Upper GI Surgery

The upper gastrointestinal (upper GI) system runs from the mouth to the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Most people will experience issues with their digestive health at some point, but not everyone will need surgery.  

Unfortunately, cancer is one of the leading reasons for upper GI surgery. Benign growths, inflammation, and structural problems are others.

Upper GI Surgeons are highly-skilled, receiving training in general surgery, which has a focus on the abdomen. Some of our specialists have developed further skills in areas such as weight-loss surgery (bariatrics), organ transplantation, laparoscopy and robotics. Prince of Wales Private Hospital has an expert surgical team who can provide leading care in the treatment of the:     

• Diaphragm – Hiatal hernia repair, where the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm.

• Gallbladder – Total removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) due to gallstones and/or inflammation. 

• Intestines – Abdominal hernia repair, where the intestines protrude through a hole in the abdominal muscle; removal of part of the small intestine (resection) due to inflammation, benign and malignant lesions, or blockages.

• Liver and bile ducts – Partial or total removal of the liver (hepatectomy) due to cancer, liver damage (cirrhosis), infections (hepatitis), or trauma; treatment for bile duct disease and blockages.  

• Oesophagus – Anti-reflux surgery (Nissen fundoplication); partial or total removal of the oesophagus (oesophagectomy) due to cancer.

• Pancreas – Partial or total removal of the pancreas (pancreatectomy) due to pancreatic cancer, inflammation (pancreatitis), or trauma; removal of the pancreas and surrounding anatomy (pancreaticoduodenectomy) due to cancer.

• Stomach – Partial or total removal of the stomach (gastrectomy) due to gastric cancer, inflammation or benign polyps. 

Minimally-invasive techniques are preferred, given the complex, interconnecting anatomy of the upper GI tract. Surgeons at our Hospital utilise ERCP, a combined endoscope and X-Ray for the bile ducts, and laparoscopic (or keyhole) surgery, which suit the majority of upper GI and hernia cases. In addition, several of our specialists use the da Vinci Xi® Surgical System for robotic procedures. All of these methods help patients recover faster with fewer side effects. 

To find an Upper GI Surgeon accredited to work at our Hospital, please refer to the Prince of Wales Private Hospital Specialist Directory.

If you would like to know more about our Upper GI Surgery services, please contact:

Dr Koroush Haghighi
admin@hpbsydney.com
02 9650 4110