Gastroenterology in Bern: Gastrointestinal Specialist and PD Dr Netzer

PD Dr Peter Netzer is an experienced gastroenterology specialist and owner of the GastroZentrum at the Lindenhof Hospital in Bern. 

As a gastrointestinal expert, he diagnoses and treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with great care and expertise. Disorders of the oesophagus, gall bladder, liver, and pancreas also fall within his spectrum of treatments. In cancers of the digestive system, Dr Netzer works closely with professionals in oncology, radiotherapy, and abdominal surgery at an interdisciplinary basis. In addition to his professional expertise, Dr Peter Netzer also stands out due to his caring nature towards his patients. Compassion and understanding of their illnesses as well as the desire to achieve best possible treatment outcomes are defining elements of his way to handling patients entrusted to his care.

Diagnosis and Therapy from a Single Source: the GastroZentrum at the Lindenhof Hospital in Bern

Thanks to the available equipment at the GastroZentrum including modern video endoscopes, Dr Netzer is able to detect and diagnose even smallest pathological changes of the oesophagus, stomach or colon, plus to initiate therapy. By means of imaging techniques or in case of strict indications via biopsy, Dr Netzer clarifies and treats diseases of liver, gall bladder or pancreas.  

Gastroscopy (Oesophageal Gastro-Duodenoscopy)

During the process of gastroscopy, oesophagus, stomach or upper part of the duodenum can be examined by applying a flexible tube probe with an integrated camera. At the same time, it is possible to remove secretion and tissue samples or even perform minor surgical procedures. A gastroscopy is implemented for conditions such as reflux or ulcerative diseases, celiac disease, or even - among other things - to detect tumours. By implementing various resection procedures, any abnormal processes or tissue alterations can be removed during gastroscopy.

In case of mucosal lesions in the lower region of the oesophagus (Barrett's mucosa) or mucosal bleedings, the affected tissue can be broken down or destroyed by means of the so-called radiofrequency ablation (supply of high heat). With the help of dilatations or stent inserts, Dr Netzer and his team also treat complaints caused by tumour stenosis (tumour evoked constriction) or achalasia (slackening of the lower oesophageal muscle) during gastroscopy.

Endoscopy of the Small Intestine (Enteroscopy)

The most common reasons for an endoscopy of the small intestine are bleedings or suspected inflammatory changes or tumours in the small intestine. By using various techniques (e.g., double balloon endoscopy), the small intestine can be threaded under sedation in order to be able to observe several metres of the organ. Alternatively, examinations by video capsule (capsule endoscopy) are possible.

Colonoscopy and Rectoscopy (Endoscopy of the Colon and Rectum)

In cases of persistent diarrhoea, cramps, colic or recurring blood in the stool, it is prudent to undergo diagnostic clarification by means of a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is also essential for cancer screening. If polyps, carcinomas at early stages or submucosal processes (tissue changes beneath muscles) are detected during investigation of individual intestinal segments, these parts can promptly be removed - e.g. by means of a jumbo forceps or snare resection, an endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), an endoscopic submucosal resection (ESD) or a full-wall resection (FTR).

Dr Netzer and his team at the GastroZentrum in Bern have extensive experience and routine with the resection methods mentioned above. Diverticula (protrusions of the intestinal wall), stenoses (constrictions) or radiation proctitis (inflammation of the rectum following radiotherapy) can also be simultaneously diagnosed and treated during a colonoscopy.

Experts in ERCP and Cholangioscopy at the GastroZentrum in Bern

ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is a radiological examination approach. During this process, gall bladder, bile ducts, and ducts of the pancreas can be examined. Utilizing an endoscope, the cavities are filled with an X-ray contrast agent and illuminated. Even small surgical interventions are possible within the scope of ERCP. For example, gallstones can be captured endoscopically by using small forceps and little cups to be then removed from the bile ducts (papillotomy). In cholangiography - a direct examination of the biliary tract, the contrast medium is injected either through the arm vein or by puncturing the bile ducts. 

Endosonography: Ultrasound from the Inside

Dr Netzer has state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment available at the GastroZentrum in Bern. These appliances are used, for example, during the special examination method of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS). Here, the ultrasound head does not slide above the outside of the skin, but is inserted into the body instead - directly into or near the organs to be examined. With this conduct, Dr Netzer and his team can reliably diagnose complaints of stomach, oesophagus, pancreas, and gall bladder, as well as the rest of the digestive system. Additionally, endoscopic ultrasonography is frequently used in fine needle aspirations of tumours, cysts, lymph nodes or drainages - for example in case of liver abscesses. The GastroZentrum offers state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment of the latest generation for this purpose.

Diagnostic Clarification and Treatment of Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Diseases      

Illnesses such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or microscopic colitis represent a life-long burden for those affected. These chronic afflictions are often associated with severe diarrhoea, weight loss and weakness. These problems can onset not only in adults, but already during childhood or adolescence. This enhances the importance of a precise diagnosis and individualised treatment. Dr Netzer cares for affected patients at the Lindenhof Hospital in Bern both on an outpatient and inpatient basis. The goal is always the restoration or best possible preservation of quality of life – despite the chronic intestinal condition.

Further information can be acquired on the PD Dr Peter Netzer's website.