General & Minimally Invasive Surgery

Gastrointestinal (GI) Surgery is a specialized field of surgery focused on the digestive system. This includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts. GI surgeons treat a wide range of conditions affecting these organs through various surgical procedures. Here are some key aspects of GI surgery:

Techniques in GI Surgery

• 1. Open Surgery: Traditional method involving a large incision to access the digestive organs.
• 2. Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera (laparoscope) to guide the surgery. It is commonly used for procedures like appendectomies, cholecystectomies, and some colorectal surgeries.
• 3. Robotic Surgery: An advanced form of minimally invasive surgery where the surgeon controls robotic instruments for greater precision and control.
• 4. Endoscopic Surgery: Uses an endoscope (a flexible tube with a camera and instruments) inserted through the mouth or anus to perform procedures inside the GI tract. This technique is often used for polyp removal, biopsies, and treatment of certain GI conditions.

Key Aspects of General Surgery:
• Definition:
A surgical specialty that deals with a wide variety of surgical conditions affecting almost any region of the body.
• Procedures:
Includes Operations on the Abdomen, Breast, Endocrine System, Gastrointestinal Tract, Skin, and Soft Tissues.
• Examples:
Appendectomy, Hernia Repair, Gallbladder Removal, Thyroidectomy, Breast Biopsy, and Colon Resection.

Key Aspects of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) Surgery:
• Definition:
A surgical approach that utilizes smaller incisions compared to traditional "open" surgery.
• Techniques:
Often involves laparoscopy (using a camera and long, thin instruments inserted through small incisions) or Robotic Surgery.
• Benefits:
Generally associated with less pain, smaller scars, reduced risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.
• Examples:
MIS techniques can be applied to many general surgery procedures, such as hernia repair, gallbladder removal (laparoscopic cholecystectomy), and some types of colon surgery.