Reflux
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD), also known as reflux, is a common condition.
It occurs when stomach acid and other digestive juices flow backwards from the stomach up into the oesophagus. It is caused by a failure the normal mechanisms that prevent reflux at the lower end of the oesophagus where it joins the stomach.
Patients suffering from reflux often report symptoms such as heartburn, waterbrash (a feeling of excess saliva in the mouth), indigestion or even regurgitation of gastric juices or partially digested food. This often occurs when lying flat at night or after a large meal.
Sometimes GORD can cause other problems including respiratory issues such as a chronic cough or sinusitis, or irritation of the oesophagus leading to oesophagitis and Barrett’s Oesophagus.
GORD can be managed effectively with medications alone. However, there is a role for surgery- for example when maximum medical therapy is no longer keeping symptoms at bay, if patients are experiencing “volume” type symptoms or if the patient no longer wishes to take medications.
Treatment,
tailored to you
Gallbladder surgery
Removal of the gallbladder- otherwise known as cholecystectomy- is almost always done via a laparoscopic, or keyhole, approach. This is usually performed electively either as day surgery or with a one-night stay in hospital.
Dr Gillespie specialises in the following procedures
Abdominal Wall Hernia Repair
There are many different types of abdominal wall hernia- but this can include umbilical (naval) and incisional hernias.
They are always repaired under a general anaesthetic.
Gastrectomy
A gastrectomy is performed for the surgical management of gastric (stomach) cancer. It involves the removal of the tumour with the stomach itself ensuring that the entire cancer is removed, along with removal of the lymph nodes that would typically be the first place that cancer would spread.
Fundoplication (Anti Reflux Surgery)
A fundoplication is a surgical procedure performed for people with proven gastro-oesophageal reflux that cannot be managed with medication alone. It is also performed as part of a hiatus hernia repair. It is usually performed laparoscopically.
Hiatus Hernia Repair
Most hiatus hernia surgery is performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) and involves returning the stomach to the abdominal cavity and then repairing the hernia itself.
Inguinal (groin) hernia repair
This is generally done via a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach under a general anaesthetic. There may be some circumstances where an open approach is preferable and Dr Gillespie will discuss the details specific to you when consenting for surgery.
Endoscopy (Gastroscopy/Colonoscopy)
Endoscopy is performed under either a sedation or general anaesthetic. It is a day procedure that occurs in hospital.
Oesophagectomy
An oesophagectomy is performed to remove a tumour of the oesophagus or the junction between the oesophagus and stomach, along with the lymph nodes to which this cancer tends to spread first.
Weight Loss Surgery
First of all, congratulations on making the first step towards a real lifestyle change. We know that most people will have already explored many options before enquiring about weight loss surgery.
Often, people are sick of the cycle of weight loss followed by weight regain. And many people will find that after working hard to lose weight, they can even put more back on. This process can be so disheartening. While weight loss surgery is by no means an "easy" way out, it can help break this cycle and empower you with the tools to have long lasting weight loss.
But more important than the number on the scales, bariatric surgery can help with obesity related complications and allow you to live a life without compromise.
