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The Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery is dedicated to research in the areas of outcomes, health services and education. We specifically focus on research surrounding foregut, bariatric, colorectal and hernia surgery.  We participate in clinical trials and collaboratives and partner with researcher within the University of North Carolina and around the country.  Our faculty research is funded from within our institution, from national societies and as well as industry.

Clinical Studies

  • National trends in the utilization of foregut procedures
  • Outcomes after laparoscopic surgery for GERD, hiatal hernia, morbid obesity and achalasia
  • Relationship of antireflux surgery and gallbladder function
  • Recovery of esophageal function after antireflux surgery
  • Hypercoagulabilty and the use of inferior vena cava filters in gastric bypass patients
  • Creation of clinical guidelines for bariatric, biliary, and foregut procedures
  • Clinical outcomes of patients with complex pancreatic and biliary diseases such as acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic pseudocysts, and pancreatic neoplasms
  • Post-operative prevention of abdominal/intestinal adhesions
  • Medical/surgical management of Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Laboratory/Basic Science

  • Developing novel procedures for morbid obesity treatment

Education Studies

  • Use of virtual reality simulators in the training of surgical residents
  • Assessing variables related to resident well-being
  • Improving methods for assessment of students