gastroenterology

Definition

The study of the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus, which may also include the study of accessory organs: pancreas, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek γαστήρ (gastḗr, “belly”) + Ancient Greek ἔντερον (énteron, “intestine”) + Ancient Greek -λογία (-logía). By surface analysis, gastro- + enterology.

Example Sentences

• "One insurance company, UnitedHealthcare, has announced that starting in June, members with commercial plans seeking gastroenterology endoscopy services – including colonoscopies – will be required to have “prior authorizations” for those services."