Faq

Have Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to commonly asked questions about digestive health, procedures, and our practice.

Colonoscopy Q&A

General Information

Colonoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the inner lining of your large intestine (colon and rectum) using a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera. It is used to detect changes or abnormalities such as inflamed tissue, polyps, or cancer.

Colonoscopy is performed to investigate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea or constipation, and other gastrointestinal issues. It is also used for screening for colon cancer and for monitoring patients with a history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.

Preparation

Preparation typically involves a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure and taking a bowel-cleansing solution to ensure the colon is empty. The effluent color should resemble clear yellow to ensure the bowel preparation is adequate for colonoscopy. Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding dietary restrictions and the bowel prep process.

The day before your colonoscopy, you should follow a clear liquid diet, which includes water, broth, clear juices (apple, white grape), clear sodas, tea, coffee (without milk or cream), and gelatin (without added fruit or toppings). Avoid red, blue, or purple liquids, as they can discolor the colon.

You may need to adjust or temporarily stop certain medications before a colonoscopy, particularly blood thinners, diabetes medications, Iron and fiber, supplements and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Please discuss with your doctor, if you take any of these medications. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions based on your medical history.

Procedure

During the procedure, you will be sedated for comfort. The gastroenterologist will insert the colonoscope through the rectum and into the colon, examining the lining and possibly taking biopsies or removing polyps. The procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes.

Most patients do not experience pain during colonoscopy due to sedation. You may feel some pressure, gas, or cramping, but this is generally mild and temporary.

Risks and Complications

Colonoscopies are generally safe, but there are some risks, including adverse reactions to sedation, bleeding from biopsy sites or polyp removal, and, rarely, perforation of the colon. Discuss any concerns with your doctor beforehand.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, or significant rectal bleeding after the procedure, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

Post-Procedure

After the procedure, you will be monitored while the sedation wears off. You should arrange for someone to drive you home, as you are legally impaired for 24 hours post-procedure. Mild bloating or gas is common, but you should be able to resume normal activities the next day.

Your gastroenterologist will provide a brief summary of initial findings immediately after the procedure. Biopsy results or polyp analysis typically take a few days. Your doctor will give you instructions regarding subsequent follow-up, if needed.

Gastroscopy Q&A

General Information

A gastroscope is a flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, used by gastroenterologists to examine the upper part of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). This procedure is also known as an upper endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).

Gastroscopy is performed to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions that affect the upper digestive tract, such as persistent heartburn, abdominal pain, bleeding, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, and to investigate abnormalities found on imaging tests.

Preparation

Preparation for a gastroscopy typically involves fasting for about 6-8 hours before the procedure to ensure your stomach is empty. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on when to stop eating and drinking.

You may need to adjust or temporarily stop certain medications before a gastroscopy, particularly blood thinners, diabetes medications, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your doctor will give you detailed instructions based on your medical history.

Procedure

During the procedure, you will be sedated for comfort. The gastroenterologist will insert the gastroscope through your mouth and gently guide it down your throat to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Most patients do not experience pain during a gastroscopy due to sedation. You may feel some mild discomfort, such as pressure or bloating, but this is generally well-tolerated.

Risks and Complications

Gastroscopy is generally safe, but there are some risks, including adverse reactions to sedation, bleeding from biopsy sites, infection, and, very rarely, perforation of the upper digestive tract. Discuss any concerns with your doctor beforehand.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or significant bleeding after the procedure, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

Post-Procedure

After the procedure, you will be monitored while the sedation wears off. You should arrange for someone to drive you home, as you are legally impaired for 24 hours after receiving conscious sedation. Mild throat soreness or bloating is common but should resolve within a day.

Your gastroenterologist will provide a brief summary of initial findings immediately after the procedure. Biopsy results or polyp analysis typically take a few days. Your doctor will give you instructions regarding subsequent follow-up, if needed.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Q&A

General Information

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the lower part of your large intestine (rectum and sigmoid colon) using a flexible tube with a light and camera. It is used to diagnose issues such as polyps, cancer, and causes of abdominal pain or rectal bleeding.

This procedure is performed to investigate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic diarrhea, and changes in bowel habits. It is also used for colorectal cancer screening and to monitor conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

Preparation

Preparation usually involves a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure and using a bowel-cleansing solution or enemas to clear the lower colon. Your doctor will provide specific instructions tailored to your needs.

