General Surgeries

Appendectomies

Appendectomies are relatively common, often performed in emergency situations. This procedure treats appendicitis by removing the appendix, which is not necessarily for the body to function but can become inflamed. Without treatment, the appendix will burst, which can release bacteria and cause other problems. Appendicitis results in unpleasant symptoms such as pain, especially in the right part of the abdomen, along with vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Patients should seek treatment immediately if they suspect they have appendicitis.

Cholecystectomies

During a cholecystectomy, the surgical team removes the gallbladder. This routine procedure is a treatment for gallstones, which can cause severe pain in certain individuals. The procedure also treats gallbladder cancer and biliary dyskinesia, a condition that creates bile-related dysfunction in the gallbladder.

Endoscopies

Endoscopies draw their name from the instrument used to perform them: the endoscope. An endoscope is a tubular tool that medical professionals can use to examine the interior of the body with less disruption than would occur with other methods. A video camera on the endoscope allows for observation. A doctor or surgeon can perform an endoscopy on many parts of the body, but endoscopes are often used to examine the gastrointestinal tract’s upper portion. This is called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. 

Hernia Repairs

Sometimes, an organ pushes through the cavity wall that contains it. This results in a hernia. This situation often occurs when the intestine penetrates the abdominal wall. Hernias can be painful and usually do not heal without intervention; in fact, they can become bigger as time passes. During a hernia repair procedure, the bulging organ is pushed back into its proper place and secured in place.

Laparoscopies

Like endoscopies, laparoscopies garner their name from their signature instrument, which in this case is the laparoscope. A laparoscope consists of fiber optic cable that can be used to reach and observe distant areas from an incision. This procedure can be used to diagnose or repair problems.

Minimally Invasive Laparoscopies

Minimally invasive laparoscopies are performed with the goal of minimizing pain, scarring, and recovery time. These procedures involve inserting a camera and surgical tools through very small incisions. Surgeons use this technique to treat a variety of conditions. The time of each operation is typically longer, but patient recovery is much quicker.