The Gastroenterology (GI) and Hepatology Division at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) is active at two hospitals within a geographic area of six blocks: the Nebraska Medical Center and the Department of Veteran's Affairs Nebraska and Western Iowa Health Care System (VA). The Division is made up of full time faculty members in both gastroenterology and hepatology, as well as basic science research. Experience in surgical approaches to gastrointestinal diseases is provided through our close relationship with members of the Department of Surgery; in particular our fellows are involved in an active liver transplant program. Professional associations with radiology, pathology, and pediatric gastroenterology add to our well-rounded program.
Our GI fellowship program is three years in length. In general, the rotations are four week blocks. The core curriculum includes 6-9 months at the VA, 6-9 months at UNMC, 6 months on the pre-liver transplant service, 6 months on research and 3 months on the ERCP/motility service. The remaining time is spent doing clinical research or services tailored to meet the individual fellow's needs.
Clinical exposure encompasses both primary and consultation inpatients, as well as endoscopic procedures. Training is provided in all procedural aspects of gastroenterology and liver disease, including diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP and endoscopic ultrasound. Busy outpatient clinics exist at both UNMC and VA. Fellows have a continuity clinic where they see patients with staff supervision. Fellows are also involved in staff clinics.
Areas of basic and clinical research include:
- Ethanol effects on hepatocyte function
- Clinical studies in transplantation hepatology
- Clinical studies in gastrointestinal endoscopy
- Clinical studies in hepatocellular cancer and its detection
- Clinical studies in intestinal rehabilitation and short bowel syndrome
- Mechanisms of fatty liver injury
- Pancreatic regeneration
- Therapy of Hepatitis C
- Iron Metabolism
