Gastroenterology
Gastroenterologists focus on the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and digestive system, including a range of organs starting at the mouth and ending at the rectum.
Gastroenterologists in Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Our team of physicians specializes in diagnosing and treating common and complex gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.
HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital offers various solutions — including minimally invasive surgery — to help relieve your symptoms and restore your quality of life. From diagnostic imaging and testing to advanced treatment options, our gastrointestinal services allow your doctor to customize your plan for your specific needs.
Our gastrointestinal treatments and services
Our gastroenterologists offer comprehensive care for patients experiencing conditions of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver.
Gastrointestinal imaging
We use imaging procedures to pinpoint the source of any abnormalities in your digestive tract. Testing our team offers includes:
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
- Esophageal endoscopy
- EUS-guided fine needle aspiration
GI imaging preparation
Before you undergo a GI procedure, you need to follow specific bowel prep instructions. Following these instructions help ensure your doctor can clearly see your digestive tract. Not following the instructions may require us to reschedule your procedure. Please check with your doctor in advance to get the instructions for your specific procedure and let them know what questions you have.
Digestive health procedures
Our gastroenterologists perform various procedures, including:
- Endoscopic mucosal resection
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease anti-reflux surgery
- Infliximab (medication to treat autoimmune disease) administration
- Polyp removal
Gallbladder surgery
We treat all gallbladder conditions, with treatment depending on your specific issue. Our team may recommend lifestyle modifications or medications to control your symptoms.
If you have a gallbladder attack or a more severe condition, your doctor may suggest removing your gallbladder. Gallbladder removal surgery is known as a cholecystectomy. It may be performed as an open surgery (through one large incision) or as a minimally invasive surgery (through a few small incisions). Talk to your doctor about whether you are a candidate for minimally invasive gallbladder surgery.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) surgery
GERD, also called acid reflux, occurs when acid and/or contents from the stomach frequently back up into the esophagus. This often leads to heartburn.
If your GERD symptoms are severe and cannot be resolved with medicine or lifestyle changes, your doctor may suggest surgery. In many cases, surgery can lead to long-term control of acid reflux. The surgery to treat GERD is called Nissen fundoplication.
During this surgical procedure, your doctor wraps the upper curve of your stomach (fundus) around the esophagus. Your surgeon then stitches the fundus into place. This strengthens the valve between your esophagus and stomach, stopping acid from rising into the esophagus as easily.
Hernia repair
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of your stomach pushes up into your diaphragm muscle. If you have a hernia and your doctor suggests surgery, it can be done using open surgery or minimally invasive surgery. During hernia surgery, the weak tissue is secured and any holes are closed.
If minimally invasive surgery is an option for you, ask your doctor about robotic surgery.