Surgeries of oesophagus are aimed at either removal or bypass of diseased oesophagus (Oesophagectomy/ Bypass) or dialatation (Myotomy) or reinforcement of lax lower end (Fundoplication)

Oesphagectomy

Oesophagectomy for complete removal of food pipe is a major surgery and is done in cases of cancers or corrosive oesophageal injury due to accidental or intentional consumption of corrosives like acids, caustic etc. The complete oesophagus is removed and replacement (reconstruction) is done using either the stomach or a part of intestine.

Myotomy (Cardiomyotomy) and Fundoplication

This surgery is undertaken to treatment the condition called Achalasia Cardia where in there is difficulty in swallowing as the lower part of food pipe failed to open pass the food bolus. The surgery aims at correction of the defective mechanism and reinforces it (Fundoplication) to prevent any reflux from stomach. Fundoplication alone is needed in cases of hernias of the oesophagus (Hiatal hernia)

Surgeries of the stomach

Surgeries of the stomach involve either removal or part or whole of stomach (Gastrectomy – partial or complete), repair of any rent (perforation repair) , bypass of the stomach in cases of cancers or other cases of obstruction.

Removal of Stomach (Gastrectomy)

Removal of a part or whole of the stomach is required to be done in a couple of conditions as follows:

1.     Cancers of stomach: Adenocarcinoma, GIST

2.     As part of surgery for other cancers like pancreas or duodenum

3.      As part of antiobesity surgery

4.     As part of surgery for correction of hyperacidity

Repair of Stomach (Perforation repair)

Stomach is the site of acid secretion. Sometimes the amount of acid secretion can be pathologically high can cause stomach ulcerations and subsequent ruptures. These are emergency situations and needs urgent repair other may be life threatening.

Stomach Bypass (Gastojejunostomy)

Bypass of the stomach involves surgical creation of continuity of stomach directly with jejunum. The normal continuity with the duodenum may be left intact or discontinued. The surgery is done in cases of;

1.     Obstruction at the lower part of stomach or duodenum because of cancers or non-cancer causes

2.     As part of antiulcer surgery or surgery of pancreas

3.     As part of anti-obesity surgery