The digestive system plays a vital role in maintaining overall health by processing food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. Problems affecting the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or colon can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. At Deepam Hospitals, our Gastroenterology Department provides comprehensive medical evaluation and advanced surgical care for a wide range of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, helping patients regain digestive health through accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.
Led by Dr. Karikal Chakravarthi, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), M.Ch (Surgical Gastroenterology), our department specialises in minimally invasive gastrointestinal procedures, laparoscopic surgery, and the management of complex digestive disorders. Whether you are experiencing persistent abdominal pain, acid reflux, gallstones, hernia, gastrointestinal bleeding, or require advanced gastrointestinal surgery, our team delivers personalised care using modern diagnostic and surgical techniques.
Digestive disorders can range from temporary discomfort to serious medical conditions requiring specialised treatment. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, constipation, diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss should never be ignored, as they may indicate an underlying gastrointestinal disease.
At Deepam Hospitals, we adopt a multidisciplinary approach that combines advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgical expertise, personalised treatment planning, and compassionate patient care. Our Gastroenterology Department works closely with radiologists, anaesthesiologists, physicians, critical care specialists, nutritionists, and rehabilitation teams to provide comprehensive digestive healthcare.
With multispeciality hospitals in Tambaram, Guduvanchery, and Singaperumal Koil (SP Koil), supported by healthcare centres in Perungalathur, Urapakkam, and Maraimalai Nagar, Deepam Hospitals ensures accessible, coordinated, and high-quality gastroenterology services for patients across the region.
Our Gastroenterology Department combines clinical expertise with advanced technology to diagnose and treat digestive disorders effectively. We focus on preserving digestive function, reducing recovery time, and improving long-term patient outcomes through minimally invasive and evidence-based surgical care.
Patients from Singaperumal Koil, Chengalpattu, Maraimalai Nagar, Guduvanchery, Urapakkam, Perungalathur, Tambaram, Mahindra World City, and surrounding areas trust Deepam Hospitals for expert digestive healthcare and advanced gastrointestinal surgery.
Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the digestive system. The digestive system includes the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and associated organs.
Gastrointestinal disorders may develop due to infections, inflammation, dietary habits, genetic factors, metabolic conditions, or structural abnormalities. Early diagnosis helps prevent disease progression and supports better treatment outcomes.
At Deepam Hospitals, we provide comprehensive care for both common digestive complaints and complex gastrointestinal diseases using modern diagnostic techniques and evidence-based treatment approaches.
Surgical Gastroenterology is a specialised branch of surgery focused on treating diseases of the digestive system that require operative intervention. It involves both traditional and minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures for conditions affecting the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, oesophagus, and colorectal region.
Compared to conventional open surgery, laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery typically involves smaller incisions, reduced pain, lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, making it a preferred option for many suitable patients.
At Deepam Hospitals, our surgical gastroenterology team performs advanced gastrointestinal procedures while prioritising patient safety, precision, and enhanced recovery.
Our Gastroenterology Department provides comprehensive evaluation and surgical management for a broad spectrum of digestive disorders.
Digestive symptoms that persist or worsen may indicate an underlying gastrointestinal condition requiring specialist evaluation.
Prompt evaluation helps identify serious conditions early and allows timely treatment before complications develop.
A healthy digestive system is essential for proper nutrition, immunity, and overall well-being. Poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, stress, and untreated digestive disorders can increase the risk of gastrointestinal diseases.
Maintaining digestive health through healthy eating, regular exercise, adequate hydration, and timely medical evaluation can significantly reduce the risk of chronic digestive problems and improve quality of life.
At Deepam Hospitals, we emphasise preventive care alongside advanced treatment to help patients maintain lifelong digestive wellness.
Effective treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. Our Gastroenterology Department is supported by modern diagnostic facilities that enable precise evaluation of digestive diseases.
