The digestive and hepatobiliary systems are responsible for digestion and absorption of nutrition for all metabolic activities of the body. The liver, apart from taking part in digestion, also participates in a number of important functions. Diseases of these two systems are a major cause of morbidity and mortality.

The objective of this course is to give the students a general view of the structure and function of the digestive and hepatobiliary systems and the common diseases affecting it. This is achieved in the following aspects: (1) The anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract and the hepatobiliary system; (2) Investigation of gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases; (3) Major manifestations of gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases; (4) Overview of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract: Esophagus, Stomach and duodenum, Small intestines, Pancreas, Colon and rectum; (5) Overview of diseases affecting the hepatobiliary system: Liver, Biliary system; and (6) Study of clinical cases.