Gastroenterology and liver conditions we treat
Endoscopy and colonoscopy
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy can help investigate symptoms such as persistent abdominal discomfort, reflux, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding and changes in bowel habits. These procedures may also be used to identify and assess abnormalities within the digestive tract.
ERCP and biliary procedures
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be used for selected conditions affecting the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts, including certain bile duct stones and blockages. Where appropriate, therapeutic procedures such as stent placement may be performed during ERCP.
Liver disease management
Liver care includes assessment and management of conditions such as fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis and cirrhosis. Patients with advanced liver disease may also require monitoring and treatment for complications such as fluid accumulation or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Hepatitis B and C care
Hepatitis B and C require individual assessment to determine whether antiviral treatment is appropriate. Care may include blood tests, assessment of liver health, antiviral medicines where indicated and ongoing follow-up.
Gallbladder and biliary conditions
Gallstones and other gallbladder or biliary problems can cause abdominal pain, nausea, inflammation or complications involving the bile ducts. When surgery is appropriate, laparoscopic gallbladder removal may be considered.
Inflammatory bowel disease
Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause persistent bowel symptoms and inflammation. Management may include investigation, medicines, nutritional support and surgery in selected cases where it is required.
Pancreatitis care
Acute and chronic pancreatitis can require different approaches depending on the cause and severity. Assessment may include blood tests and imaging, with medical, nutritional or procedural treatment considered according to the clinical situation.
Common digestive disorders
Gastroenterology consultations can help evaluate problems such as persistent acidity, reflux, indigestion, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea and unexplained changes in bowel habits.
How we approach gastroenterology care
Digestive symptoms can arise from a number of different conditions, so treatment begins with a detailed medical history and clinical examination. Depending on the symptoms and findings, the doctor may recommend blood tests, ultrasound, endoscopy, colonoscopy, imaging or other investigations.
Endoscopic procedures are planned according to the patient's condition and the purpose of the examination or treatment. If sedation is recommended, the medical team will explain the preparation, procedure and recovery requirements beforehand.
When a patient requires an endoscopic intervention, surgery or specialist input, the treatment plan can involve the relevant medical and surgical teams. The aim is to provide coordinated care while keeping the patient informed about the available options.
A visit to the gastroenterology department
Book your consultation
Contact the hospital to arrange a gastroenterology consultation. Bring previous blood reports, scans, prescriptions or other relevant medical records if you have them.
Consultation
The gastroenterologist discusses your symptoms, medical history, medicines and relevant lifestyle factors before carrying out an appropriate clinical examination.
Tests when needed
Depending on your symptoms, investigations may include blood tests, ultrasound, endoscopy, colonoscopy or other imaging and diagnostic tests.
Treatment plan
Your doctor explains the diagnosis and discusses suitable treatment options, which may include medicines, dietary or lifestyle measures, monitoring, endoscopic treatment or surgery where appropriate.
Cost and insurance
PGH Hospital has arrangements involving Ayushman Bharat, GIC and TPA panels. Eligibility, authorisation and the extent of coverage depend on the applicable scheme or insurance policy and the treatment required. The hospital team can help you understand the applicable process before planned treatment.
Frequently asked questions about gastroenterology
You may benefit from a gastroenterology consultation if you have persistent or recurrent abdominal pain, frequent acidity or reflux, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, jaundice or abnormal liver tests. Prompt medical assessment is particularly important when symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening.
An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible camera is used to examine the upper digestive tract, including the food pipe, stomach and first part of the small intestine. It can help investigate symptoms such as persistent reflux, difficulty swallowing, abdominal symptoms or suspected bleeding and can also allow certain treatments or biopsies when required.
A colonoscopy uses a flexible camera to examine the inside of the large intestine. It may be recommended to investigate symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained anaemia or other concerns. It can also be used for colorectal cancer screening in people for whom screening is appropriate.
Experience varies between patients and depends on the type of procedure. Sedation may be used for some endoscopic procedures to improve comfort. Before the procedure, the medical team will explain whether sedation is appropriate, how to prepare and what to expect during recovery.
Hepatitis C can be cured in most people with appropriate antiviral treatment. The specific medicines and duration depend on factors such as the hepatitis C virus type, previous treatment and the condition of the liver. Follow-up testing is used to confirm whether the virus has been successfully cleared.
Fatty liver disease often causes few or no symptoms, particularly in its early stages. It may be detected during an ultrasound or blood tests performed for another reason. Some people may experience tiredness or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen. Assessment is important because some forms of fatty liver disease can progress to liver inflammation, fibrosis or cirrhosis.
Occasional reflux is common, but frequent or persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor. Medical assessment is especially important if reflux is associated with difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss, bleeding, anaemia or symptoms that are becoming more frequent or severe.
Not everyone with gallstones needs surgery. Surgery may be recommended when gallstones cause recurrent symptoms or complications such as inflammation of the gallbladder, bile duct obstruction or pancreatitis. The recommended treatment depends on the symptoms, findings and overall health of the patient.
Warning signs can include vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, persistent vomiting, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, severe or worsening abdominal pain, jaundice or significant changes in bowel habits. These symptoms should not be ignored and may require prompt medical assessment.
ERCP is an endoscopic procedure used to diagnose and treat selected problems involving the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. It may be considered for conditions such as certain bile duct stones or blockages. Because ERCP has potential risks, the gastroenterologist will recommend it only when the expected benefits justify the procedure and will explain the alternatives and risks beforehand.
Gastroenterology covers the digestive system, including the food pipe, stomach, intestines, pancreas and biliary system. Liver care is also closely related to gastroenterology, and gastroenterologists may assess and manage many liver conditions. Patients with complex or advanced liver disease may require additional specialist input depending on their condition.
Bring previous blood tests, scans, endoscopy or colonoscopy reports, prescriptions and details of any medicines or supplements you currently take. A short record of your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse, can also help the doctor understand your concerns.