KYM Surgery specializes in the treatment of various abdominal and gastrointestinal conditions,
such as:
Gastritis
Gastritis is characterized by an inflammation of the protective lining of the stomach. It is often caused by a
gastrointestinal bacterial infection (H. pylori) or a weakness in the stomach lining that makes it susceptible to damage
and inflammation from constant exposure to acidic digestive juices. Left untreated, the condition can lead to peptic
ulcers and an increased risk of stomach cancer. Depending on its cause, gastritis can be controlled using medicines like
antibiotics, antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors.
Acid Reflux
Also known as heartburn, acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up the oesophagus and into the throat or mouth.
It is characterized by a burning sensation felt in the chest that worsens after eating large meals, or when bending or
lying down. Eating habits and medical conditions are said to be some of the causes. Frequent episodes of acid reflux may
be indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). Acid reflux can be alleviated with diet and lifestyle changes,
but if these prove to be insufficient, acid reflux surgery in Singapore is available.
Indigestion
Similar to acid reflux, indigestion or dyspepsia can be a symptom of GERD, but it can also be indicative of peptic
ulcers, gastritis or stomach cancer. Symptoms of indigestion typically manifest in the form of discomfort felt in the
upper abdomen, caused by eating large meals too quickly, smoking, taking certain medications, and more. Apart from
diet and lifestyle adjustments, antacids may also be used to treat indigestion.
Oesophagitis
Oesophagitis is an irritation or inflammation in the oesophagus that causes symptoms such as acid reflux, sore throat
and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). The condition is often treated using antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump
inhibitors. In more serious cases, surgical treatments may be carried out, such as fundoplication which is a procedure
whereby part of the stomach is wrapped around the oesophagus to prevent acid reflux.
Prolonged acid exposure can lead to changes in cells and potentially cause the development of cancer in the
oesophagus.
Ulcers
Ulcers are open sores that can develop inside the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the upper part of the small intestine
(duodenal ulcer). Characterized by burning stomach pain, ulcers are mostly caused by the H. pylori bacteria or
long-term intake of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin. Medications, including antibiotics,
probiotics and proton pump inhibitors, are common treatments for ulcers, followed by surgery.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper portion of the stomach squeezes through the diaphragm and into the chest area.
While small hernias cause little to no symptoms, larger ones can result in acid reflux, chest pain, shortness of
breath and difficulty swallowing. In more serious cases where symptoms progressively worsen, surgery is recommended.
Procedures usually involve reducing the size of the hiatus (opening)
in the diaphragm, removing the entire hernia sac, or reconstructing the oesophageal sphincter.
Cancer
Symptoms of stomach cancer include indigestion, bloating, heartburn, stomach pain, weight loss, bloody stools, nausea
and vomiting. In early-stage stomach cancer, surgery is used to remove the tumour, or part or whole of the stomach
containing the cancer. Later-stage cancers usually require a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.