Gastrointestinal (GI) conditions are a major global health concern, causing substantial deaths and disabilities. Aging populations, dietary changes, and urbanization have all had an impact on the global burden of gastrointestinal disorders. A 2021 poll found that 56% of Indian families had digestive health difficulties, showing the prevalence of GI conditions in the country.
What is gastrointestinal (GI)?
The gastrointestinal (GI) system, or digestive system, is a collection of hollow organs that form a continuous path from the mouth to the anus. Its main work is to digest food, absorb nutrients, and remove waste. The mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines (colon, rectum, and anus) are all important components.Accessory organs such as the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder generate enzymes and chemicals that help digestion.
Gastrointestinal (GI) surgery refers to a variety of treatments used to diagnose, treat, and manage disorders affecting the digestive system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and bile ducts. Depending on the patient’s condition and variables, these surgeries can be performed using either standard open methods or minimally invasive approaches.
Common Types of Gastrointestinal Surgery:
- Appendectomy: This operation involves the removal of the appendix, which is usually caused by appendicitis, an inflammation of the appendix. It is one of the most common emergency procedures performed globally.
- Cholecystectomy: Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, typically due to gallstones causing pain or infection. This treatment can frequently be performed laparoscopically, which has smaller incisions and shorter recovery times.
- Colectomy: This procedure removes a section or all of the colon and is commonly used to treat problems such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, and disease of the bowel.
- Gastrectomy: Gastrectomy is the partial or complete removal of the stomach, which is typically used to treat stomach cancer or severe ulcers in the stomach.
- Hernia Repair: Hernia Repair is the surgical treatment of hernias, which arise when an organ or tissue grows through a weak area in the abdominal muscles. The location and the extent of the hernia determine whether the surgery is open or laparoscopic.
- Pancreatic Surgery: The Whipple surgery (pancreaticoduodenectomy) is used to treat pancreatic cancer and other pancreatic diseases.
- Bariatric surgery: Bariatric surgery includes a variety of weight-loss operations such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, which are designed to assist obese people lose significant weight.
- Esophagectomy: The removal of all or part of the esophagus, usually done to treat esophageal cancer.
- Liver Resection: The surgical removal of a piece of the liver, usually due to liver cancer or severe liver disease.
- Small Bowel Resection: The removal of a diseased or damaged portion of the small intestine, which may be required for conditions such as Crohn’s disease, cancer, or blockage.
How are GI operations performed?
The exact operation is determined by the condition being treated, including its severity and the patient’s overall health.
- Surgical approaches: Open surgery: Open surgery requires a single, bigger incision to access the afflicted area. This traditional procedure offers direct vision and access to the organs.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Makes smaller incisions and uses specialized instruments, usually with the help of a camera (laparoscope). Benefits include less pain after surgery, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.
If you have gastrointestinal issues, you must contact a doctor. Dr. Nirav Vakani, a GI surgeon in Ahmedabad with over 12+ years of expertise, focuses on advanced laparoscopic surgeries and GI oncosurgery. His knowledge makes him a top choice for gastrointestinal (GI) surgery in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
