Surgery plays a vital role in treating many medical conditions that cannot be managed with medication alone. Among the various surgical specialists, a general surgeon is one of the most versatile and essential professionals in healthcare.
From routine procedures to life-saving emergency operations, general surgeons are trained to handle a wide range of conditions affecting different organs of the body, especially those within the abdominal cavity, shares Dr Amita Jain, one of India’s most distinguished and experienced senior General and Laparoscopic surgeons who has conducted more than 1,00,000 successful surgeries.
Who Is a General Surgeon?
A general surgeon is a qualified medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and surgically treating diseases related to the abdomen, digestive tract, skin, soft tissues, and certain glands. After completing an MBBS degree, they undergo extensive postgraduate training in general surgery, gaining expertise in both planned (elective) and emergency surgical procedures.
Beyond performing surgeries, general surgeons are responsible for pre-surgical evaluations, deciding the most appropriate treatment approach, and providing post-operative care to ensure smooth recovery and prevent complications.
Digestive and Abdominal System Surgeries
One of the core areas of general surgery is the abdominal and digestive system. This includes organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, appendix, and gallbladder. General surgeons treat conditions like intestinal obstruction, perforated ulcers, abdominal infections, and tumours through surgical intervention when required.
They are also trained to manage acute abdominal pain, often referred to as a “surgical abdomen,” where prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Appendix Surgery (Appendectomy)
Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies worldwide. When the appendix becomes inflamed or infected, surgery is often the only effective treatment. General surgeons perform an appendectomy, which involves removing the appendix to prevent rupture and serious complications such as peritonitis.
Appendectomy can be done through traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, allowing faster recovery, reduced pain, and shorter hospital stays.
Gallbladder Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
The gallbladder plays a role in digestion, but problems like gallstones, inflammation (cholecystitis), or infection may require surgical removal. General surgeons routinely perform cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder.
Today, most gallbladder surgeries are done laparoscopically, making the procedure safer and less invasive. Patients typically experience quicker recovery and can return to normal activities within a short period.
Hernia Treatment and Surgery
Hernias occur when an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or tissue. General surgeons treat various types of hernias, including inguinal, umbilical, incisional, Ventral and femoral hernias. Depending on the condition, surgery may involve open repair or laparoscopic techniques using surgical mesh to strengthen the weakened area.
Emergency and Trauma Care
General surgeons play a critical role in emergency medicine. They manage traumatic injuries, internal bleeding, abdominal trauma, abscesses, and life-threatening infections. Their ability to act quickly and decisively often saves lives in emergency situations.
Anorectal Surgery
General surgeons are also trained in anorectal procedures, which involve conditions affecting the anus and rectum. Common anorectal conditions include:
- Piles (Hemorrhoids such as grade 3 piles, grade 4 and thrombosed external hemorrhoids)
- Fissures
- Fistula (Such as Extrasphincteric Fistula, Intersphincteric Fistula, Suprasphincteric Fistula and Transsphincteric Fistula)
These conditions can cause pain, bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Depending on severity, treatment may range from minor procedures to advanced surgical interventions. Modern techniques such as laser surgery and minimally invasive methods help reduce pain and speed up recovery. Early consultation with a general surgeon can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Skin, Breast, and Soft Tissue Procedures
General surgeons treat conditions such as cysts, lipomas, abscesses, and non-healing wounds. They also perform breast surgeries, including lump removal, biopsies, and management of benign and cancer-related breast conditions, often as part of a multidisciplinary medical team.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
With advancements in medical technology, general surgeons increasingly use laparoscopic and minimally invasive procedures. These techniques involve smaller incisions, minimal scarring, less pain, and faster recovery, improving overall patient outcomes.
A general surgeon is a highly trained specialist capable of treating a wide range of surgical conditions, including appendix and gallbladder diseases, hernias, trauma, and abdominal emergencies. Their broad expertise, combined with modern surgical techniques, makes them a cornerstone of effective and reliable surgical care in today’s healthcare system.
Dr Amita Jain is one of India’s most distinguished and experienced senior surgeons who has conducted more than 1,00,000 successful surgeries, and has covered a wide spectrum of general and minimally invasive procedures. Dr Amita Jain is refered as the pioneer surgeon in the fields of Gallbladder stone removal surgery, appendix removal surgery, hernia repair surgery, Pilonidal Sinus treatments, varicose vein and piles surgery, fistula surgery and fissure surgeries.
With an outstanding career spanning over 29 years, Dr Amita Jain has earned her place among the top General and Laparoscopic surgeons in Delhi and India, known for her precision, compassion, and consistent surgical excellence. She was the Professor of Surgery at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt. In 1994, she was commissioned as a surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo.
Dr Amita Jain currently serves as the Head of Department and Senior Consultant for General, Laparoscopic and Trauma Surgery at Artemis Lite Hospital, Rosewalk – Luxury Maternity Hospital in Delhi (Panchsheel Park, Delhi) and Rainbow Children Hospitals (Malviya Nagar, Delhi).