John W. Cromwell, MD
Division Director
Division Contact Information
General Patient Questions (Clinic Desk)
(319) 356-4901
Gastrointestinal Surgery Appointments
(319) 356-4061
Gastrointestinal and Minimally Invasive Surgery
The gastrointestinal surgery section is an integral part of the James A. Clifton Digestive Health Center, a multidisciplinary association of the specialties of gastrointestinal surgery, adult and pediatric gastroenterology, pediatric surgery, radiology, and pathology. The section includes specialists with expertise in the areas of:
- esophagogastric
- pancreaticobiliary
- colorectal surgery
- bariatric surgery
The goal of this center is to improve both the quality and efficiency of care to patients with digestive diseases. This multidisciplinary center is composed of a diagnostic and therapeutic unit and a procedure unit, outpatient clinic, office facility and inpatient unit. This unit facilitates efficient consultation between Internal Medicine and Surgery and improves the ability to perform clinical research. It includes specialists with expertise in the areas of esophagogastric, pancreaticobiliary, colorectal and bariatric surgery who work together to advance the art and science of surgery
Bariatric (Obesity) Surgery
The University of Iowa is the birthplace of obesity surgery. Dr. Edward Mason — the “Father of Bariatric Surgery”— conceived and performed the first weight loss procedure at the University of Iowa in 1965.
Today’s Bariatric Surgery team achieved the coveted National Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa Blue Distinction Center+ for Bariatric Surgery. 
The program has also been designated an Accredited Bariatric Surgery Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).
Our team specializes in:
- Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (LRYGB)
- Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG)
- Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB)
- Laparoscopic revisions of failed weight loss surgical procedures
Our compassionate, interdisciplinary care team includes a full complement of highly skilled surgeons, physician extenders, nutritionists, and support groups committed to comprehensive care and to maximizing the long-term health and success of each patient.