Dr. Venkatesh Lakshman

My area of interest is inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. I also participate in clinical research to help evaluate new medications or products for use in IBD. These trials enable us to offer cutting-edge treatments for patients with Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. I came to Duke as an intern almost 30 years ago and liked it so much I never left. I enjoy the relationships I have developed with my patients, some of whom I have treated for 15-20 years. I have watched many of them graduate from college, marry and have children of their own. I try to treat my patients as I would want a member of my family to be treated, and it is important to me that every patient understands that we are partners and need to work together as a team. When I am not at work, I enjoy going out to dinner or cooking with friends, working on my house, landscaping, and reading. Dr. Onken is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Crohn's Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Hemorrhagic Proctocolitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

I specialize in gastroenterology, specifically adult inflammatory bowel diseases including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. I also see patients with a variety of digestive issues including fecal transplant for C. diff. colitis. I became a physician because I truly enjoy interacting with people and helping them feel better in whatever way I can. I like to emphasize good communication between providers and patients. It is important to work together with each patient to provide education and a personalized treatment plan that we both agree upon. Listening and understanding what each patient needs is vital to our success. Before working at Duke Health, I practiced as a gastroenterologist in the greater Boston area at the Lahey Clinic for 12 years. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, reading fiction novels, and practicing yoga. Dr. Barto is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Crohn's Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Pseudomembranous Colitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy.

My practice centers on the care of patients with digestive diseases. My particular area of interest and expertise is inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. I find my work with patients very rewarding since we now have many more treatment options for patients with IBD and there are more innovations on the horizon. For me, the most important aspect of being a physician is to develop an honest, trust-based relationship with patients which allows us to work together. When I'm not seeing patients, I enjoy travel, movies, museums, reading and growing tropical plants. Dr. Chachu is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Crohn's Disease. Her top areas of expertise are Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Visceromegaly, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.