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A young woman snacks on a plate of assorted fruits to help improve her digestive health.

Digestive health specialists in Houston and East Texas

What is gastroenterology?

Have you ever thought about how food moves through your body? A gastroenterologist has, along with how the body absorbs nutrients and removes waste. Gastroenterology focuses on the health of the digestive system—esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts—and liver. 

St. Luke’s Health is committed to advancing gastroenterology while helping our communities grow healthier and stronger. Our expertise and our belief in the power of humankindness allows us to care for patients with some of the most complex conditions. 

Our experienced board-certified gastroenterologists serve patients throughout our health system. No matter where you live or which location you choose, you can trust that we will provide the same patient-centered standards of quality care to everyone.

We are home to one of the largest and most experienced groups of gastroenterologic and general surgeons in the United States, and Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center recently received recognition by U.S. News & World Report as a High Performing Hospital in Gastroenterology & GI Surgery. We also have centers and institutes that specialize in specific digestive conditions, including our Heartburn & Acid Reflux Institute at St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital.

Gastrointestinal conditions treated

We treat all digestive diseases and disorders, including:

  • Acid Reflux
  • Advanced Biliary Diseases
  • Barrett’s Esophagus
  • Cancers
  • Celiac Disease
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Diverticulitis
  • Eosinophilic esophagitis
  • Gallstones
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Heartburn
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Hernias
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Pancreatitis
  • Polyps
  • Swallowing Disorders
  • Ulcers

 

Digestive health treatments offered

  • Appendectomy
  • Gallbladder removal
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Endocrine surgery
  • Digestive surgery
  • Hernia surgery

Frequently asked questions

You would be referred to a gastroenterologist by a primary care provider if you're experiencing unexplained or frequent digestive issues. A gastroenterologist also performs colorectal cancer screenings.

The type of insurance plan you use will determine if you need a referral from your primary care physician to see a gastroenterologist. For example, a PPO generally does not require a referral, whereas HMOs typically do.

Your first appointment will be used to assess your symptoms and conditions. Come prepared with a list of medications you currently take, your personal and family medical history, and the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

A few steps you might need to follow before your first gastroenterology appointment include:

  • Follow any pre-appointment dietary restrictions
  • Prepare a list of your symptoms and any medications you take
  • Bring a support person
  • Make a list of questions for your physician
  • Be prepared to take notes

Patient Stories

Busy mom doesn’t skip a beat with replacement heart valve

JUL 18, 2024

After a single night’s stay at Baylor St. Luke’s, 35-year-old Lura was back home, thanks to the care she received from Interventional Cardiologist Dhaval Parekh.

Read More Additional information about Busy mom doesn’t skip a beat with replacement heart valve

A cardiac comeback

JUL 09, 2024

Usually, a stroke renders a patient too sick for a heart transplant but thanks to the team, Damien H. received a new heart and is doing well.

Read More Additional information about A cardiac comeback

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U.S. News & World Report


U.S News & World Report has recognized Baylor St. Luke's Health Medical Center as one of the best hospitals for several specialties.