Dr Binmoeller was a fabulous dr to work for back in 2010 when I worked for Emmi Medical Billing In Stockton. I heard nothing but good things about him. I wish I would have had my brother see him in 2017. If you want a wonderful caring dr for your procedure, then you would want to see Dr Binmoeller in SF. read more

Service was the best and gets an A. Communication was the worst I've ever seen and gets an F. Getting on contact with staff takes days and you never know if message was received. read more

His amazing skills saved me in 2011 from having a colon resection after a carpet like polyp was found at the cecum. He is a gifted doctor with a passion for developing new and innovated surgical instruments. He is caring over his talent to his non profit which is admirable combining his two talents: gifted doctor and creative inventor. read more

Kenneth Binmoeller, MD - friend; Dr. Binmoeller & me - Gastroenterologist Near Me - San Francisco, California

Thank God, I found Dr. Binmoeller. After performing a gas colonoscopy, another Dr. tattooed and removed 50% of a 6 cm flat polyp leaving me with horrible scarring. The other doctor told me it was pre-cancerous and that I needed surgery. I was literally driving home from the procedure when the surgeon called to schedule an appointment. This just didn't feel right to me. I researched and found Dr. Binmoeller. Two days ago using UEMR and other tools he removed the polyp with success from my colon. I am beyond grateful to him and his team. . read more

Life saved by Dr. Binmoeller and Team I can only extend my most profound gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Binmoeller and Specialty Team, for my recent intervention to treat rectal cancer at 71 yrs of age. I now determine to repay my debt of gratitude to Dr. Binmoeller by living out my life in the most positive and altruistic manner possible. Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo; thank you Dr. Binmoeller and Team! D. O'Connell, CSP read more

I have a similar story to Dr Binmoeller's patient: http://www.sease.com/ A large flat polyp was discovered in my right colon. That gastroenterologist tattooed the poly for surgical removal. He took biopsies which came back benign. Yet I was told I needed to have half of my colon removed though a right hemicolectomy. This is a barbaric cancer surgery that rips through the connective tissue in the abdomen and causes a lot of disruption to the organs. The gastroenterologist wanted me to go to his buddies at the hospital next door to have this done. He said he couldn't remove it endoscopically and my only choice was surgery. He acted as if it was nothing - a snip here and there and sew the 2 halves back together and voila good as new. I kept wondering why I needed a cancer surgery when I didn't have cancer. A surgeon at UCSF concurred - had me scanned because she was positive a polyp as large as mine was cancer and had likely spread to other organs. No evidence of cancer was reveled in the scan. Yet she insisted I needed half of my colon removed. I knew there had to be a better way. I couldn't believe my only choice was this terrible surgery. My body kept telling me I didn't need to do it. It took me 2 months before I found the website of one of Dr Binmoeller's patients describing his experience which was my exact diagnosis and how Dr Binmoeller had saved his colon endoscopically. Since the other doc had tattooed my polyp it made it more complicated to remove. I had to wait 2 more months to get in with Dr Binmeoller. I feared that by waiting I was tempting fate and allowing the polyp to develop into cancer. But I knew Dr Binmoeller was my only chance to save my colon. I truly believe that no other doctor could have or would have attempted to remove this polyp. Turns out my colon is twisty and filled with major ridges/valleys. Plus the polyp was far larger than advertised. It was nearly a 2 hour procedure. The polyp was successfully removed and non cancerous. Dr Binmoeller's meticulous attention to detail and not allowing himself to be rushed saved my colon. During the removal of the polyp he had to go deep into the colon wall to remove the scared tissue that resulted from the tattoos. While doing this he unknowingly scooped up a grain of rice sized piece of neroendrocrine cancer. This piece was examined by CPMC and UCSF cancer depts and found to have good margins with no evidence of developing the systems to move. No surgery needed. No treatment. He saved my life twice in one procedure. He kindly explained everything to me before and after the procedure. His staff were wonderful. It's been 18 months since that procedure. I have been back for 6 month and one year checks. I will be returning for a 2 year follow up next year. I am so thankful to have found that website from Dr Binmoeller's patient and to have had this procedure. read more

I can't say enough good things about Dr. Binmoeller. He is absolutely amazing, God truly gifted Dr.Binmoeller, and I am so blessed and grateful to have him as my doctor. In 2020, I had been complaining to my PCP about stomach and chest pain and nausea for many months. He kept giving me different medications that did nothing for me. I finally asked for an endoscopy exam. My gastroligist found a very large mass in my duodenum (small intestine) that he could not remove. So he sent me to Dr. Binmoeller who said he would do his best to remove it, but he wasn't sure if he could, but if anyone could, it would be him. Then he said "yes I can do it." Now he wasn't being arrogant, but he showed great confidence, and that gave me confidence in him. At the time, I didn't know that he was a nationally known doctor. After my procedure he said " You don't know how lucky you are, that the mass had not turned to cancer and that he was able to piece meal it out " If he wasn't able to do that I would have had a big surgery losing half my pancreas. I have checkups about every 6 months because of new polyp and scar tissue. I am so grateful that Dr. Binmoeller continues to keep me from a big major surgery. I am so blessed that he is my doctor with amazing skills. Also, he has great bedside manners read more

