This medical center specializes in providing diagnostic, examination, and treatment services in gastroenterology and hepatology, covering diseases of the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. Supported by gastroenterologists, hepatologists, specialist nurses, and a multidisciplinary team, we provide patients with patient-centered, comprehensive, and accurate assessments and treatment plans. We also collaborate with other departments to develop appropriate treatment plans based on individual needs. Hong Kong's fast-paced lifestyle and irregular eating habits, coupled with high rates of hepatitis B and Helicobacter pylori infection, mean that some patients may not experience obvious symptoms initially, but untreated, these can lead to serious illnesses. Many common cancers in Hong Kong are also related to the digestive system. Through appropriate examination and treatment, many diseases can be detected early, even achieving preventative goals. Our professional team offers a range of advanced endoscopic examinations, including:

We manage common and complex gastrointestinal conditions such as

In liver disease management, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for fatty liver, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. In addition, we provide integrated care for acute and chronic conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.

What is a gastroenterology and hepatology specialty?

The gastroenterology and hepatology department focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system and liver, gallbladder, and pancreas-related diseases. It can assess a wide range of conditions, including peptic ulcers, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, hematochezia, fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, and pancreatitis.

• Internal Medicine Pathway: Gastroenterologist/Hepatologist (responsible for assessment of hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, liver fibrosis, and endoscopic examinations related to biliary and pancreatic diseases, etc.);
• Surgical pathway: General surgeon/hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeon (responsible for cholecystitis, gallstones, hepatobiliary and pancreatic tumors, etc. that require surgical treatment).

When should I schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist? (Common symptoms and red flags)

If you have any of the following conditions, it is recommended that you consider scheduling an appointment with a gastroenterologist/hepatologist for evaluation:

• Stomach pain, bloating, indigestion, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, or changes in bowel habits lasting more than two weeks
• Blood in stool/black stool, anemia, or unexplained fatigue
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin/whites of the eyes), abnormal liver function, fatty liver, hepatitis B/hepatitis C follow-up.
• Right upper quadrant pain, suspected gallstones, pancreatitis, or biliary/pancreatic problems.
• Colorectal cancer or stomach cancer risk screening is needed (e.g., based on high-risk factors or doctor's advice).

Common symptoms among Hong Kong residents include stomach pain, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloody stools, which may be related to digestive system problems. It is also emphasized that the infection rates of hepatitis B and Helicobacter pylori remain high, requiring appropriate testing and early treatment.

First time seeing a gastroenterologist/hepatologist: What is the outpatient procedure?

A typical first medical visit will include:

• Medical history and symptom assessment: location and timing of pain, relationship with diet, changes in bowel movements, family history, medication and health products, alcohol consumption habits, risk of hepatitis, etc.
• Physical examination: abdominal examination, signs of dehydration and anemia, etc.
• Arrange examinations: Blood tests, stool tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT/MRI), or endoscopic examinations (gastroscopy/colonoscopy, etc.) may be arranged as needed.
• Explanation of treatment plan and follow-up: medication, dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and further treatment or referral based on results (if surgical evaluation is required).