Scope of Practice:

1. Abdominal Surgery: General surgeons often perform procedures involving the organs within the abdominal cavity. This can include surgeries on the stomach, liver, gallbladder, intestines, appendix, and spleen.
2. Breast Surgery: General surgeons are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of breast conditions, including breast cancer. They may perform breast biopsies, lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive surgeries.
3. Endocrine Surgery: Surgeons may operate on the endocrine glands, such as the thyroid and parathyroid glands, to treat conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and hyperparathyroidism.
4. Soft Tissue Surgery: This involves procedures on the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and underlying muscles. General surgeons may address conditions like skin tumours, hernias, and abscesses.
5. Vascular Surgery: General surgeons may be involved in procedures related to blood vessels, including repairing aneurysms, removing blockages, and treating vascular diseases.
6. Trauma Surgery: General surgeons often play a key role in the management of trauma patients, performing emergency surgeries to address injuries sustained in accidents or other traumatic events.

Procedures Performed:

1. Appendectomy: Removal of the appendix, often due to appendicitis.
2. Cholecystectomy: Removal of the gallbladder, commonly performed for gallstones.
3. Colon and Rectal Surgery: Procedures to treat conditions such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
4. Hernia Repair: Surgical correction of hernias, which occur when an organ protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
5. Thyroidectomy: Removal of all or part of the thyroid gland.
6. Breast Surgery: Including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and breast reconstruction.
7. Vascular Procedures: Such as arterial bypass surgery, endarterectomy, and aneurysm repair.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

• General surgeons often work closely with other medical professionals, including anesthesiologists, radiologists, oncologists, and primary care physicians, to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Evolving Techniques:

• Advancements in technology have led to the adoption of minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery, in many general surgery procedures. These approaches often result in smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery times for patients.
• In summary, general surgery encompasses a broad range of surgical procedures aimed at treating various conditions affecting different organs and systems in the body. General surgeons are essential in both elective and emergency settings, contributing to the overall well-being of patients through surgical interventions.