The gastroenterological system is involved in the passage, digestion, absorption and excretion of food, and consists of organs such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, biliary tract and pancreas. As well as being organs that span a wide area, there are a great many associated diseases, including malignant tumors (cancer), inflammatory diseases and functional diseases. Further, we have come to know that each of the organs and diseases are mutually involved like warp and woof.

Presently, medical care of the gastroenterological system is conducted separately by gastroenterology and gastroenterological surgery at most hospitals. However, believing that cooperation as needed between the two would be better for both patients and medical staff, rather than completely separate treatment of diseases in the same organs by internal medicine and surgery, the Center for Digestive System was launched in April 2013. Even before, the course of treatment for some diseases was determined in joint review sessions including Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gastroenterological Surgery, Radiology and Pathology, but each of the treatments was conducted independently. By establishing the Center for Digestive System, the mutual transitions of diagnosis, medical treatment and surgical treatment will be seamless, making possible quick response to complex pathologies and continual medical care that is appropriate to the medical condition.