Overview

An ostomy, or stoma, is a surgically created opening between the intestines and the abdominal wall. Ostomies can be temporary or permanent.

Ostomy Types

  • Ileostomy: Connects the last part of the small intestines (ileum) to the abdominal wall.
  • Colostomy: Connects a part of the colon (large intestine) to the abdominal wall.

Diagnosis

Ostomies can be caused by the following conditions:

  • Cancer
  • Trauma
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Infection
  • Fecal incontinence (inability to control bowel movements)
  • Diverticular disease (small bulges or sacs that form in the wall of the large intestine)

Treatment

Dietary Restrictions: Depending on the type of ostomy, you may need to change what you eat to control the number of and consistency of bowel movements. You will learn to monitor the effect of food on ostomy function. After a period of time, many patients are able to slowly introduce foods back into their diets. It helps to chew food well, drink plenty of fluids and avoid certain high roughage foods, such as green leafy vegetables. After recovering from surgery, most patients do not have dietary limitations.

ASCRS: Ostomy

United Ostomy Associations of America

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What Our Patients Are Saying

John Walling, Jr., D.O.
Great
4.2
Based on 2536 reviews
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Brian C.
All of the staff were very friendly and helped answer any questions I had, they also explained what steps the procedure would follow.
Paul E.
I felt like they truly care about every person who walked thru there doors. From the receptionist to the nurses and Dr Walling, they made it a very pleasant visit. I would recommend there services to anyone.
Sparty S.
Andrea was the kind of care I have been needing for a long time. She took the time to review everything with me and come up with a plan. I didn’t feel like a number after leaving. She definitely gained my respect and appreciation for her excellent care.
Tony T
Dr. Yusaf was his usual outstanding self! Receptionists were very helpful and friendly. Nurses were excellent, through, friendly and made me feel at ease as they could tell I was kind of nervous. I would definitely recommend the Lansing Surgery Center
Brandon H.
John Walling Jr. was professional and knowledgeable. I felt comfortable with his service. If having a colonoscopy done I would highly recommend him and his staff at the Lansing Surgical Center. Thanks John!
leanne M.
Have been extremely Blessed!! Had major surgery in 2020. Dr. Coffey and his team plus All of the office staff were wonderful. I have beeb released from Dr. Coffey's care unless of course problems arrive in the future. The 7N unit @ Sparrow where I stayed have an Amazing team of RN's as well. Thank you All
Dave Z.
I was seen right away. The Nurse, and PA, were very helpful. They helped me relax.
Cherrye Marchelle M.
He has been my doctor since 1995 when he first started his business inmuch smaller office.I have 3 other family members that also go to him now that I referred them to Dr.Ross. Everyone one of us loves him.I refuse family members to see him for their troubles like I have. He is the best in the Lansing area.
Dale N.
If one can “love” a colonoscopy then combining the new prep protocol for Golytely, Dr. Phlaen, and Lansing Surgical Cener is the way to do it. On time, well organized systems (check-in, check med history, vitals, introductions, and concise descriptions), and complete checkout with photos and road map to the entire procedure. Could not give a higher rating. Simply the best yet!
Philip W.
Dr Coffey and his assistant Nicole were wonderful.Explained everything and I really felt that they cared for me.Strongly recommended.
Jamie S.
I was sent for a referral for possible surgery on a lipoma in my intestine… After meeting with Dr Coffey and discussing my case and options I was relieved to know surgery wasn’t really a necessity at this time …I had many questions about my issues which he very professionally addressed in terms that were understandable to me … office and staff were warm friendly and professional…. I would give a high recommendation to this practice and Dr Coffey
Two C.
The medical folks in this area, including the McLaren ER, are all uncaring, incompetent idiots BUT, Kadra has lit my hope. She is kind and caring unlike any other Ive worked with. I refuse to see any other, she is that good, and the rest of you take a seat and learn from her.
Brian
Aesome!
Chris Mac D.
Doctors and staff are super friendly and helpful.
Angie
From check-in to discharge the entire staff were friendly and professional. The procedures went smoothly with follow-up provided by the doctor during the short recovery period. I would highly recommend the Lansing Surgery Center!
Mona D.
They were pretty quick, friendly and efficient.
Dee S.
I have been here before, and as always the staff is amazing and professional. I must say, they cheapened their mattresses, so that wasn't so comfy, but I really trust the staff there, and that's what counts
Sue B.
Andrea was a great listener. I’m confident that she took accurate notes and she seemed to care about my thoughts
Sheryl B.
I love Khondra at the Digestive Heath Institute! She actually listened and cared about my problems and got down to the bottom of things. She truly has made my journey more enjoyable!