Miracle workers! Do not have colon surgery, either open or laparoscopic, without first researching whether CPMC's Interventional Endoscopy Center is a better alternative for you. The doctors here have developed state of the art, cutting edge techniques and medical equipment to remove lesions/growths/polyps/cancers/etc employing colonoscopic procedures which could well save you from having a large part of your colon surgically cut out and removed. Patients from around the nation, even the East Coast, are referred to this clinic. I was referred to Dr. Hammerski following a routine colonoscopy by a top gastroenterologist after he discovered a possibly cancerous polyp growing flat against my colon wall which he could not remove with standard techniques and equipment. For most patients all over the country, this diagnosis automatically means surgery and removal of 25% of your colon. However, Dr. Hamerski was able to go in and very carefully, meticulously and precisely remove the growth, literally cutting it off the colon wall without damage to the delicate inner of the four layers of the wall. I just cannot say enough in praise of Dr. Hammerski's work. Not only is he able to perform these miracles, but he also has great "bedside manner," takes all the time you need to fully inform you, answer your questions, and is great at following up. My experience with the rest of the staff, front desk, nurses, aides, anesthesiologists, etc was very good. I have read the other reviews and do not want to waste the reader's time repeating what others have written. I will say that all the five-star reviews are very consistent with my experience and the one-star reviews which reflect bad experiences with the front office staff are not consistent with my experience. I do believe the reader should read all the reviews, but more than anything, as I said upfront, if you're potentially facing colon surgery you must check out what could well be a very superior alternative. read more

cannot express how grateful I am to Dr. Binmoeller and his team. Several years ago, a colonoscopy with my previous physician revealed that I had numerous flat polyps throughout my colon, which I was told were unresectable. I made appointments with several GI doctors, and nearly all of them recommended a complete colectomy. I first found out about endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) from the personal webpage of a former CPMC patient (www.sease.com). After reading through that site, I ended up making an appointment at CPMC with Dr. Binmoeller. From our first appointment, Dr. Binmoeller and his entire staff could not have been more warm, communicative, and caring. I am the type of person who asks a lot of questions, and Dr. Binmoeller is always patient and extremely thorough in the way he explains things. It is very clear that Dr. Binmoeller loves his work, and what he is able to do for his patients. It's also very worth mentioning that he is an absolute leader in his field, and is contantly working to advance his procedures. Just to cite one example that is relevant to my experience, he pioneered a technique called "underwater" EMR, which improves his visibility during endoscopic mucosal resections, and even improves certain aspects of standard EMR that cause discomfort in patients. For example, during a standard EMR procedure, the doctor inflates the colon with gas, whereas in "underwater EMR," Dr. Binmoeller uses saline to inflate the colon. Using liquid instead of gas eliminates the need for a "submucosal injection," which is used during standard EMR to "lift" the polyp up a bit so it becomes easier to cut without damaging the tissue underneath it. In underwater EMR, the saline causes a flat polyp to lift up on it's own. While my experience can only speak to this one particular technique, it is just one of many areas in which Dr. Binmoeller is not only an expert, but a pioneer. I couldn't be happier with Dr. Binmoeller, and wish that more people knew about him and the techniques he develops. I have written more about my experience on Dr. Binmoeller's patient blog, here. I would be so happy to know that even one person reads this review and decides to make an appointment with him, because if I hadn't done so myself, I would be here today without my colon. read more

Five stars for Dr. Binmoeller and his medical staff for excellent and proffessional work throughout the procedures. I was referred here following a diaganostic colonoscopy which found a large and difficult lesion. He was able to remove it completely while keeping all the surrounding tissue intact. Reportedly other surgeons might have done a more severe colonectomy (I did not receive a second opinion, so can't confirm this myself.) The follow-up exam months later reveal complete recovery. One star off for the difficult time I had with the office staff scheduling the appointments and reaching them for follow-up issues. But they did acknowledge the problems, and report that they will be making changes to the relevant procedures to improve this. While I hope that I don't have to return here for medical issues, I wish them all success. read more

Dr. Binmoeller not only saved my life, but the quality of my life. In 2016, after a colonoscopy at a facility in near my home town, I was told before I was dressed or totally awake, that I was a "polyp grower," I had cancer and the recommendation was a subtotal colectomy since the Doctor was not able to remove the very large flat polyp in my colon. Since I had received a hemicolectomy in 2010, my husband and I were devastated. Instead of making the recommended appointment for the colectomy surgery, my husband and I began researching other options. In the meantime, the pathology for the biopsy came back normal. This was confusing to us, but we continued our research. He found Jim Sease' website (sease.com) and it was there we learned about Dr. Binmoeller and the amazing work he was doing at the California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) Endoscopic Intervention Center in San Francisco. We located the Endoscopic Intervention Center and I sent a letter to Dr. Binmoeller that included my medical transcripts. He contacted me and was willing to take me as a patient - and asked to receive a referral from my Doctor. The Doctor sent the referral and we made travel plans to get to San Francisco. We were even able to catch a CPMC shuttle from the Holiday Inn on Van Ness to the Center. In January of 2017, Dr. Binmoeller carefully removed the very large flat polyp that was wrapping around my intestine. It was difficult to remove because it had been tattooed and mutilated for biopsy by the previous Doctor. Evidently, in the past, this was standard practice, but not beneficial for endoscopic practice, since it makes the polyp more difficult to remove. Besides the incredible accuracy and effectiveness of this type of procedure, because the colon is filled with water, there is no bloating or gassy feeling afterwards. The ultimate in patient respect is a part of Dr. Binmoeller's practice and I felt so very well taken care of - from the considerate and kind way Dr. Binmoeller and his medical staff treated me, to the hanger and shoe bag provided to hold my clothing . Instead of bursting into the room after my procedure, I was given time to recover, to change into my street clothing and wait in a nicely decorated waiting area before the Doctor came to speak with my husband and I. Dr. Binmoeller told me that he found two more flat polyps that would need to be removed and that I would need to return so he could remove those as well. One was large, the other significantly smaller. I gladly agreed, feeling so very grateful to leave with my colon intact! Two weeks later, he telephoned me to let me know that the polyp (neoplasm) had been cancerous but it had not broken through the mucosal wall. I had dodged a bullet! I returned twice more to the Endoscopic Intervention Center, where Dr. Binmoeller removed the remaining two polyps. One was very large, the other smaller. Now, I am free and clear of all polyps and will not have to return for a year! I am doing my part with exercise, a healthy diet and active prayer life. I can't thank Dr. Binmoeller and his staff enough for being there for me - and others with my condition. I am so very grateful! read more

