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Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Service




The SKH Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Service comprises a team of highly trained, experienced surgeons, who are dedicated to deliver high quality, modern and evidence-based surgical and endoscopic management to treat various upper gastrointestinal conditions.

We specialise in treating obesity and related metabolic diseases, stomach cancer, esophagus cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), achalasia, bile duct and gallbladder stones, hernia and other general surgical conditions.

We offer a comprehensive range of services including minimally invasive surgery and routine diagnostic endoscopy such as endoscopy and colonoscopy and advanced endoscopy services include ERCP and therapeutic EUS. The SKH Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Service provides round-the-clock acute general surgical and endoscopy services.

Obesity and related metabolic diseases

Our Sengkang Weight Improvement Therapy and Complete Health (SWITCH) program helps patients with obesity and related diseases such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), osteoarthritis, and subfertility secondary to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). SWITCH includes a team of health professionals (surgeons, endocrinologists, dietitians, psychologists and physiotherapists) working together to deliver a comprehensive, evidence-based weight management program

This program includes lifestyle modification, diabetes optimization, weight loss medication, bariatric endoscopy (gastric balloon/endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG)), and minimally invasive bariatric surgery (laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass). We perform revisional bariatric surgery for patients with weight regain after previous bariatric surgeries.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive, endoscopic weight loss procedure. It involves suturing the stomach to reduce its size, leading to significant weight loss without the need for surgical incisions. ESG is part of our comprehensive weight management program, providing an alternative to traditional bariatric surgery for suitable candidates.

Stomach and Esophagus Cancer

Our multidisciplinary team provides tailored, holistic, and innovative treatments for stomach and esophagus cancer. We collaborate with oncologists (chemotherapy/radiotherapy), radiologists, and allied health professionals to deliver precise treatment for cancer of the stomach and esophagus, as well as GIST.

Acid Reflux and Achalasia

We offer a range of diagnostic tools for acid reflux, including a 24-hour pH impedance study, 96-hour pH study (BRAVOTM), high resolution esophageal manometry and endolumenal functional lumen imaging probe (EndoFLIPTM).

For GERD, the treatment options available include medical therapy, endoscopic therapy, and minimally invasive surgical therapy such as laparoscopic fundoplication and laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINXTM procedure).

For achalasia, we perform laparoscopic cardiomyotomy, per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), and endoscopic esophageal dilatation.

Advanced Endoscopy

We provide a range of advanced endoscopic procedures designed to treat complex gastrointestinal conditions effectively:

  • Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD): A minimally invasive procedure to remove early-stage cancer or precancerous growths from the digestive tract.
  • Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM): A minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of achalasia.
  • Gastrointestinal Stent Insertions: Placement of stents to open up blocked or narrowed areas within the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach and biliary tree.
  • Therapeutic Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Combines endoscopy and ultrasound to provide detailed images and facilitate therapeutic interventions, such as drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts or biopsy of suspected tumors.
  • Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography (ERCP) and cholangioscopy (SpyglassTM): A minimally invasive procedure to treat and diagnose diseases of the hepatobiliary system and the pancreas. Commonly treated conditions include large bile duct stones, pancreatic stones, and biliary cancer.
  • Colonoscopy: We routinely performed colonoscopy for investigation of lower GI symptoms such as positive FIT test, altered bowel habit, constipation, and bleeding per rectum.

Gallstones, Hernia and other General Surgery Conditions

We manage patients with simple and complicated gallstone disease through advanced endoscopy (ERCP), minimally invasive surgery, and conventional surgery. Our expertise includes treating complex abdominal wall and inguinal hernias and other general surgery conditions.

Our Clinical Services

We evaluate and manage patients with the following symptoms /complaints:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Abdominal swelling/mass
  • Anaemia
  • Altered bowel habit
  • Bloody/black stools,
  • Positive stool occult blood test
  • Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Dyspepsia
  • Indigestion
  • Gallstones/bile duct stones
  • Groin swelling
  • Heartburn / reflux
  • Hernia
  • Jaundice
  • Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome (such as diabetes)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting

Our Department Facilities

Our department is equipped with state-of-the-art surgical, endoscopic equipment, and functional foreget diagnostic equipments such as 24-hour pH impedance study, 96-hour pH study (BRAVOTM), high resolution esophageal manometry and endolumenal functional lumen imaging probe (EndoFLIPTM).

Our Centres

SWITCH

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Upper Gastroentestinal and Bariatric Conditions

Below you will find a list of conditions we treat:

  • Obesity and metabolic syndrome
  • Obesity related conditions (e.g. diabetes, fatty liver, obstructive sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, gout, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS))

  • Gastritis
  • Reflux / gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Gastric / duodenal / peptic ulcer
  • Esophageal cancer


Upper Gastroentestinal and Bariatric Treatments Offered

Find more information about our treatments. We coordinate our patients' care through specialised clinical centers and programs, ensuring that every patient benefits from a team of specialists who focuses on a particular condition.

Endoscopic procedures offered:
  • OGD & Colonoscopy
  • ERCP
  • Diagnostic and therapeutic EUS
  • Intragastric balloon insertion
  • Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG)
  • Removal GI tract foreign body

Surgery for the following conditions:
 

FAQs

What exactly is metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, including increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. It increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

What is bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a weight loss procedure designed to treat obesity-related issues by altering the digestive system to limit food intake. It requires complementary dietary and lifestyle changes for long-term success. Most bariatric surgeries are now performed using minimally invasive techniques.

Is bariatric surgery safe?

Bariatric surgery is safe, with risks comparable to common procedures like appendectomy and cholecystectomy. Your surgeon will discuss potential complications with you prior to surgery.

What are the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer?

Early-stage stomach cancer often comes with few or no symptoms, making early detection difficult. Symptoms may include:

  • Poor appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting (with or without blood)
  • Frequent indigestion or heartburn\
  • Melena (black bowel motion)
 

Our Care Team

Our upper gastrointestinal and bariatric care team consists of experienced specialists committed to providing comprehensive and individualised medical care. We take a collaborative approach, ensuring that the care you receive is informed by a wide range of medical perspectives and your own treatment preferences. Our team supports you before and after surgery to help you achieve long-term success.

 

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