General surgery is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of surgical conditions affecting a wide range of body systems, including the digestive system, abdominal organs, and breasts. General surgeons are medical doctors who have completed specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of surgical conditions.
General surgery departments in hospitals and other healthcare facilities provide a range of surgical services, including emergency surgery, elective surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. General surgeons may perform procedures such as appendectomies (removal of the appendix), hernia repairs, and colectomies (removal of part or all of the colon). They may also diagnose and treat conditions such as cancer, gallstones, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
A patient may undergo surgery for a variety of reasons, including to diagnose a medical condition, to treat a medical condition, or to repair or remove damaged or abnormal body tissue. Some common reasons why a patient may go for surgery include:
If you have concerns about a medical condition or are considering surgery, it is important to discuss your options with a healthcare professional. They can help you understand the potential risks and benefits of surgery and help you make an informed decision about your care.