I had my second Colonoscopy performed at the Interventional Endoscopy Center (IES) at Cal Pacific Medical Center, which is part of Sutter Health in San Francisco. The surgery was performed by Dr. Chris Hamerski at the new Van Ness Hospital. They have been in this new Hospital for 3 months and everything is new and state-of-the-art. Dr. Hamerski performed the surgery using a new technique to remove polyps associated with my diagnosis of a Sessile Serrated Adenoma (SSA). I was referred here by my Internist due to the complicated nature of this diagnosis. Dr. Hameerski indicated that many doctors in the past recommended resection of the affected parts of the colon. The procedure performed here was using Endoscopic Ultrasonography that allowed the growth's to be removed without removing parts of the colon. This was my second colonoscopy with Dr. Hamerski in the last 6 months and he did a great job performing the surgery and communicating my results. I highly recommend him and Cal Pacific Medical Center read more

Today my mom was a patients of Dr.Binmoeller. When we first got in the back we met an amazing nurse who let me wait with my mom until the doctor came in to explain the procedure. Once Dr.Binmoeller came into the room he explained why my mom prior Dr couldn't do the procedure, he reassured my mom that he would do his very best to eliminate the possibility of her having an intense surgery.. He answered all of our question even tho there wasn't many questions because he explained everything. Thank you Dr.Binmoeller and staff. I would highly recommend him read more

I am nearly 75 and the first doctor found a polyp in the upper part of my stomach. Dr. Binmoeller removed it and I have had no problems. Except I have had tiredness from the anesthesia and that is normal for me when they put me under. The preparatory stuff - setting up the IV, confirming I was who they had written down, etc - took way longer that the actual endoscopy with laser. I was under anesthetic for less than an hour. Had a regular surgeon gone in through my belly-button and removed about 1/4 of my stomach it would have been a three day hospital stay. We had spoken with two different surgeons about their approaches. That is why I went to San Francisco and had Dr. Binmoeller do his less dangerous approach. FYI: Dr. Benmoeller has multiple patents for equipment he invented to assist with the procedure they do. Their office staff is very proficient and the nurses are all very calming and reassuring. read more

My mother needed services at the Interventional Endoscopy Center. During her stay she was treated very kindly by a staff of very cheerful nurses. Both the anestheiogist and the Dr. Nett came to talk to her before her procedure, and were very forthcoming with what would be happening to her. After she woke up we went in, together, and talked with Dr. Nett. He delivered, in pretty clear language, what her results were, and what would happen next. If you need to have a diagnostic procedure done, you really should go to this place. We were actually supposed to have Dr. Binmoeller, but he was not at the center, that day. Hats off to Dr. Nett. He was very professional, and was kind, too! read more

Dr. Binmoeller operated on my Zenker's Diverticulum using a technique that he personally invented. Before the surgery I was having trouble swallowing and some food was getting stuck in my throat for hours. I was also coughing a lot as I tried to swallow. After the surgery, the problem vanished. I am now eating fine. read more

It's been almost 6 months since I had the EMR procedure to remove my 5cm flat polyp by Dr. Binmoeller, and I am going to have a 6-month follow up exam soon. Six months ago, through a 10-yr routine colonoscopy, I found out that I had a large flat polyp near my lower colon, and was advised by my doctors that I should have an open abdominal surgery to have it removed. When I recalled those days, I still have a fresh memory that I was so frightened and nervous that it seemed I was living in hell every day. I was so fortunate that Dr. Lawrence Yee at CPMC referred me to see Dr. Binmoeller and he successfully removed my large colon polyp using the EMR procedure and the biopsy report showed that the polyp was benign. Dr. Binmoeller not only saved my colon but also ensured the quality of life for rest of my life! I am so thankful for Dr. Binmoeller. Without his professional expertise in this field, I will not be able to travel around the world this past 6 months. I can't imagine how my life would be in the long-run and the adverse health impact on my health if I had undergone the open abdominal surgery. What a difference Dr. Binmoeller has made in my life! I would very much like to share my story to remind anyone who has similar GI problem to get a second opinion and check out the IES Medical team led by Dr. Binmoeller at CPMC. read more

Dr. Binmoeller has successfully preformed a number of more serious endoscopic procedures for my husband. He is a leader in the field and we consider ourselves lucky to have been referred to him. read more

In my seventies living in Southern Oregon. Polyp in cecum supposedly unresectable and surgery was the only alternative offered. Long story short: . Found Dr. Binmoeller via the Internet; then got a referral to him from my old GI doc in California. Dr. Binmoeller easily resected that poor little "unrescetable" polyp a week ago. . He and the entire professional staff were excellent so the 5 stars are for them. Can hardly wait to help educate all the Southern Oregon doctors I encountered on this journey! read more

