We provide gastroenterology and hepatology services, including advanced evaluation and treatment of diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, pancreas, biliary system (gallbladder and bile ducts), and liver. We are experts in colon cancer diagnosis and prevention.
Our emphasis is on individualized patient care. We are dedicated to the delivery of quality care with each patient and with every procedure. We look forward to serving you and your family.
A colonoscopy is a vital procedure for the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. During this examination, our gastroenterologists use a flexible tube with a camera to view the interior of your colon and rectum. This allows for the identification and removal of polyps before they become cancerous. Newest guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of colon cancer and other conditions, should begin screening earlier at age 40.
EGD, or Upper Endoscopy, is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the lining of your esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. This procedure is essential for diagnosing issues such as acid reflux, ulcers, and other upper gastrointestinal disorders. It allows our specialists to take biopsies and treat certain conditions on the spot.
ERCP combines endoscopy and X-ray technology to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is particularly useful for identifying blockages, stones, and tumors. ERCP can also be used to place stents or remove stones from the bile duct, providing both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits.
Small Bowel Enteroscopy is a procedure used to explore and treat conditions within the small intestine. This procedure allows for the detection of sources of bleeding, tumors, or inflammatory conditions that are not visible through standard endoscopy or colonoscopy. It’s an essential tool for diagnosing obscure gastrointestinal bleeding and other small bowel conditions.
This specialized endoscopy is focused on the biliary and pancreatic ducts. It’s an advanced technique used to diagnose and manage conditions such as bile duct stones, strictures, and pancreatic duct disorders. It allows for precise intervention, including stone removal and stent placement, improving outcomes for complex biliary and pancreatic conditions.
Video Capsule Endoscopy involves swallowing a small, pill-sized camera that captures images of your digestive tract as it moves through. This technology is particularly useful for examining the small intestine, where traditional endoscopy may not reach. It’s an invaluable tool for diagnosing sources of bleeding, Crohn’s disease, and other small bowel conditions.
Esophageal Manometry measures the pressure and muscle contractions in your esophagus as you swallow. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions like achalasia, GERD, and other motility disorders that affect how food moves from the esophagus to the stomach. It provides detailed information to guide effective treatment plans.
The Hydrogen Breath Test is a simple, non-invasive procedure used to diagnose conditions like lactose intolerance and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). By measuring the amount of hydrogen in your breath after consuming specific sugars, we can identify how well your digestive system is functioning and pinpoint issues that may be causing symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a technique used to remove large polyps, tumors, or other abnormal tissues from the gastrointestinal tract without surgery. This minimally invasive procedure is crucial for treating pre-cancerous lesions in the digestive tract, allowing for effective treatment with minimal recovery time.
Our Infusion Center provides specialized infusion therapies for patients with various gastrointestinal conditions, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory disorders. The center offers a comfortable environment where patients receive personalized care from our experienced medical team.
At Gastroenterology Associates, we proudly offer FibroScan, the latest non-invasive technology for assessing liver health. This painless procedure measures liver stiffness and fat levels, providing valuable information about conditions such as fatty liver disease, fibrosis, and other liver-related issues. The scan takes only 5 to 10 minutes, with results available immediately, allowing for timely and personalized treatment.
Gastroenterology Associates offers Bravo Reflux Testing, a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for patients experiencing chronic acid reflux (GERD) or heartburn. This minimally invasive test measures and records the acidity (pH) levels in the esophagus over a 48 to 96-hour period, providing crucial data for evaluating reflux symptoms. The test is catheter-free, offering patients a more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods.
Sigmoidoscopy enables the physician to look at the inside of the large intestine from the rectum through the last part of the colon, called the sigmoid colon. Physicians may use this procedure to find the cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain, or constipation. They also use sigmoidoscopy to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. With sigmoidoscopy, the physician can see bleeding, inflammation, abnormal growths, and ulcers.
Yes. There may be forms for you to complete upon arrival.
Office Visits: Patients use electronic tablets at check-in which allows us to insert your most current information and medical history.
Procedures: For procedures, patients are mailed applicable forms and asked to fill them out before the procedure. Please bring the completed paperwork with you. There may be additional forms for you to complete upon arrival.
Please arrive at your scheduled time of arrival for your procedure. You will be notified of your arrival time the day before your procedure.
Please arrive to your appointment with the following:
Office Visits: All appointments for office visits must be canceled by 4:00 pm the day before your appointment to avoid a $50 cancellation fee.
Procedures: All appointments for procedures must be canceled or rescheduled five working days in advance to avoid a $200 cancellation fee.
We accept most insurance plans and will submit your insurance claims. Please bring your insurance cards and any applicable co-pay to your office visit.
If you are healthy and have no symptoms, call 828-624-1358 to schedule a screening colonoscopy. A registered nurse will take your medical history over the phone and schedule your appointment.
If you are having symptoms, you need a referral from your Primary Care Physician.
Following an internship and residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa, he went on to complete fellowship training at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans. Dr. Laderian is board certified in gastroenterology.
Dr. Zins earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. He completed both his residency and fellowship at the Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education in Rochester, Minnesota, where he also conducted research in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). He continued his clinical research in IBD during his time in Billings. Dr. Zins is board certified in gastroenterology.
A highly skilled advanced therapeutic endoscopist, Dr. Zins is proficient in ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) and has a special interest in the management of inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Dr. Koscheski completed two terms for the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) as Governor for the State of North Carolina.In 2018, he received the William D. Carey Award from the American College of Gastroenterology in honor of his years of distinguished service to the Board of Trustees and the College, including leadership positions, participation in educational efforts, and committee service.
Dr. Koscheski also served as a member of the North Carolina Colorectal Cancer Roundtable.
He is President of the Digestive Disease National Coalition.
Dr. Koscheski has been selected by his peers to the “Best Doctors in North Carolina” list.
Dr. Richardson completed her residency and fellowship at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri. She is board certified in gastroenterology.
Dr. Richardson has been selected by her peers to the “Best Doctors in North Carolina” list.
A native of Atlanta, Dr. Meier received his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia. He completed his residency and fellowship at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Aurora, Colorado. He is board certified in gastroenterology and is a Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology.
Dr. Meier is on the medical staff of Catawba Valley Medical Center and Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory.
Dr. Meier has been selected by his peers to the “Best Doctors in North Carolina” list.
Justin is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and licensed in the state of North Carolina. Justin is certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
After completing an internship and residency at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Dr. Mussari went on to complete a fellowship in gastroenterology at Allegheny Health Network in Pittsburgh. Dr. Mussari is board certified in gastroenterology.
Our aim is to provide exceptional healthcare services delivered by a compassionate team committed to enhancing the overall well-being of the community we serve. See below for our full list of Locations.
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