UW Health Digestive Health Clinic Set to Open April 2013

Madison, Wisconsin - The new UW Health Digestive Health Center on Madison's west side will offer patients a more efficient and coordinated experience when it opens in April 2013.

Construction is underway on the 67,000-square-foot outpatient clinic at Whitney Way and University Avenue.

The facility will provide care for patients with disorders of the esophagus, stomach, colon, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Procedures will include:

• Colonoscopies: Used to detect colon cancer, the third-most fatal cancer among men and women
• Upper endoscopy: To explore the esophagus, stomach and small intestine for conditions such as ulcers, bowel obstructions, and hiatal hernias
• Capsule endoscopy: Used to take images of the digestive tract, this technique uses a pill containing a tiny camera
• Manometry: Used to check for disorders of the esophagus and rectum, including dysphagia, heartburn, acid reflux and fecal incontinence
• Liver biopsy: To test for conditions such as jaundice and hepatitis

The Digestive Health Center will also provide virtual colonoscopy, CT scans, ultrasound, gastrointestinal barium studies, radiology, nutritional guidance, and a variety of laboratory services.

Overall, the three-story building will include 21 clinic exam rooms, four minor procedure rooms, 14 endoscopy rooms, and 49 prep/recovery rooms.

"We have a national reputation for excellence in digestive health services, and this new facility will enhance the patient's experience, and meet the increasing complexities of our patient population," said Dr. Michael Lucey, chief of the division of gastroenterology and hepatology.