The division serves as an exemplary tertiary care referral center for the management of complex gastrointestinal problems in Northern California. We offer advanced therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for patients with gastrointestinal diseases and malignancies. The division serves patients with cultivated skills and caring, providing nonsurgical treatment options for stone diseases and malignant obstruction of the pancreas and bile duct. Diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders and acid reflux improve patient comfort and may prevent progression to malignancy. Our physicians collaborate with medical experts in Canada, Europe and Asia to apply the latest scientific knowledge to patient care.

Division researchers are looking for ways to optimize endoscopic stent function (tubes placed to open up blocked bile ducts) and to endoscopically halt major internal bleeding. Endowment funds from the Mr. and Mrs. C.W. Law Biofilm Research Laboratory support studies to prevent bacterial infection that causes biofilm, an accumulation of sludge in implanted prosthetic devices that can lead to stent blockage and formation of biliary stones. Investigation of idiopathic pancreatitis, obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, and new methods for minimally invasive treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease are under way. We are working with the UC Davis Cancer Center on translational protocols to investigate use of novel tumor markers for early diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary cancers. Studies of the pathogenesis and treatment of chronic inflammatory bowel disease are also in progress.

The ultimate goal of the division is to replace every major digestive disease operation with a less invasive endoscopic procedure. Our vision includes a Digestive Disease Center at UC Davis. Teaming with colleagues in gastrointestinal surgery, oncology and interventional radiology, physicians at the center will offer a wide range of options for the management of GI disease, including endoscopic, laparoscopic and pancreaticobiliary surgery; liver transplantation; and novel chemotherapeutic and radiation treatment for gastrointestinal cancers.