The day of the procedure, you will follow a clear liquid diet, including water, broth, clear juices (apple, white grape), clear sodas, tea, coffee (without milk or cream), and gelatin (without added fruit or toppings). Avoid red, blue, or purple liquids, as they can interfere with the examination. You should fast for 6-8 hours before the test.

Procedure

During the procedure, you will lie on your side while the doctor inserts the sigmoidoscope through the rectum into the lower colon. The doctor will examine the lining and may take biopsies or remove polyps if needed. The procedure typically takes about 10-20 minutes.

You may feel some discomfort, pressure, or cramping during the procedure, but it is usually mild and brief. Sedation is not typically used for this procedure, although it can be requested.

Risks and Complications

Flexible sigmoidoscopies are generally safe, but there are some risks, including bleeding, infection, and, very rarely, perforation of the colon. Discuss any concerns with your doctor beforehand.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, or significant rectal bleeding after the procedure, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

Post-Procedure

After the procedure, you may feel some mild bloating or cramping, but these symptoms should resolve quickly. You can usually resume normal activities immediately. If biopsies were taken or polyps removed, your doctor will advise you on any specific follow-up care.

Your gastroenterologist will discuss initial findings with you immediately after the procedure. Biopsy results, if any were taken, typically take a few days, and your doctor will follow up with you to discuss these results.

Frequency and Follow-Up

The frequency of flexible sigmoidoscopy depends on your specific condition and medical history. It may be recommended every 5 years for colorectal cancer screening starting at age 50, or more frequently if you have certain risk factors or symptoms.

If your results are normal and no further issues are identified, your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include routine monitoring and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Follow-up appointments will be based on your individual health needs.

If you have additional questions or need further clarification, please contact our office to speak with a specialist or schedule a consultation. Is this conversation helpful so far?

Patient's Q&A for Esophageal Manometry

Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the function of the esophagus and the esophageal sphincter. It assesses the muscle contractions that move food and liquids from the esophagus to the stomach.

This test is often performed to diagnose conditions related to swallowing difficulties, chest pain, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It helps determine the cause of these symptoms by evaluating the strength and coordination of esophageal muscles.

  • Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
  • Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. Some medications may need to be stopped before the test.
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Nasal insertion: A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted through your nose and passed down into your esophagus.
  • Measurements: The catheter measures the pressure and muscle contractions in your esophagus as you swallow small sips of water.

The entire procedure typically takes about 15-20 minutes. The insertion and measurement process itself is relatively quick.

The procedure may be uncomfortable, especially during the insertion of the catheter, but it should not be painful. Some patients may experience mild gagging or a sensation of pressure.

Esophageal manometry is generally safe, but some risks include:

  • Mild discomfort or gagging during the test
  • Nosebleed from catheter insertion
  • Sore throat afterward

You can resume normal activities and diet immediately after the test. Some people may experience a mild sore throat or nasal discomfort, which usually resolves quickly.

Results are typically available within a few days. Your referring doctor will discuss the findings with you and explain what they mean for your health and any necessary follow-up or treatment.

Patient's Q&A for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. It combines the use of endoscopy and fluoroscopy to examine these areas and guide interventions.

ERCP is performed to:

  • Diagnose and treat bile duct or pancreatic duct blockages
  • Remove gallstones
  • Place stents to relieve obstructions
  • Take tissue samples (biopsies)
  • Treat infections or leaks in the bile or pancreatic ducts
  • Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
  • Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including blood thinners, as you may need to stop certain medications before the procedure.
  • Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies, especially to iodine or contrast dye.
  • Arrangements: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as sedation is used.
  • Sedation: You will be given a sedative to help you relax and may be asleep during the procedure.
  • Endoscope insertion: A flexible, lighted tube (endoscope) is passed through your mouth, down your throat, and into your stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
  • Contrast dye: A contrast dye is injected into the bile and pancreatic ducts through a small catheter passed through the endoscope.
  • Imaging: X-ray images are taken to visualize the ducts and identify any blockages or abnormalities.
  • Treatment: If necessary, the doctor can perform treatments such as removing stones, inserting stents, or taking biopsies.

The procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity and the treatments performed.

You should not feel pain during the procedure due to the sedative. However, you may experience mild discomfort or a sore throat afterward.

ERCP is generally safe, but potential risks include:

  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Infection of the bile ducts or pancreas
  • Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract
  • Bleeding
  • Adverse reaction to sedation or contrast dye
  • Recovery: You will be monitored in a recovery area until the sedative wears off.
  • Discomfort: Some people experience mild bloating, gas, or a sore throat.
  • Diet: You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours after the procedure.
  • Activities: Avoid driving or operating machinery for 24 hours due to the sedative.

