Dr. Andrea Culliford, MD

About Dr. Andrea Culliford, MD

Dr. Andrea Culliford, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at HCA Florida Broward Gastroenterology in Plantation, FL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care for all ages, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Dr. Culliford is currently welcoming new patients and they should call (850) 462-8058 to schedule.

Dr. Andrea Culliford, MD is a gastroenterologist in Plantation, FL, with extensive experience in Liver Disease, Pancreatic Disease, and Esophageal Disorders. She is affiliated with HCA Florida Northwest Hospital and accepting new patients. Dr. Culliford's commitment to patient care stems from her rigorous training at esteemed institutions. She completed an internship and residency, followed by a fellowship, all at Columbia University Medical Center and New York Hospital, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages. Her expertise is further validated by board certifications in Gastroenterology from the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons, the American Board of Internal Medicine, and a board certification in Internal Medicine by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making, providing a supportive and reassuring environment for her patients. Dr. Culliford offers consultations in Spanish.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Andrea Culliford addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia is a common condition where the stomach pushes up into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm.
• Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Alcoholic cirrhosis is scarring of the liver due to years of excessive alcohol consumption.
• Liver Damage from Alcohol: Alcohol abuse can harm your liver, leading to conditions like fatty liver disease or cirrhosis.
• Malnutrition: Malnutrition means your body isn't getting enough nutrients from food to stay healthy.
• Duodenal Ulcer: A duodenal ulcer is often treated with medications to reduce stomach acid and protect the lining of the duodenum.
• Pancreatic Pseudocyst: A pancreatic pseudocyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms near the pancreas, but it doesn't have a true lining like a cyst.
• Obstructed Inguinal Hernia: An obstructed inguinal hernia is a condition where a part of the intestine gets trapped in the groin, causing pain and potentially needing surgery.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: IBS is a chronic condition marked by abdominal pain and irregular bowel function, often accompanied by gas, bloating, and mucus in the stool.
• Crohn: Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the digestive tract.
• Anal or Rectal Pain: I have persistent pain around my anus.
• Neoplasm of Gastrointestinal Tract: The term 'neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract' encompasses any abnormal mass or growth within the organs of your digestive system, and requires medical attention.
• Pernicious Anemia: Pernicious anemia is a condition where your body doesn't make enough healthy red blood cells due to a lack of vitamin B12.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Andrea Culliford addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Gastroenterology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Gastroenterological Services Provided

Dr. Andrea Culliford offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Hepatitis A Screening: This service helps determine if you have hepatitis A.
• Joint Fusion: Joint fusion surgery repairs a damaged joint by fusing the bones together to eliminate pain and restore stability.
• Removal or Destruction of Rectal or Intestinal Tumor (incl. Colonoscopy: This service provides treatment for tumors in your rectum or intestines, including colonoscopy procedures.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: This procedure, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy, uses a rigid tube with a light to view the rectum and the lower part of your large intestine to help diagnose conditions.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This service measures the levels of lipids in your blood, which can help your doctor understand your risk of respiratory problems.
• Proctosigmoidoscopy: This is a screening test using a lighted scope to check the rectum and the last part of your colon for issues like bleeding or tumors.
• Gallbladder Scan: This gallbladder scan helps your doctor evaluate your gallbladder's health.
• Pancreas Surgeries: Our pancreas surgery service provides expert care for conditions affecting the pancreas.
• Liver Biopsy: A liver biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from your liver for examination under a microscope.
• Biliary Drainage: Biliary drainage helps relieve symptoms caused by a blockage in the bile ducts.
• Wireless pH Testing: Wireless pH testing helps determine the severity and frequency of acid reflux by continuously monitoring your esophagus's pH.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This service checks for the hepatitis B virus to help determine if you have the infection.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Andrea Culliford. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Gastroenterology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterologies in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Andrea Culliford:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focusing on the health of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A gastroenterologist diagnoses, treats, and prevents a wide variety of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Andrea Culliford?

Your first visit with Dr. Culliford will involve a detailed review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history, a physical examination, and a discussion of potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of all medications you are currently taking and any prior test results. This helps ensure a comprehensive evaluation of your needs.

Does Dr. Andrea Culliford accept my insurance?

Dr. Culliford's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to confirm coverage before your appointment.

What is the approach to treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Dr. Culliford's approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is multifaceted, focusing on symptom management. This may involve dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and targeted medications to address specific symptoms like pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. We work collaboratively with patients to find the best combination of therapies to improve their quality of life.

What should I do if I suspect I have gallstones?

If you suspect gallstones, especially with severe abdominal pain, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Culliford can perform diagnostic tests like an ultrasound to confirm the presence of gallstones and discuss appropriate management options, which may include observation or surgical referral.

Does Dr. Andrea Culliford manage conditions of the pancreas, like pancreatitis?

Dr. Culliford is experienced in diagnosing and managing pancreatic conditions, including pancreatitis. She investigates potential causes, manages symptoms, and monitors for complications related to acute or chronic pancreatitis.

Does Dr. Andrea Culliford treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Culliford is experienced in treating liver conditions such as hepatitis and fatty liver disease. She utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsy, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans to support optimal liver health.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Andrea Culliford offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Culliford offers effective, minimally invasive treatments for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These in-office procedures are often successful in relieving symptoms and are a viable alternative to surgery.