General surgery

A general surgery doctor, or general surgeon, is a medical doctor who specializes in surgical procedures. They diagnose and treat a wide range of surgical conditions, including those of the abdominal organs, breast, skin, and soft tissues. General surgeons are also involved in managing traumatic injuries, treating cancer surgically, and caring for critically ill patients with surgical needs. 

 
Key areas of practice for general surgeons include:
  • Abdominal surgery:

    This includes procedures on the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and other abdominal organs. 

     
  • Breast surgery:

    General surgeons can perform procedures for breast cancer, benign breast conditions, and other breast-related issues. 

     
  • Skin and soft tissue surgery:

    This encompasses procedures for skin cancers, cysts, tumors, and other soft tissue conditions. 

     
  • Endocrine surgery:

    This involves surgical procedures on endocrine glands like the thyroid and adrenal glands. 

     
  • Trauma surgery:

    General surgeons play a critical role in managing injuries from accidents, falls, and other traumatic events. 

     
  • Cancer surgery:

    This involves surgical removal of cancerous tissues and tumors, often in combination with other cancer treatments. 

     
  • Emergency surgery:

    General surgeons are often involved in emergency situations, such as performing appendectomies or hernia repairs. 

     
Training and qualifications for a general surgeon:
  • MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery): This is a foundational degree in medicine. 
     
  • MS (Master of Surgery) in General Surgery or DGS (Diploma in General Surgery): This postgraduate degree or diploma provides specialized training in general surgery. 
     
  • Fellowship or further specialization: Some general surgeons may pursue fellowships in specific areas like minimally invasive surgery or surgical oncology. 

Patients see a general surgeon in a wide variety of circumstances. Here are a few of the most common.

Your Doctor Recommends Surgery

If your doctor believes that non-surgical treatments won’t be enough, you may get a referral to a general surgeon. You may need to visit a surgeon when other treatments haven’t worked.

You’re Having a Medical Emergency

Because general surgeons have such broad knowledge, they perform a variety of emergency procedures. You may see a general surgeon if you have appendicitis, a hernia, gallstones, or even a gunshot wound.

 

You Choose an Elective Procedure

An elective surgery is any procedure that you and your doctor schedule in advance. Examples include repairing hernias and performing hemorrhoidectomies, which remove swollen veins in the rectum or anus. 

 

When you visit with a general surgeon, they’ll evaluate you to make sure surgery is the right option for you. They’ll explain the procedure and answer your questions about the procedure.

Your surgeon will tell you how to prepare for the operation, including:

  • Whether you need to take any tests
  • If you need to take or stop taking any medications
  • If you have to stop eating or drinking before the procedure

Your surgeon will also explain what to expect during your recovery. If your surgery requires a hospital stay, they should tell you how long you can expect to be in the hospital and what you will need once you go home.  

 
 

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