Surgical gastroenterology: everything you need to know
Surgical gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and surgical treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Specialists in this field, known as surgical gastroenterologists, are concerned with both investigating the causes of a patient's ailments and performing surgery to address problems related to the digestive tract, liver, pancreas and other organs located in the abdominal cavity.
Diagnosis:
The primary diagnostic tool of surgical gastroenterology is endoscopy. This procedure involves inserting a flexible thin speculum, equipped with a camera, into the patient's digestive tract. This allows the doctor to closely examine and evaluate the condition of the digestive organs. Endoscopy can be used to identify ulcers, tumors, polyps, inflammation and other disorders.
In addition, surgical gastroenterologists can use other diagnostic tools such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound to get a more detailed picture of internal organs.
Major diseases and treatments:
Pancreatitis:
Pancreatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreatic tissue. It can be caused by various factors, such as gallstones, alcohol abuse, infections or genetic predisposition. Severe cases may require surgery to repair the damaged pancreas or remove gallstones.
Peptic ulcer disease:
Peptic ulcer disease refers to ulcers in the stomach or duodenum. Its symptoms include abdominal pain, heartburn and nausea. Surgical gastroenterologists can perform endoscopic procedures to repair ulcers and prevent recurrence.
Gastrointestinal cancers:
Cancer of the colon, stomach, pancreas and liver are just some examples of cancers that can be treated by surgical gastroenterologists. Surgical removal of the tumor may be necessary to stop it from growing and spreading to other organs.
Appendicitis:
Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix becomes inflamed and can cause severe abdominal pain. In this case, it is necessary to immediately remove the appendix with a surgical procedure.
These examples are just the tip of the iceberg. Gastroenterologic surgeons can also treat conditions such as hiatal hernia, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and many others.
Preparation for surgery:
Before performing the operation, the gastroenterologist-surgeon will conduct a thorough examination of the patient. Blood, urine and imaging tests of internal organs may be necessary. In some cases where a particular operation requires special preparation, the patient must also meet certain conditions, such as stopping pain medication or following a special diet before the operation.
Rehabilitation:
After surgery, the patient will be under the care of a surgical gastroenterologist. Depending on the type of surgery, the patient may require rehabilitation to return to full physical function. The surgical gastroenterologist will plan an appropriate rehabilitation program, which may include both physiotherapy and an appropriate diet. It is important that the patient strictly follows the doctor's instructions to achieve the best results.
Summary:
Surgical gastroenterology plays a key role in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Specialists in this field have in-depth knowledge and skills that allow them to diagnose and treat diseases of the intestines, stomach, pancreas and other digestive organs. By using modern diagnostic technologies and advanced surgical procedures, gastroenterologic surgeons are able to improve patients' quality of life and help them recover.