First I want to thank Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller for the time he has dedicated to developing endoscopic techniques and instruments for the removal of cancerous and precancerous polyps. I hope this review helps to communicate that hard to reach polyps can be removed without invasive surgery. I contacted Dr. Binmoeller through a referral from my doctor. During my last colonoscopy she had removed 4 sessile polyps and biopsied a "fold" around the opening of my appendix. The fold turned out to be a Sessile Serrated Adenoma (SSA) that needed to be removed. My doctor explained that it could be surgically removed by having a partial cecectomy or if I was willing to go to San Francisco, I could be referred to Dr. Binmoeller. She described him as being an expert in the development of endoscopy procedures and instruments for the removal of hard to reach polyps. I am so lucky that my doctor had biopsied the polyp and had referred me to Dr. Binmoeller. Prior to my procedure, Dr. Binmoeller informed me of the procedural steps, and explained the the risk of surgery in the appendix area. He had a calm manner, listened well and answered my questions. His staff was helpful, caring and professional. At my follow-up colonoscopy, he pulled my records and educated me on Sessile Serrated Adenomas which often develop into aggressive colon cancer. I was informed that I have had 4 SSA's and if I have one more I will be designated as having SSA Syndrome which has a high genetic correlation. Sessile polyps are flat and can easily be missed during the standard colonoscopy. He recommended that I have a through, one-hour colonoscopy once a year. I realize that I have dodged a bullet. Dr. Binmoeller was able to remove the polyp and leave my colon intact. In addition, I need to be proactive in my healthcare by insisting on having more comprehensive and frequent colonoscopies. read more

Back in Feb 2018 I was feeling mild bloating feeling and was referred by my primary to a different doc for an upper endoscopy. Nothing found. Fast forward to Feb 2020 and I'm still feeling same and had cut back on food because just a little and I would already feel full. Overdue for my 10-year colonoscopy so decided to get it with someone else so I could get a second opinion on the bloating at the same time. The upper endoscopy was repeated and this time an indication of trouble was detected. I was referred to Dr BinMoeller, who used an endoscope he innovated that incorporates ultrasound to look below the surface of the gut unlike conventional endoscopes that cannot. He found a large precancerous tumor and got it all out. The 6-month re-scoping Sep 2020 confirmed no remaining tumor. Dr BinMoeller saved me from probably having to have my duoedenum and pancreas removed in what would have been a last-ditch attempt to save my life. Thank you Dr. BinMoeller. read more

Flat polyp removal was done by Dr. Binmoeller during a colonoscopy procedure using EMR with fantastic results. I was back at work the next day. Another GI doctor had me scheduled with a surgeon who was going to pull my colon out and try to cut it out with a scalpel - which would have required multiple procedures with a long recover time and uncertain long term side effects. Found Dr. Binmoeller through a yelp review, not by referal from my GI doctor. Best Gastroenterologist in the San Francisco Bay Area! read more

When I had my routine colonoscopy early this year, I learnt that there was a large flat polyps in my colon somewhere near the IC valve. When I booked an appointment with the gastroenterologist, he only told me that although the polyp is benign, it could become cancerous if not removed ASAP. He didn't explain which specialist I should consult, nor did he recommend a surgeon. All he did was for me to see my family doctor. I was shocked and felt helpless so I went to consult my family doctor who also suggested that I have the polyp removed via open abdominal surgery immediately. She said the biopsy only examined the superficial fiber tissues of the polyps and could not determine if it was cancerous. She claimed that an abdominal surgery on the right abdomen with a 7-inch long cut is the most effective way as it can also remove other abnormal tissues at the same time. I was so nervous and thought the polyps in my colon could be cancerous, so I agreed with my family doctor's suggestion and asked to be referred to a reputable general surgeon. In the meantime, I was not totally convinced and doubted why the removal of a benign polyp would require an open abdominal surgery. So I consult Dr. Laurence Yee, who is a micro-invasive (laparoscopic) specialist on colon & rectal surgery. He referred me to meet Dr. Binmoeller who would use a non-invasive way known as Colonoscopy with EMR to remove my polyp. What's more exciting is that Dr. Binmoeller is a within network doctor which means approval from the insurance company would be guaranteed. When I searched on the web about the non-invasive method, I learned that Dr. Binmoeller is the founder of Interventional Endoscopy Services (IES) at California Pacific Medical Center. He is a renowned doctor in this field with over 20 years' experience. He has improved this surgery to a more advanced level, for example, he uses a very delicate technique called underwater technique which uses water instead of gas to fill the colon during the procedure. This provides enhanced patient comfort and is much safer. I felt so lucky that I could have such a famous doctor to perform this procedure on me. Before the procedure day, what I needed to do was fast for a day before the examination. I was very nervous when I laid on the operating table. Dr. Binmoeller told me not to worry and explained how this method was more beneficial than an open abdominal surgery. His confident attitude eliminated my stress. When I woke up in the recovery room one hour later, I didn't feel any abdominal pain nor discomfort. The nurse assured me that the polyp had been successfully removed and I would receive the biopsy report in a few days. When I drove back home, all I felt was relief and gratefulness. I had my first bowl movement 3 days after the procedure. I was a little anxious but it was very smooth with no signs of blood. I was totally relieved. Then I returned to my normal routine of running 3 miles a day in just 3 days after the EMR procedure. Dr. Binmoeller called me 3 days later after the EMR procedure and told me that the biopsy report showed that the polyp is not cancerous. It only grew on the surface and had been removed entirely. The risk of colonrectal cancer in the Chinese population is higher than other ethnic groups. If we don't remove polyps at its early stage, there is a higher risk that it will turn cancerous. I have the urgency to share my story with more people and to let them know that even a big polyp can be removed by new type of colonoscopy with EMR. I also wanted to let others know that our life is in our hands. We should get a second opinion whenever we are in doubt. I also hope that more medical professionals can be more open minded to new technology, have patients' well being in mind and promote a newer, safer medical method to benefit more patients. As the Chinese saying goes, better save one life than build a seven-story pagoda. This is the main reason why I am sharing my story. I want to do a good deed for others. Dr. Binmoeller not only saved my colon but also ensured the quality of life for rest of my life! I am so thankful for Dr. Binmoeller. Without his professional expertise in this field, I will not be able to travel around the world this past 6 months. I can't imagine how my life would be in the long-run and the adverse health impact on my health if I had undergone the open abdominal surgery. What a difference Dr. Binmoeller has made in my life! If someone has the similar situation like me, and want to know more about Colonoscopy with endoscopic mucosal resection, please contact IES Medical team led by Dr. Binmoeller at CPMC. Gratefully, C.Chen read more

