General surgery generally includes a surgical central core knowledge embracing anatomy, physiology, metabolism, immunology, nutrition, pathology, wound healing, shock and resuscitation, intensive care, and neoplasia, which are common to all surgical specialties.
What do general surgeons specialize in?
A general surgeon has a specialty in nine primary components of surgery:
Alimentary tract
Abdomen and its contents
Breast, skin, and soft tissue
Head and neck, including trauma, vascular, endocrine, congenital, and oncologic disorders - particularly tumors of the skin, salivary glands, thyroid, parathyroid, and the oral cavity
Vascular system, excluding the intracranial vessels and heart
The endocrine system, including the thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and endocrine pancreas
Surgical oncology, including coordinated multimodality management of the cancer patient by screening, surveillance, surgical adjunctive therapy, rehabilitation, and follow-up
Comprehensive management of trauma, including musculoskeletal, hand, and head injuries. The responsibility for all phases of care of the injured patient is an essential component of general surgery.
Complete care of critically ill patients with underlying surgical conditions, in the emergency room, intensive care unit, and trauma/burn units
What do general surgeons do?
A general surgeon has specialized knowledge of the entire surgical process, from the initial evaluation through preparation, procedure, and post-operative management. They will recommend whether you need surgery and what kind of surgery would be appropriate. General surgeons know:
The body’s healthy structure and function
How wounds heal
How blood flows and clots
How the immune system functions
Infections and antibiotics
What are the reasons to see a general surgeon?
Patients see a general surgeon in a wide variety of circumstances. Some of the most common are:
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: Elective surgery is any procedure that you and your doctor schedule in advance. Examples include tonsillectomies, which remove the tonsils at the back of the throat, and hemorrhoidectomies, which remove swollen veins in the rectum or anus.
What to expect from a general surgeon?
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.
Conclusion
General surgery stands as a pivotal field within the medical profession, characterized by its broad scope and the integral role it plays in addressing a wide array of surgical needs. General surgeons are equipped with a comprehensive knowledge base and a versatile skill set, enabling them to perform a variety of procedures that can significantly improve patient outcomes. From life-saving emergency operations to elective surgeries that enhance the quality of life, general surgeons are essential in both acute and long-term patient care, embodying the adaptability and precision that are hallmarks of successful surgical practice.
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