General Surgery

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What Is General Surgery?

General surgery, despite the name, is a surgical specialty. General surgeons not only perform surgeries for a wide range of common ailments, but are also responsible for patient care before, during, and after surgery. All surgeons must start their training in general surgery; many then go on to focus on another specialty.

What Is Included in General Surgery?

According to the American Board of Surgery,2 general surgeons are trained to operate on the:

  • Alimentary tract (esophagus and related organs)
  • Abdomen and its contents
  • Breast, skin, and soft tissue
  • Endocrine system

In addition, general surgeons are expected to have knowledge and experience in the:

  • Surgical critical care
  • Surgical oncology
  • Trauma

Why Do Doctors Choose to Go Into General Surgery?

General surgeons can be found practicing many types of surgery, and the broad-based nature of their education makes it possible for general surgeons to perform many procedures in performance of their jobs. Some may choose to go on to a specialty, but others enjoy the variety that makes up the day of a true general surgeon and practice a wide assortment of procedures.

General surgeons also have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings, with many different types of medical teams and patients. The certified general surgeon also is expected to have knowledge and skills for diseases requiring team-based interdisciplinary care, including related leadership competencies. Certified general surgeons additionally must possess knowledge of the unique clinical needs of the following specific patient groups:

  • Terminally ill patients, including palliative care and pain management; nutritional deficiency; cachexia in patients with malignant and chronic conditions; and counseling and support for end-of-life decisions and care.
  • Morbidly obese patients, including metabolic derangements; surgical and non-surgical interventions for weight loss (bariatrics); and counseling of patients and families.
  • Geriatric surgical patients, including management of comorbid chronic diseases.
  • Culturally diverse and vulnerable patient populations.

A word From Precision Plus Hospital:

A general surgeon is a highly skilled surgeon, and the word “general” should not be confused with a lack of specific training. It is more appropriate to think of the general surgeon as a specialist in commonly performed procedures, such as appendectomies and other procedures. While having a surgical specialty requires more training in a specific type of surgery, the general surgeon is a very important part of the healthcare team and is essential in the treatment of common illnesses that can be cured with surgery.