My wife had a colonoscopy and polypectomy done here by Dr. Hamerski a few days ago. Hamerski, Binmoeller, and their associates use a polypectomy technique developed by Binmoeller, called "underwater" endoscopic mucosal resection, which they believe to be superior, both in efficacy and safety, to the most common methods currently widely used, in conjunction with ultrasound and special imaging technologies. They have lots of papers, talks, and videos online if you search for "Binmoeller underwater emr", which are quite instructive. My wife's case was difficult due to scarring from previous unsuccessful attempts at removal. Hamerski nevertheless believes he succeeded. Hamerski was extremely thorough in both pre-op consultation, and post-op consultation, taking great care to explain their methods, and procedure results. Also, he's a nice guy! The entire staff, from reception, to the various nurses along the way, were very friendly and helpful, unlike many centers, especially urban ones. The main complaint, if you are having a procedure which requires cleansing of the colon, is that the final part of the prep, including multiple poop sessions, is done in the waiting room. There are only 2 bathrooms available for the several people doing this when we were there, leading to bottlenecks, not something you want after multiple laxatives. In addition, sharing bathrooms with repeated defecation increases the risk of contracting fecal-orally spread disease, such as hepatitis, so be careful! Another complaint relates to telephone staffing. It appears they like to leave the phone off the hook even all day if they are short-handed, and the answering service will not take messages, other than emergencies. read more

This technology, as used by Dr Binmoeller, is absolutely fantastic. If the technique is applicable to the specifics of your problem, it is so much faster and less burdensome than traditional surgery. I had a golf ball sized polyp removed from my small intestine in a couple of hours. Eating normally the next day after 6 weeks of being blocked up. Can't say enough about this facility and Dr B. My only wish for improvement is that they grow their capabilities. I had to wait over a month to get on the schedule. read more

Following thorough instructions, I was able to have a successful colonoscopy and removal of polyps through ultrasound, a special procedure performed by Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller. All staff were professional, caring, and competent in their respective rolls and made my situation less stressful. I look forward to hearing about their move to the new Van Ness Avenue campus. read more

I can't say enough about Califonia Pacific Medical Center Interventional Endoscopy Center in San Francisco! After a history of unsuccessful colonoscopies (my colon is more crooked than Lombard St!), these guys are the experts with "tortuous" colons. Forget the "twilight" anesthesia most gastroenterologists use..they totally knock you out..so be sure you have a ride home! From the receptionists to the nursing staff to the anesthesiologist to the surgeon, Dr. Christopher Hamerski, I was treated with the utmost kindness and respect. No question as to where I'll be having all my colonoscopies in the future! How lucky we all are to have such an amazing, world class medical center near us! 1,000 thank yous, CPMC read more

I waited to have my first colonoscopy at age 50 as we had no family history of colon problems. I was alarmed to find that I had multiple large, sessile serrated polyps which were pre-cancerous adenomas (tumors) in the back third of my colon. These polyps are flat growths against the colon's surface that are very difficult to remove. In fact, my highly recommended gastroenterologist told me that that neither she nor any of the colleagues in her practice had the skills to remove these so she referred me to a leading international expert, Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller, M.D., at the California Pacific Medical Center. Amazingly, Dr. Binmoeller was able to use a non-surgical technique to remove all of them which meant that I was able to avoid a surgical removal of part of my colon thus decreasing my risk and recovery period. Dr. Binmoeller used an advanced technology called endoscopic mucosal resection which is basically an incision-free procedure that scoops out the adenoma from the colon wall. His team inserted a flexible endoscope the width of a pencil through the rectum and into the gastrointestinal tract with a tiny light and camera at the tip of endoscope. The high-definition images on a monitor enabled the doctors to visualize the inside of the gastrointestinal tract. He then used miniature surgical instruments to lift and remove the polyp and surrounding mucosal tissue in the colon. They removed affected tissue from my colon wall leaving a thin layer of muscle which will later grow back with healthy tissue. I went home the same day, and six months later I am still adenoma-free! A little bit of background on Dr. Binmoeller in case you want to get his opinion: He is the founder and medical director of Interventional Endoscopy Center at CPMC where he annually performs over 5000 therapeutic procedures in all aspects of interventional endoscopy. He is an internationally recognized expert in the field and was recently honored with the 2013 Master Endoscopist of the Year Award by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. This award represents the finest in leadership, research and scientific pursuit. read more

