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Site FeedbackDigestive Disorders
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Named by U.S.News & World Report as one of "America's Best Hospitals 2009" for specialty in digestive disorders, John Muir Health is a leader in comprehensive, technologically advanced diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Physicians and staff share a commitment to clinical research, optimal patient outcomes and early detection of benign and malignant digestive disorders.
John Muir Health maintains an active research program, with regional, national and international affiliations, to help ensure the local community continually benefits from the latest breakthroughs. Research endeavors include participation in a landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer. John Muir Health surgeons train physicians from around the country in the laparoscopic colectomy procedure.
Diagnostic Capabilities
John Muir Health offers the full spectrum of capabilities for diagnosing with precision a range of digestive diseases and disorders – from GERD and diverticulitis to colorectal cancer.
Endoscopic Ultrasound
An innovative new procedure combining endoscopy and ultrasound to help evaluate the progression and spread of disease.
GI Endoscopy
Offering diagnosis and treatment of GI tract disorders, including common concerns such as acid reflux and ulcers.
Fluoroscopy
A safe, non-invasive x-ray study of digestive functions, enabling real-time observation of the GI tract.
Interventional Radiology
As a minimally invasive alternative or complement to surgery, John Muir Health interventional radiologists perform procedures to diagnose digestive diseases and disorders, control and identify the source of bleeding in the GI tract, and identify and evaluate the location and spread of tumors.
Treatment Options
Management of digestive diseases and disorders has improved significantly with more medical and surgical treatment options available.
Chemotherapy
John Muir Cancer Institute offers the latest chemotherapy services, including access (gained through active research participation) to investigational chemotherapeutic agents.
Radiation Therapy
John Muir Health's five linear accelerators including Brain Lab stereotactic radiosurgery accelerator and two dedicated CT scanners ensure the most precise and effective radiation therapy available, including sophisticated three-dimensional conformal treatment and leading-edge intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
Laparoscopic Surgery
Advanced, minimally invasive procedures offered on both the Walnut Creek and Concord campuses include nissen fundoplication, colon resection, spleen and adrenal gland removal and bariatric surgery as well as more basic procedures, such as gall bladder removal, hernia repair and appendix removal. (See Surgical Services on page 48 for more information about gastric bypass surgery.)
Specialized Programs
Cancer Site Specific Programs
A multidisciplinary approach to local and systemic treatment of advanced cancers is provided through the John Muir Cancer Institute's specialized oncology programs, including a comprehensive program addressing the spectrum of care in gastrointestinal oncology.
Early Detection Focus
Colorectal cancer is the third most common form of cancer and the second most preventable cancer in the U.S. Colonoscopies are performed at John Muir Health to detect colorectal cancer early, when it is most treatable. Individuals are encouraged to consult with their primary care physicians regarding the need for a screening colonoscopy.
Support Resources
Liver Support Group
Support group for individuals with liver disease and their families meets on the Walnut Creek campus from 7 – 9 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. Affiliated with the American Liver Foundation. For information, call (925) 820-4644 or e-mail liversupportWC@aol.com.
John Muir Cancer Institute
The John Muir Cancer Institute offers education, support and help in navigating through diagnosis, treatment and recovery. For information, call (925) 947-3322.