Gastroenterologist vs. General Surgeon: Understanding the Key Differences

While they both are board-certified physicians with similar levels of education, gastroenterologists and general surgeons undergo different types of training, and you would see them for different health-related issues.

Identification

• Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat diseases of the digestive tract. General surgeons diagnose disease and manage care before, during and after surgery.

Gastroenterology Training

• Gastroenterologists attend four years of medical school, then complete a three-year internal-medicine residency and a two- to four-year fellowship.

General Surgeon Training

• General surgeons attend medical school for four years and then complete a five-year residency in general surgery studying the digestive tract, the cardiovascular system and cancer treatment, among other things.

When to See a Gastroenterologist

• You might see a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer, liver diseases, ulcers, or bowel or gallbladder diseases.

When to See a General Surgeon

• You might see a general surgeon if you need an operation to repair bones and tissue after trauma. You might also consult with one regarding a disease, disorder or deformity that would respond to surgery.