What is Surgical Gastroenterology?

Pancreatic Disorders:

Surgical procedures are employed to treat various pancreatic conditions, including:

• Pancreatic tumours
• Pancreatic cysts
• Chronic pancreatitis

Bariatric Surgery:

Surgical gastroenterologists specialize in weight loss surgeries, including:

• Gastric bypass surgery
• Sleeve gastrectomy
• Adjustable gastric banding (gastric band surgery)

Liver Conditions:

Surgical interventions for liver conditions may include:

• Liver tumor resections
• Liver transplantation
• Surgery for liver cysts or abscesses

GERD and Hiatal Hernias:

Surgical gastroenterologists can address severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernias through procedures like fundoplication and hernia repair.

Diverticulitis:

Surgical treatment may be required for patients with diverticulitis, mainly when complications like abscesses or perforations occur. Procedures can include partial colectomy (removal of a portion of the colon).

Gastrointestinal Bleeding:

Surgery may be necessary to locate and address the source of gastrointestinal bleeding when other treatments are ineffective.

Achalasia:

Surgical gastroenterologists can perform a Heller myotomy to treat achalasia, which affects the esophagus and impairs its ability to move food into the stomach.

Appendicitis:

Appendectomy (removing the appendix) is a standard surgical procedure for treating acute appendicitis.

Hernias:

Surgical gastroenterologists can address various abdominal hernias, including inguinal hernias, ventral hernias, and hiatal hernias.

Celiac Disease:

In rare cases of severe complications from celiac disease, surgical gastroenterologists may be involved in treating related issues such as refractory celiac disease or complications like strictures.

Trauma and Emergency Surgery:

These specialists provide emergency surgical care for patients with abdominal trauma, perforations, obstructions, and other acute gastrointestinal conditions.

Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders:

In select cases, surgical options may be considered for patients with severe functional gastrointestinal disorders that do not respond to conservative treatments.

Benefits of Surgical Gastroenterology:

Surgical Gastroenterology offers several benefits to patients facing gastrointestinal disorders and conditions. These benefits may differ based on the particular procedure. And the patient's circumstances, but here are some common advantages associated with surgical gastroenterology:

• Resolution of Gastrointestinal Issues: Surgical gastroenterology can provide effective solutions for various gastrointestinal conditions, assisting people in overcoming health obstacles and improving their quality of life.
• Improved Quality of Life: Surgery can alleviate symptoms and complications associated with gastrointestinal diseases, enabling patients to lead more comfortable and fulfilling lives.
• Gallbladder Relief: Removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) can relieve gallstones and gallbladder disease, preventing painful attacks and complications.
• Long-Term Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery, a subspecialty of surgical gastroenterology, often leads to significant and sustained weight loss, lowering the likelihood of obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
• Enhanced Digestive Health: Surgical gastroenterology aims to restore and optimize digestive function, enabling patients to absorb nutrients better and enjoy a healthier digestive system.
• Better Long-Term Outcomes: In many cases, surgery can provide lasting solutions, preventing the recurrence of specific conditions and reducing the need for repeat interventions.

When should you visit a Surgical Gastroenterologist?

Visiting a surgical gastroenterologist is recommended when you have gastrointestinal issues or conditions requiring surgical intervention or specialized evaluation and treatment for specific digestive health concerns. Here are some situations in which you should consider scheduling an appointment with a surgical gastroenterologist:

• Gastrointestinal Pain: Persistent or severe abdominal pain not alleviated with over-the-counter medications may warrant a visit. This pain could be due to various conditions, including gallstones, appendicitis, or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Gallbladder Problems: If you experience symptoms like nausea, intense abdominal pain, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), it may indicate gallbladder issues or gallstones that could require surgical removal.
• Weight Loss Surgery: If you're thinking about weight loss surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, or adjustable gastric banding, you should consult with a surgical gastroenterologist who specializes in bariatric surgery.
• Reflux or Heartburn: Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that does not respond to medications or lifestyle changes may require surgical management. A surgical gastroenterologist can evaluate your condition and discuss surgical options, such as fundoplication.
• Suspected Gastrointestinal Cancer: If you have been diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer or have symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, or persistent changes in bowel habits, it is essential to consult a surgical gastroenterologist for evaluation and treatment planning.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Surgical gastroenterology consultation may be necessary for individuals with severe Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis that does not respond to medical therapy or who develop complications like strictures or fistulas.
• Hernias: If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a hernia (e.g., inguinal, ventral, hiatal), a surgical gastroenterologist can assess the need for surgical repair.
• Diverticulitis: Severe cases of diverticulitis with complications such as abscesses, bowel perforations, or recurrent episodes may require surgical intervention. A surgical gastroenterologist can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
• Liver or Pancreatic Conditions: Conditions affecting the liver or pancreas, such as tumours, cysts, or chronic pancreatitis, may require surgical treatment, and consultation with a surgical gastroenterologist is essential.
• Bowel Obstruction: Symptoms of bowel obstruction, including vomiting, abdominal pain, and the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement, require immediate medical attention, and a surgical gastroenterologist may be involved in treatment.
• Emergency Abdominal Trauma: Surgical gastroenterologists are trained to provide urgent surgical care in cases of abdominal trauma or acute gastrointestinal emergencies.
• Persistent Gastrointestinal Symptoms: If you have chronic digestive symptoms such as unexplained diarrhoea, bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, a consultation with a surgical gastroenterologist can help diagnose and address the underlying cause.

How does the doctor perform GI Surgeries?

GI surgeries can be performed using various approaches, including:

• Open Surgery: This traditional approach involves making a single large incision in the abdominal area, allowing the surgeon direct access to the affected organ or site. Open surgery may be necessary for complex cases or when minimally invasive techniques are not suitable.
• Laparoscopic Surgery: Laparoscopy, also known as minimally invasive surgery, is a process that requires several tiny abdominal incisions, the use of specialized tools, and the use of a camera (laparoscope). Laparoscopic surgery offers benefits such as reduced scarring, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery.
• Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Some GI surgeries are performed using robotic-assisted systems that enhance the surgeon's precision and dexterity. The surgery is carried out through tiny incisions by robotic arms that the physician controls.

Frequently Asked Questions: