This department is located on the Arlandaweg 161
mdl@acibademimc.com
What does the Gastroenterology Department do?
The Gastroenterology Department specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases affecting the digestive system and the liver. This department plays a vital role in caring for patients with a wide range of gastrointestinal and liver-related conditions, including stomach ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, liver cirrhosis, and disorders of the bile ducts.
What treatments do our gastroenterologists provide?
The gastroenterologists at Acibadem IMC diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of digestive and liver conditions using advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The following services are available at our Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an examination in which the physician uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera, called an endoscope, to examine the inside of the large intestine through the rectum. This procedure enables the gastroenterologist to detect inflammation, polyps, bleeding, or tumors.
In addition to diagnosing conditions, a colonoscopy also allows certain treatments to be performed during the examination. Special instruments can be passed through the endoscope to take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and generally not painful.
Gastroscopy
A gastroscopy is an examination in which the gastroenterologist uses an endoscope to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). This procedure can identify inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, or tumors.
As with a colonoscopy, therapeutic procedures can also be performed during the examination by introducing instruments through the endoscope. A gastroscopy is usually performed under conscious sedation to ensure patient comfort.
Conscious Sedation
Endoscopic procedures can sometimes be uncomfortable. To make the examination as comfortable as possible, patients at our Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department are generally offered conscious sedation.
Conscious sedation consists of a sedative and, in some cases, a pain-relieving medication (Midazolam and Rapifen), administered through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm. Midazolam may cause some patients to fall asleep, but more commonly it induces a relaxed and comfortable state, making the procedure easier to tolerate.
This is not general anaesthesia, as you continue to breathe independently and are able to respond to the physician’s instructions during the examination. Most patients feel drowsy afterwards and have little or no memory of the procedure.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy with Plenvu
Proper bowel preparation is essential for a successful colonoscopy. To allow the physician to examine the bowel thoroughly, the bowel must be completely empty and clean.
You will receive one package of Plenvu containing three sachets. The packaging includes detailed instructions on how to prepare and take the medication. It is important to follow these instructions carefully, as good bowel preparation significantly reduces the risk of missing abnormalities or having to repeat the examination.
Please also keep the following points in mind:
Stay Well Hydrated
Do not drink only water, as this may disturb your body’s electrolyte balance. Instead, alternate between different types of fluids, including sweet, salty, hot, and cold drinks such as tea, water, apple juice, and clear broth.
Oral Contraceptive Pill
Because the bowel preparation has a laxative effect, some medications—including the oral contraceptive pill—may become less effective. We therefore recommend using additional contraception until your next menstrual period.
Diabetes Mellitus
If you have diabetes mellitus, please monitor your blood glucose levels at home before the examination. Bring your blood glucose meter with you to your appointment. It is also important to discuss any necessary adjustments to your diabetes medication with your GP or diabetes nurse before the procedure.
Our Approach
Our multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, hepatologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centred care for individuals with gastrointestinal and liver diseases.
Using advanced diagnostic techniques, medication, and, where necessary, minimally invasive or surgical interventions, we work together to improve our patients’ health and enhance their quality of life.
Visiting ACIBADEM IMC
A referral from your general practitioner (GP) or medical specialist is required to make an appointment at our Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department.
Once you have received your referral, you can schedule an appointment by calling +31 (0)85 120 0100. You can also request an appointment through the online appointment form on our website or by emailing afspraak@acibademimc.com. We will contact you within 24 hours.
