Minimally Invasive & Open Approaches
As a specialist Upper GI surgeon, I perform a range of advanced operations for both cancer and complex benign conditions of the oesophagus and stomach.
These are often major procedures—but with modern keyhole (laparoscopic) and hybrid techniques, we can offer safer surgery, faster recovery, and better outcomes than ever before.
All operations are tailored to each patient, with planning through a multidisciplinary team (MDT) involving oncologists, radiologists, dietitians, anaesthetists, and more.
Gastrectomy means removing part or all of the stomach. It’s most commonly performed to treat gastric (stomach) cancer, and the approach depends on tumour size, location, and stage.
We offer:
Removal of the entire stomach
Removal of the lower part of the stomach
Where appropriate, these are performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques, sometimes combined with a small open incision (hybrid approach).
We perform:
Not all stomach tumours are cancers. Some—like GISTs (gastrointestinal stromal tumours) or neuroendocrine tumours (NETs)—can often be removed with smaller, focused or more tailored resections.
Surgical options include:
For larger or deep tumours
Ideal for many GISTs, depending on location
We work closely with pathologists and medical oncologists to guide further treatment if needed.
Organ-preserving where possible
Minimally invasive when safe
Curative intent where appropriate
Oesophagectomy is the surgical removal of part or all of the oesophagus, usually with reconstruction using the stomach or bowel.
It’s most often performed for oesophageal cancer, which is a relatively common and serious condition. The two main types are:
Minimally invasive when safe
Curative intent where appropriate
End-stage achalasia
Severe corrosive injury
Complex or failed previous surgeries
We offer:
This is a state-of-the-art approach that uses keyhole techniques to access both the abdomen (laparoscopy) and chest (thoracoscopy), performed as either a 2-stage or 3-stageprocedure depending on tumour location and patient factors.
At Auckland City Hospital, we have pioneered the introduction of MIO in New Zealand, developing one of the country’s highest-volume programs.
Most of our cases are performed using a two-surgeon model, with both consultants operating together.
This approach:
Enhances intraoperative decision-making
Improves technical precision
Enables shared responsibility for post-operative care and complication management
Combining keyhole and open techniques
still required in some advanced or complex cases
All patients undergoing major Upper GI surgery are discussed in a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting and receive ongoing care from:
Upper GI anaesthetists
Specialist dietitians
Nurse Practitioner
Medical and Radiation Oncologists
Specialist nurses and physiotherapists
At EVEN8, surgery is never just a one-off event — it’s a carefully supported journey. From the first appointment through to long-term recovery, you’ll be guided by a team that puts your safety and wellbeing first.
Your journey begins with a thorough discussion about your health, history, and goals. We’ll review scans, tests, and any previous treatments to understand your unique situation.
If further tests are needed, we arrange these quickly — from imaging and blood work to endoscopy — so we have a clear picture before moving forward.
Every case is reviewed in a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting, where surgeons, oncologists, dietitians, anaesthetists, and other specialists collaborate to create the safest and most effective plan for you.
Depending on your condition, we use minimally invasive (keyhole), hybrid, or open approaches. In many cases, two consultant surgeons operate together for added safety and precision.
You’ll be closely monitored in hospital with access to specialist nursing, dietitian support, and physiotherapy. Most patients are up and moving within days.
Care doesn’t stop after discharge. We provide ongoing follow-up, nutritional support, and coordination with your GP and other specialists to help you return to normal life with confidence.
