This page gives you a quick orientation to the four main conditions seen in this surgical practice: gallbladder problems, inguinal hernia, hiatus hernia and acid reflux. Each section explains what the condition is and what treatment usually involves, then points you to the fuller page. If you already know which condition you need help with, go straight to that section.
If you cannot find your problem here but would like to know whether we can help, please get in touch: +44 (0) 207 164 6114 or aly.admin@lips.org.uk.
Gallbladder problems and gallstone surgery
Gallstones are very common. They form inside the gallbladder, a small pouch that sits under the liver. Many people carry them without knowing. When they cause pain, blockage or repeated attacks, removal of the gallbladder is usually the answer.
The operation is called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, but most people know it as keyhole gallbladder removal. Surgeons remove the whole gallbladder through small cuts in the abdomen. You can live perfectly well without it.
Most people go home the same day or the next morning. The detailed page covers what to expect before, during and after the operation.
Read more about gallbladder surgery
Inguinal hernia repair
An inguinal hernia is a bulge in the groin. It happens when soft tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. You may notice a lump, a dragging feeling or discomfort when you lift or strain.
Hernias do not repair themselves. Surgery closes the gap and strengthens the wall, usually using a small mesh. Keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) is often used, though the right approach depends on your individual situation.
The detailed page explains the types of repair and what recovery usually looks like.
Read more about inguinal hernia repair
Hiatus hernia repair
A hiatus hernia happens when part of the stomach slides up through the gap in the diaphragm (the hiatus) and into the chest. The gap is larger than it should be, and the stomach sits partly in the wrong place.
The operation corrects this by returning the stomach to its proper position and making the gap the right size again. This is the core of the procedure. A fundoplication is a separate, additional step that may be considered for some patients where reflux has been confirmed through objective testing. It is not a routine part of every repair.
The detailed page explains what the workup involves and what to expect from the operation.
Read more about hiatus hernia repair
Acid reflux and when surgery is considered
Acid reflux is very common. For most people it is managed well with medication and changes to diet or lifestyle. Surgery is considered for a minority, not as a first step.
When medication does not control symptoms, or when someone wants to stop taking it long term, objective tests are done first. These tests confirm whether reflux is the true cause of the symptoms. Surgery is only considered when testing supports it.
The detailed page covers the tests used and the situations where an operation may be appropriate.
How to arrange an assessment
There are three ways to arrange a surgical assessment. The most common is a referral from your GP. A referral from another specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, is equally straightforward.
You can also self-refer by contacting the practice directly, without a GP letter. Many patients do not realise this is an option. No GP referral is required to make contact and ask about being seen.
If you plan to use health insurance, contact your insurer for pre-authorisation before your appointment. Your insurer will also ask for a referral letter from a GP or specialist. That step is between you and your insurer, not a requirement of the practice itself.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral to be seen?
No. You can self-refer by contacting the practice directly, without a GP letter. Many patients do this. A GP referral is the most common route, and a referral from another specialist works just as well, but neither is compulsory. The one situation where a referral letter is needed: if you use health insurance, your insurer will usually require one for pre-authorisation.
Is hiatus hernia repair the same as a fundoplication?
They are not the same operation. Repairing the hiatus means returning the stomach to its correct position and narrowing the gap in the diaphragm. A fundoplication is an additional procedure that may be added in selected patients where reflux has been confirmed on testing. It is not done routinely.
Will I need to stay in hospital after gallbladder removal?
Most people go home the same day or the next morning after keyhole gallbladder removal. Your surgical team will advise you based on your individual circumstances.
Can acid reflux be cured with surgery?
Surgery can significantly reduce or resolve reflux symptoms in carefully selected patients. It is not the right answer for everyone. Objective testing is done first to confirm reflux is the true cause of your symptoms, and surgery is only considered when the results support it.
What is a consultant upper GI surgeon?
An upper GI surgeon specialises in operations on the upper part of the digestive system, including the oesophagus (gullet), stomach, and gallbladder. They also treat hernias of the abdominal wall and diaphragm. A consultant is a fully qualified specialist who has completed higher surgical training and holds a senior NHS or independent practice post.
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This article is general information, not individual medical advice. Please seek an individual assessment with a qualified surgeon before making any decision about your care.