Tag: general surgery

How Does the Stomach Work?

Posted on November 22, 2024

A physician is showing a patient how the stomach works using a model they are holding in their hands.

A physician is showing a patient how the stomach works using a model they are holding in their hands.

The stomach is an organ that is an essential part of your digestive system. However, you may not have given much thought to how it works. Fortunately, the BMI team is here to explain how the stomach works, conditions that may affect it, and more. 

What is the Stomach?

The stomach is a muscular, hollow, J-shaped organ located in the upper abdomen that is made up of several parts, which include:

Cardia

The first part of the stomach, the cardia, is connected to the esophagus. It contains the cardiac sphincter, a thin ring of muscle that prevents stomach contents from going back up into the esophagus, a condition known commonly as acid reflux.

Fundus

The top, rounded area of the stomach is known as the fundus. It is located to the left of the cardia.

Body

The main part of the stomach is known as the body. It is where food is mixed and broken down. The average adult’s stomach holds around one liter of food.

Antrum

The lower part of the stomach is called the antrum. It holds food until it is ready to move into the small intestine.

Pylorus

The part of the stomach connected to the small intestine is called the pylorus. It includes a thick ring of muscle known as the pyloric sphincter, which controls the emptying of stomach contents into the first part of the small intestine. 

How the Stomach Works

The stomach’s main function is to digest food received from the esophagus. The food is then mixed with acid to be broken down into a liquid before moving into the small intestine. 

What Conditions Affect the Stomach?

Many diseases and other conditions can affect the stomach, such as:

Gastritis 

Often caused by the bacteria Helicobacter Pylori, gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. Common symptoms of this condition include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • A feeling of fullness

While this condition can be managed using medication, like antacids, you should avoid certain foods, drinks, or medicines that may irritate your stomach.

Ulcers

Ulcers are open sores in the stomach, which often cause bleeding or pain. They can be caused by bacterial infections or stress. While prescription medication can be used to treat ulcers, surgery may sometimes be required. 

Stomach Cancer 

Tumors may form in the stomach lining. While many are benign, some can turn malignant. Symptoms of stomach cancer include:

  • Bleeding
  • Weight loss
  • Indigestion
  • Heartburn
  • Changes in appetite 
  • Bloating

If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor. They can refer you for stomach cancer screening and treatment. The sooner cancer is found, the more treatable it is. 

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach empties slower than normal. It is common in individuals with diabetes or those who have had procedures that affect the stomach, like bariatric surgery. Common symptoms of gastroparesis include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Belching
  • Abdominal pain
  • Feelings of fullness 

While there is no cure, gastroparesis can be managed with medication and dietary adjustments. If you are considering bariatric surgery, your surgeon will discuss your risk factors with you and create a treatment plan based on them. 

Acid Reflux 

Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux is a digestive disorder that occurs when the muscle between the esophagus and stomach weakens, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. 

Frequent heartburn is one of the most common symptoms of acid reflux. It is easily manageable with diet and medication. However, in some severe cases, surgery may be required. Your physician can help you determine how to best manage acid reflux.

Gastroenteritis

Commonly known as the “stomach flu,” gastroenteritis is an infection that clears on its own within a few days. It can be caused by consuming food or water containing certain types of bacteria or parasites. Common symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea, which can be managed with rest and fluids. 

Keep Your Stomach Healthy at BMI

Along with diet and exercise, regularly seeing your physician can help you keep your stomach healthy. If you’ve had stomach surgery, including weight loss procedures, consulting with a specialist, like those at BMI, can be especially helpful. To schedule a consultation with one of our bariatric surgeons, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Care for Your Stomach at BMI 

Caring for your stomach goes beyond your diet. Partnering with a specialist, like those at BMI, can help you keep it healthy for years to come. To learn how we can help you manage and treat certain stomach conditions, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Thyroid Disease: What it is & How to Prevent it

Posted on November 12, 2024

A female doctor wearing a mask examines the throat of a young woman for thyroid disease at a clinic.

 

A female doctor wearing a mask examines the throat of a young woman for thyroid disease at a clinic.

