Mr Satyajit Bhattacharya

Mr Satyajit Bhattacharya
Surgery
Central London


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Mr Satyajit Bhattacharya

Surgeon in
London

MB MS MPhil FRCS

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Mr Satyajit Bhattacharya areas of expertise:

Professional statement

Mr Satyajit Bhattacharya is a specialist in treating gallstones and biliary disease, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, and hernias. He originally trained in Mumbai, and has had further training and extensive experience in the UK and the US. Currently working at a number of prestigious hospitals including the Royal London and St Bartholomew's Hospital, the London Clinic, and the King Edward VII Hospital, he has raised large sums of money for pancreatic research.

He has published over 50 scientific papers, authored numerous book chapters, and is a member of prestigious boards and societies in his field. He was named one of Britain's best consultants by Tatler magazine in 2014 and 2015. He also holds the position of Serjeant Surgeon (Surgeon to the Queen) in the Royal Household.

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HCC
What is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)?

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 Credentials

GMC: ‍3632121

 Professional experience

• More than 35 years of experience
• Consultant Surgeon, The London Clinic
• Consultant Surgeon, Royal London and St Bartholomew's Hospitals
• King Edward VII Hospital
• University College Hospitals, London

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 Sub-specialties

• Hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgery
• General surgery
• Biliopancreatic surgery
• Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)
• Cholecystectomy
• Epigastric hernia
• Femoral hernia
• Gallbladder surgery
• Gallstones
• Hernia
• Incisional hernia
• Laparoscopy
• Lipoma
• Liver cancer
• Liver surgery
• Liver cyst
• Liver
• Pancreatitis
• Pancreas surgery
• Pancreatic cancer
• Pancreatic cyst
• Radiofrequency treatment
• Spleen
• Spleen removal
• Umbilical hernia

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 Positions in public associations

• Member of the Court of Examiners for the Intercollegiate FRCS examination in General Surgery
• Adviser (referee) for the NIHR Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme
• Serves as a referee (peer reviewer) for four international surgical journals
• Serjeant Surgeon

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 Teaching posts

• Active in postgraduate teaching

 Education

• Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine
• Grant Medical College, Mumbai

 Publications and conferences

• Author of chapters in six multi-author medical textbooks
• Author of over 50 scientific papers in medical journals (including Nature Clinical Practice, Hepatology, British Journal of Surgery and British Journal of Cancer)
• Adviser (referee) for theNIHR Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme

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 Professional membership

• International Hepato-Pancreato Biliary Association (IHPBA)
• British Association for the Study of the Liver (BASL)
• Member of the Intercollegiate Examinations Faculty of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons

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Languages spoken

  • English
  • Bengali
  • Hindi
  • Urdu

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Diseases, Medical Tests and Treatments

Gallbladder surgery

Gallbladder surgery is the removal of the gallbladder, an organ located under the liver that produces bile. Removal is necessary when the patient has ...

Liver cancer

Liver cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the liver, as opposed to secondary liver cancer which starts elsewhere in the body and travels to the ...

Liver surgery

What is liver surgery? The liver is the organ that is responsible for: Producing bile which helps the body to absorb fats and cholesterol. ...

Pancreas surgery

What is pancreas surgery? Pancreas surgery describes a range of procedures performed to treat the following illnesses: Acute pancreatitis C ...

