‘Dramatic improvement’: Dubai doctors end British expat’s GI nightmare

Dubai: A multidisciplinary team of doctors at a hospital in Dubai has successfully treated a complex case involving multiple severe gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.

The patient, Michael Anthony John Caselberg, a 53-year-old British expat, presented at Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali – part of the Aster DM Healthcare network, with a troubling combination of symptoms, including altered bowel habits, chest discomfort, and severe acid reflux.

5 rare conditions
Caselberg’s diagnosis included moderate inflammation of the food pipe caused by acid reflux (Grade B reflux esophagitis), a large hernia where part of the stomach pushes into the chest (large hiatus hernia), changes in the food pipe lining that can increase cancer risk (Barrett’s esophagus), inflammation and damage in the stomach and small intestine (erosive gastroduodenitis), and growths in the colon (multiple colonic polyps). These conditions are rare and can lead to serious complications, particularly the potential for cancer in the case of Barrett’s esophagus. Large hiatus hernias are found in less than 5 percent of people with hernias, and Barrett’s esophagus affects 1 to 2 per cent of people with chronic GERD (long-term acid reflux).

Surgical procedure

The patient underwent a minimally invasive surgical procedure – laparoscopic fundoplication – to treat the large hiatus hernia and alleviate his severe acid reflux. The surgery was performed by Dr Sandeep Patil, Specialist, General Surgery.

Dr Patil noted that laparoscopic fundoplication is a highly effective and minimally invasive technique for addressing large hiatus hernias and severe acid reflux.

“The procedure’s high success rate globally – ranging from 90 to 95 per cent – is a testament to its effectiveness,” he said.

Multidisciplinary approach

Dr Sandeep Ramesh Sharma, Specialist, Gastroenterology, who led the initial diagnostic evaluation, said: “The successful treatment of Caselberg’s multiple gastrointestinal conditions highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. Our team worked together to ensure precise diagnosis and optimal surgical intervention. The laparoscopic fundoplication procedure has provided him with much-needed symptom relief and sets a high standard for gastrointestinal care in the region.”

Significant improvement

Following surgery, Caselberg was discharged in stable condition on November 2, 2024. His recovery continued without complications, and by his follow-up on November 9, he reported significant improvement in his symptoms.

“I am incredibly thankful to the entire team at Aster Cedars Hospital. They not only diagnosed my conditions accurately but also performed the surgery with such skill that I have already experienced a dramatic improvement in my health,” Caselberg said.

Exercise to reduce risk
Large hiatus hernias are found in less than 5 per cent of people with hernias, and Barrett’s esophagus affects up to 2 per cent of people with chronic GERD / long-term acid reflux. These statistics emphasise how rare and serious Caselberg's case is, highlighting the need for quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Over the past decade, more people in the UAE have been experiencing chronic acid reflux (GERD). In 2014, the Emirates Gastroenterology Society reported that more than 30 per cent of the UAE population (about 3 million people) suffered from acid reflux. GERD was found in 13.5 per cent of the population, with a higher rate (19.2 per cent) among adults over 30. Key risk factors for GERD include age, lack of sleep, arthritis, and depression. However, regular exercise was found to reduce the risk.