Gastro Sciences

Medical Gastroenterology

TX Hospital Medical gastroenterology unit specializes in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of disorders of the digestive system. The digestive system is a complex system consisting of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder, which work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.

Medical gastroenterologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that affect the digestive system. These conditions include:

  1. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A group of chronic inflammatory disorders that affect the digestive tract, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
  2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, chest pain, and other symptoms.
  3. Peptic ulcers: Sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or small intestine due to bacterial infection or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  4. Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection, alcohol abuse, or other factors.
  5. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
  6. Celiac disease: An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, damaging the lining of the small intestine.

Medical gastroenterologists use a range of diagnostic tools, such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging tests, to identify the cause of digestive disorders. Treatment options may include medications, lifestyle modifications, and surgery in some cases. In addition to treating medical conditions, medical gastroenterologists also focus on preventive care and maintaining good digestive health. They may provide dietary advice, prescribe probiotics and other supplements, and recommend regular screenings for certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer.

Surgical Gastroenterology

Surgical gastroenterology is a specialized field of medicine that deals with the surgical treatment of diseases and disorders of the digestive system. The digestive system is a complex network of organs and tissues that work together to digest food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.

Surgical gastroenterologists are trained to diagnose and treat a range of conditions that affect the digestive system, including:

  1. Gallbladder disease: Gallstones, inflammation, and infection of the gallbladder are common conditions that can require surgical intervention.
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Some patients with IBD may require surgery to remove damaged sections of the intestine, improve quality of life, and prevent complications.
  3. Gastrointestinal cancer: Surgery is often an important part of the treatment plan for patients with cancers of the digestive system, including esophageal, stomach, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer.
  4. Diverticular disease: Patients with diverticulitis, inflammation, and infection of diverticula in the colon, may require surgery if their symptoms are not managed through non-surgical methods.
  5. Hernias: Hernias of the abdominal wall, such as inguinal, femoral, and ventral hernias, can be treated surgically.

Surgical gastroenterologists use a range of surgical techniques to treat these conditions, including open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic surgery. These techniques are used to remove damaged or diseased tissue, repair organs and tissues, and restore normal digestive function. In addition to surgical treatment, surgical gastroenterologists also provide preoperative and postoperative care, including pain management, nutrition support, and rehabilitation services. They work closely with other members of the healthcare team, including medical gastroenterologists, oncologists, and nutritionists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with digestive disorders. Surgical gastroenterology is a rapidly evolving field, with new advances in technology and surgical techniques being developed all the time. By working with a skilled surgical gastroenterologist, patients can receive the latest and most effective surgical treatments for their digestive disorders, improving their quality of life and overall health.