These diagnostic tools assist our specialists in identifying gastrointestinal diseases early and planning the most appropriate medical or surgical treatment.
| Condition | Common Symptoms | Treatment Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Gallstones | Upper abdominal pain, nausea | Medical evaluation and laparoscopic gallbladder surgery when indicated |
| Hernia | Swelling, discomfort, pain while lifting | Hernia repair surgery |
| Appendicitis | Sudden lower abdominal pain, fever | Emergency appendicectomy |
| Acid Reflux (GERD) | Heartburn, regurgitation | Lifestyle advice, medication, surgical evaluation if required |
| Liver Disorders | Fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling | Medical assessment and specialised care |
| Colorectal Disorders | Rectal bleeding, constipation, pain | Clinical evaluation and appropriate medical or surgical management |
Digestive disorders often begin with mild symptoms that may gradually worsen if left untreated. Seeking timely medical care can help detect gastrointestinal conditions early, reduce complications, and improve treatment outcomes.
Minimally invasive or laparoscopic surgery has transformed the treatment of many gastrointestinal conditions by offering smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. Compared to conventional open surgery, laparoscopic procedures help patients return to their normal activities sooner while reducing the risk of wound-related complications.
At Deepam Hospitals, our Surgical Gastroenterology Department performs advanced laparoscopic gastrointestinal procedures using modern surgical techniques and evidence-based practices to ensure safe and effective patient care.
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form inside the gallbladder and may block the flow of bile, causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or infection. While some gallstones remain asymptomatic, symptomatic gallstones usually require surgical removal of the gallbladder (Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy).
Our team provides comprehensive evaluation and minimally invasive treatment for gallbladder disorders to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area of the abdominal wall. Hernias usually enlarge over time and generally require surgical repair to prevent complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation.
At Deepam Hospitals, we perform both open and laparoscopic hernia repair based on the patient's condition and clinical requirements.
Appendicitis is a medical emergency caused by inflammation of the appendix. Delayed treatment can result in rupture, infection, and serious complications. Prompt diagnosis and timely appendicectomy remain the standard treatment.
Our surgical team provides emergency evaluation and laparoscopic appendicectomy with a focus on patient safety and rapid recovery.
Occasional acidity is common, but persistent acid reflux may indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Untreated GERD can affect the oesophagus and significantly reduce quality of life.
Our specialists evaluate the severity of reflux symptoms and recommend appropriate medical treatment, lifestyle modification, or surgical intervention when indicated.
Treatment is individualised based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. They may occur due to Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged use of certain pain medications, or excessive stomach acid production.
Our team evaluates and manages various upper gastrointestinal disorders through medical therapy and surgical intervention when necessary.
The liver performs essential functions including metabolism, detoxification, and digestion. Early evaluation of liver disease helps prevent progression to advanced complications.
Our Gastroenterology Department assesses and manages selected liver and hepatobiliary conditions while coordinating multidisciplinary care whenever specialised treatment is required.
The pancreas plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Pancreatic disorders require careful assessment because symptoms often overlap with other gastrointestinal diseases.
Our specialists evaluate pancreatic conditions using clinical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory investigations to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Diseases affecting the colon, rectum, and anal region can cause pain, bleeding, bowel habit changes, and reduced quality of life. Early diagnosis is important for successful treatment and prevention of complications.
Our department provides comprehensive evaluation and surgical care for a wide range of colorectal conditions.
Certain gastrointestinal cancers affecting the oesophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, colon, and rectum may require surgical treatment as part of a multidisciplinary care plan.
At Deepam Hospitals, patients undergo comprehensive evaluation, staging investigations, and coordinated treatment planning involving gastroenterologists, surgical specialists, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists to ensure personalised cancer care.
Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment options and long-term outcomes.
Endoscopy allows specialists to examine the digestive tract without major surgery and plays an important role in diagnosing various gastrointestinal diseases.
These investigations support accurate diagnosis and guide the most appropriate medical or surgical treatment.
Every digestive disorder is unique, which is why treatment at Deepam Hospitals is tailored to each patient's diagnosis, overall health, and surgical needs. Our focus extends beyond successful surgery to include comprehensive preoperative assessment, minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, effective pain management, nutritional guidance, and structured postoperative follow-up.
Dr. Karikal Chakravarthi is a qualified Surgical Gastroenterologist with expertise in diagnosing and treating diseases affecting the digestive system through advanced surgical techniques. He specialises in minimally invasive (laparoscopic) gastrointestinal procedures and provides comprehensive care for disorders involving the oesophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, intestines, colon, and rectum.
With a patient-centred approach and evidence-based surgical practices, Dr. Karikal Chakravarthi focuses on delivering safe, precise, and personalised treatment plans that promote faster recovery, minimise complications, and improve long-term digestive health.