Patient's Q&A for Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound to obtain detailed images and information about the digestive tract and the surrounding tissues and organs, including the pancreas, liver, and lymph nodes.

EUS is performed to:

  • Diagnose and stage cancers of the digestive tract and pancreas
  • Evaluate abnormalities such as lumps or lesions
  • Assess chronic pancreatitis or other pancreatic diseases
  • Guide fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for biopsies
  • Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
  • Medications: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, particularly blood thinners. Some medications may need to be adjusted before the test.
  • Allergies: Inform your doctor of any allergies, especially to anesthesia or sedatives.
  • Arrangements: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you will be sedated.
  • Sedation: You will be given a sedative to help you relax, and you may be asleep during the procedure.
  • Endoscope insertion: A flexible tube with an ultrasound probe (endoscope) is passed through your mouth and into your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine.
  • Ultrasound imaging: The ultrasound probe produces sound waves that create detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues.
  • Biopsy: If needed, the doctor may perform a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) to take tissue or fluid samples for further examination.

The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity and whether a biopsy is performed.

You should not feel pain during the procedure due to the sedative. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or a sore throat afterward.

EUS is generally safe, but potential risks include:

  • Mild discomfort or sore throat
  • Bleeding, especially if a biopsy is taken
  • Infection
  • Perforation of the digestive tract
  • Reaction to sedation

Results from biopsies or other samples may take a few days to a week. Your doctor will explain the findings and any necessary follow-up.

  • Normal results: No abnormalities detected in the examined areas.
  • Abnormal results: May indicate conditions such as tumors, cysts, inflammation, or infections. Further treatment or tests may be needed based on the findings.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Patient resources for excellent GI care

See the helpful information below for new patients, questions and answers, and helpful resources.

Welcome

New Patients Guide

Helpful

Patient Resources

Refer a Patient

Before an appointment can be scheduled, you will need a referral from your physician.

Refer a Patient

The clinic

About Us
Treatment Specialties
Refer a Patient

Patient info

New Patients Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Patient Resources

Location

West Coast Gastroenterology

5th floor-2775 Laurel Street
Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9

View location details

© 2025 West Coast Gastroenterology

Dr. Sundeep Singh

Dr. Sundeep Singh is a Gastroenterologist with a special interest in the Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)

Dr. Singh completed his undergraduate Bachelor of Science at the University of Winnipeg. He then attended the University of Manitoba to complete his Bachelor of Science in Medicine and his Medical Degree. Subsequently, he completed his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Alberta, followed by his Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Calgary. He then pursued an Advanced Inflammatory Bowel Disease Fellowship at the University of Calgary before his arrival in Kelowna to join the Kelowna Gastroenterology Associates. He practised here for 8 years before accepting a position at Vancouver General Hospital to help run the IBD clinic.

Dr. Singh has research interests in IBD surgical outcomes, IBD epidemiology and IBD risk factors and has published research within various recognized Gastroenterology journals including the American Journal of Gastroenterology, Clinical Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Gastroenterology. He now continues his research with clinical trials including evaluation of novel biologic therapeutic targets and long term safety profiles for biologics. 

Clinical interest:

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis)
  • Checkpoint Inhibitor Colitis
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis
  • Novel therapeutic management of Immune Mediated Inflammatory Diseases

Education:

  • Medical Degree, University of Manitoba
  • Internal Medicine Residency, University of Alberta
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship, University of Calgary
  • Advanced Inflammatory Bowel Disease Fellowship, University of Calgary

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students, UBC
  • Gastroenterology Fellows, UBC and University of Calgary

Research:

  • Rioux LC, Charbonneau J, McHugh K, Siffledeen J, Singh S, Afif W, Targownik L. Treatment patterns for advanced therapies in Canadians with moderate-to-severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Manuscript submitted to Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology, under review

  • Siffledeen J, Singh S, Shulman SM, Igoe J, Heatta-Speicher T, Leitner C, Chung CH, Targownik L. Effect of Suboptimal Disease Control on Patient Quality of Life: Real-World Data from the Observational IBD-PODCAST Canada Trial. Dig Dis Sci. 2024 May;69(5):1636-1648. doi: 10.1007/s10620-024-08313-z. Epub 2024 Mar 16.
  • Haskey N, Estaki M, Ye J, Shim R, Singh S, Dieleman LA, Jacobson K, Gibson DL. A Mediterranean Diet Pattern improves intestinal inflammation concomitant with reshaping of the bacteriome in ulcerative colitis: A randomized controlled trial, Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis. 2023; https://doi.org/10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad073
  • Haskey N, Shim RCK, Davidson-Hunt A, Ye J, Singh S, Dieleman LA, Jacobson K, Ghosh S, Gibson DL. Dietary adherence to the Mediterranean diet pattern in a randomized clinical trial of patients with quiescent ulcerative colitis. Front Nutr. 2022 Dec 21;9:1080156. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1080156. PMID: 36618690; PMCID: PMC9812483.

