Woodlands Hospital, Darlington, is holding an open evening to talk about gut health, gallbladder disease and hernias on Wednesday, 22 November, between 6pm and 8pm.

Consultant Surgeon, Mr Dariush Kamali – a specialist in colorectal and general surgery – will be hosting the event, and routinely deals with a wide variety of gastrointestinal problems such bowel cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as more common problems such as diseases affecting your gallbladder, hernias, haemorrhoids, and other benign colorectal conditions. 

“Colorectal issues are sometimes considered taboo subjects, and patients can be very hesitant about seeking help,” explains Mr Kamali. “However, early intervention can prevent more serious problems later on. As a cancer surgeon, I sometimes see patients who come with symptoms that they’ve had for months because they were too embarrassed to come sooner.” 

Mr Kamali graduated from Nottingham Medical School in 2008, and has experience working in both the NHS and private practice. 

He is one of only a few surgeons in the country who carries out single incision laparoscopy, an advanced form of keyhole surgery, and in some patients, the operation leaves no visible scar. Mr Kamali believes that in these patients, recovery is quicker, and, cosmetically, it is better where a scar might cause concern. 

He has also developed a colonic stenting service for patients with bowel obstruction due to bowel cancer. Were this practice not available, a stoma would be created by bringing the intestine to an opening in the skin and attaching a stoma bag to collect waste. Instead, due to the procedure Mr Kamali performs, the stent relieves the blockage, without the need for a stoma bag and the patient often goes home the next day. In addition to treating bowel conditions, Mr  Kamali regularly sees patients with gallbladder disease in addition to many different types of hernia problems. Patients are offered day case surgery and treated by keyhole or open surgery where appropriate. 

The Northern Echo: Consultant Surgeon, Mr Dariush KamaliConsultant Surgeon, Mr Dariush Kamali (Image: Woodlands Hospital)

Mr Kamali has also introduced a new treatment to patients at the Woodlands who are suffering with pilonidal sinus disease. Whilst there are many different treatment options for this condition, many have a high failure rate. 

Mr Kamali offers fibrin glue treatment as a day-case surgery procedure, with no need for complex would dressings. Initial results for patients at the Woodlands are very good with a quick return to activity. 

“Patients with this disease have often been suffering for a long time,” explains Mr Kamali. “The demographic affected are often young, active, patients who want to quickly get back to work or physical activity. With this procedure they can do that within 24 to 48 hours.” 

Choosing to have self-pay treatment at Woodlands Hospital means that patients will be seen quickly, will have adequate time to discuss their issue with their specialist and have everything explained clearly, and will receive continuity of care.

At the event, Mr Kamali will be explaining the work that he does, and will be happy to answer questions from the audience, as well as speak to individuals about their own concerns.

Mr Kamali says: “I am happy to answer questions about gut health issues that people are reluctant to talk about. As a specialist in this field, I have a moral and professional obligation to speak about these things so that they’re not trivialised.”

Hospital representatives from the marketing and patient liaison teams will be on hand, as well.

If you would like to attend the event on Wednesday, November 22nd, from 6pm - 8pm, please click here to register your place, or call and speak with Woodlands Hospital Patient Liaison Officers on 01325 341786.

Complimentary light snack and refreshments will be provided.

Please click here to find out more information about the services that Mr Kamali provides.

Woodlands Hospital, Morton Park, Darlington DL1 4PL