Surgical Gastroenterology Thesis Topics

Surgical Gastroenterology Thesis Topics

Surgical Gastroenterology (GI Surgery) covers upper gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, pancreatic, colorectal, bariatric and emergency abdominal surgery, with both open and minimally invasive approaches. This page lists 100 detailed Surgical Gastroenterology thesis topics designed for M.Ch GI Surgery residents in India and fellows in GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain), including Arab Board and HPB/Colorectal fellowship programmes.

The content is SEO-targeted for surgical gastroenterology thesis topics, MCh GI surgery dissertation topics India, GI cancer surgery research topics, HPB surgery thesis topics, GCC surgical gastro research ideas, Arab Board GI surgery projects. Most titles are formatted as comparative clinical studies, observational cohorts and cross sectional analyses that are feasible in tertiary GI surgery centres in India and GCC.


1. Esophagus and Stomach (Upper GI Surgery)

Comparative study of laparoscopic Heller’s myotomy with fundoplication versus per-oral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia cardia. Evaluates dysphagia relief, reflux symptoms, manometric changes and complication rates in Indian and GCC cohorts.
Observational study of clinical profile and outcomes of carcinoma esophagus patients undergoing surgical resection in a tertiary GI surgery unit. Analyses stage at presentation, neoadjuvant therapy use, postoperative morbidity and short-term survival.
Cross sectional analysis of Helicobacter pylori status and histopathological spectrum in gastric malignancies operated by GI surgeons. Correlates H. pylori infection, intestinal/diffuse type and lymph node involvement at resection.
Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open repair of perforated duodenal ulcer. Assesses operative time, postoperative pain, wound complications, leak rates and hospital stay.
Observational study of benign gastric outlet obstruction and surgical management patterns in a high-burden centre. Describes etiologies (peptic, caustic, neoplastic), procedures performed and functional outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of upper GI bleed requiring emergency surgery and factors predicting operative intervention. Evaluates failure of endoscopic control, hemodynamic instability and rebleeding predictors.
Comparative study of Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus Billroth II after distal gastrectomy for carcinoma stomach. Reviews bile reflux, dumping symptoms, nutritional status and quality of life.
Observational study of laparoscopic management of paraesophageal and large hiatal hernias. Assesses symptom relief, recurrence on follow-up endoscopy and mesh-related complications.
Cross sectional analysis of nutritional status in patients undergoing major upper GI oncologic resections. Correlates preoperative nutritional indices with postoperative complications and length of stay.
Comparative study of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy responders versus non-responders in locally advanced carcinoma esophagus undergoing surgery. Evaluates pathological complete response, margin negativity and survival trends.

2. Small Intestine Surgery

Observational study of etiological spectrum and outcomes of small bowel obstruction requiring surgical intervention. Includes adhesions, hernias, malignancy, tuberculosis and complications such as short bowel syndrome.
Comparative study of early laparoscopic versus open adhesiolysis for recurrent adhesive small bowel obstruction. Examines conversion rate, bowel injury, postoperative ileus and recurrence.
Cross sectional analysis of perforation peritonitis involving small bowel and its etiological profile in India and GCC regions. Reviews enteric perforations, NSAID-related ulcers, tuberculosis and trauma.
Observational study of short bowel syndrome following extensive small bowel resection. Assesses nutritional management, dependence on parenteral nutrition and quality of life.
Comparative study of primary anastomosis versus stoma formation in emergency small bowel resections. Evaluates anastomotic leak, reoperation, hospital stay and stoma-related morbidity.
Cross sectional analysis of small bowel Crohn’s disease patients undergoing surgery. Correlates indication for surgery, extent of resection, recurrence and need for biologics.
Observational study of mesenteric ischemia presenting as acute abdomen and outcomes after surgical management. Documents risk factors, extent of necrosis, mortality and prognostic indicators.
Comparative study of stapled versus hand-sewn small bowel anastomosis in elective GI surgery. Analyses leak rates, stricture formation, operative time and cost.
Cross sectional analysis of tubercular involvement of small bowel requiring resection. Reviews diagnostic challenges, coexisting pulmonary TB and postoperative complications.
Observational study of incidentally discovered small bowel tumours during laparotomy for other indications. Describes histology, incidental finding frequency and subsequent management.