Pancreatic cancer

What is it? The pancreas is a large gland in the abdomen, which produces enzymes that aid in digestion. Pancreatic cancer is when abnormal cells develop in the pancreas and multiply out of control. As these cells do not function normally, as they multiply they hinder bodily functions, eventually leading to death if not treated. Cancer can develop in different parts of the pancreas: Ductal adenocarcinoma develops in the lining of the pancreatic ducts (which carry the enzymes produced to the digestive system). Around 95% of pancreatic cancer cases are ductal adenocarcinomas. Ampullary cancer develops at the ampulla of Vater. This is where the pancreatic duct meets the bile duct before entering the intestines. Cystic tumours – although the pancreas can develop benign cysts (fluid-filled sacs), occasionally it grows cancerous ones. Neuroendocrine tumours start in the endocrine cells, which produce hormones like insulin. Acinar cell carcinomas develop in the cells that synthesise the pancreatic juice (the mixture of digestive enzymes). Lymphoma – cancer of the lymphatic tissue, which threads through the entire body, including the pancreas.   What are the symptoms? In the early stages, pancreatic cancer may not show any symptoms, making it hard to diagnose. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, indigestion and weight loss can manifest as the cancer develops and grows. Unfortunately, these symptoms are common and can indicate a number of other conditions. Other possible symptoms include: Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes, itching) Change in bowel habits, e.g. constipation, diarrhoea Nausea/vomiting Difficulty swallowing Diabetes (especially if only recently developed or diagnosed)   What causes pancreatic cancer? The causes are not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified, such as age (patients are generally 50-80 years old), smoking, and a history of certain conditions (e.g. diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, stomach ulcer and H. pylori infection). There is thought to be a genetic factor in some cases, as in about 1 in 10 cases the patient’s parent or parents also had pancreatic cancer.    What is the treatment? Pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat, as it is rarely detected until the tumour has become quite large. Treatment depends on the type, location and size of the tumour, as well as the age and general health of the patient. If it is possible to remove the tumour completely, this is the preferred option, but in cases where this is not possible, different treatment will be recommended to contain the cancer, prevent further growth and minimise the damage it does to the body. The three main treatments, which may be used individually or in combination are: Surgery Chemotherapy Radiotherapy Recovering from surgery on the pancreas can be long and painful, and the bowel will stop working for a while, meaning that the patient cannot eat or drink immediately afterwards, and may be referred to a dietician for the duration of the recovery process. ...

Pancreatitis

What is pancreatitis? Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which is a gland found behind the stomach. The pancreas is key to the digestion of food, through the production of certain enzymes as well as the production of hormones that aid in the processing of blood glucose levels. There are two types of pancreatitis; acute and chronic. Acute pancreatitis is when the pancreas becomes inflamed suddenly. Chronic pancreatitis is when the pancreas becomes permanently damaged due to inflammation of the pancreas over many years. What are the symptoms of pancreatitis? The symptoms of acute pancreatitis include: Sudden abdominal pain Fever Diarrhoea Nausea & vomiting The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include: Repeated, and often severe abdominal pain (sometimes accompanied by nausea) Oily, bad-smelling stools If you experience frequent abdominal pain, it is important to see a specialist. What causes pancreatitis? Acute pancreatitis is thought to occur when digestive enzymes activate whilst still in the pancreas, causing irritation of the pancreatic cells and hence inflammation. Acute pancreatitis has also been linked to both gallstones, alcohol consumption, infections, and some medications. Chronic pancreatitis has largely been attributed to long-term alcohol abuse, smoking, hereditary genetic mutations and immune system problems. In some cases, the cause for a pancreatitis diagnosis is never confirmed. How is pancreatitis diagnosed? There are a number of tests used to make a diagnosis, such as: Blood tests to check for enzyme levels in the pancreas. Stool tests to measure fat levels. Oily stools can indicate that there are problems with the digestive system. MRI or CT scans to check for gallstones. What is the treatment for pancreatitis? Treatment for acute pancreatitis looks to support bodily functions until inflammation has subsided. The first step in treating acute pancreatitis is to let the pancreas heal, and for the inflammation to subside. To do so, you must be treated in hospital where you will receive intravenous fluids to replace lost fluids, and medicines to manage pain. Fasting for a few days also helps the pancreas to recover. Once the pancreas has recovered, doctors can get to work on treating the underlying cause of pancreatitis. Frequently, such additional treatments can include: Pancreas surgery – sometimes it is necessary to either remove damaged pancreatic tissue, or to drain excess fluid from the pancreas. Gallbladder surgery – removing the gallbladder may be necessary if gallstones are the cause of your pancreatitis. Treating alcohol dependency – if alcohol abuse is the cause of your pancreatitis, then you may be entered into an alcohol addiction program. For those suffering from chronic pancreatitis, then further treatments might be needed, including: Lifestyle changes – adopting a low-fat, nutritious diet, avoiding alcohol and stopping smoking tends to show the best results for people suffering from chronic pancreatitis. Enzyme supplements – these assist in the digestion of food and can be taken with each meal. Pain medication – chronic pancreatitis causes continual abdominal pain, so managing this pain is often needed. ...

Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)

Cholangiocarcinoma or bile duct cancer is a malignant tumor in one of the ducts that carries bile from the liver to the small intestine. Colangiocarciona affects people of both sexes and most patients are over 65 years old. It is, however, a rare disease that only occurs in 2 out of every 100,000 people.     ...

Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder as a treatment for gallstones or other gallbladder problems.

Cholelithiasis (gallstones)

What is cholelithiasis? Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of one or more gallstones in the gallbladder. Gallstones are little stones made of cholesterol formed in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ found underneath the liver and aids digestion by releasing a digestive fluid called bile into the small intestine. What are the symptoms of cholelithiasis? Most of time gallstones do not cause any symptoms and do not require treatment, however, if a gallstone happens to get trapped in a duct inside the gallbladder, it can cause the following symptoms: Intense and constant abdominal pain (called biliary colic) Pain between your shoulders Nausea and/or vomiting Sometimes cholelithiasis can be more serious, especially if the gallstone blocks the flow of bile, and the following symptoms can be triggered: Fever More intense pain Diarrhoea Jaundice No appetite What causes cholelithiasis? Although causes of gallstones are not totally clear, they are thought to occur when there is an imbalance in the make-up of the bile inside the gallbladder. Such imbalances are thought to occur when: High levels of cholesterol are found in the gallbladder, meaning there is not enough bile to digest the amount of cholesterol in the gallbladder. The excess cholesterol then forms into gallstones. High levels of bilirubin are found in the gallbladder. Bilirubin is a waste product made when red blood cells are broken down. Excess bilirubin contribute to the formation of gallstones. How can cholelithiasis be prevented? Research indicates that weight-loss and diet can help to prevent gallstones developing. A healthy, low-saturated fat diet is recommended. This is helps to reduce the intake of bad cholesterol which can cause gallstones to form. Also recommended, is avoiding the consumption of large amounts of alcohol. Being overweight is also a risk-factor for developing gallstones. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight by eating healthily and exercising regularly is highly recommended. Losing weight via low-calorie diets are not recommended however, as they have been linked to disrupting bile production, and can therefore increase chances of gallstones developing. What is the treatment for cholelithiasis? If your gallstones do not cause symptoms, then most likely you will not need treatment, but will be recommended to actively monitor your condition, and to return to a specialist if symptoms occur. However, those who do experience symptoms will likely have the following treatment options: Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy) – gallstones can reoccur, so removing the gallbladder entirely is one way to ensure that gallstones do not recur. After it is removed, bile goes straight from the liver in to the small intestine. Medications – there are certain medications designed to dissolve gallstones and are taken orally. These need to be taken over a long period of time and are not always effective. ...

