Dr. Haim Pinkas, MD

About Dr. Haim Pinkas, MD

Dr. Haim Pinkas, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his clinic in Tampa, FL, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Pinkas is committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each patient, focusing on the effective and compassionate treatment of disorders throughout the digestive system. He provides comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, serving all ages. He is currently welcoming new patients; please call (813) 974-0706 to schedule.

Dr. Haim Pinkas, MD is a gastroenterologist in Tampa, FL with over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from University Libre De Bruxelles in 1976 and completed an internship at Bronx Va Medical Center in 1978. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Gastroenterology at Bronx Va Medical Center (1981), and further specialized with fellowship training in Washington Dc Va Medical Center (1983). With this extensive background and over 45 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Pinkas is affiliated with Tampa General Hospital and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, collaborative decision-making, and providing a supportive, reassuring environment for patients. He provides consultations primarily in English.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Haim Pinkas addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Esophageal Ulcer: A break in the lining of the esophagus, called an esophageal ulcer, can result from various causes like acid reflux, medications, or infections.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where there's a buildup of fat in the liver not caused by excessive alcohol use.
• Indigestion: You might experience indigestion as a feeling of heaviness or pressure in your stomach after eating.
• Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can be caused by various issues, ranging from mild indigestion to more serious conditions.
• Ulcerative Colitis: Characterized by inflammation and sores in the large intestine, ulcerative colitis results in abdominal discomfort, bloody stools, and urgent bowel movements.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: IBD encompasses diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
• Celiac Disease: Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder causing the small intestine to become inflamed and damaged when exposed to gluten, affecting nutrient absorption.
• Diarrhea: You have diarrhea if you experience more frequent and watery bowel movements than normal.
• Intestinal Diverticulitis: Intestinal diverticulitis is an inflammation or infection of small pouches that can develop in your intestines.
• Benign Neoplasm of the Digestive System: Tests revealed a non-cancerous growth within your digestive system; it's not life-threatening.
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: If you have FAP, you have a greatly increased risk of colon cancer because you inherit a gene defect that results in the development of many polyps in your large bowel.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Haim Pinkas 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 he 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. Haim Pinkas offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• pH Probe: A pH probe study involves inserting a small device to monitor stomach acid, assisting in the diagnosis of conditions such as GERD.
• Impedance Testing: Impedance testing measures the electrical activity in your esophagus to help diagnose swallowing problems.
• Hepatitis A Screening: This service helps determine if you have hepatitis A.
• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy involves bowel preparation to cleanse the colon, followed by insertion of a scope to visualize the inner lining.
• Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: This service helps diagnose problems swallowing using specialized tools.
• Endoscopy: Endoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your body to view the inside of your digestive system.
• Liver Function Test: A panel of blood tests, called LFTs, provides insights into your liver's overall health and function.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This service measures the levels of fats in your blood to help diagnose and manage various health conditions.
• Wireless pH Testing: A small, wireless sensor is used to monitor the pH in your esophagus over 24-48 hours, providing detailed information about acid exposure.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This service checks for hepatitis B virus infection.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: To remove a polyp in the upper part of your small intestine, your doctor may perform a procedure called a duodenal polypectomy.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Regular colorectal cancer screenings can help find and remove precancerous polyps, preventing cancer from developing.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Haim Pinkas. 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. Haim Pinkas:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focused on the health of your digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A gastroenterologist diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent a wide range of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Haim Pinkas?

Your first visit with Dr. Pinkas 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 and any prior test results to help Dr. Pinkas provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. Haim Pinkas accept my insurance?

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

How does Dr. Haim Pinkas manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Dr. Pinkas's approach to managing IBD focuses on achieving long-term remission through a combination of medications, including biologics, tailored to each patient's specific needs. Disease monitoring is crucial, and we emphasize a collaborative care approach involving close communication with patients and other healthcare providers to optimize treatment outcomes.

How does Dr. Haim Pinkas diagnose and manage Celiac Disease?

Dr. Pinkas diagnoses Celiac disease through blood tests, followed by an upper endoscopy and biopsy for confirmation. Management focuses on educating patients about the gluten-free diet and ensuring strict adherence to prevent further complications.

Does Dr. Haim Pinkas treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Pinkas is experienced in treating liver conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsy, to diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans focused on managing liver health.

What treatments does Dr. Haim Pinkas offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Pinkas offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, including lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication options, and diagnostic testing like endoscopy or pH monitoring to precisely tailor treatment plans.

What should I do if I suspect I have gallstones?

If you suspect gallstones, especially with severe abdominal pain, please seek prompt medical evaluation. Dr. Pinkas can use diagnostic tools like ultrasound to confirm the presence of gallstones and discuss appropriate management options, which may include monitoring or referral for surgical intervention.