Thane B.
The entire staff was very professional and caring through my entire procedure. They were very good at explaining the process and attentive to any questions I had.
Michael J.
Without exception, everyone that interacted with me was pleasant, patient, competent and made the entire experience as easy as possible.
Annette F.
A very welcoming environment.The receptionist was pleasant, professional & thorough. She pointed me to a waiting area & told me I will be called shortly.The nurse was friendly & reassuring. The Doctor examined everything as he was examining me which helped me to understand my condition and I could ask any question pertaining the condition & he patiently explained. Privacy was paramount. I have a fruitful, relaxing visit.
Charlie S
I am so happy to have crossed paths with Dr. Julien at the DHI. His expertise is comprehensive and he is empathetic. He provided perspective and treatment that has greatly helped me move toward completion of my recovery from a procedure done at a different facility. I am going to spare you the details, the photos and the videos...
Tanya W.
I have the upmost respect and trust with my health in both Dr Ahmad’s and staffs! Update: Dr Ahmad, is retiring this month and saddens me to see him go! He’s just a great and knowledgeable Doctor!
Cynthia D.
Dr Opreanu and staff are great! Professional and caring and helpful.
Bill B.
Every single person that I dealt with was very friendly and personable. They all actually carried on personal conversations, making you feel more at ease about the reason for your visit. Not all stuffy and 100% business, which was great!
Robert L.
From the front desk check in, to post op recovery, everyone was courteous, helpful, and understanding.
SHELLI C.
Dr.Julien is very nice and explained everything clearly that I needed to do to help with my concerns. The front staff and medical assistant was very nice and helpful. They all made me feel comfortable and calmed my anxiety.Thank you!!
Bryan R.
Lansing Surgery Center has always been so very efficient, and very well staffed. Everyone I had contact with were so nice and did their job with so very well. Thank you
Carmen Q.
Very friendly and professional team of people. They make you feel very comfortable during the procedure.
Phil I.
Friendly staff. Thorough pre-screening.
Paul G.
I had a really great experience, considering what I was there for. The staff really made me feel comfortable from checking in, until I made it to my car. They were very prompt, and answered any questions I had about my visit and afterwards. Hats off to them for a great experience!
Roxann E.
Leslie was wonderful. I had a very positive appointment with her.
Candis D.
ALL STAFF VERY HELPFULL AND FRIENDLY, AND FOLLOW-UP NEXT DAY MAKES IT NICE THAT PEOPLE CARE ABOUT YOU.
Deborah S.
Friendly and efficient staff. Procedure was on time. Nice place, better than going to a hospital.
D L.
I was referred to the Digestive Health Institute (Capital Colorectal) by my primary care physician and have been very happy with the care and expertise of the doctor I am seeing there (Lucas Julien). The support staff are also very nice.
Bob C.
Phenomenal, extremely competent, honest and caring Doctor.
moustafa H.
Outstanding physician clinically and ethically
Robert S.
Wait time minimal; pleasant reception; conscientious medical staff.
Dave L.
Dr Walling is a consummate professional he listens to your concerns and addresses them I felt comfortable with the outcomes and the staff was proficient kind and courteous.
Tracy M.
so far i like him a lot . takes things seriously and cares. he doesn’t mess around when he thinks something is wrong unlike the many many Dr’s i have seen in the past .. 10 stars!
Heidi D.
Dr. Jones is very knowledgeable, intuitive, kind and a pleasure to work with. The staff are very complimentary of him, and I felt very well cared for.
Mark F.
All the people involved in this procedure were very nice and professional. Thank you
Terri H.
Everyone at this office from the front office staff, to the clinic assistant, to the scheduler, to the physicians are professional, friendly and helpful.
Danielle D.
He is an amazing Doctor and is very caring. He listens and is genuine.
Maudie G.
Grace is persistent in helping me. She has helped me a lot. She could have seen me one time but she has seen me 3 times and continues making efforts to help my digestive problems !
Sandra T.
Quick service superior staff
Michele W.
Staff is friendly and efficient, procedure was quick and easy. Saw the doctor after and was ony way home within two hours of arrival. Staff called the following morning to see how I was feeling. Excellent care.
Kirk R.
Staff is always courteous explains all what is curent & next. Don Laird has always been my goto guy for current conditions & options for next steps. Enjoy going if you can enjoy Doc visits.
Jan B.
Efficient pleasant staff
Debra S.
Friendly and professional staff.
Barry G.
Communication was excellent. I was able to ask questions without interruptions and received the information that I needed in detail.
lisa
Everyone was wonderful
Lois C.