The thyroid is a gland that regulates metabolism and maintains energy levels and heart rate. Because of all the critical body functions it plays a role in, thyroid disease can affect your health in various ways. Thyroid conditions are common, affecting about 20 million Americans. At BMI, we have extensive experience treating these disorders, so we have compiled some information to help you manage them. 

What is Thyroid Disease?

Thyroid disease is an umbrella term for several disorders that affect the thyroid gland and related bodily functions. These include: 

  • Hyperthyroidism – The thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. 
  • Hypothyroidism –  The thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone. 
  • Goiter – An enlargement of the thyroid gland, resulting in swelling of the neck.
  • Thyroid Nodules – Non-cancerous, asymptomatic lumps in the thyroid gland.
  • Thyroid Cancer – A type of cancer involving malignant growth in the thyroid.

Regardless of which condition you have, it is critical to consult an endocrine specialist, like those at BMI, to find the best possible treatment.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disease

Because thyroid disease takes many forms, symptoms can vary depending on the condition. Common symptoms of thyroid issues include: 

  • Weight gain
  • Sleep issues
  • Irregular heart rate
  • Appetite changes
  • Mood changes
  • Hair loss
  • Heat or cold intolerance

Even if symptoms are mild, they can still impact your quality of life. If they are particularly disruptive to your daily routine, consult with one of BMI’s endocrine specialists, who can help you effectively treat them.

Causes of Thyroid Disease

There are many potential causes of thyroid disease because it takes many different forms. Common causes include: 

  • Autoimmune disorders, like Graves’ disease
  • Inflammation of the thyroid gland
  • Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
  • Certain medications, such as lithium 
  • Iodine and other nutrient deficiencies
  • Lifestyle causes like stress or lack of exercise
  • Genetics, as thyroid conditions can be hereditary
  • Gender, as thyroid conditions are more common in women

Regardless of the cause, your physician can assess your personal risk factors and develop a custom treatment plan to address your specific thyroid condition. 

How to Prevent Thyroid Disease

While many thyroid conditions are genetics and not preventable, some can be prevented through:

  • A healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Reducing stress
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Quitting smoking, if you do 

By following these steps, you can potentially prevent various types of thyroid disease. 

How We Diagnose Thyroid Disease

At BMI, we take a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions. Below is our process.

Medical History

Certain thyroid conditions are hereditary, so we look at your family medical history to determine if this may be the case.

Physical Exam

Your doctor gently feels your neck for swelling or other signs of inflammation that come with thyroid conditions.

Imaging

We use ultrasound and nuclear medicine to look for thyroid nodules, goiters, or other signs of thyroid conditions.

Blood Test

A blood test that measures TSH levels can be used to diagnose both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

How to Treat Thyroid Disease

While you can manage some symptoms of thyroid disease at home, it is best to consult an endocrine specialist who can create a treatment plan, which may include: 

Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy works by delivering radiation to the thyroid gland, which prevents it from producing high levels of thyroid hormone. This treatment can be administered orally as a liquid or capsule or injected into a vein. It’s typically a one-time treatment performed at an outpatient facility.

Medication 

Medications, including anti-thyroid drugs like methimazole and propylthiouracil, can prevent the thyroid from producing too many hormones. Meanwhile, beta-blockers can help manage symptoms like increased heart rates. Your physician can recommend which type of medication is right for you and your condition.

Surgery

For thyroid conditions that cannot be controlled with medication, surgery may be required. Depending on the condition being treated, all or part of the thyroid gland may be removed. Consulting with a surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you determine if this would be an appropriate treatment for your condition.

Manage Your Thyroid Disease With BMI

Symptoms of thyroid disease can affect your daily routine. With effective treatment from BMI, you can get back to normal faster. Our team specializes in endocrine disorders, so we can create a custom treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Find Effective Thyroid Disease Treatment at BMI 

If you have thyroid disease, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. Our team can create a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your condition and allows you to continue your daily activities. Schedule an appointment today to get started! 

Surgical Team Highlight – Our CRNAs, Surgeon, & Anesthesiologist

Posted on October 16, 2024

The experienced surgical team at BMI, consists of our CRNAs, bariatric surgeon, and anesthesiologists.

The experienced surgical team at BMI, consists of our CRNAs, bariatric surgeon, and anesthesiologists.