Duodenal Switch

What is duodenal switch? Duodenal switch, also known as the biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, is a weight loss surgery procedure, which makes the stomach smaller, reroutes the intestines and removes the gallbladder. The result leaves patients feeling less hungry and enables them to lose a significant amount of excess weight within one year. How is the weight loss surgical procedure performed? The duodenal switch method combines qualities of both the sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. The first part of the procedure conducts a sleeve gastrectomy, which removes around 80% of the stomach and converts the remainder into a tube. The small bowel that connects to the stomach, which is called the duodenum, creates the bypass. Food would usually go from the sleeve into the initial part of the small intestine but it is now rerouted to the lower part of the small intestine. There are a few ways to perform the bypass stage of the operation but when an anastomosis switch is performed, a significant length of the small intestine is bypassed and creates a single connection between the bottom of the sleeve and the small bowel. Sometimes the procedure is performed in stages and the operation happens over the course of 6-18 months. Who would require duodenal switch surgery? Those with a high BMI and diabetic patients would benefit the most from the duodenal switch procedure. Patients can expect to lose around 70-100 percent of excess weight with long-term success. What are the benefits of duodenal switch surgery? The results of the bariatric procedure have the following impact on patients:   • Feeling less hungry • Feeling full when eating • Patients absorb fewer calories from their food • Huge weight loss within one year since the procedure • Patients keep the weight off • Overall improvement in general health and wellbeing. ...

Epigastric hernia

What is an epigastric hernia? An epigastric hernia is when fat or body tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall, between the sternum of your rib cage and your belly button. Often there are no symptoms with this type of hernia and they often go unnoticed. This type of hernia is usually small and you can have more than one at a time. Despite showing few symptoms, they can sometimes cause pain in the upper abdominal region.  What are the symptoms of an epigastric hernia? Although symptoms with an epigastric hernia are uncommon, a noticeable bulge might present especially when you cough, sneeze, laugh or strain. Sometimes this type of hernia can cause pain and tenderness in the affected area.  What causes an epigastric hernia? This type of hernia is usually present from birth due to incomplete abdominal wall development.  What is the treatment for an epigastric hernia? These hernias do not heal themselves and surgery is required to repair them.  However, unless the hernia becomes an emergency surgery can be delayed until the patient feels ready, or when a child becomes older. Often when adults are diagnosed with an epigastric hernia, it has become problematic due to obesity, muscle weakness or frequent strain on the abdominal wall due to heavy lifting or straining.  Surgery can be peformed either openly, or laparoscopically. General anaesthesia is used. If the defected muscle opening is small then sutures usually suffice to close the hole. However, for larger muscular defects, an inserted mesh might be needed to restore strength to the abdominal wall. Such a mesh is permanent and stops the hernia from returning.  Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within two to four weeks following surgery.  ...

Femoral hernia

What is a femoral hernia? A femoral hernia is fairly uncommon and is most commonly found in women. Femoral hernias are found in the groin region and can appear as a painful lump on the inner, upper thigh. The lump can be pushed back in and can sometimes become more prominent when straining or coughing. It is estimated that only 1 in 20 groin hernias are femoral hernias, and are mostly inguinal hernias. They are more common in women because women have a wider pelvis.  What are the symptoms of a femoral hernia? Some people with a femoral hernia do not notice any bulge, lump or pain, however, larger femoral hernias produce a visible bulge in your upper thigh which can be painful, especially when straining. What causes a femoral hernia? A femoral hernia is the result of fatty tissue or a section of the bowel protruding through into the groin on the top of your inner thigh. The section where the protrusion can occur is called the femoral canal and is considered a weak spot in the abdominal wall muscles. The actual causes of a femoral hernia are: heavy-lifting straining on the toilet obesity a persistent, heavy cough childbirth What is the treatment for a femoral hernia? Unlike other types of hernia, femoral hernias usually require treatment straight away due to potential complications associated with them. Surgery can be performed to put the bulge back into place and to fix the weakened abdominal wall. Complications that can result from femoral hernias include: Obstruction where part of the bowel can become stuck in the femoral canal resulting in nausea and pain. Strangulation where the stuck section of bowel has its blood supply cut off (ischaemia), which required immediate surgical attention so that blood supply is restored and the tissue doesn’t die. Surgery for treating femoral hernias can either be open surgery, or it can be performed laparoscopically. Patients can usually return home either the same day or the following day.  ...

