A Precancerous Condition That Requires Close Monitoring and Expert GI Care

Barrett's Esophagus occurs when chronic acid reflux causes damage to the esophageal lining, leading to the replacement of normal cells with intestinal-type cells. Though Barrett's itself doesn't cause symptoms, it increases the risk of esophageal cancer and requires expert monitoring and care. We use advanced diagnostic tools and a personalized approach to help patients stay ahead of this condition with clarity and confidence.

Board-Certified Esophageal & Reflux Specialists

Our gastroenterologists have specialized experience diagnosing and managing Barrett's Esophagus and GERD with precision and proven protocols.

Advanced Endoscopy & In-House Biopsy

We perform upper endoscopy with targeted biopsy sampling and pathology review in our accredited centers—so you get answers faster.

Long-Term Surveillance & Personalized Plans

Whether you need lifestyle modifications or advanced treatment for dysplasia, we tailor care to your individual risk, symptoms, and goals.

Choosing GI Consultants

Why Patients Trust Us for Barrett’s Esophagus Care

Barrett's Esophagus requires more than routine reflux treatment—it demands careful monitoring, accurate diagnosis, and personalized care. At GI Consultants, we bring together deep experience and advanced diagnostic tools to support your health every step of the way.

Expertise in Reflux & Esophageal Conditions

Our board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in treating complex reflux disorders like GERD and Barrett's with proven, evidence-based care.

In-Office Endoscopy & Biopsy

We perform upper endoscopies with tissue sampling on-site, allowing for accurate dysplasia grading and faster turnaround of pathology results.

Personalized Risk Stratification

We assess your unique risk level and dysplasia grade to guide proactive treatment—whether that means surveillance, medical therapy, or endoscopic intervention.

Compassionate, Ongoing Monitoring

You'll receive a tailored follow-up plan designed around your comfort and long-term health goals, with close support from our care team.

What Is Barrett's Esophagus?

A Condition That Can Increase Your Risk of Esophageal Cancer

Barrett's Esophagus occurs when the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced with tissue similar to the lining of the intestines. This change is often triggered by long-term acid reflux or GERD and increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer. While Barrett's itself typically causes no symptoms, its presence signals the need for careful surveillance and expert GI care.

Who Is At Risk?

  • Individuals with chronic GERD or frequent heartburn
  • Adults over 50, especially men
  • Those with a family history of Barrett's or esophageal cancer
  • Smokers and people with obesity
  • Individuals of Caucasian ethnicity
Diagnostic Tools & Procedures

Evaluating Cell Changes Early to Prevent Cancer

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize the lining of your esophagus and identify any suspicious changes.

Biopsy and Dysplasia Grading
During the endoscopy, small tissue samples are collected and sent to a pathology lab to determine the level of dysplasia (cell changes), which helps assess cancer risk.

  • No Dysplasia – Normal cellular structure
  • Low-Grade Dysplasia – Mild abnormal changes
  • High-Grade Dysplasia – Significant changes, close to cancer

Additional Diagnostic Tools

  • pH Monitoring to assess acid levels
  • Esophageal manometry to evaluate muscle function
  • Imaging tests if cancer is suspected

Your physician uses these tools to understand the extent of cellular changes and recommend an appropriate treatment or surveillance plan.

Comprehensive care for your digestive and liver health

Conditions We Treat & Services We Offer

Accurate Diagnosis
  • Upper endoscopy (EGD) with biopsy
  • Pathology review to assess dysplasia level
  • Esophageal pH monitoring for acid exposure
  • Esophageal manometry for motility evaluation
Ongoing Monitoring
  • Regular surveillance endoscopy for patients with dysplasia
  • Biopsy comparison over time to track changes
  • Imaging or CT scan if malignancy is suspected
Targeted Treatment
  • Lifestyle counseling (diet changes, weight loss, quitting smoking)
  • Medication management for acid suppression (PPIs)
  • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or cryotherapy for dysplasia
  • Referral to thoracic surgery or oncology for high-grade cases
About Barrett's Esophagus

Frequently Asked Questions

Barrett's Esophagus is most often caused by chronic acid reflux or GERD. Over time, repeated exposure to stomach acid damages the esophageal lining, triggering cellular changes.

No. While Barrett's Esophagus is considered a precancerous condition, most patients do not develop esophageal cancer—especially with regular monitoring and treatment.

It's diagnosed through an upper endoscopy with biopsy. A pathologist will examine tissue samples to check for dysplasia (abnormal cell changes).

Dysplasia refers to changes in the cells lining the esophagus. The level of dysplasia (none, low-grade, or high-grade) helps determine your risk of developing cancer and guides treatment.

Treatment may include acid suppression medication, lifestyle changes, and, for patients with dysplasia, endoscopic procedures like radiofrequency ablation or cryotherapy.

Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding trigger foods, quitting smoking, and elevating the head of your bed can reduce acid reflux and help slow disease progression.

Take control of your digestive health. GI symptoms can be serious. don't ignore the signs. Schedule today.

Call Us: (775) 329-4600