This was my first visit to Dr. Julien’s office. The day before, the office called me to confirm information on my referral which was not correct. That was straightened out. On the day of the visit, the office staff was friendly and I did not wait long to be called back. DR. Julien was pleasant, and took his time answering my questions. I felt good about the appointment and left with confidence in him as my doctor.
Jonathan H.
The staff was friendly and helpful, and the whole procedure was quick.
tom R.
Very nice place to have a procedure done all the staf were wonderful great experience
Robert H.
Good first time experience.
Candis R.
I was in rather desperate need for a new GI doctor, and I could not be more pleased with Dr. Jones, his PA, Jonathan, and the rest of the staff.
Florensio H.
Great visit to this facility. Dr. Grace asked the right questions, and I felt my concerns were answered.
Evie H.
Super friendly staff and fastest in / out procedure ever. Highly recommend.
Doug B.
It took several minutes before I was called back to a exam room. But pink shoes called me back. Did vitals and asked a few questions, then left the room. In a matter of seconds Don came into the room did his exam, wrote me a script for lab work, and I was on my way out. Quick exam.
Krista Jo L.
Dr. Yusuf was very thorough and made me confident that he was checking my gastro system completely so I could relax about this area of my health.
Richard C.
The staff is very friendly and welcoming as was the doctor. The procedure was completed quickly as was my recovery from anesthesia. Parking was readily available and close to the entrance. The atmosphere and overall experience was far superior to a hospital.
Jaclyn S.
I had a great experience
Jane M.
The doctor was considerate and friendly. Service at the clinic was prompt and efficient. All in all, a very professional group
Jim K.
The receptionist was very nice and helped document my issues for Callie Hart and made an appointment for me. My meeting with Callie was excellent listening to my history and developing a plan and followup for my chronic problem. Callie was a big help discussing my suggested alternative options I posed to her and one option worked for me Thank God. I appreciate Callie being on my care team. She is very competent and caring. Callie Hart is simply the best.
Anita S.
Everyone there is so nice and the Dr. Is very thorough. I highly recommend them.
lori K.
He is the most caring physician and pays great attention to detail. He listens to the patient and makes sure they get the best care possible. He is one of a kind for sure
Caedmon V.
Great experience. They even got to my appointment 30 mins early. Super professional, and quick to resolve issues.
Joseph M.
Staff was kind and very professional.
Qiana Green S.
Everyone is super nice and informative. Dr. Opreanu is fantastic!
Robert W.
My experience was great, wonderful check in, fast prep and a speedy release. THANKS!
Edita H.
Very positive and pleasant. Nice staff and very pleased with Dr. Julien.
Irish F.
Obviously we wish we never would’ve had to have a visit here, but the staff made a terrible situation better through their expertise, kindness, empathy and honesty. My daughter and I particularly appreciated Nicole’s down to earth demeanor and kind heart. We appreciated Dr Coffey’s skill, honesty and approachability and thoroughness with our questions.
Susan B.
Minimal wait time after arrival. All staff members were courteous and professional. All my questions & concerns were addressed. All areas of the facility were clean & organized.
Kathleen M.
I felt listened to. Everyone from check in to check out were very pleasant and helpful. Grace explained my plan of care thoroughly. I had a positive experience. I would highly recommend Digestive Health Institute.
Edwina S.
Absolutely 💯 % professional and yet very personal care. I was very comfortable and no problems after my colonoscopy procedure. A great team who obviously are committed to their patients and work well together. Yes, it's a very unique atmosphere and I was grateful for that. Dr Jones and everyone were top notch healthcare
Sue C.
Thoughtful, caring, staff made my visit comfortable.
James W.
The staff was great and helpful at helping me to relax and assuring a positive process.
Jennifer A.
I would like to thank everyone. You all are so helpful, take time to answer questions and made me fell very welcome. I wish I would of found you first before I had my operation. If I need another operation this is where I would come. Thank you.
Rick B.
Friendly-on time with appointment-listened to my concerns
Mark S.
Dr. Yusuf is a terrific physician, providing excellent specialty care. The office itself is a little cramped and dated, but the staff is efficient and I’ve never waited too long to be seen. Recommend this group and especially Dr. Yusuf.
Joe A.
Very positive experience! Service was great! Is a very organized team from start to finish, as well as on time. Very professional.
Jane F.
This was the first time I met with Khadra, one of the PAs at Digestive Health, for my routine annual appointment. She spent quite a while answering my questions and familiarizing herself with my history. She was very pleasant and very thorough.
Jasmine S.
I always get the care I need to the fullest and the doctor makes sure I understand things correctly
Debbie P.
Had a wonderful experience the staff was great with the most pleasant bedside manner made me very comfortable everyone was very professional.
