A general surgeon is a professional trained to perform laparoscopic surgery on different human body organs. These may include the gall bladder, pancreas, liver, colon, skin, appendix, and many other parts. These specialists focus on conditions affecting the abdomen, breasts, and endocrine system and are highly trained with vast knowledge and skills to perform the procedure in the least invasive way. General surgeons cater to patients of all ages, and there are various reasons to seek help from such health providers.

Here are common conditions that general surgeons treat:

1. Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is a common medical condition. It can affect anywhere between the breastbone and the groin. This type of pain can be mild or severe, and there are different possible causes for abdominal pains. The common ones include;

Inflammatory diseases

Obstructions

Tumors

Difficulties with the reproductive organs

Some conditions like constipation may resolve by themselves, while others necessitate immediate medical attention by a general surgeon.

2. Cancer

Cancer affects different parts of the body, but general surgeons deal with breast tumors, the digestive system, the endocrine system, and some reproductive system cancers. During surgery, the surgeon removes tumors and malignant cells from your body.

General surgeons can effectively treat;

Endocrine cancer, including thyroid cancer and pituitary tumors

Breast cancer

Gynecologic cancers ie. Ovarian and endometrial cancer

Gastrointestinal cancers including throat cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colon cancer

3. Gastrointestinal diseases

The digestive system is an important part of your body and overall health. It processes food, absorbs nutrients and discharges waste. It consists of parts like the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, appendix, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. All these organs are susceptible to infection, and the common gastrointestinal issues necessitating general surgery are;

Appendicitis

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Ulcers

Gastritis

Liver cirrhosis

Pancreatitis

4. Gallbladder inflammation

The gallbladder plays a vital role during digestion. It’s a small organ that sits under the live, and bile helps in digestion. If there are issues in your digestive system that hinder the adequate flow of bile, your gallbladder can get inflamed and irritated, a condition commonly known as cholecystitis.

The most prevalent cause of cholecystitis is gallstones, aggregates consisting of cholesterol and bile salts. Gallbladder blockage and inflammation may also result from polyps, lymph nodes, infection, and malignancies. The irritation can lead to infection if left untreated. And this makes it vital to seek prompt medical help if suffering from gallbladder inflammation or gallstones.

5. Hernia

Hernias result from the bulging of internal organs and tissues through weak areas of your muscles. They mostly happen in the abdomen and previous surgery areas like groin and belly buttons. Hernias enlarge when standing or lifting but fade when sitting. They continue to enlarge over time and may necessitate surgical treatment to restore the protruding tissue in place.

In summary, general surgeons manage different conditions. If you have been referred for general surgery, seek help from a reputed provider, which will improve the likelihood of a successful surgery. Also, follow the pre and post-care instructions to avoid complications after the surgery.