Prevention of esophageal and colon cancer using advanced optical diagnosis and innovative ablation and resection methods
Procedure Description
Barrett's & IBD
Gastrointestinal cancer such as in the colon in the case of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's and colitis) or esophagitis in the case of mucosa named after Barrett is one of the most feared complications. As a result, these patients are required to be monitored more closely than the normal population.
In the past due to the inability for orderly follow-up and effective treatment many of the patients would arrive at major surgeries such as esophagectomy or colon too quickly.
NOW TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES AND INFORMATION GATHERED IN THE ENDOSCOPIC FIELD, HAVE DRAMATICALLY CHANGED THE PROCESS OF DECISION-MAKING AND PATIENT MANAGEMENT. More and more in the world, endoscopic access is accepted as the approach of choice for monitoring and treating these patients for the purpose of cancer prevention.
However, preventing cancer by identifying and treating pre-cancerous lesions (dysplasia) still poses a professional challenge, requiring great skill and experience. Therefore, it is important that it be carried out in specialized centers on the subject.
The tests of early detection and follow-up in these patients require the use of advanced optics and last a long time compared to the usual tests. In the case of a precancerous lesion, it is important to carry out a complete resection and subsequent close follow-up.
To make an appointment for testing please coordinate with our customer service.
Preparation for treatment
Preparation for examination of
Barrett's & IBD
After treatment
After the Examination of the
Barrett's & IBD
Patients with "Barrett's Esophagus" or Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (Colitis/Crohn's) are at increased risk of developing precancerous changes.
The key to saving lives is not just "doing a gastroscopy," but seeing the minute changes before they become a tumor.
Dr. Vosko, who underwent a super-specialty fellowship at Westmead Hospital in Australia (a world leader in early detection), uses Optical Diagnosis techniques and virtual staining.
This equipment allows him to identify dysplasia (cellular change) millimeters in size and treat it on the spot using ablation (RFA) or resection, thereby preventing cancer development entirely.
Are you in a risk group?
Do not settle for a standard exam.
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Who is this treatment for?
- Barrett's Patients: People with a history of reflux who have developed changes in the esophageal lining.
- Long-term IBD Patients: Ulcerative Colitis patients (over 8-10 years) requiring close monitoring (Surveillance Colonoscopy).
- Family History: Of esophageal or colon cancer.
The difference between a "general look" and a "meticulous scan" in HD technology.
- Barrett's Expertise: Dr. Vosko is skilled in using the RFA (Radiofrequency Ablation) system, which allows "ironing out" and eliminating the diseased tissue in Barrett's esophagus and restoring the mucosa to a normal state.
- Seattle Protocol: Adherence to strict international protocols for taking biopsies.
Stay one step ahead of cancer.Dr. Vosko - Expert in early detection and treatment of Barrett's Esophagus.
How is the treatment carried out?
How is the consultation conducted?
The examination is performed under sedation and lasts longer than a standard test due to the meticulous scanning:
- Optical Scanning: Using Chromoendoscopy technology (dye spraying or digital filters like NBI) to highlight blood vessel and cell structure and differentiate between inflammation and the beginning of cancer.
- In IBD Patients: Millimetric scanning of the colon to detect flat lesions that are very difficult to see with the naked eye.
- In Barrett's Esophagus: If dysplasia (precancerous cells) is detected, Dr. Vosko can perform immediate treatment – RFA Ablation (radio waves) which eliminates the diseased layer, or EMR resection for a protruding lesion.
- Biopsies: Taking targeted samples from suspicious areas for laboratory analysis.
How should I prepare for treatment?
How should I prepare for the consultation?
Preparation depends on the type of test (upper or lower):
- For Barrett's Surveillance (Gastroscopy): Full fasting (no food and drink) for 6-8 hours before the test.
- For IBD Surveillance (Colonoscopy): Full bowel emptying is required by drinking a laxative (such as Meroken or Picosalax) the day before the test and a low-fiber diet 3 days prior. Bowel cleanliness is critical for detecting flat lesions.
- Medications: Please bring a medication list and consult regarding stopping blood thinners.
What to expect the day after? (Recovery and recuperation)
- Recovery: Rest for about half an hour at the institute until the sedation wears off. Driving is prohibited after the test.
- Sensations: If RFA ablation was performed in the esophagus, sore throat or chest discomfort may occur for a few days (treatable with painkillers and antacids).
- Results & Follow-up: The final answer is received from pathology after about 10-14 days. Depending on the results (whether dysplasia was found or not), Dr. Vosko will determine the next surveillance frequency (usually every 3 months, 1 year, or 3 years).
Are there risks or side effects?
Surveillance tests are very safe. Risks increase slightly if treatment (resection or ablation) is performed:
- Bleeding: Usually stops on its own or is treated on the spot.
- Stenosis (Stricture): In cases of extensive RFA ablation in the esophagus, a stricture may occur requiring future dilation.
- Chest pain: A known phenomenon after RFA treatment, which passes with time.
Information for patients from abroad (medical tourism)
The unit is equipped to receive international patients and collaborates with agents for a full logistical envelope.
Direct inquiries are also welcomed for rapid and efficient coordination.
Patients arriving for a second opinion on Barrett's findings or for RFA treatment unavailable in their country.
For your convenience, Dr. Vosko is fluent in Hebrew, English, and Russian.
Are the tests for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) different from a standard colonoscopy?
Yes. In patients with Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis, we take significantly more biopsies (samples), including from areas that appear normal to the eye, in order to assess the degree of microscopic inflammation (Mucosal Healing), which is the true indicator of successful medical therapy.
Is the dye used in chromoendoscopy dangerous?
No. The dyes we use (virtual or physical) are completely safe, are not absorbed by the body, and are naturally washed out. They are intended solely to highlight the surface of the mucosa.
Can diet cure Barrett's?
Diet and treatment with acid-suppressing medications can prevent worsening of the damage and halt the inflammatory process, but they usually do not eliminate the Barrett's mucosa that has already formed. For this purpose, endoscopic treatments (such as ablation) are required when necessary.
How often should I be checked?
This depends on previous findings. If there is no dysplasia (cellular changes), follow-up is usually every 3-5 years. If changes are detected, follow-up will be more frequent (every 6-12 months). Dr. Vosko will determine the exact frequency in accordance with international protocols.
I have Barrett's Esophagus. Does this mean I will get cancer?
It is important to reassure: the risk of developing cancer in patients with Barrett's Esophagus is very low (about 0.5% per year). The purpose of follow-up is not to "find cancer," but rather to detect changes before they become cancer and to treat them easily. Most people with Barrett's Esophagus live normal, full lives.
We are with you - from the very first call, we understand that on the other end of the line is a person who may be concerned or in pain, waiting for answers. Therefore, we have built a service system that truly sees you:
- High Availability: A live service center is active Sunday-Thursday from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM and on Fridays from 09:00 AM to 02:00 PM. In urgent cases, we are available beyond these hours.
- Direct WhatsApp Line: Do you have a question about fasting? Did you forget to ask something about your medications? Our customer service is available via WhatsApp for a quick response.
- Peace of Mind from Bureaucracy: Our team is highly experienced in working with insurance companies and supplemental health plans. We will assist you in preparing the necessary paperwork and authorizations so that you can focus entirely on your health.
Barrett's & IBD
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