When getting surgery, you want to know your care is being handled by experienced professionals. That’s why BMI uses a model of patient care in which a board-certified anesthesiologist supervises a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). This practice is common in the United States, with 65% of CRNAs practicing in collaboration with anesthesiologists. Below, we highlight our approach to surgical procedures, our team members, and the important role they play in your care. 

Our Approach to Patient Care

Regardless of which condition you are seeking treatment for, we start with an initial consultation to determine your needs and how we can best meet them. Then, we determine which procedure is best for you and provide any necessary preparation and follow-up associated with it. This allows our patients consistency in the care they receive before, during, and after their procedures. 

No matter which procedure you require, we use minimally invasive, laparoscopic approaches that allow for effective results, faster healing, and shorter recovery times than traditional surgical procedures. Most of our patients return to their regular routines within a week of their procedures. However, specific timelines may vary depending on the procedure and condition. 

Most importantly, in order to improve patient safety and outcomes, we require an anesthesiologist to be present for each of our surgeries. This sets BMI apart from other outpatient surgery centers in our region, as most do not have a board-certified anesthesiologist providing anesthesia during procedures. Instead, they are staffed by CRNAs only, with the surgeon supervising the CRNA. 

Meet The Surgical Team

At BMI, we only work with the best surgical professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, physician assistants, medical assistants, and CRNAs. Below, we highlight our team members, their accomplishments, and their unique contributions to our team and patient care. 

Our Board-Certified Surgeon

Dr. Jay C. Long, MD, is our board-certified general surgeon. He has won awards for his accomplishments in laparoscopic surgery. His training included a fellowship in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery at The Methodist Hospital in Houston, TX, after completing his general surgery residency at Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, AL. He attended the University of Alabama’s School of Medicine. 

Dr. Long started performing bariatric surgery during his surgical residency in 2002. In July 2006, after completing his fellowship, he opened his own practice at St. Vincent’s East. Dr. Long is a member of the American College of Surgery Center of Excellence for Bariatric Surgery.

Our Certified Physician Assistants

At BMI, we employ two certified physician assistants (PA-Cs), Rebecca Rosensmith and Rachel Goodwin. They are formally trained to perform many routine tasks a physician can do, like prescribing medications, taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and ordering testing. Our PAs work under the supervision of Dr. Long, consulting patients and providing post-procedure follow-up. 

Board-Certified Anesthesiologists 

To provide our patients with the most comfortable experience possible during their procedure, BMI has a board-certified anesthesiologist overseeing all of our surgeries. An anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who holds additional training in anesthesia. They, along with our CRNAs, provide anesthetics and pain management before, during, and after surgery. This collaboration leads to better quality care and patient outcomes than either practitioner working individually on a particular procedure. 

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, or CRNAs, are advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia and provide related services in a surgical setting. They also monitor patient’s vital signs and care for them immediately after surgery. To ensure patient comfort and safety during surgery, CRNAs at the Ambulatory Surgery Center work under the supervision of a board-certified anesthesiologist. This also helps CRNAs gain skills and experience to better serve patients in future procedures. 

Support Staff

The work BMI’s surgical team does is well-supported by our friendly and compassionate support staff members. They handle many basic clinical and administrative tasks that contribute to both patient care and managing our practice. Our support staff consists of our medical assistant, Hannah Siddle, and office manager, Haley Johnston. They are often the first members of our team that patients interact with, making their roles especially important to building rapport with them. 

External Partners

While not employed by BMI, we work with other medical professionals through our partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL, to provide more comprehensive patient care. Along with training and resources for our staff, this partnership allows patients to get the support they need during emergency situations or for other needs they may have while under our care. 

Experience the Difference a Compassionate Team Makes

Whether you want to lose weight through bariatric surgery or treat a health concern like acid reflux, the compassionate, experienced team at BMI is here for you. Our approach to patient care allows for the best possible outcomes, regardless of which procedure you need. To schedule a consultation, contact us at (205) 858-1211. Our team can help you create a custom treatment plan to address your needs and goals.

Schedule a Consultation With BMI’s Surgical Team

Specializing in the management of various conditions, such as obesity and acid reflux, the BMI team can create a treatment plan customized to your needs and goals. Experience the difference a professional yet compassionate surgical team can make in your care today. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. We look forward to being your partner in care.