Gastroenterology is the medical specialty devoted to the digestive system — the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas — and its diseases. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat conditions ranging from reflux, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome to inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, liver cirrhosis, and gastrointestinal cancers. Their signature tool is the endoscope, which lets them see inside the gut, take biopsies, remove polyps, and stop bleeding without open surgery. The specialty blends with nutrition science wherever gut disease impairs digestion and absorption: gastroenterologists work closely with dietitians in managing Crohn’s disease, short bowel syndrome, and food intolerances. It is among the most procedure-heavy of the medical specialties.