Conditions We Treat
The department of surgery at Brown University Health provides state-of-the-art general and gastrointestinal surgical services for inpatients and outpatients. We offer consultative, diagnostic and therapeutic services, and utilize state-of-the-art surgical techniques for faster recovery times and reduced post-operative pain.
General and Gastrointestinal Conditions We Treat
Achalasia
Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach) where food and liquid have trouble passing into the stomach.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is when the appendix (a small pouch attached to the large intestine) becomes inflamed and infected. It’s a medical emergency because the appendix can burst (rupture) if not treated quickly.
Duct Stones
Common bile duct stones are stones that form or get stuck in the common bile duct, the tube that carries bile from the gallbladder and liver to the small intestine. They are sometimes called choledocholithiasis. Most often, they form when gallstones from the gallbladder move into the common bile duct. Less commonly, stones can form directly in the duct.
Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy)
A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, usually done to treat Gallstones or complications they cause.
The gallbladder isn’t essential—you can live normally without it.
Learn more about gallbladder removal
Gallstones
Gallstones are hard, stone-like deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ under your liver that stores bile (a digestive liquid that helps break down fats).
Learn more about gallstones
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid frequently flows backward into the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach). This backflow is called acid reflux, and when it happens often, it becomes GERD.
Learn more about Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Spleen Removal (Splenectomy)
The Spleen is an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, just under the rib cage and next to the stomach. It’s an important part of your blood and immune system. A splenectomy is a surgery to remove the spleen, People can survive without a spleen, but they are more vulnerable to certain infections. Vaccines and precautions are usually recommended after removal.
Learn more about spleen removal