7.jpg

DM - Gastroenterology

  • 58 Colleges

Gastroenterology deals with the digestive system and various diseases related to the gastrointestinal tract..

Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that primarily deals with the digestive system and various diseases related to the gastrointestinal tract. The focus area of a gastroenterologist is not just limited to the intestine and stomach, but the discipline finds its significance in other affected areas like the rectum, colon, esophagus etc. They are in charge of executing endoscopic procedures for the diagnosis of the gastrointestinal tract. And only the gastrointestinal surgeon is permitted to do surgery, not the gastroenterologist. However, with the progression of research on internal medicine, this discipline has been witnessing increasing demand for a gastroenterologist. As per the study, 4/10 adults in the world are affected by functional gastrointestinal disorders of varying degree. And the prevalence of it is much higher in some countries like India. 

DM in Gastroenterology is a thoroughly structured and highly supervised course. The purpose of the course is to provide intensive didactic information and first-hand practical experience of inpatient and outpatient basis training in this field of medicine. It is aimed at students wishing to pursue a career in the speciality of Gastroenterology. The course is designed to prepare the students in all aspects of Gastroenterology along with its allied subspecialties of the immune system of the gastrointestinal tract, esophagus, anatomy, histology and functions of stomach, anatomy of small intestine, basic histology and functions of colon, physiology, anatomy and developmental anomalies of Pancreas, the basic science of nutrition and normal nutrition requirements, peritoneum and retroperitoneum, liver function test and it's anatomy, and many other subjects. With the growing number of complications in the immune system, it has become important to specialize the learners in the fundamental principles of gastroenterology so that they can render their consultative assistance too. It is expected that during the course the students will gain proficiency in many aspects of medical science and will be able to cater to the needs of the patient in alliance with the various health policies in the discipline of gastroenterology and hepatology in alignment with medico-legal aspects related to this field. The curriculum is designed in such a manner that it demands participation in thesis, clinical audit, seminars, journal clubs, case conferences and discussions, research methodology, clinical epidemiology, combined round and practical exposure of first-hand knowledge and theories of teachings. The curriculum also provides additional competency in interpreting and examining biostatistics, ultrasonography, electrolyte and acid base analysis, Endoscopic training, GI radiology, gastrointestinal pathology, laboratory methods along with great observation skills, soft skills, negotiating skills. Overall, the course prepares the students for a highly skilled job through both intensive didactic lectures and advanced training programs in gastroenterology.


The course can be taken by the candidates who have completed M.D in General Medicine or MD Paediatrics from a recognized university. Admission to this course is solely based on the merit-based entrance exam. The length of the course is 3 years. A career in this field is very promising as one can seek employment in sectors like government hospitals, private clinics, biomedical research centres, various healthcare units, medical universities and many more. The job roles offered are medical executive, surgeon, gastrointestinal oncologist, gastrointestinal physiology specialist, general gastroenterologist, consultant, professor, and many others. And if one wants to enrich one’s understanding of this field, the option of further studies is always open.

Advertisement