Gastroenterology Surgery

Gastroenterology surgery is a branch of science that deals with the surgical treatment of all benign and malignant diseases in the digestive system. The section of this field that deals with internal diseases is called "gastroenterology". This scope includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine and rectum, as well as the liver, gallbladder and pancreas.

Surgery can be used to remove digestive system organs such as the intestine that are cancerous or damaged due to non-cancerous causes. In addition, surgical intervention may be required for problems such as hernias that require repair.

Diagnosis and Treatment Process

In our gastroenterology surgery unit, patients are offered the opportunity to receive universal standard treatment with innovative methods and a patient-centered approach by an experienced team that closely follows the latest developments. During the diagnosis phase, a multidisciplinary council is held when necessary, and the patient's treatment is planned by making a joint decision with gastroenterology surgery, gastroenterology, medical oncology, radiology, pathology and radiation oncology specialists. When necessary, endoscopic interventions and endoscopic stent placement procedures are performed in the gastrointestinal system.

Digestive System Diseases That May Require Surgery

Colon Cancer and Other Gastrointestinal Cancers

Gastroenterology surgery can play a role in removing cancerous tumors of the digestive system and parts of the digestive system. For example, the surgeon may remove tumors of the pancreas, liver or intestine.

Diverticula

Diverticula are small structures called pockets and pouches that are usually seen in the large intestine (colon). 5% of these pockets can become inflamed (diverticulitis) or 10-15% can cause bleeding. While inflammation is usually treated without surgery, some patients may require surgery due to recurrent attacks and complications. In this case, the gastrointestinal surgeon may recommend surgically removing the inflamed intestine.

Gallbladder Diseases

In general, gallbladder diseases are commonly seen due to stones. These stones can cause inflammation in the gallbladder and can fall into the common bile duct (common bile duct), causing complications such as cholecystitis, jaundice, and pancreatitis. However, not every gallbladder stone that does not cause complications may require surgery. When necessary, the gallbladder can be removed with the laparoscopic (closed) method.

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD), Hiatal Hernia, and Achalasia

The intensely acidic environment of the stomach can cause reflux by disrupting the anatomical and physiological barrier structure that prevents stomach contents from leaking into the esophagus. Reflux can cause symptoms such as heartburn, bitter taste in the mouth, and irritation at the tip of the esophagus. This irritation can pave the way for Barrett's esophagus and, in the future, cancer at the tip of the esophagus.

In patients with a larger than normal hiatal opening, the stomach can herniate into the chest cavity (hiatal hernia). Achalasia occurs with impaired peristaltic movements and causes symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Advanced laparoscopic applications of gastroenterology surgery are used in the treatment of these diseases.

Hernia

Due to the weakness of the connective tissue and muscle structure in the abdominal wall, organs such as the intestines can pass under the skin and be in an area where they should not be. This causes swelling and pain under the skin. The gastrointestinal surgeon repairs these weak points and usually repairs them by applying a mesh (patch reinforcement).

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) (Crohn, Ulcerative Colitis)

The immune system interacts with environmental factors in genetically predisposed individuals, causing inflammation and damage in the gastrointestinal system. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are divided into two main groups: Crohn's disease and inflammatory colitis.

Treatment options are determined according to the type, severity and prevalence of these diseases. The treatment process is planned in consultation with a gastrointestinal surgeon and a gastroenterology specialist. In cases where medical treatment is insufficient or complications occur, surgical intervention may be required.

Surgical treatment methods may include the following:

• Resection of the Intestine: Removal of the damaged intestinal segment. This method is frequently used in Crohn's disease.
• Pouch (IPAA) Surgery: It is the creation of a new reservoir (pouch) from the end of the small intestine after the removal of the large intestine and rectum in ulcerative colitis patients.
• Ostomy (Temporary or Permanent Removal of the Intestine): It is a surgical method in which the intestine is connected to the abdominal wall and the stool is collected with a bag.

Surgical interventions are performed to reduce the complications of the disease, increase the quality of life and stop the progression of the disease. Gastroenterology surgery aims to provide the most appropriate solution in the treatment of patients by working with a multidisciplinary approach during this process.

Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse, defined as the condition in which the intestines prolapse out of the anus, can be treated with the laparoscopic or open method (from the abdomen/anus). In this surgical procedure, the intestine is taken to its normal anatomical position and fixed to the pelvic bone. In some cases, partial removal of the large intestine may be necessary.

Pancreatic Cysts and Tumors

Cysts and tumors can form in the pancreas for various reasons. While some cysts can be monitored, surgical intervention is necessary in cases that carry the risk of malignancy. In tumors, if the disease is at a stage suitable for surgery, the cancerous organ is removed with surgery.

Cystic Diseases of the Liver

Parasitic cysts such as hydatid cysts (dog cysts) or cysts related to cancer are removed with surgery when the surgeon thinks they pose a danger.

Spleen Diseases

The spleen may need to be removed as a result of hematological diseases or injuries. This procedure is called splenectomy and can be done laparoscopically or openly. The laparoscopic method has the advantages of less pain and a shorter recovery time.

Hemorrhoids, Anal Fissure, Anal Fistula and Pilonidal Sinus

Pilonidal sinus, also known as ingrown hair, anal fissure, defined as a crack in the anus, anal fistula in the anus area and hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are diseases that can be treated with surgical intervention.

Gastroenterology surgery clinics are located in a limited number of centers with experienced physician staff. Our university hospital's Gastroenterology Surgery Clinic offers comprehensive and modern treatment services in this field.