G.I. Specialists Helps Patients Understand The Importance Of Preventive Screenings

PHILADELPHIA, PA, June 23, 2013 (Press-News.org) Understanding the importance and purpose of a colonoscopy can help patients to eliminate fear that is commonly associated with this procedure. A colonoscopy allows the Bala Cynwyd gastroenterologists at G.I. Specialists to examine the lining of the large intestine (colon) for any abnormalities. It is an outpatient procedure that may be performed to diagnose and treat, when possible, certain diseases of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the rectum and colon.

Colon cancer in Philadelphia, and all over the world, is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States with approximately 150,000 new cases diagnosed each year with 50,000 people dying from this disease. It has been estimated that increased awareness and screening would save at least 30,000 lives every year. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy encourages everyone over 50, or those under 50 with a family history or other risk factors, to be screened for colon cancer.

"With colon cancer being the third leading cause of cancer deaths, it is important for my patients to understand the risks of this cancer and the preventive measures they can take. A colonoscopy is a well-tolerated procedure that rarely causes much pain and allows us to properly diagnose and treat any complications before they worsen," said Dr. Geoffrey Braden, gastroenterologist in Philadelphia.

During a colonoscopy in Philadelphia, a patient may feel pressure, bloating or cramping, but Drs. Harvey Lefton, MD, FASGE, Jeffrey Pilchman, MD, Gregory Schapiro, MD, Jamie Kasper, MD, Jenifer Lehrer, MD, Matthew Cohen, MD, Geoffrey Braden, MD, Alexander Harmatz, MD, Raynard Cheung, MD, Paul Weisberg, MD, and Anthony Rosa, MD will give patients a sedative or painkiller to help him or her relax and better tolerate any discomfort.

During the procedure the patient will lie on their side or back while the Philadelphia gastroenterologists at G.I. Specialists advance an endoscope along the large intestine to examine the lining. The lining will be examined again as he or she slowly withdraws the endoscope. The procedure typically takes less than 45 minutes, although patients should plan on two to three hours for waiting, preparation and recovery.

Once the Philadelphia colonoscopy is complete, patients will need to remain in the recovery room for approximately 30 minutes for observation. Patients may experience some cramping or a sensation of having gas, but this typically passes quickly. It is also important for patients to have a responsible adult drive them home after their procedure, as it is unsafe to drive or operate machinery for about 8 hours after the colonoscopy due to the sedative used.

Patients are encouraged to talk to the Philadelphia, PA gastroenterologists at G.I. Specialists for more information on a colonoscopy and to find out if this exam is needed.

About G.I. Specialists: Established over 30 years ago, G.I. Specialists is a team of 11 gastroenterologists in Bala Cynwyd, Philadelphia and Langhorne, PA devoted to the full range of G.I. diseases and conditions, including colonoscopy, stomach pain, colon cancer and heart burn, among other conditions and diseases. G.I. Specialists consists of Drs. Harvey Lefton, MD, FASGE, Jeffrey Pilchman, MD, Gregory Schapiro, MD, Jamie Kasper, MD, Jenifer Lehrer, MD, Matthew Cohen, MD, Geoffrey Braden, MD, Alexander Harmatz, MD, Raynard Cheung, MD, Paul Weisberg, MD, and Anthony Rosa, MD. All of the specialists at G.I. Specialists are active in professional societies and participate in continuing medical education to keep current on the latest strategies for helping their patients. Each has areas of special interest and expertise while still offering general care for conditions of the digestive system for inpatients and outpatients. All of the doctors at G.I. Specialists are board-certified in the subspecialty of gastroenterology.

Media Contact:
Dr. Anthony Rosa
Contactus@gispecialists.com
10800 Knights Road Suite 240
Philadelphia, PA 19114
(215) 702-7090
http://www.gispecialists.com