General Surgery

What Is General Surgery?

General surgery is a broad medical specialty that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of diseases affecting various organs and systems of the body. The primary areas of interest include intra-abdominal organs, the digestive system, breast, thyroid and parathyroid glands, soft tissues, and hernias. Surgical treatment is commonly required for conditions such as appendicitis, gallbladder diseases, intestinal obstructions, cancers, and traumatic injuries.

The general surgery department aims to improve patient health through early diagnosis, accurate treatment planning, and modern surgical techniques. The diagnostic process is supported by physical examination, laboratory tests, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and biopsy when necessary. Treatment plans are individualized based on the patient’s overall health status and specific needs.

What Does General Surgery Treat?

General surgery is responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of the following organs and disease groups:

• Diseases of the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, liver, and pancreas
• Hernias (inguinal, umbilical, incisional hernias)
• Thyroid and parathyroid diseases
• Breast diseases
• Appendicitis
• Hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and anal fistulas
• Trauma and injuries
• Benign and malignant tumors

When required, a multidisciplinary treatment approach is implemented in collaboration with other medical specialties.

Common Diseases Managed by General Surgery

Hernias

Hernias occur when organs protrude through weak areas of the abdominal wall and are treated surgically through repair procedures.

Thyroid and Parathyroid Diseases

Surgical treatment may be required for goiter, thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism, and parathyroid disorders.

Breast Diseases

Breast cysts, benign masses, and breast cancer fall within the scope of general surgery.

Digestive System Diseases

Surgical intervention may be necessary for gallstones, appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix requiring urgent surgical intervention.

Hemorrhoids and Anal Diseases

Conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and anal fistulas are treated with surgical or interventional methods.

Trauma and Injuries

Internal organ injuries and bleeding are among the emergency conditions managed by general surgery.

Diagnostic Methods in General Surgery

The following diagnostic methods may be used in general surgery:

• Blood and biochemical tests
• Ultrasonography
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Endoscopy and colonoscopy
• Biopsy
• Laparoscopy

These methods help determine the location, extent, and appropriate treatment approach for the disease.

Treatment Methods in General Surgery

Treatment is planned according to the type of disease and the patient’s condition. Both minimally invasive (laparoscopic) and open surgical techniques may be applied. The goal is to achieve high success rates with minimal tissue damage and faster recovery.

Common procedures performed in general surgery include:

• Hernia repairs
• Gallbladder surgeries
• Appendectomy
• Thyroid and parathyroid surgery
• Breast surgery
• Obesity surgery
• Gastrointestinal surgery
• Colorectal surgery
• Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery

Obesity Surgery

Obesity surgery includes surgical procedures performed in patients who are unable to lose weight through diet and lifestyle changes. Procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass promote weight loss. The treatment process is supported by dietitians and other healthcare professionals.

Endocrine Surgery

Endocrine surgery involves the surgical treatment of diseases affecting the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands. Most procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques to ensure faster recovery.

Gastrointestinal Surgery

Gastrointestinal surgery covers the surgical treatment of diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon. Gastric and intestinal cancers, inflammatory bowel diseases, and diverticulitis fall within this scope.

Liver, Pancreas, and Biliary Surgery

(Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery)

This field includes the surgical treatment of diseases involving the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts. Gallstone disease, pancreatitis, and tumors are among the conditions treated.

Breast Surgery

Breast surgery includes mass excision, lumpectomy, mastectomy, and oncoplastic surgical procedures. Treatment plans are individualized based on the patient’s clinical condition.

Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal surgery involves the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. Colon and rectal cancers, hemorrhoids, and anal diseases are evaluated within this specialty.