Introduction
MGH Digestive Healthcare Center Swallowing and Heartburn Program specializes in the diagnosis and management of gastroesphageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. We take an individual approach toward diminishing episodes of discomfort through diagnosis and treatment options, including medication, diet and excercise and, if appropriate, surgery.
Staff
| Brad Kuo, MD Director, Motility Service |
Barbara Nath, MD Physician, Motility Service |
| Cheryl Bunker, MD Physician, Motility service |
Services
The Swallowing and Heartburn Program treats the complete range of esophageal and swallowing conditions, including pharyngeal and esophageal reflux disease, Barrett's esophagus, non-cardiac chest pain, esophageal motility disorders, esophageal symptoms after previous operations, and pre-malignant and malignant lesions within esophagus. The Program provides consultation and treatment by gastroenterologists and general and thoracic surgeons, and will administer quality of life surveys. The Program also provides or coordinates with other services to provide diagnostic testing sevices, including fiber optic evaluations of swallowing, esophageal manometry, ambulatory pH monitoring, endoscopic ultrasound services, videoflouroscopic swallowing studies, barium esophagrams, and speech pathology assessments.
Diagnostic Services Provided:- 24 hour esophageal pH monitoring
- Esophageal Manometry
- Gastroduodenal Manometry-requires consultation prior to testing* (see directions below)
- Anorectal Manometry
- Anal Sphincter Ultrasound
Direct requests for diagnostic studies can be made by the referring physician without consultation by selecting the appropriate study above and then printing, completing, and faxing the request form to the center at (617) 724-6832.
*For those patients requiring consultation, a referral must be made by a physician. The case will be reviewed before scheduling a consultation. Relevant medical information should be sent prior to the appointment. Please call the patient care coordinator to schedule consultations at (617) 724-6038.
