Gastroenterologists manage a wide range of conditions, including:

• Digestive Issues:

  Heartburn (GERD), stomach ulcers, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
  

• Inflammatory Diseases:

  Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (IBD).
  

• Organ-Specific Diseases:

  Hepatitis, fatty liver disease, pancreatitis, and gallbladder stones.
  

• Cancer Prevention:

  They perform screenings for colon cancer and treat esophageal or stomach cancers.

Unlike surgeons, gastroenterologists generally do not perform "open" surgery. Instead, they use specialized tools called endoscopes (thin, flexible tubes with cameras) to look inside the body. Common procedures include:

• Colonoscopy

  : To look at the large intestine and check for polyps or cancer.
  

• Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

  : To examine the esophagus and stomach.
  

• Biopsies

  : Taking small tissue samples to test for disease.
  

• Polypectomy

  : Removing small growths (polyps) during a colonoscopy to prevent cancer.

Gastroenterologists are highly trained. After finishing four years of medical school, they typically complete:

• 3 Years of Internal Medicine Residency

  : Learning to treat general adult illnesses.
  

• 3 Years of Gastroenterology Fellowship

  : Specialized training focused exclusively on the GI tract, liver, and endoscopic procedures.

You might be referred to a gastroenterologist if you have persistent symptoms like:

• Chronic abdominal pain or bloating.
  
• Unexplained changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation).
  
• Rectal bleeding.
  
• Frequent heartburn or difficulty swallowing.
  
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

Dr. Anthony Pozzessere is an award-winning, fellowship-trained Advanced Gastrointestinal and Robotic Surgeon based in Bergen County, New Jersey. He has been recognized as a "Top Doctor" by Bergen Magazine since 2020, recently attaining the "Best of the Best" status.

Surgical Expertise & Procedures

Dr. Pozzessere specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, which aim to reduce pain, shorten hospital stays, and accelerate recovery. His primary areas of focus include:

• Anti-Reflux & Hiatal Hernia Surgery

  : Using advanced methods to treat GERD with minimal incisions.
  

• Abdominal Wall Hernia Surgery

  : Repairing weakened muscle walls to restore function and comfort.
  

• Gallbladder Surgery

  : Performing procedures that often allow patients to return home in less than 24 hours.
  

• Organ-Specific Surgery

  : Expert care for conditions involving the Colon, Pancreas, and Stomach.

Philosophy of Care

The practice emphasizes a patient-centered approach. Dr. Pozzessere views surgery as a "calling" rather than just a career, focusing on:

• Building strong patient-doctor relationships.
  
• Ensuring accessibility and attentiveness, even in emergency surgical situations.
  
• Providing thorough post-operative care to ensure long-term recovery goals are met.

Locations

Dr. Pozzessere operates out of several major medical centers in New Jersey, including:

• The Valley Hospital
  

• Pascack Medical Center
  

• Chilton Medical Center