General & Colorectal Surgery

Who Should See a Surgeon?

Gastrointestinal surgery is usually performed by a general surgeon. General surgeons are highly trained doctors who can operate on many different parts of the abdomen. You might be treated by a general surgeon if you need surgery on your oesophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder or small intestine. Some general surgeons specialise in a particular area, such as colorectal surgery. You will be treated by a colorectal specialist if you need an operation on your colon, rectum or bowel.

Surgery isn’t always required to treat gastrointestinal disorders, so you will only need to see a general or colorectal surgeon if your doctor has recommended it after considering the other treatment options. Some of the conditions that can be treated surgically include gastrointestinal cancers, gastro-oesophageal reflux, and hernias. Conditions that may be treated by a colorectal surgeon include bowel cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, rectal prolapse, haemorrhoids, anal fissures and bowel incontinence. Surgery could help to relieve the symptoms of these conditions or to prevent further problems, such as the spread of cancer or the development of complications.

How Our Surgeons Can Help

General and colorectal surgeons can perform a wide range of different procedures to treat conditions affecting the digestive system. The treatment options will be explained to you in detail by your doctor so that you can make the right decisions about your care. Common surgical approaches to gastroenterological and liver disorders include:

> Removing benign or cancerous tumours

> Removing diseased sections of the gastrointestinal tract

> Clearing blockages or obstructions

> Repairing damage to the gastrointestinal system

Our surgeons are highly trained experts who have experience performing a wide range of surgical procedures. As specialists in gastroenterology and hepatology, the LGCL clinic has experts in all kinds of gastrointestinal and colorectal procedures. The surgeon will work with your gastroenterologist or other specialist to ensure that you get the right treatment for your needs. We will ensure that you get the support you need before, during and after surgery.

Having an Operation

You will usually be referred to a general or colorectal surgeon if surgery is a suitable treatment option for you. The surgeon will work together with your gastroenterologist or other specialists at the clinic to ensure that you get the right treatment. You may see your surgeon before and after the operation, as well as on the day of the procedure.

When you meet the surgeon for the first time, you will discuss your condition and the surgical options. The surgeon may want to perform some tests, such as an endoscopy to examine the interior of your digestive tract. If you and your doctors agree that surgery is the right choice, the procedure will be explained in detail so that you understand the risks and benefits. The surgeon you meet during the initial consultation will be the one to perform the procedure. What happens during the operation will depend on the type of surgery you are having. After the operation, you may see your surgeon again for follow up appointments. You will receive all of the support that you need while you are recovering, including help with any side effects or complications. If you have questions at any stage, you will be able to talk to your surgeon, gastroenterologist or other members of the team such as the anaesthetist or nurses.

If you want to arrange a consultation with a general or colorectal surgeon in London, get in touch to make an appointment at a time that suits you.