Houston Methodist West Hospital has expanded its gastrointestinal care with the launch of a third-space endoscopy program.
The hospital initially began offering the procedures in late 2025, but Media Relations Specialist Paige Romanowski said they have started to pick up since the beginning of 2026.
The details
The minimally invasive digestive procedures allow doctors to treat specific esophageal, stomach and colorectal conditions without conventional surgery, officials announced in a March 18 news release.
Instead, doctors will perform the procedures inside the digestive tract using a flexible tube with a camera and a specialized tool.
Since there are no surgical incisions, patients can potentially endure less pain, have shorter recovery times and spend fewer days in the hospital compared to standard surgery, according to the release.
“The field of advanced endoscopy has grown far beyond routine procedures,” said Dr. Saurabh Chandan, a gastroenterologist and advanced endoscopy physician at Houston Methodist West Hospital. “While complex techniques have traditionally been available only at large medical centers, we saw a clear need for them in our community and are proud to bring this level of care to west Houston.”
What they’re saying
Gastroenterologist Dr. Hani Zamil said the proximity to these kinds of operations is a factor in patient long-term success.
“Offering this level of advanced care at a community hospital is a major benefit for patients and referring physicians,” Zami said. “Patients can receive consultations, procedures and follow up care from experienced specialists without traveling to the Texas Medical Center, making care more convenient and accessible.”