  • Painchaud M, Singh S, Penner RM. Similar Outcomes in Patients Switched to Infliximab Biosimilars Compared to Those Remaining on Remicade in a British Columbia Inflammatory Bowel Disease Practice, Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology, Volume 5, Issue Supplement_1, March 2022, Pages 20–21, https://doi.org/10.1093/jcag/gwab049.146

  • Shim R, Haskey N, Ye J, Singh S, Gibson D. Mediterranean Diet compliance in patients with ulcerative colitis. UBCO Interdisciplinary Conference 2021 (Abstract)

  • Painchaud M, Singh S, Penner RM. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients’ Satisfaction with Telehealth: During the Covid-19 Pandemic. Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology, Volume 4, Issue Supplement 1, March 2021, Pages 56–57
  • Singh S, Al-Darmaki A, Frolkis AD, Seow CH, Leung Y, Novak KL, Ghosh S, Eksteen B, Panaccione R, Kaplan GG. Postoperative Mortality Among Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Population-based Studies. Gastroenterology. 2015 Oct;149(4)928-937.
  • Singh S, Blanchard A, Walker JR, Graff LA, Miller N, Bernstein CN. Common Symptoms and Stressors Among Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2011 Sept;9(9):769-775. Epub 2011 May 20

  • Bernstein CN, Singh S, Graff LA, Walker J, Miller N, Cheang M. A Prospective Population-based Study of Triggers of Symptomatic Flares in IBD. Am J Gastroenterol. 2010 Sept;105(9):1994-2002. Epub 2010 Apr 6

  • Singh S, Graff LA, Bernstein CN. Do NSAIDs, Antibiotics, Infections, or Stress Trigger Flares in IBD? Am J Gastroenterol. 2009 May;104(5):1298-313; quiz 1314. Epub 2009 Mar 31

Awards & Grants:

  • Recipient of a Crohn’s Colitis Canada Grant in dietary research in IBD

  • American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Fellow Award

  • American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Annual North American Conference of Gastroenterology Fellows

  • American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Research Foundation – Horizon Resident Abstract Prize

  • The Polly & George Sheps Prize

  • Mindel & Tom Olenick Scholarship

  • Dr. John Adamson and Dr. Sanford T. Fleming Studentship

Dr. Ian Gan

Dr. Ian Gan MD, FRCPC is a gastroenterologist at Vancouver General Hospital and a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of British Columbia. He specializes in advanced therapeutic endoscopy with a focus towards pancreaticobiliary disease. He acts as the chair and director of the West Coast Pancreas Clinic. 

He was the former head of endoscopic ultrasound and the GI Fellowship Program at Tufts University, before moving to Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. He was the program director for gastroenterology training at University of Washington. After almost ten years at VMMC, he moved back home to Vancouver. Dr. Gan has authored 75 publications in gastroenterology, mostly focusing on clinical research in pancreaticobiliary diseases. 

Clinical interest:

  • Acute and chronic pancreatitis 
  • Recurrent acute pancreatitis 
  • Pancreatic cystic lesions and pancreatic cancer screening
  • Barrett’s Esophagus 
  • General endoscopy (Upper endoscopy and Colonoscopy)
  • Capsule endoscopy
  • Advanced endoscopic procedures, including small bowel enteroscopy, EMR, EUS, ERCP (including altered anatomy, cholangioscopy, and pancreatic interventions), radiofrequency ablation, EUS guided therapeutic interventions

Education:

  • Medical training at University of British Columbia
  • Internal Medicine training at University of British Columbia
  • Gastroenterology training at University of Calgary
  • Advanced endoscopy training at Brigham Women’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University 

Teaching:

  • GI Fellowship Competence Committee, UBC 
  • GI Fellowship Training Committee, UBC         
  • CME Committee, Virginia Mason Medical Center 
  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology Subspecialty Fellows training at UBC

Dr. Kwan

Dr. Peter Kwan is a gastroenterologist at Vancouver General Hospital and a Clinical Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at UBC.

