The Gastroenterology (GI) Unit at King Faisal Hospital Rwanda is a leading center for the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the digestive system. Staffed by a team of experienced gastroenterologists, hepatologists, endoscopy nurses, and support staff, the unit provides world-class, patient-centered care for conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

With access to advanced imaging and endoscopic technologies, the department offers both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions—minimally invasive, precise, and tailored to individual patient needs.

Conditions Treated

Patients receive expert evaluation and management for a broad spectrum of digestive and hepatobiliary issues, including:

– Acid reflux and peptic ulcer disease
– Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
– Chronic abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea
– Liver diseases: hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis
– Gallbladder and bile duct disorders
– Pancreatic diseases and tumors
– Gastrointestinal bleeding and rectal bleeding
– Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
– Colorectal cancer screening and management

Specialized Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures

The GI Unit is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies that support accurate diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment options, including:

1. Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD) – to visualize and biopsy the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
2. Colonoscopy – for early detection of polyps, cancers, and inflammatory conditions
3. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – an advanced procedure combining endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat disorders of the bile ducts, gallbladder, and pancreas; Removal of bile duct stones; Stent placement for blocked ducts; Management of strictures, infections, and pancreaticobiliary tumors.
4. Liver Elastography – non-invasive liver stiffness testing for chronic liver disease
5. Polypectomy and biopsy sampling – during endoscopic procedures
6. Therapeutic endoscopy – for ulcers, bleeding lesions, and variceal banding

A Multidisciplinary Approach

Care is coordinated across disciplines to ensure holistic treatment. Patients benefit from collaborative input from:

1. Dietitians for nutrition counseling and lifestyle support
2. General and hepatobiliary surgeons for complex cases
3. Internal medicine and oncology teams for co-managed care of systemic diseases

Weight Management through Gastroenterology

Gastric Balloon Placement – A Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solution
For individuals struggling with obesity-related conditions, the GI Unit offers gastric balloon placement, a minimally invasive, non-surgical option for effective weight loss.

How It Works:
– A soft balloon is inserted into the stomach via endoscopy and inflated to occupy space, promoting a feeling of fullness.
– The balloon remains in place for six months to support portion control and sustainable weight loss.

Ideal for:

1. Individuals with a BMI of 27–40
2. Those who have not achieved results through diet and exercise alone

Benefits Include:

1. No incisions, stitches, or permanent alterations
2. Minimal recovery time
3. Structured follow-up, including nutritional guidance and medical supervision
4. Long-term support for lifestyle modification and weight maintenance

Obesity is closely linked to heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic conditions. Gastric balloon therapy empowers patients to take back control of their health safely and effectively.