Operations Performed by Dr. Doris Kim
Dr. Doris Kim specializes in a comprehensive range of advanced bariatric, foregut, and general surgical procedures, all performed with a patient-centered, minimally invasive approach in Madison, Wisconsin. Whether you’re seeking long-term relief from acid reflux, exploring surgical weight loss options, or in need of hernia or gallbladder surgery, Dr. Kim offers expert care tailored to your needs. Below, you’ll find detailed information on each procedure she performs—designed to help you better understand your treatment options and feel confident in your care.
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A sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical weight-loss procedure where approximately 75–80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a narrow, tube-like “sleeve.” This limits food intake and reduces hunger by lowering levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
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Weight-loss surgery that involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. This reduces calorie absorption and limits food intake, promoting significant and sustained weight loss.
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The SADI-S is a bariatric procedure that combines a sleeve gastrectomy with a bypass of part of the small intestine. This approach reduces stomach size and limits calorie absorption, promoting significant weight loss and improvement in metabolic conditions.
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Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (ESG) is a non-surgical weight loss procedure that uses an endoscope to place sutures inside the stomach, reducing its size without any incisions. This minimally invasive approach helps patients feel full sooner and supports long-term weight loss with a quicker recovery time.
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TORe is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to treat weight regain after gastric bypass surgery. It involves using an endoscope to reduce the size of the stomach outlet (the gastrojejunal anastomosis), helping patients feel full sooner and regain control of their weight loss without the need for additional surgery.
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Performed to correct or modify a previous weight loss surgery. It may be needed due to complications, inadequate weight loss, or weight regain. These surgeries can involve adjusting, converting, or repairing the original operation to restore effectiveness and improve patient outcomes.
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Hiatal hernia repair surgery is a procedure to correct a condition where part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. The surgery involves repositioning the stomach back into the abdomen and tightening the opening in the diaphragm to prevent future herniation. It is often performed using minimally invasive techniques and can help relieve symptoms like acid reflux, chest discomfort, and difficulty swallowing.
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Paraesophageal hernia repair surgery is performed to fix a type of hiatal hernia where part of the stomach pushes up alongside the esophagus into the chest. Unlike typical hiatal hernias, this condition can lead to serious complications like strangulation of the stomach. The surgery involves repositioning the stomach, repairing the diaphragm opening, and often reinforcing the area with sutures or mesh. It’s typically done laparoscopically to reduce recovery time and discomfort.
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Toupet fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (the fundus) partially—270 degrees—around the back of the lower esophagus to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter. Unlike the full Nissen fundoplication, the Toupet approach is a partial wrap, allowing for better esophageal function in patients with weak swallowing muscles. This technique helps prevent acid reflux while reducing the risk of swallowing difficulties.
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Nissen fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by reinforcing the lower esophageal sphincter. During the operation, the top part of the stomach (the fundus) is wrapped completely—360 degrees—around the lower esophagus, creating a tighter valve to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This procedure is often performed laparoscopically and can provide long-term relief from reflux symptoms. It may also help repair hiatal hernias when present.
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LINX Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It involves placing a small, flexible ring of magnetic beads around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to help it stay closed and prevent acid reflux, while still allowing food and liquid to pass through. The device strengthens the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus without altering anatomy. Most patients experience significant relief from heartburn and regurgitation with a short recovery time.
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Diaphragm hernia repair is a surgical procedure to correct a defect or opening in the diaphragm that allows abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity. This condition can be present at birth (congenital Morgagni or Bochdalek hernias) or develop later in life due to injury or pressure. The surgery involves repositioning the displaced organs and closing the hole in the diaphragm, often with sutures or mesh for reinforcement.
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Revisional foregut surgery refers to a corrective or follow-up procedure performed after a previous foregut operation. It is typically done to address complications, persistent symptoms (like acid reflux or swallowing difficulties), or anatomical changes that develop over time. Common examples include revisions of fundoplication and recurrent hiatal hernia repairs.
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Enterra Gastric Stimulator Insertion is a surgical procedure used to treat gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach empties too slowly. The procedure involves implanting a small, battery-powered device under the skin of the abdomen, with leads attached to the stomach wall. The stimulator sends mild electrical pulses to help regulate stomach contractions and improve gastric emptying. This therapy can reduce symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and bloating in patients who do not respond well to medications.
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Heller myotomy with partial fundoplication is a surgical procedure used to treat achalasia, a condition where the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to relax, making it difficult to swallow. During the procedure, the surgeon cuts the muscles of the LES (Heller myotomy) to allow food and liquid to pass into the stomach more easily. To prevent acid reflux after the myotomy, a partial fundoplication is performed—wrapping part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to reinforce the valve without obstructing swallowing. This combined approach relieves symptoms while minimizing postoperative reflux.
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Subtotal gastrectomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the stomach is removed, typically to treat conditions like stomach cancer, severe ulcers, or noncancerous tumors.
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Ventral, umbilical, incisional, inguinal, and femoral hernia repairs are surgical procedures to correct different types of hernias—conditions where internal tissue or organs bulge through weakened areas in the abdominal wall.
Ventral hernia repair treats hernias in the front (ventral) part of the abdomen.
Umbilical hernia repair addresses bulges near the belly button.
Incisional hernia repair fixes hernias that occur at the site of a previous surgical incision.
Inguinal hernia repair targets hernias in the groin.
Femoral hernia repair is done near the upper thigh, more common in women.
Each repair involves pushing the bulging tissue back into place and strengthening the muscle wall—often using mesh—to prevent recurrence. These procedures can be performed through open or minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) techniques.
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Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, typically performed to treat gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), or infection.
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An appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, most often performed to treat appendicitis, a condition where the appendix becomes inflamed or infected.
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Small bowel resection is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the small intestine is removed due to conditions like cancer, Crohn’s disease, blockages, bleeding, or injury. The healthy ends of the intestine are then reconnected (anastomosis) to allow normal digestion to continue. This surgery can be performed using open or minimally invasive techniques. Recovery depends on the length of bowel removed and the underlying condition being treated.