Houston Methodist West Hospital is expanding access to minimally invasive digestive procedures that allow doctors to treat certain esophageal, stomach and colorectal conditions without traditional surgery, the hospital announced on March 18.

These procedures, known as third space endoscopy, allow doctors to treat conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, colon and rectum from inside the digestive tract using a flexible tube with a camera and specialized tools. Because there are no surgical incisions, many patients may experience less pain, shorter recovery times and fewer, if any, days in the hospital compared to traditional surgery.

“The field of advanced endoscopy has grown far beyond routine procedures,” Dr. Saurabh Chandan, gastroenterologist and advanced endoscopy physician at Houston Methodist West Hospital said. “While complex techniques have traditionally been available only at large medical centers, we saw a clear need for them in our community and are proud to bring this level of care to west Houston.”

This addition builds on Houston Methodist’s nationally recognized expertise in gastrointestinal care and reflects the health system’s commitment to delivering leading medicine across the region, officials said.

“Offering this level of advanced care at a community hospital is a major benefit for patients and referring physicians,” Dr. Hani Zamil, a gastroenterologist at Houston Methodist West Hospital said. “Patients can receive consultations, procedures and follow up care from experienced specialists without traveling to the Texas Medical Center, making care more convenient and accessible.”

To learn more about gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy services at Houston Methodist, visit the hospital’s website at https://houstonmethodist.org or call 713-790-3333 to schedule an appointment. The hospital is located at 18500 Katy Freeway in Houston near the intersection of Greenhouse Road and I-10.