SUMMARY
The clinical and research interests of Michael D. Crowell, Ph.D., focus on the utility of diagnostic testing for the evaluation of neuromuscular and sensory function in health and in a variety of gastrointestinal motility disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, achalasia, scleroderma, gastroparesis, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome, colonic motility disorder and pelvic floor disorders. Dr. Crowell is particularly interested in obtaining a better understanding of how individualized treatments based on motor and sensory patterns might impact therapeutic outcomes.
Cutting-edge manometric techniques are employed in these efforts, including high-resolution topographical esophageal manometry with multichannel, intraluminal impedance. This technique provides comprehensive assessment of both esophageal pressure patterns and bolus transit dynamics in real time. Dr. Crowell also uses dynamic 3-D, high-resolution anorectal manometry, endoanal ultrasonography, and conventional and MR defecography to evaluate the function and coordination of the anal sphincters and pelvic floor muscles.
Dr. Crowell's areas of study and collaboration include work in enteric neuroscience, aerospace medicine, and Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer.
Focus areas
- Neuromuscular function of the esophagus and pelvic floor in health and disease using dynamic esophageal pressure topographical mapping
- Therapeutic outcomes following individualized endoscopic treatments based on motor patterns in patients with esophageal disorder, including achalasia and scleroderma
- Mechanisms by which cough and other extraesophageal disorders may be related to acid and nonacid gastroesophageal reflux
- Psychophysiology of gastrointestinal sensory-motor function and interactions of obesity with gastrointestinal sensory-motor function
- Role of gut microbes in the pathogenesis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders and obesity
Significance to patient care
Dr. Crowell's research aims to enhance innovative diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions for the evaluation and treatment of disorders of gut motility and better understand the role of individualized interventions on patient outcomes.
Professional highlights
- Committee member, Psychosocial Aspects of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders; Design of Treatment Trials for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders; Age, Gender and Women's Health and the Patient, Rome Foundation, 2012-present
- Associate editor of biostatistics, American Journal of Gastroenterology, 2001-present
- Fellow, American Gastroenterological Association, 1996-present
- Fellow, American College of Gastroenterology, 1993-present