As a Gastroenterologist, Dr. Kalra does special interventional GI procedures including:
EGD
An Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy or Esophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy, also known as an EGD, is a procedure in which the lining of the esophagus, stomach and proximal small intestine, known as the duodenum, are visualized. While asleep (in a twilight state), a long tube containing an optical system for visualization is inserted through the mouth and passed along the upper GI tract. For many, one or more biopsies may be obtained and studied, in order to diagnose abnormal tissue. This procedure may aid in the diagnosing and treatment of patients with symptoms such as, persistent upper abdominal (epigastric) pain, nausea, vomiting or difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, peptic tumors, H. Pylori and infection, etc.
Download EGD Prep Instructions
ERCP
An Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram, also known as an ERCP, is a procedure that combines the use of a flexible scope which has a guided light (endoscope) with X-Ray pictures, to examine the bile ducts which drain fluids from the liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Through this procedure, stones from bile ducts can be removed and blockages in the ducts from tumors, etc., can be relieved through placement of stents.
Download ERCP Prep Instructions
Colonoscopy
A Colonoscopy is a procedure in which the large bowel (colon) and rectum is examined. This exam is an effective tool to screen for colon cancer and diagnose other gastrointestinal diseases. Air is inserted through the rectum, inflating the colon, for adequate visualization. A long scope with a camera on the end is then passed through the rectum and colon. During the procedure, it is common to find polyps, which are removed and further biopsied by a pathologist. Routine screenings are recommended every 10 years, beginning at the age of 50.
Download Colonoscopy Prep Instructions
Capsule Endoscopy
A Capsule Endoscopy is also called a video Capsule Endoscopy. It involves swallowing a small camera/transmitter that looks like a large capsule (the size of a large Vitamin Pill). The capsule transmits images to a receiver. Capsule passes naturally through the intestinal tract while transmitting images. The images are then downloaded and digitized on a CD format and later reviewed and reported by Dr. Kalra.
Download Capsule Endoscopy Prep Instructions
RFA (Radio Frequency Ablation) Barrett's Esophagus
This procedure is used to treat Barrett's Esophagus, which is a complication of chronic gastroesphageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients with Barrett's Esophagus are more prone to develop cancer of the lower esophagus (at a rate of approximately 0.5% per year... a rate very similar to colon polyps advancing to cancer). Using standard endoscopic (as for EGD) techniques under light or deeper sedation RFA balloon/Catheter helps ablate the abnormal Barrett's lining without damaging any underlying tissue layers. To learn more about Barrett's Esophagus, please visit www.barrx.com/Patients_and_Families
Download RFA Prep Instructions
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
A “Flex Sig” as it is more commonly referred to, is a procedure similar to a colonoscopy, in that it is used to screen colon cancer and other gastrointestinal diseases. However, the main difference is that it only screens the lower third of the colon and the rectum and it is generally done without sedation.