Gallstones

What are gallstones? Gallstones are hard lumps or stones, usually made of cholesterol or sometimes other substances like bilirubin that form in the gallbladder.   The gallbladder is a small organ situation underneath the liver which releases bile (produced by the liver but stored and concentrated in the gallbladder) into the digestive system to help the body breakdown fats into fatty acids for absorption. What are the symptoms? Gallstones don’t always produce symptoms and do not always need treating. In fact, the vast majority of people will not experience symptoms as the gallstones themselves do not cause pain. In certain circumstances however, a gallstone might become trapped, causing intense pain known as biliary colic. The pain usually starts in the upper right part of the abdomen and radiates to the shoulder. Further complications can arise whereby the gallbladder becomes inflamed - symptoms can include jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin), fever, persistent pain, nausea and vomiting. What causes gallstones? The development of gallstones is thought to be due to too much cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile, leading to the formation of stones. In the majority of cases gallstones are made of cholesterol, however if the liver is producing too much bilirubin (often due to damage) this can result in the formation of stones also. Improper emptying of the gallbladder is also thought to cause stones, as the bile becomes too concentrated. How can gallstones be prevented? Risk factors for the development of gallstones include being overweight, a lack of exercise, a diet containing too much cholesterol and fat that is also low in fibre, and rapid weight loss. It stands to reason therefore that maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy weight can help to prevent the development of gallstones.  Other risk factors for the disease include liver problems and diabetes. What is the treatment? Gallstones don’t always need treatment and in many cases the best option is to monitor them and only treat them if symptoms appear. If, however they are causing complications it might be necessary to treat them immediatley. Additionally, patients who have conditions which increase the risk of complications, such as portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the liver), cirrhosis of the liver or diabetes may need more urgent treatment. In most cases, keyhole surgery is performed to remove the gallbladder, in an operation known as a cholecystectomy. Following the operation, patients can lead a normal life without the gallbladder as the liver will continue to produce bile.  ...

Hernia

A hernia appears as a lump, most commonly in the abdominal or groin area. The occur when an organ, often the bowel, protrudes through the cavity which normally contains it. ...

Incisional hernia

What is an incisional hernia? An incisional hernia can occur as a complication from abdominal surgery and will form close to the main surgical incision, throuhg which part of the gut protrudes. They are more likely to occur following emergency surgery.  What are the symptoms of an incisional hernia? Although they can appear unsightly, often they won’t produce any problems. However, if they become larger they can become problematic, increasing the risk of complications such as strangulation to the affected tissue. Pain with larger incisional hernia is often felt when sat upright, and relieved when lying down. Another risk of having an incisional hernia is bowel obstruction in which can result in nausea and pain.  Other symptoms of incisional hernias include: Constipation Nausea Fever A lump or bulge protruding from the surgical incision What causes an incisional hernia? Incisional hernias occur following surgery, at the site of the surgical incision.  What is the treatment for an incisional hernia? Treatment for an incisional hernia is usually further surgery. This can be performed either as open surgery or laparoscopically. They hernia will be pushed back in and the weakened area of the abdominal wall will be strengthened, sometimes with mesh.  ...

