Specialties
Expert Barrett’s Esophagus Management in Northwest Ohio
At St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases, Dr. Antwan Atia offers advanced care for patients diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus, a serious complication of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). With offices located in Toledo, Maumee, and Perrysburg, Ohio, our practice is committed to providing high-quality gastrointestinal care that’s both accessible and effective. Early detection and consistent management of Barrett’s esophagus are critical for reducing the risk of progression to esophageal cancer.
What Is Barrett’s Esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the tissue lining the esophagus changes due to prolonged exposure to stomach acid. Over time, the normal squamous cells are replaced by abnormal columnar cells, a process known as intestinal metaplasia. This change increases the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer. Dr. Antwan Atia specializes in the detection and treatment of Barrett’s esophagus, helping patients manage this condition and minimize their long-term risks.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
Individuals with long-standing GERD are at the highest risk for developing Barrett’s esophagus. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, male gender, age over 50, and a family history of esophageal cancer. Symptoms may mirror those of GERD, such as frequent heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort, but some patients experience no symptoms at all. Because of this, routine screening is recommended for at-risk individuals, and Dr. Atia provides thorough evaluations at all three of our Ohio locations.
Accurate Diagnosis Through Endoscopy and Biopsy
Barrett’s esophagus is typically diagnosed during an upper endoscopy. During this procedure, Dr. Atia examines the esophagus using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and takes tissue samples (biopsies) for analysis. The presence of intestinal metaplasia confirms the diagnosis. For patients in Toledo, Maumee, and Perrysburg, St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases offers this essential diagnostic service in a comfortable, modern setting.
Ongoing Surveillance and Monitoring
Once Barrett’s esophagus is diagnosed, regular surveillance is necessary to monitor for dysplasia—abnormal cell changes that can indicate a progression toward cancer. Dr. Atia follows evidence-based guidelines to determine the appropriate surveillance intervals, which may range from every 6 months to every 3-5 years, depending on the presence and degree of dysplasia. Routine monitoring is a vital part of preventing serious complications and ensuring timely intervention if changes occur.
Treatment Options for Barrett’s Esophagus
Management of Barrett’s esophagus focuses on controlling acid reflux and reducing the risk of cancer development. Dr. Atia often prescribes proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to suppress stomach acid and may recommend lifestyle changes such as weight loss, dietary adjustments, and smoking cessation. In cases of dysplasia or early-stage cancer, advanced endoscopic therapies such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) may be recommended to remove or destroy abnormal tissue.
Personalized Care for Every Patient
At St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases, we understand that every case of Barrett’s esophagus is unique. Dr. Antwan Atia creates personalized treatment plans that reflect each patient’s health status, risk level, and preferences. Whether you require routine surveillance, medication management, or advanced therapeutic procedures, our team is committed to delivering compassionate, expert care across all of our locations in Northwest Ohio.
Schedule a Barrett’s Esophagus Evaluation Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with GERD or are concerned about your risk for Barrett’s esophagus, early evaluation and expert management are key. Dr. Antwan Atia and the team at St. Mary’s Center for Digestive & Liver Diseases are here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact our offices in Toledo, Maumee, or Perrysburg, Ohio today to schedule a consultation and take control of your digestive health with trusted, specialized care.