I was referred to Dr. Binmoeller by after Dr. Daniel Cummings in Placerville tried to remove a polyp without success from my duodenal area. Dr. Binmoeller is very easy to talk to and seems to very confindent with his work which put me at ease during this stressful time. The entire staff is very nice and sympathetic towards the patients. I have been there twice now( second time for a recheck) and each time was just as pleasant. Thank you Dr. Binmoeller for everything you have done for me. read more

My story is one of success. First, my dad died of colon cancer in 1995 at the age of 78. I am now 71 years old. My story starts at about age 50. I was having a pain in my lower right abdomen. I went to the doctor and was sent for a Barium enema. Soon after I was told something was found. A colonoscopy was scheduled and 10+ polyps were found and removed. Compared to what I see today the polyps removed at that time were large. One that I passed at home was about the size of a small pecan. Another colonoscopy was scheduled for six months and was described as a clean-up procedure. Fewer polyps were found. The next colonoscopy was for two years. The colonoscopies over the next nine or 10 years was performed by a doctor in Roseville CA. After this 10 year period, I started to feel my doctor didn't have a real concern for me and my health. I was just another patient. I then went to Doctor R in Folsom CA. I liked him. He seemed up to date on procedures, he seemed truly concerned about me and my health. After the colonoscopy Dr. R told me he had removed many polyps successfully but there was one flat polyp that he didn't touch. He took pictures of the polyp, and identified the location. He suggested I go to the doctors at Interventional Endoscopy Services (IES) at California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) or UC Davis. I asked the obvious questions of why he couldn't remove the flat polyp and why the other two centers could remove them. He told me they have advanced tools and techniques. Doctor R did not touch the flat polyp during my procedure. Thank goodness he did not try. Next he suggested I go to the IES/CPMC. I took his advice and made the appointment with Dr. Binmoeller. This was the lucky event (finding Dr. Binmoeller) in my journey with polyps. After my first colonoscopy with Dr. Binmoeller, he indicated he had successfully removed the flat polyp and removed 12 more. I have gone to Dr. Binmoeller each year for the last four years and I go back in May of this year. I now live in Portland OR and I travel to San Francisco for the procedure. I do this without a second thought. I know that the polyps are removed and when a flat one is encountered, I know I have best chance of having it removed successfully. Unfortunately, polyps continue to grow in me and I have to go back each year for a colonoscopy. Dr. Binmoeller has suggested that I be tested to determine if that I am missing the gene that suppresses the growth of polyps. He then suggested that my three daughters are tested also. Not that polyps can be prevented but that my daughters will be aware of the missing gene and can be aware and schedule colonoscopies to prevent polyps from developing and becoming cancerous. My last words, I have been lucky. Lucky in the sense that I was able to find Dr. R who led me to Dr. Binmoeller. Dr. Binmoeller is a God-Send for me. You just know he has skills beyond other doctors in his field of medicine. I realize Dr. Binmoeller has been showing his tools and teaching his advanced techniques to others, but Dr. Binmoeller has been the one who has added years to my life. After each procedure he sits down with my wife and me and talks to us for as long as we have questions. He doesn't rush us. Something that has always bugged me was a question, i.e. will "C" catch up with me? He answered absolutely not, you just have to stay in front of it with colonoscopies as needed. He has a staff who shows a lot of respect and understanding for the patient. My advice to anyone who is dealing with colonoscopies and polyps is to make sure you have a doctor who understands the risks of removing flat polyps and what happens if they are not completely removed. The resulting scar tissue and the downside of living with a polyp that can't be removed, and what might have to happen as a result, is a terrible price to pay when it can be prevented. In the event you ever have to deal with what I have been describing, I highly recommend Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller or one of the doctors at IES/CPMC in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Binmoeller has added years to my life and I am so thankful to him for this gift. read more