Inguinal hernia

What is an inguinal hernia? A hernia occurs when part of the internal organs or tissue pushes through a weakness in the muscle wall. An inguinal hernia is said to occur when part of the bowel or fatty tissue pushes into the groin at the top of the thigh. It is also the most common type of hernia, particularly in a male. Inguinal hernias are rare in females. What are the symptoms of an inguinal hernia? Symptoms of an inguinal hernia are a swelling or a lump in the groin or an enlarged scrotum. There may also be associated pain or discomfort, pain when coughing or lifting, or a dragging sensation in the groin. A bulge either side of the pubic bone could also be a sign of an inguinal hernia. The hernia may be pushed back in when lying down, however complications can occur whereby the hernia gets stuck or trapped and obstructs the bowel, or the hernia becomes strangulated, whereby the blood supply gets cut off. This is potentially very serious, even life-threatening and requires immediate attention. Symptoms of a strangulated hernia include vomiting and nausea, fever, sudden pain, a bulge that turns red or purple, or an inability to pass stools or gas. What causes an inguinal hernia? In males the testicles descend during development via a small opening in the groin. This process leads to a weakness in the abdominal wall and is the cause for inguinal hernias. In a boy there is usually a sac which accompanies the testis. Generally it is supposed to close but occasionally the sac remains, leading to a hernia. In adults, undue straining such as heavy lifting, violent coughing or prolonged straining on the toilet may cause the hernia to develop due to the underlying weakness in the groin. Loss of elastic tissue due to the ageing process also leads to inguinal hernias. It is not unusual for hernias to occur in both groins.  How can an inguinal hernia be prevented? Avoiding undue pressure in the abdomen by straining when passing stool or urinating or carrying and moving heavy loads can reduce the risk of an inguinal hernia, however many hernias may be unavoidable as they have no apparent cause. Strain on the abdominal muscles can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a high-fibre diet and stopping smoking. What is the treatment for an inguinal hernia? Surgery is the usual treatment for inguinal hernias. In some patients a non-surgical option, such as a hernia truss, may be appropriate. Occasionally it may be appropriate to wait and watch and monitor the hernia. Surgery becomes an emergency for hernias that cause severe pain or that have developed complications. Strangulation, where the bowel has become trapped, is one such complication and it requires immediate treatment to restore the blood supply via surgery.  ...

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a surgical technique used to inspect the abdominal cavity, allowing the surgeon not to make large incisions. During the procedure, a laparoscope,  which is a tube containing an optical system coupled with a light source, is inserted into the abdomen. The camera allows the doctor to inspect the pelvic organs from a monitor and, if necessary, to introduce other instruments through the same laparoscope to correct a problem. The advantages of laparoscopy are many, such as the patient requiring shorter hospitalisation and recovery time, fewer chances of infectious complications, less postoperative pain and no visible scars. Laparoscopy is used primarily in processes such as prostate cancer or some kidney diseases. ...

Lipoma

A lipoma is a benign lump that forms under the skin, usually made from fatty tissue. They usually grow slowly and are situated between the skin layer, and the muscle layer beneath. Lipomas are more common in middle age, are usually painless, and most commonly appear on the upper back, shoulders and abdomen.   What causes a lipoma?   The cause of lipomas is unknown. It is believed that they may be genetic, so if your parents or other members of the family had lipomas, then you may also be prone to developing them. They can often appear after an injury, though the reason they form is unknown.   What are the symptoms of a lipoma?   As previously mentioned, lipomas are usually painless, though can cause some pain if they press on nearby nerves. They appear as soft, doughy lumps ranging in size from around the size of a pea to as big as a grapefruit. The lumps may move slightly if pressed.   Who is more at risk of developing lipomas?   Although people of any age can develop lipomas, they are more prevalent in adults aged between 40 and 60 years of age. People with the following conditions are more at risk of developing one or more lipomas: Madelung’s disease Gardner’s syndrome Cowden syndrome Adiposis dolorosa   What is the treatment for lipomas?   Lipomas don’t usually cause any problems if left alone, however they can be treated if required. The most common way of treating lipomas is to have them surgically removed. This can be done by either a dermatologist, or by a plastic surgeon. Surgery involves making an incision to remove the fatty tissue, before suturing the opening. Though there is a risk that the lipoma may return, it is uncommon. Another treatment option to reduce the size of the lipoma is liposuction, where a needle is used to remove some of the fat from within the lipoma. Finally, steroid injections may be used to treat the lipoma. The steroid injection works to shrink the lipoma, though this treatment doesn’t completely remove the lipoma. ...

