Complex Abdominal Surgery Program

In addition to surgeons, our team includes experts in nursing, nutrition, intensive care medicine, wound care, plastic surgery, pharmacology and infectious disease. Our extensive experience ensures that each patient receives the best possible care at each stage of treatment.

Our Outcomes

Our patient outcomes far surpass national averages. Patients with complex ventral hernias treated at UCSF have a recurrence rate of approximately 18 percent, compared to a national recurrence rate of 30 to 40 percent. The mortality rate for patients with severe acute pancreatitis treated at UCSF is about 7 percent, compared to a 25 to 40 percent mortality rate nationally.

Our Services

Gastrointestinal surgery – Our gastrointestinal surgeons are known for their ability to treat high-risk patients, including those routinely turned down for surgery at other medical centers.

Physical rehabilitation – Physical therapists work to reduce the risk of postoperative complications by ensuring that patients become active as soon as possible following procedures. These experts also provide education to patients and their caregivers on abdominal incisions and train them on movement techniques to reduce discomfort.

Long-term care – Many patients require care for six to nine months. Our three-step approach includes an initial evaluation, treatment optimization and management.

Wound care – Our team of wound-care specialists is trained in advanced techniques, customizing each treatment plan to the patient's individual needs.

Plastic surgery – Following surgery for complex abdominal conditions, our plastic surgeons restore the integrity of all parts of the abdominal wall.

Innovations and Research

Severe acute pancreatitis – UCSF surgeons have developed and perform innovative, evidence-based surgical techniques for blunt necrosectomy (removal of tissue that has died) and step-up necrosectomy (a minimally invasive approach). Together with state-of-the-art management techniques, these procedures result in better patient outcomes.

Enterocutaneous fistulas (ECF) – Patients with enterocutaneous fistulas particularly benefit from a team approach, with general surgeons, nurses, enterostomal therapists, social workers and nutritionists who are all familiar with the complex problems that often occur in ECF.

Complex ventral hernias – While UCSF researchers work to further our understanding of complex ventral hernias, our general surgery team has expertise in the full range of therapeutic options. General and plastic surgeons work closely to optimize reconstruction of the abdominal wall.