Preparing for upper gastrointestinal (GI) surgery can feel like a big step, but having a clear idea of what to expect can make the experience much easier. With the right information and support, you can approach your procedure feeling calm, confident and in control.
In this guide, we explain what happens before, during and after your surgery.
What is upper GI surgery?
Upper GI surgery focuses on the upper part of your digestive system, which includes your oesophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach), the first section of your small intestine and your stomach. These areas play an important role in how your body digests food. Any problems here can affect your digestion, comfort and wellbeing.
Upper GI surgery is used to diagnose and treat conditions such as:
Depending on your diagnosis, your surgeon may recommend a tailored procedure such as fundoplication for acid reflux, hernia repair or gallbladder removal.
Mr Achal Khanna performs many of these operations using advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques. These minimally invasive approaches mean smaller incisions, less discomfort and a quicker recovery, helping you return to feeling your best as soon as possible.
Preparing for upper GI surgery
Before you have any type of surgery, you’ll need to follow some preparation instructions. This helps to ensure your safety, and it’ll also help you feel more confident on the day. Mr Khanna and his team will guide you through each stage, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.
Generally, you’ll usually have a pre-operative assessment to review your medical history, current medications and any health conditions. This helps the team plan your anaesthetic safely and tailor your care.
Before your operation:
- You’ll be told when to stop eating and drinking, so your stomach is empty during surgery
- If you take regular medication, you’ll be advised whether to adjust or pause it
- Arrange transport to and from the hospital
- Prepare a comfortable recovery space at home and plan some support for the first few days
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before surgery, but you’ll be well looked after. Mr Khanna and his team will answer your questions and help you feel calm and ready for your procedure.
The day of your surgery
When you arrive at the hospital, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the team, who will confirm your details and guide you through what to expect. You’ll meet your anaesthetist and surgical team to discuss your procedure and have time to ask any last questions.
Most upper GI surgeries are performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic techniques. These involve a few small incisions through which the surgeon passes a thin camera and delicate instruments to carry out the operation with precision. This approach reduces scarring, discomfort and recovery time compared with traditional open surgery.
Your procedure will be carried out under general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep and completely comfortable throughout. The length of surgery varies depending on the condition being treated.
After the operation, you’ll be taken to the recovery area where nurses will monitor you closely as you wake up and ensure you’re comfortable and safe.
Immediately after your upper GI surgery
When you wake up from the anaesthetic, you’ll likely feel drowsy or disoriented. You may have some mild discomfort around your incision sites, but the team will give you pain relief to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.
Your nurses will keep a close eye on your breathing, blood pressure and heart rate while you rest and recover. You’ll usually be encouraged to start moving soon after surgery, as this supports your circulation and helps your body heal.
Depending on the type of procedure you’ve had, you may stay in the hospital for a night or two so your recovery can be monitored. Once you’re eating, drinking and moving safely, you’ll be discharged with clear, easy-to-follow aftercare instructions to support your recovery at home.
Recovering at home after upper GI surgery
Once you’re home, give yourself time to rest and let your body heal. Keeping your wounds clean and dry will help prevent infection, and taking pain relief as prescribed will make recovery more comfortable, even if your discomfort feels mild.
You’ll be given specific guidance on eating and activity after your operation. Start with light, low-fat meals and reintroduce solid foods gradually to avoid bloating or indigestion. Smaller, more frequent meals are often easier for your digestive system to manage as it recovers.
Gentle movement, such as short walks, can help boost your circulation and energy levels. Try to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until your surgeon confirms it’s safe. You might find it helpful to keep a short note of how you’re feeling each day and share this at your follow-up appointment.
Everyone’s recovery is different, but many people can return to normal routines within a few weeks, particularly after minimally invasive surgery.
Benefits of minimally invasive upper GI surgery
Modern laparoscopic and robotic techniques have transformed the way upper GI surgery is performed.
By using small, precise incisions instead of one large cut, these approaches offer an enhanced experience with several important benefits, including:
- Less post-operative pain
- A reduced risk of scarring and infection
- A shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery and return to normal activities
Robotic-assisted surgery also allows surgeons to operate with exceptional precision and control, helping to enhance safety and outcomes. Together, these benefits mean a smoother recovery and a faster return to feeling like yourself again.
When to seek medical advice after surgery
Most people recover without any problems, but it’s important to get in touch with your surgical team or doctor if something doesn’t feel right.
You should seek medical advice straight away if you notice:
- Increasing pain or swelling around your wounds
- Redness, bleeding or discharge from the incision site
- A high temperature or fever
- Persistent vomiting or an inability to eat or drink
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
If you’re ever unsure about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Speaking to your surgical team early can help prevent complications and give you peace of mind while you recover.
Book a consultation with Mr Achal Khanna
If you’re preparing for upper GI surgery or need expert guidance about your treatment options, Mr Achal Khanna is here to help. As a specialist in minimally invasive and robotic techniques, he provides personalised, compassionate care from your first consultation through to full recovery.
Book a consultation with Mr Achal Khanna today and take the first step towards expert treatment, a smooth surgical experience and complete peace of mind.