Liver

What is the liver? The liver is one of the vital organs, which sits on the right side of the abdomen. The liver is the largest internal organ in the body. It is also a gland, which means it synthesises substances to then release them in the bloodstream. Glands have different functions in the body, and the liver has many, performing over an estimated 500 different functions. What does the liver do? The liver’s main function is to filter the blood which comes through to it from the digestive tract, then pass it around the rest of the body, filtering toxins and making chemicals safe or metabolising them. The liver plays an important part in nutrition, metabolism, hormone production, and functions of the blood. It is an essential organ in the body, and if a significant amount of liver tissue is damaged, it can cause problems such as liver disease. What happens when the liver is not functioning properly? If the liver does not function as it should, different symptoms can appear, such as jaundice (when the skin looks yellow in colour), pain in the abdomen where the liver is located, bruising easily, swelling in the abdomen, nausea or vomiting, sleepiness or perhaps slurred speech, and general fatigue or feeling unwell. Depending on the condition, different symptoms present, and a liver function test may be necessary to determine the cause. Conditions which can affect the liver include: Hepatitis, both viral and non-viral. Scarring on the liver, otherwise known as cirrhosis. Liver failure, where the liver fails to function as it should. There are different stages of liver failure, known as chronic and acute. Chronic liver failure occurs over months or years, whereas acute liver failure comes on suddenly and rapidly. Liver cancer Fatty liver disease There are many more conditions which affect the liver, which can be diagnosed by a GP or healthcare provider, and if necessary treated by a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, or a hepatologist, a doctor specialising in the liver and its related functions.  ...

Liver cyst

A hepatic cyst is a cyst on the liver. It may be benign or malignant. Often there are no symptoms, but they can be discovered when a scan is performed on the liver. There are different types of hepatic cysts. ...

Radiofrequency treatment

What is radiofrequency treatment? Radiofrequency is a minimally invasive procedure which can be used to treat varicose veins. It is performed under local anaesthetic, and uses the application of heat to damage tissue, meaning scar tissue forms. This closes the varicose vein and cuts it off, meaning it is destroyed. This type of treatment can be used on large varicose veins.ç Why undergo radiofrequency treatment? Varicose veins can be considered unsightly by some, and many wish to have them removed. Varicose veins can also be painful and cause discomfort. Several types of procedure are available for the treatment of varicose veins, and different ones will be indicated depending on the patient and the size of the vein. As radiofrequency is able to destroy larger veins, it may be indicated in patients who have veins of significant size. What does it involve? The procedure is performed while the patient is awake, as a local anaesthetic is given to numb the particular area where treatment will be applied. Radiofrequency (an electrical current) is passed through a catheter injected into the vein, which heats up the vein wall and damages it. This causes the vein to close off. Radiofrequency is generally a successful procedure, and the vein closes off in most patients. One advantage of radiofrequency is that it is less painful than traditional varicose vein surgery, which removes the vein itself. Some side effects may include burns on the skin, pain after recovery, or clotting in the vein. However, these risks are minimal and usually get better over time.   How to prepare for radiofrequency treatment Before the treatment, a medical history will be taken to see if the patient is suitable, and where the procedure should be performed. Medication will also be discussed, and those who take aspirin or blood-thinners (such as ibuprofen) as long-term medication will be told to stop several days before the procedure. Post-operative care After the procedure, the surgeon places a dressing on the area which has been treated. This dressing must be worn for at least 24 hours. After these 24 hours are up, the patient then should wear compression stockings for at least two weeks. Some mild pain may be experienced, which can be relieved using over-the-counter painkillers. A follow-up ultrasound will be taken around a week after the procedure, to check the vein is closed and to see if a deep vein thrombosis has developed. This occurs rarely but it is a possibility and it is important for the surgeon to check. Patients are advised not to partake in strenuous activity for a few weeks afterwards, but light activity is encouraged and the patient will be able to return to work soon after the procedure.  ...

