GI surgery, also known as gastrointestinal surgery, is a branch of medicine that deals with the surgical treatment of diseases of the digestive system.
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GI surgery, also known as gastrointestinal surgery, is a branch of medicine that deals with the surgical treatment of diseases of the digestive system. This includes the organs involved in digestion, such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
How is GI surgery performed?
GI surgery is performed using a variety of techniques, including open surgery, minimally invasive surgery (MIS), and robotic surgery. Open surgery involves making a large incision in the abdomen to access the affected organ. MIS involves making smaller incisions and using special instruments to perform the surgery. Robotic surgery uses a robotic system to perform the surgery with greater precision and control.
Common practices and results of GI surgery
Some of the most common types of GI surgery include:
Appendectomy: Removal of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped organ attached to the large intestine.
Cholecystectomy: Removal of the gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ that stores bile.
Colectomy: Removal of part or all of the colon, the large intestine.
Fundoplication: A surgical procedure that strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to prevent acid reflux.
Gastrectomy: Removal of part or all of the stomach.
Hernia repair: Repair of a hernia, which is a weakness in the abdominal wall that allows organs or tissue to protrude.
Laparoscopic bariatric surgery: A type of weight-loss surgery that involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using special instruments to perform the surgery.
Pancreatectomy: Removal of part or all of the pancreas, a gland that produces insulin and other hormones.
The results of GI surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery and the underlying condition. In general, GI surgery can be very effective in treating a variety of digestive disorders and improving quality of life.
Why do people need GI surgery?
There are many reasons why someone might need GI surgery. Some of the most common reasons include:
Cancer: GI surgery is a common treatment for cancer of the esophagus, stomach, colon, pancreas, liver, and bile ducts.
Inflammatory bowel disease: GI surgery may be used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Diverticulitis: GI surgery may be used to treat diverticulitis, which is an inflammation of small sacs that form in the wall of the colon.
Gallstones: GI surgery may be used to remove gallstones, which are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder.
Peptic ulcers: GI surgery may be used to treat peptic ulcers, which are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
Who can have GI surgery?
GI surgery is generally safe for people of all ages. However, it is not appropriate for everyone. Some people who may not be good candidates for GI surgery include those with:
Severe heart disease
Uncontrolled bleeding disorders
Recent abdominal surgery
Severe allergy to anesthesia
What are the benefits of GI surgery?
GI surgery can provide several benefits, including:
Early detection of cancer and other digestive disorders
Treatment of a variety of digestive disorders
Improvement of quality of life
Prevention of complications from digestive disorders
The Procedure
The specific procedure used for GI surgery will depend on the type of surgery and the underlying condition. However, some general steps are involved in most GI surgeries. These steps include:
Anesthesia: The patient will be given anesthesia to numb the area of the surgery and prevent pain.
Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in the abdomen to access the affected organ.
Surgery: The surgeon will perform the surgery using the appropriate technique.
Closure: The surgeon will close the incision using stitches or staples.
After GI surgery
After GI surgery, the patient will be monitored in the recovery room for a short period of time. They may have some pain, nausea, or vomiting. Most people are able to go home the same day after the procedure.
Patient Advice
Pre-GI surgery
Tell Mr Veeramootoo about all medications you are taking, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter drugs.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the surgery.
Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery.
Post-GI surgery
Rest for the first few days after the surgery.
Take your medications as prescribed.
Eat a healthy diet and avoid strenuous activity until you are fully healed.
If you have any pain, fever, or other side effects, contact Mr Veeramootoo.