Shirley P.
My experience at DHI had always been excellent. We are always greeted & welcomed immediately upon arrival. All caregivers & physicians have met or exceeded our expectations - Scott in particular is very thorough and explains thoroughly in a way that we understand. We highly recommend DHI.
Rosie D.
I have the most wonderful experience with Dr. ALBERT Ross BEEN MY DOCTOR! He have brought me through so much. I have been under his care for about 20 years or longer. He is the most wonderful and caring DOCTOR and person. He take time time to explain to you what is going on with which make you feel comfortable. He have time for his patient. His patient always come first. Thank youROSIE DAVIS
Michael B.
Easy in and easy out. Very efficient from start to finish and staff is cool.
Mark T.
Dr Julien's office is always efficient and professional just like the Doctor.
Kenton L.
So professional and caring.. Staff all very worked together to get me in and out!!! Best experience….
Faye N.
I was very apprehensive about having a colonoscopy but Allison was so knowledgeable, personable and friendly in scheduling my procedure. Dr. Opreanu was so patient and respectful in listening and answering my questions. He was very skillful in removing 2 pre-cancerous polyps. Thank you for an excellent experience.
John C
I've have had three, if I remember correctly, Colonoscopies and an endoscopy in the last 20 years with Dr. Yusuf. I found him to be very nice and the procedures went without a problem. In addition he prescribed Omeprazole when it was first coming out, before it could be found over the counter. My esophagus was pitted and damaged from GERD. His prescription was life changing for me. At last it didn't feel like I was burping lava all day long.
Lori L.
This was my second visit to the Lansing Surgery Center. My first was 10 years ago. The staff and Dr. Walling were prompt, friendly, personable and professional! They even called me the day after my procedure to check on me! I appreciate the wonderful care I received and I highly recommend them!
tim J.
Friendly, knowledgeable, prompt
Mrgf D.
Dr Jones has a great demeanor and he's willing to investigate and give you peace of mind regarding your concerns. Family members were also very happy with his explanations after procedure
Sandra M.
The staff was very kind and efficient. Dr Walling is very knowledgeable and very helpful. I highly recommend Digestive Health Institute!!
Josh D.
Excellent!
Steve S.
Dr. Coffey is amazing pretty much a pain free experience. Thank you!
Kt
Efficient, kind &friendly. Good communication with Doctor Jonathan Thelen and staff. 👍
Val J.
I have had a good experience with everyone at the office and I am especially Thankful for Andrea
Lori S.
Friendly, professional staff put me at ease. My surgery was successful , and Dr. Julien was thorough in explaining all pre and post op instructions.Would highly recommend this office!
Kim W.
Everything was so efficient and everyone was very nice. I got in and out of there no problems.
Lynn B.
Everyone (the physician and staff) was wonderful! They were professional, kind, and efficient.
don K.
very professional
Robert S.
Very professional and friendly. My doctor was very smart and wouldn't give up until he found out what was wrong with me. Highly recommended!
kathy T.
Very professional staff. Treated me with kindness and respect
Julie T.
Dr. Coffey and his staff, in my experience, are the best in the business of Colorectal Surgery. I would not hesitate to share what I've been through with anyone who required these specific surgical procedures.
Donna G.
The entire staff was very professional yet very friendly as well.
steve W.
Professional, organized, friendly, high expertise
Cate M.
Brooke is always so thorough, she addresses any concern I have. She's even willing to talk with my insurance about not paying for my medication. She makes me feel like an individual, not just one patient of many.
Mary D.
I had worried myself to the point of being very anxious. Dr. Oprenau and his staff calmed me and very gently and efficiently took care of my problem. I’m so grateful.
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Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, click their image or visit our providers page.

Dorian Jones, MD

Lucas Julien, MD

Razvan Opreanu, MD

Scott Plaehn, DO, FACOI

Albert Ross, MD

John Walling, Jr., DO, FACOI

Siaka Yusuf, MD

Our Locations

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?
An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If an Digestive Health Institute physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.
How do I get test results?
We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. You may call 517-332-1200 and press “8″ and your call will be directed to the triage nurse.
What insurances do you accept?
Digestive Health Institute accepts payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 517-332-1200 #6.

What if I need to contact the doctor?
To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 517-332-1200. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours please call our answering service at 517-483-9124 and the doctor on call will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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