Unfortunately, Internet Explorer is an outdated browser and we do not currently support it. To have the best browsing experience, please upgrade to Google Chrome.
Upgrade
The gastrointestinal system, also called the GI tract, is the largest part of the digestive system. It consists of the mouth, pharynx, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. The salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas are also included in the system as they make the enzymes and digestive juices needed to break down food and liquids. Once broken down, organs can use them to help the body grow, energise, and repair.
Upper GI/biliary treatments include the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Conditions affecting this area can cause uncomfortable symptoms and weight loss.
At One Health, our experts dedicate themselves to your care, from finding the correct diagnosis to deciding the course of treatment for your condition. This page explains more about our upper GI/biliary system treatments so you’ll understand what to expect.
Upper GI and Biliary cancers account for around 11% of cancers in the UK. Cancers in this area include cancer of the oesophagus, stomach, small bowel, pancreas and liver.
However, cancer isn’t the only condition that affects the system. Digestive disorders, Crohn's disease, gallstones, and acid reflux also cause problems and symptoms for patients.
We diagnose, manage, and treat many upper gastrointestinal conditions, striving to ensure that our patients receive the best care quickly.
From surgical treatment to high-tech diagnostics, our experts know how to diagnose and treat upper GI/Biliary conditions.
Your consultant will advise you on preparing for your treatments or procedures. If you have a diagnostic test, such as a gastroscopy, you will be asked not to eat for six hours before the test.
If your procedure involves sedation or anaesthetic, you will need to arrange for someone to drop you off and pick you up from the appointment. If you have a general anaesthetic, you need someone to be with you for 24 hours after the procedure.
Serious complications from procedures like gastroscopy are rare. However, it’s important to be aware of them. You can discuss specific risks for your treatment with your consultant.
The tube used in the test could damage the lining of the food pipe, stomach, or intestine. This can cause bleeding, infection, or a tear in the food pipe, stomach, or intestine, resulting in a blood transfusion or surgery
Damage to the teeth if you bite hard on the mouthpiece
You can go home after a gastroscopy. If you had sedation for the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the night. Try to rest and recover for 24 hours.
You shouldn’t eat or drink anything until you can swallow properly. This is usually 45 minutes after the procedure. Your healthcare team will advise you if you should avoid food and drink for longer.
How soon can I go home after my procedure?
What activities are safe after the procedure?
When can I go back to work after the procedure?
When can I start driving after the procedure?
What activities can I do while I recover?
Will I need a follow-up after the procedure?
One Health waiting times from consultation to treatment are 3 - 7 weeks on average.
