What to expect from GI surgery

Our compassionate and patient-centered approach to gastrointestinal surgery ensures personalized care throughout your journey with Penn Medicine, from diagnosis and treatment planning to recovery and long-term support.

A woman sits up in a hospital bed wearing a gown as she talks with her male doctor about her surgery

Consistent gastrointestinal care from consultation to recovery

If you or someone you love needs gastrointestinal (GI) surgery, you’re in skilled hands with Penn Medicine’s GI surgery team. Our passion for patient-centered care means we provide personalized care with unwavering compassion and support — whenever and however long you need us.

Much about your GI surgery care journey will depend on details specific to you (such as the type of surgery you’re having and your needs). Here, we’ve laid out general steps that often apply to our GI surgery care experience.

Gastrointestinal surgery consultation and preparation

We review everything you need to know ahead of your GI surgery, starting with the initial consultation with your health care provider through surgery prep.

Our approach to GI surgery

When you choose Penn Medicine for gastrointestinal surgery, you can expect:

  • World-class expertise: Our GI surgeons include national and international leaders in diverse areas of GI surgery. We have a long and successful track record of treating a wide range of complex problems with precision.
  • Convenient locations: Our skilled care teams perform surgery at three downtown Philadelphia hospitals and other locations throughout the region so you can get the care you need close to home.
  • Dedicated GI surgery care teams and recovery floors: You’ll be cared for by experienced surgeons as well as highly trained anesthesiologists and nurses. We understand the needs of patients facing similar situations, and we prioritize your safety and comfort at all times.
  • Minimally invasive options: Our surgeons stay up to date on the latest care innovations, and we appropriately use the least invasive surgery techniques that fit your needs. Laparoscopic (which uses tiny incisions) and robotic gastrointestinal surgery offers many patients an easier recovery with less pain.

Recovery after gastrointestinal surgery

Gastrointestinal surgery recovery time is different for everyone. Your recovery will depend on many factors. One main factor is the type of surgery you’re having. Recovery from an outpatient (same-day) hernia repair will be different from recovery after major liver resection surgery.

Your age and overall health can also impact your recovery. No matter what procedure you’re having, our goal is always to help speed your healing however we can.

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