Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction: Rethinking IBS and Functional GI Syndromes

Learning outcomes

• Discuss the spectrum of Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBIs), including IBS, functional dyspepsia, and functional gastroparesis, and their underlying neuro-gastroenterological mechanisms
• Describe evidence-based first-line management strategies, including dietary, pharmacologic, and psychological interventions, and when to escalate care

Biography

Dr Ashwin Patwardhan is an Australian and internationally trained Gastroenterologist and Interventional Endoscopist with expertise in pancreaticobiliary disease and advanced therapeutic endoscopy. Dr Patwardhan clinical interests include general hepatology, cancer prevention through high-quality screening endoscopy, and disorders of gut–brain interaction such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Dr Patwardhan completed two dedicated fellowships in interventional endoscopy — first at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, and subsequently an international fellowship at The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, one of the UK’s leading liver transplant centres.

Dr Patwardhan performs diagnostic and therapeutic procedures including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, ERCP, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), endoluminal stenting, and endoscopic mucosal resection of colorectal polyps.

Dr Patwardhan consults in Glen Iris and provide inpatient gastroenterology and hepatology services at Cabrini Malvern.