Barrett's esophagus is a serious complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In Barrett's esophagus, the normal tissue lining the esophagus becomes more like the tissue of the lining of the intestine.
It does not have any specific symptoms, but patients with Barrett's esophagus may experience GERD-related symptoms, such as frequent heartburn, difficulty swallowing food, and chest pain.
Barrett's esophagus also increases the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a serious and potentially fatal cancer of the esophagus.
How is Barrett's Esophagus Diagnosed?
Barrett's esophagus is diagnosed using an EGD procedure to see inside the upper GI tract and take a biopsy. The biopsy is analyzed in a lab to determine whether Barrett's esophagus cells are present.
Barrett's Esophagus Doctor in Minnesota
If you have Barrett's esophagus and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Dr. Bhatti may treat you with acid-suppressing medicines, which can prevent further damage to your esophagus and, in some cases, heal existing damage.
Additional periodic EGDs may be done to watch for signs of cancer development. Dr. Bhatti may also recommend procedures such as EUS and EMR to look at and remove abnormal tissue.
Open or download this PDF for an illustration and more details concerning Barrett's esophagus.
Locations
Chaska GI Clinic
1457 White Oak Dr
Chaska, MN 55318
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801
St. Francis Regional Medical Center
1515 St. Francis Ave. #250
Shakopee, MN 55379
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801
Edina GI Clinic
6500 Barrie Rd.
Edina, MN 55435
Phone: 952-368-3800
Fax: 952-368-3801