For patients who require a gastroscopy, Dr Raaj Chandra’s experience extends to gastroenterological concerns.
If you need to see a gastroenterologist that specialises in the lower sections of the gastrointestinal tract, Dr Chandra consults with patients at Box Hill Medical Suites. As a specialist colorectal surgeon, he has extensive experience treating issues relating to the bowel – including the upper sections of the small intestine (duodenum), which is one section of the gastrointestinal tract that can be reached via a gastroscopy.
What is a gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy (sometimes referred to as endoscopy) is a diagnostic procedure that involves inserting an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube) into the mouth, down the oesophagus and into the stomach and beginning of the small bowel (duodenum).
This procedure allows the gastroenterologist to view these organs, making it possible to identify potential issues. The endoscope is equipped with lights and a camera, transmitting images to a larger monitor for viewing by the specialist. Since the endoscope is inserted via a natural opening (i.e. the mouth), this procedure is less invasive than conventional surgery, doesn’t leave a scar, and patients generally only require a short period of observation afterwards – rather than a hospital stay.
Generally, this procedure is carried out in order to investigate symptoms that indicate potential issues with the upper digestive tract (i.e. the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum). In some cases, an endoscopy may show issues such as inflammation, ulcers, polyps or other growths.
What is a gastroenterologist?
A physician dedicated to managing diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, a gastroenterologist is involved in the treatment of ailments such as bowel cancer and polyps, heartburn, stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
As a specialist colorectal surgeon, Dr Raaj Chandra regularly works alongside Melbourne based gastroenterologists when it comes to concerns relating to the small bowel. Specialising in advanced laparoscopic surgery and small bowel resections, he can provide treatment recommendations based on the results of your gastroscopy.
Dr Raaj Chandra consults at Elgar Hill Medical Suites (Box Hill). To book a consultation, call today on (03) 9895 7100.
(03) 9895 7100