The Gastroenterology department at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) is a leader in providing comprehensive care for digestive health. With a team of highly skilled specialists, the department offers cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments for a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions. From routine screenings to advanced therapeutic procedures, VGH is committed to improving patient outcomes through personalized care.
At VGH, gastroenterologists work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, and dietitians, to offer a holistic approach to digestive health. This collaboration ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective treatment, whether they are managing chronic conditions or facing urgent medical issues. The hospital is equipped with the latest technology, enabling precise and minimally invasive procedures that reduce recovery times and enhance patient comfort.
Specialized programs within the department include liver disease management, inflammatory bowel disease care, and colorectal cancer prevention. The hospital also plays a key role in gastroenterology research, contributing to advancements in understanding and treating complex digestive disorders. Patients at VGH benefit from a combination of expert care and access to groundbreaking clinical trials that push the boundaries of medical science.
Vancouver General Hospital continues to set a high standard for gastroenterology services, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care in a state-of-the-art facility. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and patient-centered care, VGH remains at the forefront of gastroenterology in Canada.
Gastroenterology Services at Vancouver General Hospital
Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) offers a comprehensive range of gastroenterology services aimed at diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system. These services are provided by a team of expert gastroenterologists and support staff, using advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive techniques.
- Endoscopy and colonoscopy for detection of gastrointestinal conditions
- Management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis
- Specialized care for pancreatic and biliary disorders
- Treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer disease
In addition to the clinical services, VGH offers education and support for patients and their families, ensuring personalized care throughout their treatment journey.
- Initial consultation and diagnosis
- Development of personalized treatment plans
- Follow-up care and long-term management
Referrals to the gastroenterology department can be made by primary care physicians, and urgent cases are prioritized to ensure timely intervention.
Common Gastrointestinal Conditions Treated at VGH
At Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), the gastroenterology department offers comprehensive care for a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions. Some of the most commonly treated conditions include:
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – This category includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. VGH provides advanced diagnostic techniques and personalized treatment plans to manage chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – GERD is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and potential damage. Specialists at VGH offer various therapies to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Liver Diseases – This includes conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease. The hospital’s hepatology team focuses on early diagnosis and managing liver health.
Colorectal Cancer – As part of VGH’s oncology services, the gastroenterology department works closely with other specialists to provide screening, diagnosis, and treatment for colorectal cancer.
Peptic Ulcer Disease – Peptic ulcers, often caused by H. pylori infection or the use of NSAIDs, are treated with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes under expert guidance at VGH.
Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders – Conditions like gallstones and cholangitis are diagnosed and treated with both medical and surgical approaches at VGH.
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders – Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia are managed with a multidisciplinary approach, combining dietary, pharmacological, and psychological therapies.
Advanced Diagnostic Techniques in Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology has seen significant advancements in diagnostic technologies, allowing for more accurate detection and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. These modern techniques enhance the ability to identify diseases early and guide appropriate treatments.
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Combines endoscopy and ultrasound to examine the walls of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues. It is particularly useful for diagnosing tumors and assessing pancreatic conditions.
- Capsule Endoscopy: A minimally invasive technique where the patient swallows a small, pill-sized camera that captures images as it passes through the digestive tract, mainly used for diagnosing small intestine disorders.
- High-Resolution Manometry: Measures the pressure within the esophagus, helping to diagnose motility disorders such as achalasia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Chromoendoscopy: A technique that uses special dyes during endoscopy to highlight abnormal tissues, improving the detection of precancerous lesions and subtle mucosal changes.
- FibroScan: A non-invasive tool for assessing liver stiffness and detecting fibrosis or cirrhosis, commonly used in patients with chronic liver disease.
These advanced techniques are critical for improving the detection rates of GI diseases and providing tailored treatment strategies for better patient outcomes.