He has completed his medical training at University of Western Ontario and university of British Columbia. He pursued further post-fellowship training at National Institute of Health, Bethesda and in Department of Medical Genetics at UBC.

He has extensive experience in assessment and management of general gastrointestinal disorders, with special interest in hepatitis B and metabolic-associated liver diseases, with research study in these two patient populations. He is fluent in English and Cantonese. 

Academic Position:

  • Clinical associate professor, UBC

Education:

  • BSc (Hon) University of Western Ontario
  • MD (Cum Laude) University of Western Ontario
  • Internal Medicine and GI fellowship  UBC
  • Post Fellowship training:
    • National Institute of Health
    • Bethesda Department of Medical Genetics
    • UBC

Interest:

  • Hepatitis B
  • NAFLD/NASH
  • Population study of the above

Current grant support:

  • Canadian Liver Foundation

Awards:

  • Alpha Omega Alpha
  • MRC Cenential  Fellowship
  • Two term president CCMS (BC)
  • Numerous community awards for public education
  • Long term service award Canadian Liver Foundation

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical Residents Training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology Subspecialty Fellowship Training at UBC 

Dr. Roberto Paolo Trasolini

Dr. Roberto Trasolini is a gastroenterologist and therapeutic endoscopist at Vancouver General Hospital. He specializes in advanced endoscopy and general gastroenterology.

Dr. Trasolini uses a range of endoscopic tools and techniques to provide minimally invasive treatments for GI diseases including endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic suturing, fluoroscopy/ERCP, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).

He has a special interest in endoscopic suturing, endoscopic ultrasound guided anastomosis creation, as well as third space endoscopy. He is working to bring novel treatments for obesity and metabolic syndrome to Canada and British Columbia inspired by his fellowship training.

He has published numerous abstracts, papers and videos in advanced endoscopy. He is a clinical supervisor for the UBC Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship.

Clinical interest:

  • ERCP/EUS
  • POEM/GPOEM
  • GI neoplasia resection (Esophagus, gastric, colon, EMR, ESD, subepithelial lesions)
  • Zenker’s Diverticulum repair
  • Bariatric Endoscopy (intragastric balloon removal, dumping syndrome management, management of other post bariatric surgical complications/syndromes)
  • Barrett’s ablation
  • Capsule Endoscopy/Small bowel enteroscopy

Education:

  • Medical School at the University of British Columbia
  • General Internal Medicine training at University of British Columbia
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship at University of British Columbia
  • Advanced Endoscopy at Harvard University, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
  • Bariatric Endoscopy and Foregut Endosurgery at Harvard University, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Master of Science at New York Medical College

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology subspecialty Fellowship training at UBC
  • UBC Medical Undergraduate jaundice week co-lead
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship Competency Committee

Dr. Daljeet Singh Chahal

Dr. Daljeet Chahal MD MASc FRCPC is a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Vancouver General Hospital, and a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia.

Dr. Chahal practices in all areas of general Gastroenterology and Hepatology. He is a member of the Liver Transplant Program of BC and is involved in transplant assessment, care during critical illness, and care of patients after transplantation including immunosuppression management.

Dr. Chahal has published various conference abstracts, journal articles, and book chapters on various topics in Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases.

Dr. Chahal’s clinical and translational research interests include studies aiming to better characterize complications of acute-on-chronic liver failure, and studies to reduce ischemic complications after liver transplantation.

Dr. Chahal is also involved in clinical trials of novel therapeutic compounds for patients affected by various types of liver disease. He is the co-editor of “AI in Clinical Medicine.” He is fluent in English and Punjabi

Clinical interest:

  • General endoscopy: (Upper endoscopy & Colonoscopy)
  • General gastroenterology
  • Colon cancer screening
  • Fatty liver diseases
  • Liver fibrosis assessment (Fibroscan)
  • Cholestatic liver disease (PBC, PSC)
  • Liver cancer (HCC, Cholangiocarcinoma)
  • Viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C)
  • Compensated and decompensated cirrhosis
  • Acute and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ALF, ACLF)
  • Liver transplant assessment and evaluation
  • Post-liver-transplant care (graft management, immunosuppression)

Education:

  • Master of Applied Science in Bioengineering, University of British Columbia
  • Doctor of Medicine, University of British Columbia
  • Internal Medicine Residency, University of British Columbia
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship, University of British Columbia
  • Advanced Liver Disease & Transplant Hepatology, Mount Sinai Hospital (NYC), Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institute (RMTI)

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology subspecialty Fellowship training at UBC

Awards:

  • UBC Friedman Award for Scholars in Health
  • Canadian Association for Study of the Liver Fellowship Award

Dr. Michael Byrne

Dr. Michael Byrne MD, FRCPC is a Clinical Professor of Medicine in the Division of Gastroenterology, and Director of the Interventional Endoscopy Fellowship program at Vancouver General Hospital/University of British Columbia.