Your consultation begins with a detailed discussion of your symptoms, medical history, dietary habits, previous illnesses, medications, and family history to understand your digestive health concerns.
A thorough physical examination helps identify signs of gastrointestinal disease and guides further investigations.
Based on your symptoms, your specialist may recommend laboratory investigations, imaging studies, endoscopy, colonoscopy, or other diagnostic procedures to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment is planned according to your condition and may involve lifestyle modifications, medication, minimally invasive surgery, or advanced gastrointestinal procedures.
Patients requiring surgery receive comprehensive preoperative evaluation, advanced laparoscopic procedures whenever appropriate, safe anaesthesia support, and personalised postoperative care.
Regular follow-up appointments ensure smooth recovery, monitor healing, prevent recurrence, and support long-term digestive wellness.
Recovery varies depending on the type of gastrointestinal condition and surgical procedure performed. Following your surgeon's advice and attending scheduled follow-up visits are important for optimal healing.
Our multidisciplinary team provides continuous guidance throughout your recovery to help you return to normal activities safely.
Good digestive health begins with healthy daily habits. Adopting simple lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of many gastrointestinal disorders and improve overall well-being.
Digestive problems that persist or recur should never be ignored. Early consultation can help diagnose gastrointestinal diseases before they progress and improve treatment outcomes.
You should consult a Gastroenterologist if you experience:
| Digestive Condition | Common Symptoms | Treatment Available |
|---|---|---|
| Gallstones | Upper abdominal pain, nausea | Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery |
| Hernia | Swelling, discomfort | Open or laparoscopic hernia repair |
| Appendicitis | Severe lower abdominal pain, fever | Emergency appendicectomy |
| GERD | Heartburn, acid reflux | Medical management and surgical evaluation when indicated |
| Liver Disorders | Fatigue, jaundice | Comprehensive evaluation and specialised care |
| Colorectal Disorders | Bleeding, bowel habit changes | Medical assessment and surgical treatment where appropriate |
Surgical Gastroenterology is a specialised branch of surgery that focuses on diagnosing and surgically treating diseases affecting the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and colorectal region.
You should seek medical advice if you have persistent abdominal pain, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, blood in stools, chronic constipation, diarrhoea, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss.
No. Many gastrointestinal conditions can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or endoscopic procedures. Surgery is recommended only when clinically necessary.
Laparoscopic surgery generally offers smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and lower risk of wound-related complications.
Gallstones usually do not disappear on their own. Symptomatic gallstones often require surgical removal of the gallbladder, while treatment decisions depend on individual clinical evaluation.
Most hernias do not heal without surgery and may enlarge or develop complications over time. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your condition.
Sudden pain in the lower right side of the abdomen, fever, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common symptoms. Appendicitis requires prompt medical evaluation.
Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and attending routine medical check-ups can help support digestive health.
Yes. Follow-up visits allow your surgeon to monitor healing, manage recovery, address any concerns, and provide guidance for long-term digestive health.
The Gastroenterology Department at Deepam Hospitals, Singaperumal Koil (SP Koil) offers comprehensive digestive healthcare and advanced surgical treatment, supported by our multispeciality hospitals in Tambaram and Guduvanchery and healthcare centres in Perungalathur, Urapakkam, and Maraimalai Nagar.
The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every patient is unique, and treatment recommendations are based on individual clinical evaluation. If you have persistent digestive symptoms or concerns about your gastrointestinal health, consult a qualified gastroenterologist for appropriate assessment and personalised care.
Digestive disorders can affect your comfort, nutrition, and overall quality of life, but timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference. Whether you require evaluation for persistent digestive symptoms, minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery, or long-term management of complex digestive conditions, the Gastroenterology Department at Deepam Hospitals is committed to providing safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care.
Visit the Gastroenterology Department at Deepam Hospitals, Singaperumal Koil (SP Koil) to consult Dr. Karikal Chakravarthi, an experienced Surgical Gastroenterologist, for comprehensive digestive healthcare.
Supported by our multispeciality hospitals in Tambaram, Guduvanchery, and Singaperumal Koil, along with our healthcare centres in Perungalathur, Urapakkam, and Maraimalai Nagar, we are dedicated to delivering advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgical expertise, personalised treatment, and complete digestive wellness for every patient.
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