Care at NUH

Division of General Surgery (Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery)

2025/07/25
The Division of Upper GastrointestinaI Surgery at NUH offers expert care for conditions of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum — from reflux to cancer — using state-of-the-art minimally invasive and robotic techniques.
Conditions Treated
  • Achalasia
    A disorder where the oesophagus has trouble moving food into the stomach due to nerve damage.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
    A condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn or irritation.
  • Oesophagus cancer
    Cancer that develops in the lining of the oesophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach.
  • Peptic ulcer disease
    Open sores that form on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
  • Stomach/gastric cancer
    Cancer that begins in the lining of the stomach and may spread to nearby tissues.
Treatment Options

The Division of Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI) Surgery offers a comprehensive range of modern medical treatments, clinic-based therapies, and advanced surgical procedures for patients with oesophageal, gastric, and related conditions.

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat achalasia, a condition where the muscles of the oesophagus (food pipe) don’t work properly, making it hard for food to reach the stomach. The procedure is done through the mouth using a thin, flexible tube (endoscope)— so there are no external cuts or incisions. The goal is to relax the tight muscle at the lower end of the oesophagus (called the lower oesophageal sphincter), allowing food to pass into the stomach more easily. POEM has become a popular and effective treatment with low risk and good long-term results.

Pressurised Intra-Peritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy

Pressurised Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) is an innovative treatment for advanced cancers that have spread to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), such as colon, stomach (gastric), and ovarian cancers. In this approach, chemotherapy is delivered as a fine mist (aerosol) directly into the abdominal cavity during a minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery. This allows the medicine to spread evenly and reach the cancer more effectively, with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Our Approach to Cancer Care

While surgery is often a key component in the treatment of early-stage cancer, some patients may benefit from upfront systemic therapy to shrink the tumour before surgery. This approach can improve the chances of a successful operation and, in some cases, reduce the risk of recurrence.

At National University Hospital (NUH), we conduct regular Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meetings, where specialists from different disciplines come together to discuss complex cases. These meetings ensure that each patient receives a comprehensive, personalised treatment plan based on the latest clinical evidence.

Our MDT comprises surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists, work collaboratively to provide patients with the highest standard of care.

Education Materials
Minimally-Invasive Thyroid Surgery
Parathyroid Adenoma
Thryoid Surgery

Contact Us for An Appointment

If you wish to seek subsidised medical care (applicable to Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents only), please contact:

15a Surgical Specialists Centre
15a Surgical Specialists Centre (SSC)

Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 8.30am to 5.30pm
Sat, Sun & PH: Closed

Contact
+65 6908 2222
+65 6772 5601
[email protected]

Location
NUH Medical Centre
Zone B, Level 15

If you wish to seek consultation as a private patient, please refer to the contact information below.

University Surgical Centre
University Surgical Centre (USC) (D05-02)

Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 8.30am to 5.30pm
Sat, Sun & PH: Closed

Contact
+65 6908 2222
+65 6772 5083
[email protected]

Location
NUH Kent Ridge Wing
Zone D, Level 5

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