GI Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment

Advancing GI medical care with technology and expertise

At the Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion, we are at the forefront of gastrointestinal (GI) medical care, combining cutting-edge technology with the expertise of our highly skilled physicians and staff. Our commitment to innovation allows us to provide accurate diagnostics and effective treatments, offering hope and better results for patients with complex GI conditions. By integrating advanced imaging systems and non-invasive procedures, we are setting new standards in colorectal, gallbladder, stomach liver, esophageal and other GI cancers.

Aloka GI combines imaging technologies for accurate diagnostics

Due to the complexity of the disease's location, diagnosis can be challenging for patients with gastrointestinal (GI) conditions—including the pancreas, bile duct, liver, spleen, and gallbladder. Accurate detection of GI cancers is essential for creating the right treatment plans for our patients. We have invested in many of the technologies to achieve this goal and clear the path for recovery.

St. Joseph's/Candler physicians utilize the Aloka GI System to enhance diagnostic precision. Traditionally, ultrasounds served as the primary method for detecting tumors and other growths in the GI system. The Aloka GI System combines ultrasound with endoscopic technology, providing live, high-resolution images of internal organs in real-time for the most exact diagnosis.

Spyglass Direct Visualization System: Advanced diagnosis without surgery

Understanding the root cause of gallbladder, pancreas, or bile duct disease symptoms is critical. The Spyglass Direct Visualization System provides cutting-edge technology that reduces the need for risky surgery in diagnosing these conditions.

Equipped with a 6,000-pixel fiber-optic probe, the Spyglass system delivers real-time images of the pancreaticobiliary system and assists with biopsy procedures. Older diagnostic methods relied on X-rays or radiographs, which only produced 2D black-and-white images. In contrast, the Spyglass system is the only technology globally that provides live, full-color visualization of these organs without the need for X-ray imaging.

HALO Ablation Catheter: Advanced treatment for Barrett’s esophagus

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may experience symptoms such as heartburn and chest pain, as well as an increased risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus. This condition, affecting approximately three million Americans, occurs when the lining of the esophagus changes due to damage from GERD. Barrett’s esophagus significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer.

In the past, patients with high-grade dysplasia (a pre-cancerous condition) often required esophagus removal. St. Joseph's/Candler now offers a less invasive option: the HALO Ablation Catheter. This innovative treatment uses precise heat energy to eliminate diseased tissue while minimizing patient complications.

The HALO technology is highly effective, targeting the condition without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. While not every patient with Barrett’s esophagus develops cancer, they are 40 to 130 times more likely to do so compared to the general population. Early intervention with HALO ablation can dramatically reduce this risk.

Treatment decisions are made collaboratively between the patient and their physician, considering factors such as age and overall health to ensure the procedure best fits the patient’s health plan.

Why choose the Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion for GI cancer care

At St. Joseph's/Candler, we combine groundbreaking technologies with decades of expertise to provide unparalleled care for patients with gastrointestinal cancers. Our advanced diagnostic and treatment systems—such as the Aloka GI System, Spyglass Direct Visualization, and HALO Ablation Catheter—set us apart as leaders in the field.

Here’s why patients trust us:

• Innovative technology: We utilize state-of-the-art tools that deliver real-time, high-resolution imaging and minimally invasive treatment options.
• Comprehensive care: Our care team of specialists collaborates to create individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
• Expertise you can count on: With years of experience and advanced training, our physicians are equipped to handle even the most complex GI conditions.
• Patient-centered approach: From diagnosis to treatment, we prioritize your comfort and outcomes, ensuring you receive the highest quality of care.

When it comes to fighting GI cancers, our cutting-edge technologies and dedicated team position us as the best choice for your care.