He is also the CEO and founder of Satisfai Health, a company using Artificial Intelligence and allied technologies across the spectrum of GI diseases. He is frequently described as one of the pioneers in bringing AI to Gastroenterology and Endoscopy.

He has published over 150 papers in peer-reviewed journals, over 200 abstracts, and is the lead editor for a recent textbook from the publisher Wiley, entitled “AI in Clinical Medicine”.

He frequently presents at international conferences, particularly in relation to Artificial Intelligence and Gastroenterology.

Clinical interest:

  • General gastroenterology
  • Pancreaticobiliary diseases
  • General endoscopy (Upper endoscopy and colonoscopy)
  • Advanced therapeutic endoscopy: ERCP, EUS, cholangioscopy, pancreatic necrosectomy

Education:

  • Master of Arts in Medical Studies and Psychology at Cambridge University
  • MBChB at Liverpool University
  • Doctorate of Medicine (Cantab) at Cambridge University
  • Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology fellowship, multiple hospitals in Dublin, Ireland
  • Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship at Duke University Medical Center

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology Subspecialty Fellows training at UBC

Dr. Isabella Tai

Dr. Isabella Tai is a Clinician-Scientist with a special interest in Gastrointestinal cancers.  She is interested in understanding the mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance, metastasis and tumour progression in gastrointestinal cancers. Her group uses genomic and proteomic approaches to identify genetic markers that could be suitable for colorectal cancer screening, and to identify unique signatures that correspond to drug resistance in colorectal cancers.

Affiliations:

  • Clinical Associate Professor, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia

Education:

  • Medical degree: MD, PhD – MD/PhD Program, University of Toronto
  • General Internal Medicine (University of Toronto)
  • Gastroenterology (University of Toronto; Beth Israel Medical Deaconess, Harvard Medical School)

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology subspecialty Fellowship training at UBC

Research:

Research:

Dr. Nazira Chatur

Dr. Nazira Chatur MD, FRCPC is a gastroenterologist at Vancouver General Hospital with more than 25 years of clinical experience. She is the current Section Head for Gastroenterology in BC and the President of the BC Society of Gastroenterology. She is a gastroenterologist and endoscopist with special interest and extensive experience in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). As well, she has published on colonic neoplasms in childhood survivors of malignancy and continues to service this patient population.

Additionally, she is the GI lead on the BC Cancer Association (BCCA) Task Force for immune checkpoint inhibitor related adverse events. Previously, she worked for over 10 years in IT, such as Motorola in the area of radio network telecommunications including secure data transmission using encryption and decryption. This resulted in a joint patent.

Clinical interest:

  • Novel therapies in management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease)
  • Adverse effects of checkpoint inhibitor (immunotherapy) therapies for malignancies
  • Colon cancer screening
  • General endoscopy (upper endoscopy and colonoscopy)
  • Education:
  • Medical school training at UBC
  • Internal Medicine, University of British Columbia
  • Fellowship in Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia

Education:

  • BSc in Management and Systems Sciences
  • Medical school training at UBC
  • Internal Medicine, University of British Columbia
  • Fellowship in Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia

Clinical interest:

  • Former Adult Gastroenterology Training Program Director at UBC for over 10 years

Awards:

  • Donald M. Carr Memorial Teaching Award – awarded by fellows in the Adult
  • Gastroenterology Training Program at UBC
  • UBC Faculty of Medicine Teaching Award. Clinical Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching
  • Astra Zeneca Award for Excellence in Teaching (Gastroenterology)
  • Excellence in Gastroenterology at UBC

Dr. Eric Yoshida

Dr. Eric Yoshida OBC, MD, MHSc, FRCP(C), FACP, FACG, FCAHS, FAASLD is a Professor of Medicine at University of British Columbia. He has had more than 30 years of experience in management of common liver disorders as well as extensive clinical and research expertise in viral hepatitis and liver transplant. He has had over 385 peer-reviewed publications in medical and scientific journals, over 160 non-peer-reviewed publications, and 30 miscellaneous articles.