March 29, 2018 TRUSTING MY GUT (and saving it!) On January 23, 2018, Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller removed a "giant" sessile tubulovillous cecal periappendiceal adenoma from me without removing any intestine or other organs. On August 15, 2017, as I was waking up from a routine screening colonoscopy, the gastroenterologist said, "Carol, the good news is you don't have cancer; the bad news is that you need surgery. But don't worry, the surgery won't significantly shorten your life or interfere very much with your quality of life." He said the polyp was in the cecum right next to the little opening of my appendix and possibly in the appendix. I was very frightened by his report and agreed he could schedule an appointment for me to meet with a surgeon. This was my first ever health problem of any sort in my nearly sixty-five years of life. That fact echoed in my mind as I asked myself, 'is this, perhaps, a panic- motivated response or an illustration of physicians set in their ways?' As soon as the propofol completely wore off (the next day), I began researching alternatives to surgery for polyp removal. It felt like a miracle when I found Jim Sease's website. I clicked on the Endovision link and began my search. My journey was laden with well-meaning, uninformed warnings from physicians, logistical obstacles, and overprotective skeptics. I knew in my gut that surgery was the wrong choice for me. Even so, as a solo voyager I have to admit to a good amount of self-doubt in my pursuit of an alternative. Conversations with my husband and children, several visits to my primary care physician, two meetings with the recommended surgeon, denied requests for an appointment with the diagnosing GI, emails and calls to my then health insurance company left me to trust my instinct alone. Neither PCP, GI, nor surgeon would even try to submit a referral to my insurance to try to get them to pay for me to be treated at CPMC IES. They all- but-stated they thought I was crazy for wanting to travel from Massachusetts to California just to get a polyp removed. I mean, come on, what's the big deal? Everybody has colorectal surgeries for large polyps nowadays and, after all, women have more than five feet of intestine, plenty to spare, still a lot left after cutting some out. I must say that discovering my desire for self- (and intestinal-) preservation revealed to me an inner strength previously only hypothetical. A stroke of luck deemed that the open enrollment period for changing health insurance through my employer was four months earlier than usual; I could switch to a plan that allowed me to refer myself to any doctor I wanted, effective January 1, 2018!!! In September, I submitted all my required documentation to CPMC (it was almost as much work as applying to college) and my case was accepted. In October, I filled out the change of insurance form, submitted it to my employer, called CPMC IES, scheduled a 9:30 A.M., January 23, 2018 appointment for an Underwater Endoscopic Mucosal Resection with Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller, and then I WAITED. August 15, 2017 to January 23, 2018--just over five months--was an eternity. Now, on the other side of it, I am a changed woman. I had always been pretty happy and self-caring, but a little lazy and overconfident when it came to understanding nutrition and not completely convinced of the preciousness of my life. From 2010 to 2017, I ate soy products every day, lots of them. I was doing my part to save the planet by not eating animals. Also, as a post-menopausal woman, I had heard that the estrogens in tofu would be good for me. For people blessed with moderate temperaments, soy is probably fine. But I have always been the "little girl with the curl in the middle of her forehead." I prided myself on the immunity from disease I believed was mine, due to my consistently super healthy diet. What a fall I had! I am learning that most foods, eaten in excess, even the touted "healthy" ones, can cause disease. Dr. Binmoeller mentioned possible protection from the formation of polyps when magnesium and vitamin D levels are adequate and balanced. You can read about this after your procedure and see what make sense for you. It is worth going to great lengths to avoid colorectal surgery unless you definitely have colorectal cancer. Adenomas are pre-cancerous polyps, not cancerous ones. UEMR may work for you, too. Believe you are worth getting the best care and treatment available and then go for it. Don't be intimidated by or too obedient to doctors who would quickly shuffle you off to surgery. Spread the news about the endoscopic innovations of Dr. Binmoeller and others who have learned from him. Too often, medical practitioners stay inside the box and can only think of drugs and surgery as solutions. There is so much more out there for you. Best of luck! Carol Ch. read more

My story is like so many others, I went in for a routine colonoscopy at the age of 58. I put it off because I felt too busy and healthy to have this invasion to my body. When I spoke with the doctor after the procedure he let me know that I had a very large polypoid mass and he was unable to remove it, he wanted me to set up surgery and have it taken out. I asked if he would set up a referral for a second opinion. Thankfully this led me to Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller who threw his amazing expertise in this area was able to remove the lesion with colonoscopy intervention. My suggestion to all is to get your 1st preventive care colonoscopy when your doctor suggests, usually at age 50. If there is something to large for them to remove have them leave it alone and ask them to NOT inject marker ink which can lead to scarring. Dr. Binmoeller let me know it is always sad to talk to a patient after their procedure and tell them the lesion could not be removed because of prior attempts elsewhere that were unsuccessful, causing too much scar tissue to allow the endoscopic resection. I am ever so thankful to have been lead to Dr. Binmoeller and his amazing team of providers. With Gratitude, Carolyn R read more

The procedure itself was good but cannot get them on the telephone to make another appointment.. Left 4 messages with no cal back from them. Pretty awful. read more

I'm 53 and have a tortuous colon, which is twisted. Two colonoscopies attempts could not be completed however In 2015 a PAMF GI doctor Dr. Li said he was able to complete my colonoscopy with a child scope. This GI doctor said my colon looked normal and said he saw no polyps. I know this sounds bold but I don't believe this doctor actually completed my colonoscopy. Never in my entire life do I remember ever being regular and I had developed daily pain on my left side. Every GI doctor I've ever saw coached me on diet and pelvic floor therapy as well as relaxation techniques. Also I did the sitz marker test, a ballon test and all the recommended test for colon issues, but no answers. I had been receiving colonics at Ivy wellness center in SC and spoke with the owner, Debra, she told me about one of her clients who was told that he had a cancerous polyp and most of his colon should be removed. This person began researching procedures and found Dr. Binmoeller. Dr. Binmoeller was able to remove the cancerous polyp and he was able to keep his colon! Anyway, I was so lucky to find this doctor! Thank you God! Before my procedure with Dr. Binmoeller, I was gluten free and dairy free but honestly it didn't matter what I ate I always had the pain and discomfort and a no go in the potty. This issue was ruining my life. Dr. Binmoeller found 2 polyps but more importantly he said I had scar or adhesions inside my colon? Because of the twists in my colon the colonoscopy was very difficult. He apparently removed the adhesions and honestly I never remember feeling better! Every single day without effort I am regular and I am beyond happy. I've eaten bread and ice cream since and its just a miracle! Thank you Dr. Binmoeller I can't tell you how much I appreciate your dedication. What a difference you have made in my life! read more

This was my third colonscopy with Dr. Binmoeller and a follow up to the two previous. Due to the size and locations of the two polyups the first procedure took about two hours. Had this been any other doctor I would now have a colostomy bag. Dr. Binmoeller is literally writing the book on this type of surgery. If you have the ability to get an out side service with your insurance company this is the doctor you want. Additionally the staff at Sutter Health is excellent. F.W. Zanker read more

