General Surgery

• Abdominal Surgery: This includes operations on the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder, such as appendectomies and gallbladder removal.

• Digestive System: General surgeons treat conditions like hernias, ulcers, and bowel obstructions that affect the digestive system.

• Skin and Soft Tissue Surgery: This includes removing tumors, cysts, and treating infections or abscesses.

• Endocrine System: Surgeries on glands such as the thyroid or adrenal glands are also handled by general surgeons.

Basic Departments in General Surgery

Within general surgery, there are several sub-departments that focus on specific types of surgery:

• Trauma Surgery: Emergency surgical interventions for patients who have been in accidents or have suffered major injuries.

• Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures using small incisions and a camera to operate inside the body, which reduces recovery time.

• Colorectal Surgery: Focuses on surgeries of the colon, rectum, and anus, often for conditions like colorectal cancer or severe hemorrhoids.

How to Prepare for General Surgery

Preparing for general surgery involves both physical and mental preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Medical Tests: Your doctor will likely order tests such as blood work, an ECG, or imaging scans to ensure you're fit for surgery.

• Fasting: Most surgeries require fasting for a certain number of hours before the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on when to stop eating and drinking.

• Medications: You may need to stop certain medications before surgery, especially blood thinners. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s advice.

• Arrange Support: You’ll need someone to take you home and possibly assist with care for a few days post-surgery.

What to Expect from General Surgery

When undergoing general surgery, it’s normal to feel nervous, but understanding the process can help ease anxiety.

• Before Surgery: You’ll meet with your surgeon and anesthesiologist to review the procedure and ask any last-minute questions. You’ll also be prepped in the surgical area.

• During Surgery: General anesthesia is typically used, meaning you’ll be asleep and pain-free during the operation.

• After Surgery: You’ll be moved to a recovery room where medical staff will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia. You may experience some grogginess or nausea, which is normal.

Preoperative Preparation

Preoperative care is essential to ensure the surgery goes smoothly. Some tips include:

• Follow Instructions Closely: Make sure to adhere to all preoperative guidelines provided by your surgeon, including fasting and medication restrictions.

• Mental Preparation: It’s natural to feel anxious before surgery. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare team to feel more comfortable and prepared.

• Physical Readiness: Stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol or smoking leading up to surgery, as this can impact your recovery.

Postoperative Care

The care you receive after surgery is just as important as the procedure itself. Postoperative care includes:

• Wound Care:Keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to care for your incision.

• Medications: Pain management will likely involve prescribed medications. Be sure to follow dosage instructions carefully.

• Activity Restrictions: You’ll need to limit physical activity for a while, especially heavy lifting or strenuous exercises. Gradual movement is encouraged to prevent blood clots.