Gastroenterology

DIGESTIVE DISEASE ASSOCIATES, P.A.
HOWARD COUNTY GASTROINTESTINAL DIAGNOSTIC CENTER

Digestive Disease Associates, P.A. (DDA) was formed in 1996 and is now the largest single specialty gastroenterology group in Howard and Baltimore counties.  We currently staff 15 gastroenterologists and a nurse practitioner, and service Howard County, southwest Baltimore County, and Baltimore city.  In addition to our office locations, we operate two state-of-the-art outpatient endoscopy centers where patients can have their endoscopic procedures done in a safe, comfortable, and friendly environment.  DDA physicians hold privileges at Howard County General Hospital, St. Agnes Hospital, and Union Memorial Hospital. 

We offer a full range of services specializing in diseases of the digestive tract and liver, including:

• Diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy
• Diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy
• Biliary endoscopy
• Endoscopic ultrasound
• Liver disease and viral hepatitis
• Gastrointestinal motility disorders
• Esophageal manometry
• Esophageal pH testing
• Video capsule endoscopy
• Remicade infusion therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

We also operate a Research Division participating in clinical studies in the areas of ulcer disease, Hepatitis C, Crohn’s Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.  Please visit our website at www.ddamd.com to learn more about us.

For more information, contact:
            Geoffrey S. Failla, MBA
            Chief Executive Officer
            (410) 737-8125
Email:  g.failla@ddamd.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is an endoscopy?
A. An endoscopy is a procedure where the doctor uses an endoscope, which is a long, flexible lighted tube to examine the inside of your gastrointestinal tract.

Q. What is esophageal manometry?
A. Esophageal manometry is a test to see if your esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) is contracting and relaxing properly. The test helps diagnose any swallowing problems. Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Q. What is GERD?
A. GERD is a condition in which food or liquid travels backwards from the stomach to the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). This can cause irritation of the esophagus and heartburn.

For more information on symptoms and procedures related to the digestive tract, visit the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Patient Center (link to http://www.gastro.org/wmspage.cfm?parm1=478 )