Incompetent staff, impossible to get an appointment, rescheduled my original appointment for a month later after making me wait two months for the original appointment. And this change was on less than a weeks notice. Only other call from their office was to collect a $1000 deposit in advance of the procedure (which they told me about for the first time 7 days before the appointment). If you have to use them, keep track of who you spoke to, what they said and when, including phone numbers. Apparently they don't communicate very well within the office either. They are only in business because no one else in the area offers the same procedures. read more

I was referred to Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller by a general surgeon in Walnut Creek. I had several pollups which were pre-canerous. The one option that used to be available was a lengthy operation which was dangerous to my life, as well as a 6th month recovery rate. This type of surgery was called The Whipple method. Because of Dr. Binmoellers outstanding reputation for endoscopy treatments, he perfomed a complex and detailed procedure of resecting my duodendum. He is the only doctor in the world who is known for this type of resection. He was very congenial and put me at ease. I was the first person I believe to have this procedure done under his expertise and outstanding performance. I will be forever grateful to Dr. Binmoeller for his rare technique and superb endoscopy treatment of me. After the procedure, he spent about 1/2 hour explaning what he did. I highly recomment Dr. Binmoeller for anyone out there who needs this type of treatment. Sue K. Danville, CA read more

I went in for my "welcome to 50", first colonoscopy, expecting a clean report. Unfortunately, that was not the case. They removed a 2mm polyp and a 4 mm polyp, but said a 25 mm polyp would need surgery to remove a third of my colon. I ran into a friend who is a doctor and I told him about my case. He thought surgery was a very aggressive approach for my situation and suggested I get a second opinion. At the same time, my mother contacted her physician and he mentioned that California Pacific Medical Center was doing amazing work in the removal of difficult and large polyps. I sent my information to California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) and they called the night before my surgery telling me that they could definitely remove the polyp without surgery. I was in a panic as to what to do, but Dr. Chris Hamerski who was at CPMC at the time, said if it were him, he would not have the surgery. I went with my gut feeling and canceled the surgery for the next day. Dr. Binmoeller performed my procedure, and he has a unique ability to convey his confidence and wealth of knowledge, while at the same time being comforting. He went into detail on the procedure but in terms that were easy to understand, and spent the time to answer any questions. From my perspective, the procedure was the same as a regular colonoscopy, but from Dr. Binmoeller perspective, it required intense concentration and precision. He was able to remove almost all of the 25 mm polyp with one cut, and removed the rest with a second cut. He explained the fewer the cuts, the better the outcome. I returned to CPMC 6 months later for a follow-up colonoscopy to make sure there was no regrowth and everything had healed correctly. Everything had turned out well. He also used a newer method called "underwater colonoscopy" which uses water instead of air to inflate the colon. This allows for better access to the entire colon and allowed them to find 4 other polyps that were not discovered in past colonoscopies. I could not be more pleased with my outcome and with my interactions with everyone at CPMC. I would highly recommend that anyone facing the prospect of having surgery to remove a polyp, to get an opinion from Dr. Binmoeller and his staff at CPMC. They literally saved me from having part of my colon removed and a life time of unknown side effects. read more

Dr. Binmoeller saved my rectum, colon, my dignity, and my life! I have been a patient of Dr. Binmoeller's for over 2 years. I live in a rural area of Northern California, and was sent to Santa Rosa for a rectal ultrasound, after a colonoscopy revealed a huge "tumor" that covered approximately 3/4 of the circumference of my rectum. It was located very close to the lower sphincter, which made it more problematic. Through a personal friend (colo-rectal surgeon-Vanderbilt University Medical Center) and the Doctor in Santa Rosa, I was referred to Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller at Cal-Pac/Sutter(IES) in San Francisco. God and the Saints were looking out for me, as sending me to Dr. Binmoeller was a miracle!! The biopsies that Dr. Binmoeller took revealed that the "tumor" was between pre-cancerous and stage 1 cancer. He was able to remove all of the "tumor" with his innovative laser, only down through the necessary mucosal layer, instead of having to remove the rectum completely. The only problem is that the previous Dr. "tatooed" the tumor. This has presented further "risk" for surveillance, as the tatoo causes scar tissue, and can hide future growth. PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW the Dr. to tatoo the growth!!!! The medical community has generally considered the rectum/colon to be "social" organs, meaning that they are not necessary for survival, only "social" as the majority of the nutrient absorption is done through the small intestine. This is simplistic in its' assumption. Yes, you can live without a rectum and colon, through an illeostomy, as the major function of the colon is re-absorption of liquid/waste left over from the food that you eat. However, that leaves the patient at high risk of dehydration, as fluids leave your body rather than being re-absorbed along with digestive enzymes. It also can lead to serious skin breakdown/ulcers,etc. It IS important to your health, as well as self-esteem, dignity, etc. It is part of your GUT!!!!! Simply, if there is any chance at all of saving your colon and rectum....DO IT!!!! It is NOT merely the fact that a woman can't wear a bikini after an ileostomy, because of the necessary external appliance ("bag") the patient will wear the rest of their life. If you find yourself in this situation, by all means, if you have the time to investigate alternative options to an illeal-anal pouch anastomosis,(best alternative) a colectomy, or colostomy, DO IT!!!! read more

Dr. Binmoeller is fantastic. I had a large polyp with scar tissue in the lower colon. My previous doctor had talked about chemo and invasive surgery. Dr. Binmoeller not only removed the polyp, but had great bedside manner. On time, courteous, warm, and calm, with the rare gift to explain a complex medical procedure and frightening situation in plain and easily understandable terms. The polyp was benign, the intervention successful, my follow up exam with Dr. Binmoeller was the same positive experience as the first one and I got an all clear. read more