Southern Maine Health Care

Gastroenterology

SMHC Gastroenterology is located in Biddeford, Maine. To schedule an appointment, call 207-283-1427.Our board-certified providers and highly-trained nursing staff specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all gastrointestinal disorders, including:

  • Celiac sprue
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • Colon cancer/polyps
  • Crohn's & ulcerative colitis
  • Esophageal disorders
  • Gallbladder & biliary tract disease
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Liver disease
  • Pancreatic disease
  • Peptic ulcer disease

Service include:

  • Endoscopy: An endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure used to examine a patient's digestive tract. The provider uses a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it that passes through the mouth and throat and into the esophagus. The provider is able to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. Different types of endoscopy can be performed, including: diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy; esophageal dilatation; and polypectomy.
  • Video Capsule Endoscopy: A video capsule endoscopy is a procedure that allows a provider to examine a patient's small intestine. The patient swallows a capsule that is less than an inch long; a sensor is attached to the patients chest and connects to a data recorder that the patient wears on a belt. The capsule contains a video camera that takes pictures as it travels down the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.  This is worn for 8 hours. It is helpful for diagnosing Crohn's disease or identifying the source of a GI bleed.

  • Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure in which a patient's large bowel (colon and rectum) is examined using a scope. It is used to diagnose and treat, when possible, certain diseases of the lower GI tract. In the colon, polyps can be removed through the scope to prevent the development of colon cancer. It is also used to treat certain diseases, such as bleeding from diverticula or other lesions. Learn more about how to prepare for a colonoscopy.

Linda's Story: Getting a colonoscopy saved my life!

Now, Linda enjoys time with her grandchildren.

What You Should Know About Colorectal Cancer Screening

Anyone can get colorectal cancer. If you are 50 years or older, you should be screened.