The digestive tract is a complex system which can be deranged by an unhealthy diet, diseases, and even stress. The main function of the digestive system is to help the body in absorbing the food after breaking it down into nutrients while eliminating the waste and the by-products. Gastrointestinal disorders include conditions like constipation, GERD, hemorrhoids, diverticular diseases, anal fissures, colitis, gallstones, etc. Where many of these problems can be treated or minimized with medicine and maintaining a healthy lifestyle some might require surgery. Let us take a look at the four most common gastric surgeries which are performed by the gastroenterologists in Karachi. Keep following Marham for more information on the best surgeons and gastroenterologists in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and other cities of Pakistan.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF)
When acid reflux or heartburn happens more often then it is indicative of a severe problem called GERD. It occurs when the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus is either weak or relaxes inappropriately allowing the acid back into the esophagus. This problem can be relieved by avoiding certain foods and beverages that trigger the symptoms and/or by antacids or other medicines that help to reduce stomach acid production as well as the inflammation of the esophagus. But some severe cases might even require surgery. Most widely used treatment of this disease is Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF) which is an incision-less procedure. The surgeon uses a special device to reconstruct the anti-reflux valve right where the esophagus enters the stomach to prevent reflux. Masood Hospital is one of the best hospitals offering this procedure.
Surgery for the Removal of Gallstones
Gallstones are littles pebbles made up of bile salts and cholesterol that accumulate in the gallbladder. Some of the causes include obesity and regaining weight quickly after losing it. The symptoms of gallstones include a severe pain in the upper abdomen right under the rib cage. This sharp pain is caused when the gallstones block the ducts that lead to the intestines. Sometimes these stones can be dissolved by the medicines. However, if it doesn’t work surgery to remove the gallbladder is the ultimate solution. In this surgery, the gallbladder along with the stones is removed putting an end to all problems associated with it. For this purpose, laparoscopy is the most common surgical procedure which is being used by the doctors at Hameedah Memorial Hospital. They not only are experts in gastric surgery but also are accompanied by a dedicated team which makes sure to take the best post-operative care of patients.
Surgery for Hernia
Hernia is formed in the body when a fatty tissue or an organ manages to squeeze through to the connective tissue. It is most commonly formed in the abdominal wall and in most cases is visible when one bends down or experiences a strain on the abdomen muscles. Depending on the location of a hernia, their treatments and procedures often vary. Some of the most common types of a hernia include:
Related: 5 Common Gastric Diseases in Children
- An umbilical hernia which occurs at belly button
- An incisional hernia occurs at an incision or scar on the abdomen
- A ventral hernia occurs at the ventral walls of the abdomen
- A hiatal hernia occurs inside the abdomen
Most of the times, the surgeons at Masood Hospital do ask the patients to wait around and watch a hernia for any pain or discomfort. Since surgery is the only option, it is often delayed till the patients start facing problems due to their hernia. Laparoscopy of a hernia along with the open surgery are the two types of surgical treatments which can be performed on the hernia depending on the size and location.
Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are two of the most common inflammatory bowel diseases. These diseases are caused when the immune system attacks the GI tract. As a result of Crohn’s disease, severe ulcers are caused in the lining of the GI tract while ulcerative colitis causes ulcers in the colon and rectum.
The symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, anemia, rectal bleeding, as well as weight loss. They can be treated with prescription steroids, immunosuppressants, and anti-inflammatory drugs. While Crohn’s disease might also be treated with antibiotics but the severe cases of ulcerative colitis might require a surgery to remove the colon in order to get rid of the problem completely.
So, if you experience any of the said symptoms, it might be a sign of a GI tract disorder. It is safe to Find and Consult a doctor right away to find out the reason. This will help to determine the best course of treatment as well as timely monitoring of the disease to prevent any complications.
You can also find best Gastroenterologists in other main cities of Pakistan:
Best gastroenterologists in Lahore
Best Gastroenterologists in Islamabad
Best Gastroenterologists in Multan
Best Gastroenterologists in Faisalabad