General surgeons are physicians that treat injury and illness using an array of surgical techniques, ranging from traditional open surgery to more recent minimally invasive procedures. General surgeons take a comprehensive approach to healthcare, providing preoperative, operative, and postoperative care, in cooperation with other physicians and support personnel. Though it sounds counterintuitive, general surgery is classified as a specialty by the American Board of Surgery.

General surgeons are extensively educated, completing four years of medical school, a five-year residency in general surgery and related subjects, and additional years of training in their specialty. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by a professional governing body. They maintain this certification throughout their career with supplemental training and testing.

What Does a General Surgeon Do?

General surgeons conduct a variety of surgical procedures involving illness or injury in nearly every part of the body. This distinguishes them from surgeons who specialize in complex procedures for certain organs, such as the heart or the brain. Conditions commonly treated by general surgeons include:

• Breast and other cancers
• Circulatory issues
• Glandular conditions
• Issues of the liver, pancreas, and gall bladder
• Issues of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) system (esophagus, stomach, and small intestines)
• Non-cancerous critical illnesses
• Physical injuries or abnormalities
• Skin conditions
• Terminal illnesses

Surgical techniques have proliferated in recent years, equipping general surgeons with new tools for restoring the health of their patients. In addition to open operations, general surgeons are now trained in endoscopic, laparoscopic, and robotic procedures, which deliver positive outcomes while lowering the traditional “costs” of surgery. This means less post-operative pain, quicker healing times, and faster returns to the normal routines of life.

What Types of General Surgeons Are There?

Though general surgery is an inclusive approach to healthcare, some general surgeons receive supplemental training in one or more specialty areas, including:

• Colorectal surgery
• Critical care surgery
• Hand surgery
• Oncological surgery
• Palliative medicine and terminal care
• Pediatric surgery
• Vascular surgery

When Should You See a General Surgeon?

There are many reasons to see a general surgeon but three stand out:

• Physician referral: Patients most commonly see a general surgeon based on a referral from their primary care physician (PCP) or another medical specialist. This occurs when non-surgical forms of treatment have failed to address a health issue confronting the patient.
• Elective surgery: Patients also see general surgeons for non-emergency procedures (operations that can be scheduled ahead of time). This includes surgical procedures for addressing chronic or lingering health concerns, such as hernia repair.
• Emergency care: General surgeons are active in performing emergency medical procedures (for example, surgery to correct a ruptured appendix).

What Can I Expect at My Visit to the General Surgeon?

Your general surgeon will ask about your symptoms, record your family history, and review your medical data from other physicians. He or she might arrange for additional testing. Using this information, your surgeon will determine the most appropriate form of invasive treatment for your condition. He or she will set a date for the procedure, assemble a surgical team, and explain the steps that you’ll take to prepare for the operation.

If you’re struggling with a medical condition that isn’t responding to treatment, the Baptist Health surgical team is ready with expert care.