The GI Lab

The Richard M. Nowell Gastroenterology Laboratory at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center is a state-of-the-art laboratory that performs a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for digestive disorders including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis), ulcer disease and jaundice. A physician’s order is required for GI Lab appointments.

Endoscopic procedures include:
· Upper GI Endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD)
· Lower GI Endoscopy (colonoscopy)
· enteroscopy
· flexible sigmoidoscopy
· diagnostic ultrasound
· endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
· esophageal motility studies
· the HALO 360 Ablation Therapy System to treat Barrett’s Esophagus (BE), a pre-cancerous condition associated with chronic gastroesophageal reflux, or GERD. :: Click here to learn more.

· Upper GI Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy-EGD)
Performed to assess frequent heartburn, stomach pain, reflux disorders, abdominal pain, nausea, or difficulty swallowing. This procedure involves the endoscope inserted into the throat to the stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
· Lower GI Endoscopy (Colonoscopy)
An examination of the entire colon (colonoscopy) via the rectum. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) This is a procedure to diagnose, and treat gallstones, by using an endoscope and X-rays for treatment in a non-invasive manner.
· Endoscopic Pancreatic Therapy
In conjunction with ERCP, this therapy is used for acute and chronic pancreatitis. Most often used to relieve pain and improve how pancreatic ducts drain.
· Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
This procedure is a screening of the lower portion of the rectum and colon.
· Esophageal Manometry
Esophageal manometry measures the muscle pressure within the esophagus. This procedure is commonly used for difficulty swallowing food or liquid, heartburn, chest pain, and abnormal X-rays.

Services for Pediatric Patients
The Baptist GI Lab treats children of various ages ranging from premature infants to young adults. To locate a pediatric gastroenterologist, please contact our physician referral service at 601-948-6262 or 1-800-948-6262.