What Is Gastrointestinal Surgery?

Gastrointestinal surgery (often shortened to GI surgery) covers a broad group of operations on your digestive system—everything from your oesophagus (food pipe) down to your intestines. It includes procedures to investigate symptoms, manage long-term digestive conditions, or treat more serious concerns like bowel cancer. Common examples include:

• Keyhole surgery to explore abdominal pain
• Gallbladder removal for gallstones
• Hernia repair
• Bowel resections for inflammatory bowel disease or cancer
• Anti-reflux surgery to stop chronic heartburn

Some procedures are done to relieve uncomfortable symptoms, while others can be life-saving. What they all have in common is that they aim to help you live more comfortably and confidently.

Do I Really Need Surgery?

That’s one of the most common—and valid—questions we hear.

Not everyone who sees a consultant about digestive issues will need surgery. Sometimes, your symptoms can be managed with medication, diet changes or non-surgical treatments. But if those options haven’t worked, or if tests have found something more serious, your consultant might talk to you about the benefits of surgery.

We’ll never rush you into making a decision. You’ll have time to ask questions and talk through all your treatment options with a consultant you trust.

What Does Gastrointestinal Surgery Treat?

Gastrointestinal surgery (GI surgery) is used to treat a wide range of conditions affecting your digestive system—from your stomach and intestines to your gallbladder, oesophagus, and more. Some of the most common reasons people are referred to a GI consultant include:

• Severe or chronic acid reflux (GORD)
• Gallstones causing pain or infections
• Hernias that cause discomfort or swelling
• Inflammatory bowel conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Bowel cancer or polyps that need removing
• Unexplained bleeding or changes in your bowel habits
• Long-term abdominal pain or bloating that hasn’t improved

But not everyone with these conditions needs surgery straight away. In many cases, medication, diet changes, or watchful monitoring might be the first step.

How Do I Know If Surgery Is Right for Me?

If your symptoms haven’t improved with non-surgical treatments—or if investigations (like an endoscopy, colonoscopy or scan) have revealed something more serious—your consultant might talk to you about gastrointestinal surgery as the next step in your treatment plan. Here’s what might indicate that surgery could be helpful:

• Your pain is persistent and affecting your quality of life
• You’ve had repeated flare-ups, hospital visits or infections
• There’s a structural problem, such as a hernia or narrowing, that can’t be corrected without surgery
• You’ve been diagnosed with cancer or a condition that may become more serious if not treated
• Your symptoms are limiting your ability to eat, sleep or work

What’s It Like Having Gastrointestinal Surgery?

We know that when you’re in pain or worried about your health, the last thing you want is a long wait. At Sussex Premier Health, patients can usually see a consultant within just a few days. If you do need surgery, it can often be scheduled quickly, without months of delay.

Because we’re part of the NHS, you also have peace of mind knowing you’re never far from emergency support if it’s needed.

You’re Not Alone in This

We know that looking up what is gastrointestinal surgery? Or do I need GI surgery? Probably isn’t something you ever thought you’d be doing. But many people go through this, often after years of unexplained symptoms or frustrating delays.

The good news is: you don’t have to wait any longer. At Sussex Premier Health, you can see a consultant quickly and start getting answers. Whether surgery is the right path for you or not, we’re here to help you feel heard and respected.