A general surgeon is a highly trained medical professional specializing in surgeries that address a wide range of diseases and injuries across the body. While some surgeons focus on specific areas, like neurosurgery or cardiothoracic surgery, general surgeons possess a broad knowledge base, allowing them to perform procedures on multiple body systems, including the digestive tract, endocrine system, skin, and soft tissue. However, the breadth of their practice and expertise often leaves people outside of medicine unsure of what a general surgeon does.
Becoming a general surgeon requires extensive education and training. After completing a bachelor’s degree and medical school, prospective surgeons undergo a rigorous residency program in general surgery, typically lasting five to seven years. During this time, they receive hands-on experience in various surgical procedures under the supervision of experienced surgeons. Following their residency, general surgeons may choose to further specialize in areas such as trauma surgery, colorectal surgery, or vascular surgery, though many remain in general practice 1,2.
The responsibilities of a general surgeon can be divided into several main areas. These include diagnosis and the development of a surgical treatment plan, preoperative preparation of patients, surgery, and oversight of patient recovery after surgery.
General surgeons are often involved in diagnosing conditions that require surgical intervention. This may involve reviewing patient histories, conducting physical exams, and ordering tests like imaging scans or lab work to better understand the patient’s condition. Their broad expertise allows them to recognize symptoms and recommend surgery as the best course of treatment when necessary.
Once a diagnosis has been made, the surgeon will plan the appropriate surgical approach. This involves determining the specific technique based on the patient’s condition, age, and overall health. Surgical planning also includes preoperative preparation, ensuring that the patient understands the risks and benefits, and confirming that they are physically prepared for the procedure.
A general surgeon often does many types of surgery across different organ systems. These range from relatively simple procedures like appendectomies to more complex surgeries like hernia repairs or removing sections of the intestines. In some cases, they may perform emergency surgeries to address life-threatening injuries from trauma or acute conditions, such as a perforated ulcer or internal bleeding. General surgeons are skilled in various techniques, including laparoscopic and open surgeries, and are adept at handling unexpected complications that may arise during surgery 3,4.
Postoperatively, general surgeons oversee patient recovery to ensure there are no complications, such as infections or bleeding. They conduct follow-up exams, review patient progress, and may adjust medications or provide instructions on wound care and activity restrictions. Postoperative care also includes working with other healthcare professionals, like nurses and physical therapists, to promote a smooth recovery 5,6.
A general surgeon is well-positioned to advance their skills in a particular area, though such a decision does require additional training. For example, they may undergo a fellowship in trauma surgery focusing on treating acute, often life-threatening injuries from accidents or violence. Colorectal surgery addresses diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. Endocrine surgery focuses on surgical operations of glands, like the thyroid or adrenal glands. Finally, oncological surgery focuses on treating cancerous tumors from various body parts 7–9.
General surgeons are essential to the healthcare system, equipped to handle a wide range of surgical needs. What a general surgeon does on a day-to-day basis can vary widely, highlighting the breadth of their role and expertise.
References
1. How to Become a General Surgeon. https://www.aucmed.edu/about/blog/how-to-become-a-general-surgeon.
2. How to become a General Surgeon? A guide to a career in general surgery. https://www.umhs-sk.org/blog/how-to-become-a-general-surgeon.
3. What does a general surgeon do? Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/general-surgeon.
4. What is the job description for surgeons? ACS https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/education/online-guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency/guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency-for-medical-students/faqs/job-description/.
5. Post-operative general surgical patient review | OSCEstop | OSCE Learning. https://oscestop.education/learning/post-operative-general-surgical-patient-review/.
6. Preparing for Post-Surgery. CAGS https://cags-accg.ca/patient-care/preparing-post-surgery/.
7. 14 Different Types of Surgeons and Surgical Specialities | SGU. https://www.sgu.edu/blog/medical/different-types-of-surgeons/.
8. What are the surgical specialties? ACS https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/education/online-guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency/guide-to-choosing-a-surgical-residency-for-medical-students/faqs/specialties/.
9. Surgical Specialties. Royal College of Surgeons https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/careers-in-surgery/trainees/foundation-and-core-trainees/surgical-specialties/.