DRFK Turkish International
Gastroenterology
Health Unit

Gastroenterology

Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of digestive system disorders affecting the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and esophagus.

Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology
Health Unit

Gastroenterology

About Gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system. It covers conditions that affect organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and esophagus. Because of this wide scope, gastroenterology plays a key role in managing many common and complex diseases.

Which Diseases Does Gastroenterology Treat?

Gastroenterology covers a broad range of conditions affecting the digestive system. The main disorders include:

  • Stomach and Duodenum Disorders: Stomach ulcers, gastritis, stomach polyps
  • Esophageal Disorders: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus
  • Bowel Disorders: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, intestinal polyps
  • Liver Disorders: Liver cirrhosis, hepatitis (viral or alcoholic), fatty liver disease, liver cysts and tumors
  • Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disorders: Gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, bile duct obstructions
  • Pancreatic Disorders: Acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic tumors
  • Digestive System Cancers: Stomach cancer, colon and rectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer
  • Malabsorption Syndromes: Celiac disease, lactose intolerance, small bowel malabsorption syndromes

Common Procedures

Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Visual examination of the digestive tract using a flexible tube with a camera to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

A specialized procedure to diagnose and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas using endoscopy and X-rays.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

Combines endoscopy and ultrasound to obtain detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding organs for accurate diagnosis.

Capsule Endoscopy

A non-invasive procedure using a small camera pill to examine the small intestine, particularly useful for detecting bleeding or inflammation.

Double Balloon Enteroscopy

An advanced endoscopic technique that allows deep examination of the small intestine for diagnosis and treatment of complex conditions.

Esophageal and Anal Manometry

Tests that measure muscle contractions in the esophagus and anus to diagnose motility disorders and swallowing problems.

Liver Biopsy

A procedure to obtain a small sample of liver tissue for microscopic examination to diagnose liver diseases and assess their severity.

Polyp Removal (Polypectomy)

Removal of polyps from the colon or stomach during endoscopy to prevent cancer development and treat existing conditions.

Stent Placement in Gastrointestinal Strictures

Placement of expandable tubes to open narrowed areas in the digestive tract, improving passage of food and fluids.

Treatments for Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Various techniques including variceal ligation, sclerotherapy, hemoclip application, and argon plasma coagulation to stop bleeding in the digestive tract.

Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)

Placement of a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall for patients unable to eat orally.

Intragastric Balloon Placement

A non-surgical weight loss procedure involving placement of a balloon in the stomach to reduce food intake and promote weight loss.

Interventions for Bile Duct and Pancreatic Diseases

Specialized procedures to treat conditions affecting the bile ducts and pancreas, including stone removal and drainage procedures.

Recovery and Follow-up

  • Most endoscopic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis with same-day discharge.
  • Recovery time varies depending on the procedure, with most patients resuming normal activities within 24-48 hours.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to review test results and discuss treatment plans.
  • Dietary modifications may be recommended based on the diagnosis and procedure performed.
  • Regular monitoring may be necessary for chronic conditions such as liver disease or inflammatory bowel disease.

Tips & Info

1

Don't Ignore Digestive Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits may indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues. Early evaluation by a gastroenterologist can prevent complications.

2

Manage Acid Reflux Carefully: Long-term acid reflux can lead to esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, or other digestive disorders. Timely management is important to reduce risks.

3

Support Your Gut with Fibre: A high-fibre diet promotes a healthy gut microbiome, improves digestion, and may reduce the risk of certain gastrointestinal conditions.

4

Schedule Screening Colonoscopies: Screening colonoscopy is recommended after age 45, or earlier if you have risk factors, to detect polyps or colorectal cancer early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need a Consultation?

Book your appointment with our expert specialists today.

Contact Us

Address

Villa 2 Al Athar Street - Jumeirah - Jumeirah 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates