Medical gastroenterology focuses on diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, pancreas and related digestive organs. Assessment may include reviewing symptoms, medical history, laboratory results and imaging or endoscopic investigations to help determine an appropriate treatment plan.
Hepatology deals with conditions affecting the liver and its related structures. Evaluation may include blood tests, imaging and other investigations to assess liver function and identify the cause of disease. Management depends on the diagnosis, severity and any associated medical conditions.
Liver transplantation may be considered for selected patients with advanced liver disease or other serious liver conditions. Evaluation involves assessing the patient's overall health and suitability for transplantation. After a transplant, ongoing follow-up helps monitor liver function, medication needs and possible complications.
ERCP is an endoscopic procedure used to examine and treat selected conditions involving the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. Depending on the findings, it may be used to remove certain obstructions or place a stent. A specialist assesses the expected benefits, risks and alternatives before recommending it.
EUS combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to examine structures in and around the digestive tract, including the pancreas and bile ducts. In selected cases, it can help investigate abnormalities and guide sampling. The need for EUS depends on symptoms, previous test results and the clinical question.
SpyGlass cholangioscopy allows direct visual examination of the bile ducts using a specialised endoscopic system. It may assist in evaluating selected bile duct abnormalities and guiding further management. A gastroenterologist determines whether it is appropriate based on the suspected condition and other investigation results.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes chronic conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Assessment may involve blood and stool tests, endoscopy and imaging. Treatment aims to control inflammation, manage symptoms and monitor complications, with the plan tailored to disease type and severity.
GERD occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the oesophagus, potentially causing heartburn or regurgitation. Assessment considers symptom patterns, lifestyle factors and warning signs. Management may include lifestyle changes, medicines and further investigation when symptoms persist or a more serious condition needs to be ruled out.
Peptic ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. They can be associated with Helicobacter pylori infection or certain medicines. Evaluation helps identify the cause and guide treatment, which may include acid-reducing medication and treatment of infection when present.
Gastrointestinal bleeding may arise from different parts of the digestive tract and can range from mild to life-threatening. Assessment depends on symptoms, the amount of bleeding and the patient's condition. Severe bleeding, vomiting blood or black stools requires urgent medical assessment rather than a routine appointment.
Paediatric gastroenterology addresses digestive and liver conditions in infants, children and adolescents. Evaluation is tailored to the child's age, growth, symptoms and medical history. Some patients may require specialist testing or endoscopic procedures, with decisions made according to clinical need and appropriate paediatric care.
Therapeutic endoscopy uses specialised instruments passed through an endoscope to diagnose or treat selected digestive conditions. Procedures may help manage problems in the gastrointestinal tract or related ducts without conventional open surgery. The most suitable technique depends on the diagnosis, anatomy and specialist assessment.