What does a general surgery appointment mean?
A general surgery appointment is a medical consultation with a general surgeon. General surgeons perform operations known as general surgeries, which include:
- Organs within the abdomen, such as kidneys, pancreas, and liver
- Gastrointestinal tract
- Breast conditions
- Some skin conditions
- Traumatic abdominal and chest injuries
You may have an outpatient appointment with a general surgeon to go over a surgical procedure needed for your medical condition. Your general surgeon can advise you about any risks and let you know what to expect during your surgery.
You may also have a post-surgical appointment to check your healing progress, remove stitches, and address complications.
What can I expect at a general surgery appointment?
You can expect to go over any tests ordered before your general surgery appointment. Before your surgery, your surgeon may have you undergo imaging tests or other preoperative exams.
Your general surgeon may want your blood pressure checked or perform an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) before or during your visit. This is to make sure your heart and vascular system can handle surgery.
Your general surgeon reviews the results of these tests with you during your appointment and discusses your treatment options. During your appointment, the surgeon explains the pros and cons of each treatment, including what risks are involved.
If you decide to opt for surgical treatment of your condition, you may have forms to fill out during your appointment. Your surgeon’s office may schedule your operation during your appointment or may do so at a later date.
When should you see a general surgeon?
You should see a general surgeon if you’re suffering from a medical condition that may require surgical treatment. You may be referred to a general surgeon by your primary care doctor or a non-surgical specialist if they believe you need more invasive treatment.
General surgeons treat many conditions involving organs or systems within the abdomen and chest.
What surgery does a general surgeon perform?
General surgeons are trained to perform various surgeries in their patient’s abdomen and chest. Common surgeries they perform include:
- Appendectomy
- Esophageal surgery
- Breast surgery
- Gastroenterology procedures, such as endoscopies
- Gastric bypass surgery
- Cholecystectomy, removal of the gallbladder
- Colon and rectal surgery
- Hernia repair
- Spleen removal
- Thyroid removal
- Wound repair, such as skin grafts
What are the 3 most painful surgeries?
One study found that three common minor surgeries are the most painful. Patients in this study reported high levels of pain after their appendectomies, cholecystectomies, and hemorrhoidectomies.
Researchers believe patients who undergo major surgeries receive more analgesics than those in minor surgeries, which results in lower pain levels. Proper pain management after surgery helps reduce pain levels.
What is the riskiest surgery?
Surgeries involving the digestive system tend to be the riskiest type of surgery. This includes bariatric surgery and gastric bypass procedures, open gallbladder removal, small bowel resections, and partial colon removal.
Patients who undergo these surgeries are more likely to suffer from complications, such as hemorrhaging, shock, urinary retention, pulmonary embolism, and wound infection.
