas of inflammation or bleeding. If any irregularities are found, they can be biopsied or removed. A colonoscopy is able to detect early problems that could lead to colon cancer. It is the preferred test to detect and treat colon cancer, while other screening tests can detect colon cancer with further follow up treatment as required.
This procedure is nothing to feel embarrassed about. Before the procedure, your physician may give you a mild sedative to keep you comfortable so that you do not feel any pain. In some cases, a stronger sedative may be used so that you can be asleep during the procedure. Complications are rare with colonoscopy procedures. However, as with any medical procedure, it is important to be aware of potential complications no matter how small the risk. You should call your doctor immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain; a firm, bloated abdomen; vomiting; fever; or bleeding following a colonoscopy.
When Should You Be Screened?
If your doctor recommends screening for colorectal cancer, it does not necessarily mean that you have colorectal cancer.
A screening is meant to identify precancerous polyps so that they can be biopsied or removed before they turn into cancer. Recommended screenings can also identify early stages of colorectal cancer, allowing you to begin treatment early on when it has the highest success rate.
How Healthy Choices Can Help You Avoid Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the United States, though it is one of the most preventable. Each year, 140,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer, and more than a million people have a history of colon cancer. These are certainly concerning statistics, but there is good news. By making healthier choices, such as eating lots of fruits and vegetables and limiting consumption of red meat, many colon cancer cases can be prevented. By taking charge of your health, you can lower your risk of colon cancer. These healthy choices should help to ensure that you will be around for all of life's greatest moments.
The American Cancer Society recommends both men and women at average risk of colorectal cancer should begin receiving a colonoscopy every 10 years at age 50. But you should talk with your doctor about your own health and your family history so that you can choose the best screening for you.
We offer diagnostic techniques, including imaging technology and a range of endoscopic procedures, and treatment options for a wide range of digestive disorders and procedures, including:
- EGD
- Colonoscopy
- Balloon dilation
- Variceal banding
- PEG tube placement
- Foreign body retrieval
- Treatment of acute GI bleeding
Providers