Dr Toomas Kariis
Gastroenterologist
Languages: Estonian, English, Russian, German and Finnish
I am a University of Tartu alumnus. After graduating with a medical degree, I completed a two-year internship in the basic areas of medicine. I then worked as an emergency care doctor, as an emergency medical doctor and as a family practitioner until there was a chance in 1995 to become one of the first residents of the new gastroenterology program. In addition to thorough endoscopy training, I was able to complete courses in Slovenia and Germany.
My narrow interest lies with bile duct treatment endoscopy (removal of gallstones from the bile ducts and endoscopic stenting of bile ducts). I have participated in the first procedures of biliary stenting in Estonia and initiated the use of endoscopic sedation in treatment endoscopy. As there is no specialisation in gastroenterology in Estonia, I also deal with stomach and intestinal problems in addition to liver and pancreatic diseases.
The importance of colonoscopy regarding the diagnosis and prevention of intestinal inflammation and bowel/colon cancer, it is important that the procedure is performed in a patient-friendly manner with minimal discomfort.
You can use anesthesia that requires special conditions, but there is also an easier and cheaper possibility to perform a colonoscopy without causing significant discomfort to the patient.
I am the founder and promoter of the “painless colonoscopy concept” in Estonia. I have passed additional courses in Finland and have helped to bring the courses to Estonia. I am glad that I have found numerous supporters in Estonia, especially in the East-Tallinn Central Hospital, where the use of “painless colonoscopy ” methodology is customary. There are also followers in other Estonian hospitals.
Education
1998 University of Tartu, Gastroenterology residency
1993 University of Tartu, Faculty of Medicine, internship
1991 University of Tartu, Faculty of Medicine, medical degree
Work Experience
2018– Tallinn Centre of Medical Specialists
1998– East-Tallinn Central Hospital
1994–1998 Nõlvaku Family Medicine Center, Tartu
1993–1995 Viljandi Hospital
Additional Training
I have updated my professional knowledge at various foreign hospitals in Germany, Slovenia, Finland and Taiwan. I participate in gastroenterology training courses every year in Estonia and abroad.
Memberships and Associations
Estonian Society of Gastroenterology, Member of the Board
Estonian Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Member of the Board
Tallinn Medical Association, Member of the Board
European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy