NEWS · HOSPITAL LIFE

Published on September 29, 2026

Gastroenterologist and Surgeon: Why Do They Work Together?

Some digestive conditions require the involvement of several specialists. Gastroenterologists and digestive surgeons bring different skills that can complement each other during diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.

Illustration of the evaluation pathway combining consultation, endoscopy and digestive imaging.

Two complementary specialties

The gastroenterologist manages the diagnosis and medical treatment of digestive system conditions, notably through endoscopy when relevant. The digestive surgeon becomes involved when surgical management is indicated.

Before a possible intervention

Depending on the condition, the evaluation may require a consultation, endoscopy, imaging or other complementary tests. Not every patient systematically undergoes all these tests: the work-up is adapted to each situation.

In the bariatric surgery pathway

GHOL’s gastroenterology department has developed a collaboration with the obesity center to carry out the preoperative work-up needed before bariatric surgery. This collaboration continues after the procedure, for the diagnosis and treatment of any digestive complications.

For esophageal and stomach conditions

This complementarity is also found in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernia, where gastroenterological evaluation often precedes discussion of a possible surgical indication.

Surgery is not always the answer

The decision to operate depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, test results, disease progression, treatments already tried, and the patient’s individual situation. In many situations, care remains medical.

Coordinated care

Depending on their situation, patients can benefit from complementary skills, coordinated between gastroenterology and digestive surgery, at every stage of diagnosis and treatment.

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