Spleen removal

What is spleen removal surgery? The spleen is a small, fist-sized organ located underneath left rib cage, close to the stomach. The spleen is a key component of the immune system as it contains white blood cells that kill bacteria and fight infections. The spleen also filters out old red blood cells from the bloodstream. Spleen removal surgery is called a partial splenectomy if just part of the spleen is removed, or a splenectomy if the whole spleen is removed. Why would you need spleen removal surgery? The reasons you might need a splenectomy include: A ruptured spleen – which could be caused by injury and can lead to internal bleeding which could be life-threatening. Cancer involving the spleen – cancers that affect the blood cells, such as leukaemia or lymphoma, will likely result in the spleen needing to be removed. Certain diseases – such as sickle cell disease can cause the spleen to stop functioning, and it therefore needs removing. Infection – if an infection around the spleen does not clear up with other treatments, then a splenectomy will be recommended. What does it involve? Splenectomies can either be performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) or as open surgery. Most are carried out laparoscopically. During a laparoscopic splenectomy, a special instrument guided by a camera is inserted via small incisions and allows the surgeon to access the abdomen and spleen without the need to make large cuts and scars. General anaesthetic is still required for this type of splenectomy. Open surgery involves a large cut being made in the abdomen, to allow the extraction of the spleen. Open surgery is usually chosen if the spleen is very damaged or large and will often be done in an emergency case. General anaesthetic is also required. How to prepare for it Before surgery, you may be advised to stop taking certain medications, avoid eating and drinking, receive certain vaccines to prevent infection after the spleen is removed, and it may be necessary to have a blood transfusion to ensure that you have enough blood cells post-splenectomy. Post-operative care After a laparoscopic splenectomy, the small incisions are either stitched together or glued. Often patients are able to leave the same day or the following day. If the patient does return the same day, it is necessary for them to be accompanied by a family member or friend. After an open surgery splenectomy, it will be necessary to stay in hospital for two to six days. It is normal to feel some pain, which can be managed with painkillers. During the hospital stay, you will be given some exercises to keep moving, to avoid blood clots. You can expect to recover and return to normal activities within six weeks. Once you have healed fully, the other organs in the body are able to take over the functions that the spleen performed, however, you can be more prone to infection and sickness. ...

Umbilical hernia

What is an umbilical hernia? An umbilical hernia is a type of hernia, which refers to when part of the internal organs protrude through a weakness in the surrounding cavity. In the case of an umbilical hernia, abdominal fat or part of the bowel passes through an area around the navel. What are the symptoms of an umbilical hernia? Umbilical hernias are very common, particularly in babies and are characterised by a bulge around the navel that might get bigger when laughing or coughing. They are usually painless in infants and children, however, in adults who develop an umbilical hernia, the swelling may also be accompanied by pain and discomfort. What causes an umbilical hernia? An umbilical hernia develops as a result of a weakness in the abdominal wall at the navel. If the hole through which the umbilical cord passes through during pregnancy doesn’t close properly after birth, it can cause a hernia either at birth or later on in life. In adults, too much pressure in the abdominal cavity can increase the possibility of an umbilical hernia. How can an umbilical hernia be prevented? There is little that can be done to prevent umbilical hernias at birth, however, there are certain risk factors for adults. Anything that increases pressure in the abdominal cavity, such as obesity, straining while moving or lifting heavy objects, a persistent heavy cough, ascites (fluid in the abdomen, and having multiple pregnancies (i.e. twins, triplets, etc.), can increase the risk of an umbilical hernia. What is the treatment for an umbilical hernia? In infants, an umbilical hernia very often clears up on its own – the hernia goes back in and the muscle reseals over it. In adults, an umbilical hernia will generally get worse over time. In most cases, it is advised to wait until a child has reached four of five years of age to see if the hernia disappears before considering surgery, except in cases where the hernia is very large or there are other complications. In most adults, umbilical hernias are treated with surgery to push the abdominal tissue back into place and seal the abdominal wall. Complications can include obstruction where a section of bowel gets stuck outside the abdomen and can cause nausea, vomiting and pain and discomfort. Strangulation, whereby the blood supply to the section of bowel forming the hernia is cut off, is a potentially serious complication and needs emergency treatment to prevent the trapped tissue from dying.  ...

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