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01 Sep, 2026 Latest news

A Diagnosis Can Change Everything, But It Does Not End the Conversation

You notice that something is not right. Maybe you have unexplained weight loss, persistent stomach pain, diffi

20 Aug, 2025 Latest news

Gastro Cancer Surgeon

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers affect vital parts of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, li

FAQ

Gastrointestinal surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures that treat benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancer) conditions that affect the body's digestive system.

The GI tract is another name for your body's digestive tract. It consists of several tube-like organs joined togetherâ€”starting at the esophagus in the mouth and ending at your anus. Each piece of the GI tract plays a role in how your body digests (breaks down) food and nutrients. Organs that make up the GI tract include: Esophagus Stomach Small intestine (small bowel) Large intestine (colon) Rectum Anus The digestive system also includes organs that aren't part of the GI tract. These organs include: Gallbladder Liver Pancreas

Both gastroenterologists and GI surgeons diagnose and treat conditions affecting the digestive system. Gastroenterologists are trained in internal medicine and receive additional training in problems of the digestive system. They treat GI conditions medically (such as with medicines) and perform nonsurgical procedures, such as colonoscopies.

Individuals with a body mass index of 35kg/m2 and a weight related condition (diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure) or 40kg/m2 or greater are eligible for bariatric surgery.

Individuals who do not meet the BMI criteria are typically not candidates for bariatric surgery. Someone with complex medical and surgical needs may meet the BMI criteria but after meeting with a surgeon, it can be determine that the individual risk is greater than the potential benefit of the surgery. These situations are rare and are discussed individually with your care team.

Individuals interested in scheduling an appointment with the Penn Bariatric and Weight Loss Surgery Program should call 800-789-7366 (PENN). Patients already enrolled in the Penn Bariatric and Weight Loss Surgery Program should call their surgeon office directly.