3. Hepatobiliary Surgery

Observational study of acute cholecystitis and outcomes of early versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Evaluates complications, conversion to open, bile duct injury and readmission rates.
Comparative study of endoscopic versus surgical management of common bile duct stones in a tertiary GI surgery centre. Analyses clearance rates, complications, hospital stay and cost implications.
Cross sectional analysis of iatrogenic bile duct injuries referred for reconstructive surgery. Reviews mechanism of injury, timing of referral, type of reconstruction and long-term stricture rates.
Observational study of hepatocellular carcinoma patients undergoing liver resection. Evaluates underlying liver disease, tumour burden, resection margin and survival.
Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open cholecystectomy in cirrhotic patients where both approaches are used. Assesses bleeding, conversion, postoperative ascites and hospital stay.
Cross sectional analysis of gallbladder carcinoma detected incidentally after cholecystectomy. Documents stage at detection, subsequent completion surgery and outcome.
Observational study of surgical management of hilar cholangiocarcinoma in an HPB centre. Reviews resectability, biliary drainage strategies, postoperative morbidity and survival.
Comparative study of anatomical versus non-anatomical liver resections for colorectal liver metastases where feasible. Evaluates margin status, recurrence and disease-free survival.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative bile leaks after hepatobiliary surgery and their management. Includes conservative, percutaneous and reintervention strategies.
Observational study of benign biliary strictures and outcomes after hepaticojejunostomy. Assesses stricture recurrence, cholangitis episodes and quality-of-life.

4. Pancreatic Surgery

Observational study of acute pancreatitis severity and need for surgical or minimally invasive intervention. Correlates severity scores, imaging findings and timing of interventions such as necrosectomy.
Comparative study of open versus minimally invasive (laparoscopic/endoscopic) necrosectomy in infected pancreatic necrosis. Evaluates morbidity, mortality, hospital stay and fistula formation.
Cross sectional analysis of chronic pancreatitis etiologies and indications for surgical management in an Indian/GCC population. Reviews pain, ductal morphology, endocrine and exocrine insufficiency.
Comparative study of Puestow procedure versus Frey procedure for chronic calcific pancreatitis. Assesses pain relief, weight gain, pancreatic function and reintervention.
Observational study of perioperative outcomes of pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) in a tertiary GI surgery centre. Records margin status, lymph node yield, pancreatic fistula rates and mortality.
Cross sectional analysis of pancreatic fistula after major pancreatic resections and risk factors for clinically significant fistula. Includes gland texture, duct size, anastomotic technique and intraoperative blood loss.
Comparative study of soft versus hard pancreatic texture in predicting complications after Whipple procedure. Evaluates correlation with fistula, delayed gastric emptying and hospital stay.
Observational study of cystic lesions of the pancreas and their surgical management. Analyses radiological features, histology and malignant potential.
Cross sectional analysis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours undergoing surgical resection. Reviews functional status, staging, type of resection and survival.
Comparative study of ERAS-based perioperative care versus conventional care in pancreatic resections. Assesses pain control, bowel recovery, length of stay and readmissions.

5. Colorectal Surgery

Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open anterior resection for rectosigmoid carcinoma. Evaluates lymph node harvest, margin status, postoperative recovery and short-term oncologic outcomes.
Observational study of colorectal cancer demographics and stage at diagnosis in an Indian/GCC tertiary centre. Describes age distribution, risk factors, screening status and treatment patterns.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative anastomotic leak in colorectal surgery and associated risk factors. Includes nutritional markers, steroid use, neoadjuvant therapy and intraoperative parameters.
Comparative study of sphincter-saving surgery versus abdominoperineal resection in low rectal cancer where both are feasible. Assesses local control, functional outcome and quality-of-life.
Observational study of ulcerative colitis patients requiring colectomy and postoperative outcomes. Reviews indications, operative procedures, complications and long-term pouch function where applicable.
Cross sectional analysis of stoma-related complications in patients undergoing colorectal surgery. Examines skin problems, parastomal hernia, retraction and impact on daily living.
Comparative study of mechanical versus no bowel preparation in elective left-sided colorectal resections. Evaluates infection rates, leak rates and hospital stay.
Observational study of diverticular disease of colon requiring surgical management in Indian and GCC practice. Assesses complications, emergency versus elective resections and stoma rates.
Cross sectional analysis of functional outcomes after low anterior resection using validated bowel function scores. Includes frequency, urgency, incontinence and patient satisfaction.
Comparative study of hand-sewn versus stapled colorectal anastomosis in elective resections. Reviews leak, stricture, time taken and cost.

