WVU Medicine experts addressing complex GI issues with innovative, advanced techniques

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Cutting-edge treatment is available at WVU Medicine for patients facing complex medical diagnoses, including those suffering from gastrointestinal (GI) issues or recovering from some cancer surgeries. 

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is a minimally invasive procedure that allows specialists to cut the pylorus (stomach sphincter) internally, without external incisions. G-POEM can bring relief to patients suffering from gastroparesis (slow stomach) by allowing the stomach contents to empty normally again. The result: patients often experience a faster recovery, less pain, and fewer complications than they do after traditional surgery.  

Matthew “Skip” Krafft, M.D., a gastroenterologist specializing in Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy in the J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, recently completed his 100th G-POEM procedure. Dr. Krafft uses this technique to treat gastroparesis, a condition in which the stomach fails to empty properly, leading to nausea, vomiting, and chronic bloating. 

“This milestone represents our commitment to bringing the most advanced therapeutic options to West Virginians,” Krafft said. “For many patients, G-POEM is life-changing. They’re able to eat again, return to work, and regain a quality of life they thought was lost.” 

G-POEM is also used to treat patients recovering from cancer or major foregut surgeries, including esophageal or gastric cancer resections, when complications disrupt the stomach’s ability to function. By using a coordinated team approach to patient care, the WVU Cancer Institute and WVU Medicine’s Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy providers help ensure seamless care from diagnosis through recovery. 

“This is another example of how WVU Medicine provides truly coordinated care,” Shyam Thakkar, M.D., director of Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy, said. “Procedures like G-POEM bridge the gap between oncology and advanced GI, allowing our patients to recover faster and live better after complex treatments.” 

For more information on WVU Medicine, visit WVUMedicine.org. For more information on the WVU Cancer Institute, visit WVUCancer.org.