Biography - Wayne Panullo, MD

Dr. Panullo- Although, I do general GI, some of my special interests lie in esophageal, pancreatic, and biliary disorders, as well as Gl bleeding.
There have been tremendous technological advances in these areas. In esophageal diseases, tiny endoscopically placed devices (BRAVO Procedure) can record acid reflux. Additionally, thin-caliber nasally placed catheters (lmpedance plethysmography) can also assess non-acid reflux while on medication. These instruments also allow us to correlate and assess whether reflux can be causing various symptoms.
Minimally invasive endoscopic radiofrequency ablation (HALO Procedure) has been developed to treat early cancer and precancerous esophageal lesions, which previously required high risk surgery. More advanced (high resolution manometry) testing has been developed to better characterize esophageal motility disorders aiding in their treatment, especially achalasia.Less invasive and more accurate means are now utilized to assess pancreatic and biliary disorders.These include MRI and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with biopsy capabilities. These approaches improve early and more precise diagnosis with little risk. Nonsurgical methods of removing bile duct stones, treating obstruction, and pancreatic pain have been improved.Amazing advances utilizing micro-technology (PILLCAM) allows us to better diagnose intestinal bleeding, Crohns disease, and tumors. Basically, it involves swallowing a camera the size of a large vitamin that transmits over 50,000 images over 8 hours. I expect this technology will continue to evolve and have a larger scope in Gl practices in the future.Personally, I remain extremely interested in teaching and find it both fulfilling and rewarding. I mentor colleagues, as well as teach residents, medical students, and Gl fellows training to become gastroenterologists. I volunteer as an attending at hospital clinics and doing procedures pro bono for the indigent.I continue to enjoy family time and follow my children with their various travels.Despite all of the difficulties of having to practice medicine, I continue to adapt and find ways to improve the delivery of health care. I am devoted to providing the best care possible and welcome any feedback as to how I can improve my practice.

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