Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery

The Upper Gastrointestinal Team provides care for patients with problems affecting the oesophagus (gullet), stomach, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas.

There are fast-track referral systems for patients with swallowing problems, jaundice, or suspected abdominal masses.

Laparoscopic surgery, including day case surgery, is well-established for patients with gallstones and is also offered for patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux. A wide variety of advanced endoscopic techniques, including ERCP, is available and there is a programme of endoscopic surveillance for patients with Barrett’s oesophagus

A multidisciplinary approach is provided for patients referred with suspected upper gastrointestinal cancer and is supported by a Specialist Nurse. Patients who require surgery for upper gastrointestinal cancer are usually referred to Sheffield for their operations, and the Chesterfield Upper Gastrointestinal Team is in regular communication with their colleagues there.

A Consultant Oncologist from Weston Park Hospital in Sheffield and a liver surgeon from The Royal Hallamshire, attend the weekly MDT meeting in Chesterfield.