Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery
Achalasia is a rare disorder of the oesophagus where the muscles and nerves fail to properly relax, causing difficulty in swallowing and the sensation of food sticking in the throat. This condition can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, regurgitation of food, and weight loss. Treatment options vary from medications to surgical intervention aimed at relieving the obstruction and improving swallowing function.
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid and occasionally bile flows back into the oesophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. It can lead to complications such as esophagitis or Barrett’s oesophagus. Management includes lifestyle changes, medications to reduce acid production, and in severe cases, surgery to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term damage to the oesophagus.
Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, develops in the lining of the stomach. Symptoms may include indigestion, abdominal pain, unintentional weight loss, and vomiting. Risk factors include infection with H. pylori bacteria, smoking, and a family history of the disease. Treatment options typically involve surgery to remove the tumour, combined with chemotherapy and radiation therapy depending on the cancer’s stage. Early diagnosis is critical for improving outcomes and increasing chances of successful treatment.