Dr. Robert Wharton, MD

About Dr. Robert Wharton, MD

Dr. Robert Wharton, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at Robert Wharton MD in St. Petersburg, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Gastroenterological care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He provides comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. He serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients; please call (727) 349-6690 to schedule.

Dr. Robert Wharton, MD is a gastroenterologist in St. Petersburg, FL with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families, particularly in the area of Pancreatic Disease. He graduated from Augusta University Medical College of Georgia in 1973, completing an internship at Jacksonville Hospital. Following this, he undertook residency training in Gastroenterology at Jacksonville Hospital, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine and affiliated with HCA Florida Pasadena Hospital. He is accepting new patients.

Dr. Wharton's approach to care is rooted in evidence-based medicine, emphasizing patient education and collaborative decision-making. He strives to create a supportive and reassuring environment for patients, ensuring they feel heard and well-informed throughout their journey. He is committed to providing exceptional, personalized care to all his patients. Dr. Robert Wharton provides consultations primarily in English.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Robert Wharton addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Alcoholic Gastritis: Alcoholic gastritis is a stomach problem resulting from long-term heavy alcohol use, causing inflammation and discomfort.
• Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease that causes inflammation and damage to the bile ducts.
• Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: Mallory-Weiss syndrome is a condition where a tear in the lining of the esophagus occurs, usually due to forceful vomiting.
• Eosinophilic Gastritis: In eosinophilic gastritis, the stomach's immune system overreacts, causing inflammation and potentially affecting digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Pyloric Stenosis: In pyloric stenosis, the muscle at the end of the stomach thickens, blocking the flow of food into the small intestine.
• Chronic Cholecystitis: If you experience persistent gallbladder inflammation, you may have a condition called chronic cholecystitis.
• Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Alcoholic cirrhosis is a serious liver disease caused by long-term, heavy alcohol use.
• Dysphagia: Experiencing dysphagia means you have trouble moving food from your mouth to your stomach.
• Congenital Anomaly Esophagus: Your child's diagnosis indicates a problem with their esophagus that they were born with.
• Peptic Ulcer: If left untreated, peptic ulcers can lead to complications such as bleeding or perforation (a hole in the stomach or duodenum).
• Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach bulges through an opening in your diaphragm.
• Infectious Diarrheal Disease: Infectious diarrheal disease leads to increased bowel movements and can cause dehydration due to fluid loss.

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

• Fecal Impaction Removal: If constipation leads to a buildup of hard stool that can't be passed, a fecal impaction removal procedure may be necessary.
• Ultrasound: Get a detailed view of your internal organs using sound waves.
• Liver Function Test: This blood test helps doctors evaluate your liver's ability to perform its vital functions.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This service checks for hepatitis B virus to help determine if you have the infection.
• Biliary Drainage: Biliary drainage is a method to clear blockages in the tubes that carry bile from your liver.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: A duodenal polypectomy involves the endoscopic removal of a polyp from the beginning of your small intestine.
• Endoscopy: Endoscopy allows doctors to directly visualize and diagnose problems within your digestive tract, such as ulcers, tumors, or inflammation.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): ERCP is a procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine and treat problems in the bile and pancreatic ducts.
• Pancreas Surgeries: Our pancreas surgery service provides expert care for conditions affecting the pancreas.
• Bile Duct Procedure: A bile duct procedure involves a medical intervention to address issues in the tubes that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the intestine.
• Manometry: Doctors use manometry to evaluate the function of the muscles in your food pipe and other parts of your digestive tract.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This service measures the levels of lipids in your blood to help diagnose and manage various conditions affecting your digestive system.

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

What is Gastroenterology?

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

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Robert Wharton?

During your first visit with Dr. Wharton, we will conduct a thorough review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history. A physical examination will follow, and we'll discuss potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of all medications and any prior test results to help us provide the best possible care.

Does Dr. Robert Wharton accept my insurance?

Dr. Wharton's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly to verify your insurance coverage before your appointment.

Does Dr. Robert Wharton treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Wharton is experienced in treating liver conditions, including hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsy, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans to manage liver health effectively.

How does Dr. Robert Wharton manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Dr. Wharton's approach to managing IBD focuses on achieving long-term remission through a combination of medication (including biologics), regular monitoring of disease activity, and a collaborative care model involving the patient, their family, and other healthcare providers. This personalized strategy aims to minimize symptoms and prevent complications.

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

Dr. Wharton's approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is multifaceted, encompassing dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and targeted medications to manage symptoms such as pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. He will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.

What treatments does Dr. Robert Wharton offer for acid reflux and GERD?

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

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Robert Wharton offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Wharton offers several effective, minimally invasive non-surgical options for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These procedures are performed in the office and are often successful in alleviating symptoms. They are generally well-tolerated and recovery is usually quick.