6. Gastrointestinal Oncology (Multimodal & Surgical Outcomes)

Observational study of multimodal management of gastric carcinoma in a GI oncology unit. Reviews use of perioperative chemotherapy, surgery type and early oncologic outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of colorectal cancer tumour regression grades after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Correlates regression with margin negativity, nodal status and recurrence.
Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open resections for non-metastatic colorectal cancer where both are routine. Evaluates oncologic adequacy, recovery metrics and early recurrence.
Observational study of quality-of-life in patients after curative resection for GI malignancies. Uses validated cancer-specific QOL tools to assess physical, emotional and social domains.
Cross sectional analysis of margin positivity and re-excision rates in GI cancer resections. Identifies tumour-related and technical factors associated with R1 resections.
Comparative study of open versus minimally invasive esophagectomy outcomes where expertise exists. Assesses postoperative complications, hospital stay, lymph node yield and early survival.
Observational study of synchronous and metachronous metastases in GI cancers undergoing curative surgery. Reviews patterns, timing and their influence on surveillance strategies.
Cross sectional analysis of adherence to multidisciplinary tumour board recommendations in GI oncology patients. Evaluates reasons for deviation and impact on outcomes.
Comparative study of outcomes in elderly versus non-elderly patients undergoing major GI cancer surgery. Assesses perioperative morbidity, mortality and length of stay.
Observational study of postoperative venous thromboembolism incidence after GI oncology surgery. Reviews prophylaxis protocols, risk factors and clinical outcomes.

7. Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery

Comparative study of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in morbid obesity. Evaluates excess weight loss, comorbidity resolution and nutritional deficiencies over two years.
Observational study of early and late complications after bariatric surgery in an Indian/GCC centre. Includes leaks, strictures, micronutrient deficiencies and weight regain.
Cross sectional analysis of bariatric surgery patients and changes in type 2 diabetes control postoperatively. Correlates HbA1c changes, medication reduction and remission rates.
Comparative study of obstructive sleep apnea improvement after different bariatric procedures. Assesses polysomnography parameters and symptom scores at follow-up.
Observational study of quality-of-life before and after bariatric surgery using validated obesity QOL scales. Explores body image, physical activity and social participation changes.
Cross sectional analysis of micronutrient supplementation adherence in post-bariatric patients. Evaluates deficiencies, factors affecting compliance and counselling efficacy.
Comparative study of revisional bariatric surgery versus primary bariatric procedures. Looks at complication profile, weight loss outcomes and hospital stay.
Observational study of bariatric surgery outcomes in adolescents undergoing metabolic surgery. Reviews indications, comorbidity resolution and psychosocial changes.
Cross sectional analysis of gallstone formation after rapid weight loss in bariatric surgery patients. Assesses incidence, risk factors and prophylactic strategies.
Comparative study of ERAS protocols versus standard care in bariatric surgery patients. Evaluates time to mobilisation, pain scores, discharge and readmissions.

