Hepatology: An Overview of this Branch of Medical Science

Hepatology is a prominent branch of medical science. It deals with the study, prevention, treatment, and management of various ailments that affect the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and biliary tree. 

There are a number of crucial ailments that hepatologists deal with frequently, alcohol-related liver diseases and viral hepatitis being two of the most common ones. Hepatitis is a disease that is known to affect millions of people across the planet every year. This disease may also cause various long-term problems in the form of liver cancer and other severe medical conditions. Hepatitis B and C are, in particular, considered to be the two major factors that can eventually cause liver cancer in individuals. A high level of alcohol abuse, on the other hand, is quite commonly linked with medical conditions like liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.

A brief insight on the medical professionals specialising in Hepatology

Hepatology was traditionally considered to be a subspecialty of gastroenterology. It has, however, over the years emerged as a freestanding specialty, as many doctors nowadays choose to specialise in this domain of medical science. People can find some of the best hepatologists Delhi, Mumbai, Gurgaon and many other urban centers of the nation.
 

The liver is a critical organ that can be affected by a number of factors. Hence, this organ is typically the key focal point in hepatology. A number of hepatologists only assess patients after they have been referred by relevant doctors. Many hepatologists may also be involved in the follow-up of patients who have gone through a liver transplant. 

• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatograph: This is a technique that combines the use of both fluoroscopy and endoscopy for the purpose of diagnosing and treating various pancreatic and biliary ailments. 
• Transhepatic pancreato-cholangiography: This is a type of an X-ray procedure that helps in detecting obstruction in the liver or bile ducts of the body. 
• Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: This is an artificial channel that is made in order to create a connection between the portal and hepatic veins.
• Apart from caring for the patients, hepatologists may also be involved in conducting valuable research.