Gastroenterology

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is the medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, also called the digestive tract. Gastroenterologists evaluate a patient's condition by performing various outpatient tests, such as upper and lower GI series (x-rays of the digestive tract), as well as surgery.

The organs that comprise the GI tract permit food to be converted into nutrients that provide energy, and a wide range of by-products essential to normal health, and then allow the unused matter to be removed from the body. The GI tract starts with the mouth, where food is ingested, and follows through the digestive system to the esophagus, the stomach, the small and large intestine (colon), and the rectum. Other organs associated with the GI system include the liver, pancreas, and gall bladder.

Although gastrointestinal problems are very common, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) -- also called heartburn -- ulcers, and colorectal cancer are some of the most common conditions requiring evaluation by a gastroenterologist and subsequent medical treatment.

Gastroenterology at Affinity

Robert E. Dale, M.D. is the gastroenterologist on staff at Affinity Health Group.