He has been an author or co-author on over 350 abstracts presented around the world. He has been extremely active in leadership roles in the academic and medical communities. He is the current Co-Chair of the Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver (CASL) new Diversity and Equality Committee, Current Chair of Medical Advisory Committee of the National Canadian Liver Foundation since 2010. He is the founder and the current editor-in-chief of the Canadian Liver Journal. He has held several leadership roles, including the President of Vancouver General Hospital Medical, Dental, and Allied Staff Association, the Vancouver Physician Staff Association, the Head of Gastroenterology at UBC, the head of Gastroenterology at Vancouver General Hospital, the Medical Director of BC’s Liver Transplant Program, and President of CASL.

He is passionate about providing care to marginalized and underserved population.

Clinical interest:

  • Viral hepatitis
  • Cholestatic liver diseases
  • Liver cancers
  • Liver transplantation
  • General gastroenterology
  • General endoscopy (Upper endoscopy and colonoscopy)
  • Education:
  • Medical Doctorate, University of Toronto
  • Internal Medicine, University of British Columbia
  • Fellowship in Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia
  • Master of Health Sciences/ clinical epidemiology, University of British Columbia
  • Fellowship training in Transplant Hepatology, University of California, San Francisco

Education:

  • Medical Doctorate, University of Toronto
  • Internal Medicine, University of British Columbia
  • Fellowship in Gastroenterology, University of British Columbia
  • Master of Health Sciences/ clinical epidemiology, University of British Columbia
  • Fellowship training in Transplant Hepatology, University of California, San Francisco

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology subspecialty Fellowship training at UBC
  • Advanced Transplant Hepatology Fellowship training

Awards:

  • Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
  • Martin M. Hoffman Award for Excellence in Research (UBC, Department of Medicine)
  • Vancouver Acute Medical and Allied Staff Award for Clinical Excellence
  • Order of British Columbia (2016)
  • William A. Webber Award from UBC Medical Undergraduate Society (2018)
  • Resident Advocate Award from the Professional Association of Residents of BC (2006)
  • Distinguished Service and Meritorious Achievement Award from the Canadian
  • Association for the Study of Liver (2016)
  • Canadian Liver Foundation 50th Anniversary Recognition Medal (2019)

Dr. James R Gray

Dr. Gray MD, CCFP, ABIM, FRCPC, CAGF is a Clinical Professor of Medicine at UBC. Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, he has been an active member of the Gastroenterology Division at Vancouver General Hospital since 1989.

He is an appointed Fellow of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology. He has been the President of the BC Society of Gastroenterology and served as the Medical Advisor to the GI Society and Badgut.Org. He has been a Board member of the Canadian Society of Intestinal Research, and has been involved as co-Chair in the Guidelines and Protocol Advisory Committee to the BC Medical Commission.

He is a current examiner for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Gastroenterology. He is a DOPS assessor (Direct Observation of Procedural Skills) as part of the provincial program for quality assurance during colonoscopy.

Clinical interest:

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease)
  • Disorders of Gut-Brain interaction (formally known as Functional GI disorders, including IBS, functional dyspepsia, Constipation, and diarrhea)
  • Colon cancer screening
  • General endoscopy (Upper endoscopy and Colonoscopy)

Education:

  • Medical School at the University of British Columbia
  • Internship at Dalhousie University
  • Internal Medicine training at the University of British Columbia
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship training at the University of British Columbia
  • Gastroenterology Research Fellowship at the University of Edinburgh

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical Residents trainees at UBC
  • Gastroenterology Subspecialty Fellowship trainees at UBC

Dr. Sarvee Moosavi

Dr. Sarvee Moosavi MD, FRCPC, MEd. (Candidate) is a clinical assistant professor in gastroenterology at Vancouver General Hospital. She practices in all areas of general Gastroenterology and Hepatology. In addition, she sees complex referrals from all around the province for disorders of gut-brain interaction (formerly known as functional GI disorders), as well as neurogastroenterology and GI motility disorders.   

She is the founder of the only gastroenterology motility lab in the province of British Columbia with access to both esophageal and anorectal manometry, where she personally performs high-quality tests assessing gastrointestinal function, including esophageal and anorectal manometry, pH monitoring, and esophageal planimetry (EndoFLIP). She has first authored several articles in highly reputable journals, as well as the “Atlas of High-Resolution Manometry and pH Monitoring”.

She has presented at international and national conferences on various topics on disorders of gut-brain interaction and esophageal motility disorders. She is fluent in both English and Farsi.