8. Minimally Invasive and Robotic Gastrointestinal Surgery

Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open right hemicolectomy for colon cancer where both are standard. Evaluates operative metrics, lymph node yield, recovery and early oncological outcomes.
Observational study of the learning curve in laparoscopic colorectal resections among GI surgery trainees. Assesses operative time, conversion rate, complication trends and case numbers needed for proficiency.
Cross sectional analysis of indications and outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery in centres with established programmes. Reviews case mix, technical advantages, cost and short-term results.
Comparative study of laparoscopic versus open distal pancreatectomy in selected patients. Evaluates blood loss, hospital stay, morbidity and oncologic adequacy.
Observational study of laparoscopic management of perforation peritonitis in stable patients. Describes selection criteria, intraoperative findings and postoperative outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of ergonomics and surgeon fatigue in laparoscopic GI surgery. Uses questionnaires and objective assessment of posture and discomfort.
Comparative study of single-incision laparoscopic versus conventional multiport cholecystectomy. Reviews operative difficulty, cosmesis, pain scores and complications.
Observational study of conversion rates and reasons for conversion in laparoscopic GI surgeries. Analyses case complexity, BMI, adhesions and unexpected pathology.
Cross sectional analysis of patient satisfaction with scars and recovery after minimally invasive versus open GI surgeries. Uses patient surveys and cosmetic scores.
Comparative study of cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic versus open GI resections in Indian and GCC settings. Considers operative costs, consumables, hospital stay and return to work.

9. GI Trauma, Emergency Surgery and Critical Care

Observational study of abdominal trauma patterns requiring GI surgical intervention in a tertiary trauma centre. Reviews mechanisms, injured organs, operative procedures and outcomes.
Comparative study of non-operative versus operative management of blunt liver and splenic injuries where protocols exist. Evaluates success rates, transfusion needs and complications.
Cross sectional analysis of hollow viscus perforation peritonitis and delay in presentation in Indian and GCC populations. Correlates delay with contamination severity, sepsis and postoperative morbidity.
Observational study of re-laparotomy indications and outcomes in emergency GI surgery. Records timing, cause (anastomotic leak, bleeding, sepsis) and mortality.
Comparative study of damage control laparotomy versus definitive surgery in haemodynamically unstable abdominal trauma. Assesses survival, complications and need for staged procedures.
Cross sectional analysis of postoperative ICU admissions after emergency GI surgery. Evaluates indications, organ support needs and risk factors for mortality.
Observational study of antibiotic usage patterns in peritonitis and their alignment with culture sensitivity reports. Looks at empirical regimens, escalation, de-escalation and resistance.
Comparative study of early versus delayed enteral feeding in patients undergoing emergency laparotomy for GI pathology. Evaluates tolerance, infection rates, wound healing and length of stay.
Cross sectional analysis of septic shock outcomes in GI surgical ICU patients. Reviews source control, vasopressor requirements and organ failure scores.
Observational study of acute mesenteric ischemia presenting as emergency and postoperative survival predictors. Assesses time to surgery, bowel viability and comorbidity burden.

10. Postoperative Outcomes, Quality Metrics and Complications

Observational study of surgical site infections after major GI surgery and associated risk factors. Includes wound class, duration of surgery, glycaemic control and antibiotic prophylaxis protocols.
Comparative study of ERAS protocols versus conventional perioperative care in elective colorectal and upper GI surgery. Evaluates time to oral intake, ambulation, complications and readmission.
Cross sectional analysis of unplanned readmissions within 30 days following major GI surgery. Identifies causes such as wound issues, ileus, dehydration and anastomotic complications.
Observational study of postoperative ileus after colorectal and small bowel surgery. Assesses incidence, risk factors and impact on length of hospital stay.
Comparative study of different analgesia strategies (epidural versus intravenous opioids) in major abdominal GI surgery. Evaluates pain scores, pulmonary complications and mobilisation.
Cross sectional analysis of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis adherence in GI surgical patients. Reviews protocol implementation, missed doses and VTE incidence.
Observational study of long-term nutritional status after major upper GI resections. Uses BMI, serum markers and patient-reported symptoms such as dumping and reflux.
Comparative study of stapled versus hand-sewn anastomosis leak rates across different GI segments in a single institution. Provides comprehensive analysis across oesophagus, stomach, small bowel and colon.
Cross sectional analysis of patient-reported quality-of-life after major GI surgery using validated instruments. Includes physical, emotional and social functioning domains in India and GCC populations.
Observational study of hospital performance indicators in a GI surgery unit, including mortality index, reoperation rate and length of stay. Benchmarks outcomes against published standards to identify areas for quality improvement.