Gastroenterology & Hepatology

What is OT&P's approach to Gastroenterology & Hepatology?

Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study, prevention, diagnosis and management of diseases of the digestive system, which encompasses the oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines. Hepatology focuses on the study of the liver, and its related organs such as the gallbladder, biliary tree and pancreas. 

At OT&P, an in-house full-time gastroenterologist and hepatologist is available to provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for patients with digestive symptoms.

What Are the Gastroenterology Services We Provide?

Who should get a Gastroenterology / Hepatology consultation?

Upper digestive problems such as inflammation/infection of the oesophagus/stomach, ulcers, celiac disease or malignant growths may result in loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, vomiting of blood, black coloured stools, heartburn, difficulty/pain on swallowing or upper abdominal pain/bloating.  

Persistent constipation, diarrhoea, change in bowel habits, blood on the toilet paper/toilet water and central/lower abdominal pain may be symptoms of lower digestive diseases, such as intestinal inflammation (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease), bacterial/viral/parasital infection, irritable bowel syndrome, malignant growths or anorectal disorders like haemorrhoids and anal fissures. 

Jaundice of the eyes/skin, dark urine, skin itchiness and right upper/central abdominal pain may represent problems of the liver, gallbladder, bile duct or pancreas. 

If you have any of these symptoms, consultation with a gastroenterologist/hepatologist for diagnostic evaluation and management is recommended.  

Even if you have no symptoms, individuals above 50 years old are recommended to undergo colorectal cancer screening. Earlier screening may be needed if there is a family member with colorectal cancer. Screening has been shown to reduce the risk of developing and dying from colorectal cancer. Consultation with a gastroenterologist/hepatologist can personalize colorectal cancer screening recommendations.