Clinical interest:

  • General gastroenterology
  • General endoscopy (Upper endoscopy and Colonoscopy)
  • Colon cancer screening
  • Esophageal and anorectal planimetry, pH monitoring
  • Esophageal Panometry (EndoFLIP) (Currently the only gastroenterologist with formal training and access to this technology in the entire province)
  • Esophageal disorders, including Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • Disorders of gut-brain interaction (formerly known as functional GI disorders)
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, microscopic colitis, and celiac disease

Education:

  • Medical Undergraduate Degree, University of British Columbia
  • Internal Medicine Fellowship, McGill University
  • Gastroenterology fellowship, University of British Columbia
  • Neurogastroenterology and Motility training at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, LA, California and University of Calgary
  • Master of Education (2025), Harvard University

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology subspecialty Fellowship training in Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility disorders at UBC (Adult and Pediatric fellows)
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship Competency Committee representative
  • Gastroenterology Chief of Service at Vancouver General Hospital
  • Medical Advisor to GI Society and Badgut.org

Research:

  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis (Cytosponge Clinical trial)
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis (Role of Dupilumab in esophageal remodelling in EOE)
  • Use of new technology, including Esophageal Panometry (EndoFLIP) in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
  • Use of EndoFLIP technology in assessment of candidacy for G-POEM (gastroparesis in lung transplant recipient)
  • Role of esophageal dysmotility and gastroesophageal reflux disease in the lung allograft survival amongst the lung transplant recipients.
  • Functional GI disorders in pregnancy

Awards:

  • Recipient of VCHRI Research Team Grant 2023

Dr. Vladimir Marquez

Dr. Vladimir Marquez MD, FRCPC, MSc. is a gastroenterologist and hepatologist with subspecialty training in liver transplantation with over 10 years of clinical experience.

He is currently the Medical Lead of the Liver Transplant Program at Vancouver General Hospital. He is particularly interested in the management of portal hypertension. In his general hepatology clinics, he manages various conditions including PBC, PSC, viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, Wilson’s disease, and steatohepatitis.

He has research interests in liver transplantation,
portal hypertension, and Wilson disease, and has served as an investigator on clinical trials in these areas. He is fluent in English, Spanish, and French.

Clinical interest:

  • Vascular Liver Disorders
  • Portal Hypertension and complications of advanced liver disease
  • Hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Liver Transplantation
  • Colon cancer screening
  • General endoscopy (upper endoscopy and colonoscopy)

Education:

  • Medical Doctorate (M.D.C.M.), McGill University
  • Internal Medicine, Laval University
  • Fellowship in Gastroenterology, Laval University
  • Masters in Clinical Epidemiology (with Thesis), McGill University
  • Fellowship in Transplant Hepatology, University of British Columbia
  • Post-Fellowship Training in Vascular Liver Disorders, Beaujon Hospital (Paris)

Teaching:

  • Academic Lead, Liver Transplant Fellowship Program, UBC
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship Training Committee representative

Awards:

  • The Dr. Donald M. Carr Memorial Teaching Award 2022
  • The UBC Gastroenterology Fellows Lectureship Award 2016, 2017, 2020

Dr. Baljinder Salh

Dr. Baljinder Salh MBChB FRCP(UK) FRCP(C) is a gastroenterologist at Vancouver General Hospital and an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at UBC. He is the current Head of the Division of Gastroenterology at Vancouver General Hospital.

He graduated from Leeds University in England, with subsequent training in internal medicine and gastroenterology in England as well as here in Vancouver. He has undertaken research in both countries including a translational science fellowship in a starfish laboratory, where he learnt about biochemical signal transduction cascades. He has applied this information to his areas of interest and research that includes inflammatory bowel disease and its complications such as cancer.

He is the Principal Investigator on numerous clinical trials at Vancouver General Hospital, exploring the use of novel therapeutic compounds/targets in patients affected by inflammatory bowel disease. He is fluent in English and Punjabi.

Clinical interest:

  • Novel therapies in management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease)
  • Celiac disease
  • Eosinophilic and other intestinal immune disorders
  • Gastrointestinal malignancies
  • Colon cancer screening
  • General endoscopy (upper endoscopy and colonoscopy)

Education:

  • Medical school training at Leeds University in England
  • Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology Fellowship, UK and BC, Canada

Teaching:

  • Undergraduate Medical Students at UBC
  • Surgical and Medical residents training at UBC
  • Gastroenterology subspecialty Fellowship training at UBC

Research:

  • Research interests in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, including translational research, clinical research, and clinical trials of novel pharmacologic agents.