Upper Gastro-Intestinal (GI)

About the Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) team

The Upper GI (Gastrointestinal) Service at Hereford County Hospital is made up of a skilled and supportive team, including surgeons, specialist nurses, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, and oncologists. Together, we assess and treat conditions affecting the upper part of your digestive system, including your oesophagus (gullet), stomach, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver.

We provide care for a wide range of non-cancerous (benign) conditions, such as gallstones, acid reflux, and hernias. If a more serious (cancerous) condition is suspected, we will arrange the appropriate investigations and refer you to our specialist cancer team (Upper GI Cancer MDT), who will guide you through the next steps of care in partnership with our regional centres in Gloucester and Birmingham.

Our team offers procedures including:

• Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)
• Anti-reflux and hiatus hernia surgery

We use minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques whenever possible, to help speed up your recovery and reduce your hospital stay. A dedicated enhanced recovery team, including doctors, nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, and support staff, will help you get back on your feet quickly and safely.

If you need to stay in hospital, you may be admitted to Frome Ward or Primrose Unit (for planned procedures). Some patients will have their treatment as a day case and return home the same day.

Who’s in the team?

Our Upper GI team includes:

• Four consultant surgeons
• A dedicated Upper GI clinical nurse specialist
• Three medical secretaries to support with appointments and correspondence

We work closely with our colleagues in general surgery, which includes: 10 registrar-grade surgeons, three advanced clinical practitioners, three physician associates and twelve junior doctors

We have strong links with:

• The Oesophago-Gastric Cancer Centre at Gloucester Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• The specialist Liver Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham

Accreditation

Our endoscopy unit is fully accredited by the Joint Advisory Group (JAG), ensuring high standards of quality and patient care.