Why did you choose to specialize in Gastroenterology?

I chose this speciality as it offers both intellectual and procedural aspects of medicine. Gastroenterology uniquely combines systemic medicine with diseases of specific organs such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. This wide spectrum of disease processes makes for an interesting and challenging practice. The field has made tremendous advances in minimally-invasive endoscopic therapies and I make every effort to be on the cutting edge of these developments.

Do you have a specialty of interest within GI?

I am trained in all aspects of endoscopy but have a special interest in advanced therapeutic endoscopy for all aspects of pancreatobiliary disease including ERCP and endoscopic ultrasound. I also have clinical expertise and interest in minimally invasive endoscopic treatments for ablation of Barrett’s esophagus, early tumor removal, large polypectomy, stricture dilation, and stent placement.

Where did you study?

University of Missouri – Kansas City: Combined 6-year accelerated undergraduate/medical degree program following high school
Washington University St Louis – Internal Medicine Residency
Washington University St Louis – Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellowship

What certifications do you hold?

ABIM certified in Gastroenterology
ABIM certified in Internal Medicine

What do you and your family enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy spending any available time with my family including my son and daughter with their various school and extracurricular activities. We enjoy movies, traveling, and visiting family/friends.

Do you have any special honors or recognitions in your medical career that you would like to share?

I was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Honor Society during medical school. Prior to coming to TDDC, I spent almost 15 years in academic gastroenterology serving as a professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center. As part of the fellowship training program, I helped train over 60 gastroenterologists who are now practicing around the metroplex and throughout the country. I was Director of Advanced Endoscopy and trained special advanced fellows for the past 10 years in therapeutic endoscopy. Along with a robust clinical practice and teaching, I was able to publish 40 papers in peer-reviewed clinical journals. I also currently serve on several national committees with ASGE and ACG.

Do you fluently speak any other languages in addition to English?

Telugu

Please list your professional affiliations

American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE)
American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)
American Gastroenterology Association (AGA)
Texas Society of Gastroenterology (TSGE)