A general surgeon is a skilled doctor who specializes in surgeries that involve various parts of the body, from the abdomen to the skin. They treat a range of conditions, and many of the procedures they perform are routine but essential.
If you’re ever in a situation where you need surgery, it’s important to know what types of procedures general surgeons commonly handle.
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General Surgery Procedure
General surgeons are trained to perform a wide range of surgeries. These general surgery procedure often involve internal organs, tissues, and bones, and some are essential for treating conditions that can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
They may work on the stomach, intestines, liver, and gallbladder, among other areas. Let’s take a look at some of the most common surgeries they perform.
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1. Appendectomy (Removal of the Appendix)
One of the most common surgeries general surgeons perform is an appendectomy, which involves removing the appendix. This is usually done when the appendix becomes infected, a condition called appendicitis.
If left untreated, an infected appendix can burst, causing severe complications. This surgery is typically done as an emergency, but it’s very routine for surgeons and is performed through small incisions.
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2. Hernia Repair Surgery
Hernias happen when part of an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. The most common hernias involve the abdomen. General surgeons can perform a hernia repair to push the organ back into place and close the weak spot.
This procedure can be done with minimal incisions and is usually successful with a quick recovery time.
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3. Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy)
The gallbladder is a small organ that helps digest fat. Sometimes, it can develop stones or become infected, leading to pain and other issues. In these cases, a general surgeon may recommend removing the gallbladder through a procedure called cholecystectomy.
This is often done using minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, meaning the surgeon makes small cuts and uses a camera to guide the procedure.
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4. Mastectomy (Breast Removal Surgery)
A mastectomy is a surgery to remove one or both breasts, most often as a treatment for breast cancer. In some cases, women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer may choose to have a preventive mastectomy.
Surgeons who specialize in general surgery are experienced in performing mastectomies with the goal of removing all the cancerous tissue while preserving as much of the surrounding healthy tissue as possible.
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5. Bowel Resection
A bowel resection is a surgery where part of the intestines is removed. This may be necessary for treating diseases like colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, or diverticulitis. After removing the damaged portion, the surgeon will reconnect the healthy sections of the intestines.
This is a more complex procedure but is often crucial for treating severe conditions that affect the digestive system.
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Conclusion
General surgery includes a variety of procedures, ranging from routine to complex. Surgeons who perform these procedures are highly trained and play a vital role in treating many conditions that can impact your health.
Whether it’s an emergency surgery like an appendectomy or a planned procedure such as gallbladder removal, general surgeons have the expertise to help you recover and improve your quality of life.