General Surgery Center

Among the institutions at the forefront of this growth is Biruni Hospital, known for its commitment to providing advanced surgical services with the help of a highly trained medical team.

One of most common medical specialties that the hospital offers are general surgeries, whether it's a cancer treatment or as simple as removing a foreign object from superficial wounds, our team is always ready to help you 24/7.

What is General Surgery?

The term "general surgery" refers to a large variety of medical and surgical procedures such as:

• Hernia repair
• Appendectomy
• Thyroidectomy
• Breast surgery
• Colon surgery

The main goal of a general surgery is focusing on specific areas of the body. It primarily focuses on abdominal organs such as:

• Gastrointestinal tract.
• Liver.
• Pancreas.
• Gallbladder.

A general surgeon has specialized knowledge and experience related to the diagnosis, preoperative, operative and postoperative management, they also manage care of patients who have been injured or who have deformities or other conditions that need surgery.

Key General Surgery Procedures and Their Details

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, most often in the ductal cells responsible for transporting digestive enzymes.

This type of cancer is particularly aggressive and difficult to detect early, which contributes to its poor prognosis.

Risk factors include:

• Smoking.
• Obesity. 
• Chronic pancreatitis. 
• Diabetes.
• Genetic predisposition.

Treatment steps:

1. The first step that the doctor will do is a full Imaging test using either a CT, MRI or an EUS.
2. After that, the surgeon being the Surgical removal, this is done using either a whipple or distal pancreatectomy technique.
3. One of the most important steps is the Chemotherapy procedure.
4. Radiation therapy for local control.
5. Targeted therapy for genetic mutations.
6. Immunotherapy in certain advanced cases.

Whipple Surgery (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)

The Whipple procedure is a major surgical operation most commonly performed to treat cancer in the head of the pancreas.

The procedure involves removing the pancreatic head, the duodenum, part of the bile duct, the gallbladder and sometimes a portion of the stomach.

Procedure Steps:

• For this procedure the doctor will use general anesthesia.
• The procedure begins with the removal of the pancreatic head, duodenum, gallbladder, bile duct and part of the stomach if needed.
• After that, the doctor will reconnect your pancreas, stomach, and bile duct to the small intestine.
• Once the procedure is done, the doctor will close the surgical site and transfer you to recovery.

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, most often hepatocellular carcinoma, originates in the liver cells and is commonly linked to chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis and alcohol-related liver damage.

It can be aggressive and is often discovered at a later stage due to subtle symptoms in early phases.

Treatment Steps:

1. The doctor will run a full diagnostic with imaging and blood tests.
2. The doctor will also perform a biopsy to confirm the type of liver cancer.
3. After that the choice will be made, either a liver resection surgery or a liver transplant.
4. Ablation therapies (radiofrequency, microwave, or cryotherapy).
5. The doctor will also perform an embolization procedure to block the blood flow to the tumors.
6. Radiation therapy will be used for localized control.
7. The doctor will also prescribe targeted drugs such as sorafenib or lenvatinib.

Liver Resection Surgery (Hepatectomy)

Liver resection, also known as hepatectomy, is the surgical removal of a portion of the liver affected by cancer or other disease.

This procedure is possible due to the liver’s ability to regenerate after partial removal. It's often used for localized tumors without widespread liver damage.

Procedure Steps:

• Administration of general anesthesia
• Surgical removal of the liver segment containing the tumor
• Bleeding control and inspection of liver margins
• Closure of the surgical site
• Monitoring liver function and overall recovery

Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, arises from the lining of the stomach and often grows slowly over many years.

It is frequently associated with Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, a diet high in salted or smoked foods and a family history of gastric cancer.

Treatment Steps:

1. The diagnosis will be made with the use of an endoscopy and biopsy.
2. The doctor will also perform a full imaging test to determine the cancer stage.
3. The surgical treatment will be done by using two techniques, either subtotal or total gastrectomy.
4. Chemotherapy before or after surgery
5. Radiation therapy if necessary for local control

Gastrectomy

Gastrectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part (subtotal) or all (total) of the stomach, usually to treat stomach cancer.

This operation may also involve removal of nearby lymph nodes and reconstruction of the digestive tract to maintain gastrointestinal continuity.

Procedure Steps:

• General anesthesia administration
• Removal of the affected portion or entire stomach
• Resection of surrounding lymph nodes
• Reconstruction of the digestive system (e.g., connecting esophagus to small intestine)
• Closure of incisions and post-op monitoring

Post-operative Care and Healing Period After General Surgery

1. Hospital recovery

The patient is monitored for complications such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Pain management is provided, and fluids or medications may be administered intravenously.

2. Wound care

The surgical site is carefully cleaned and dressed to prevent infection. The patient may need follow-up visits to remove stitches or staples.

3. Mobility and rest

While early mobility is encouraged to prevent blood clots, the patient should avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of rest. Gradual movement helps promote circulation.

4. Diet and nutrition

After surgery, the patient may start with clear liquids and progress to solid foods. A balanced diet is essential to aid recovery and prevent complications like constipation.

5. Monitoring for complications

Potential complications, such as infections, blood clots, or digestive issues, are closely monitored. Any signs of infection (e.g., fever or redness at the incision site) require immediate attention.

6. Follow-Up appointments

Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon help monitor recovery, check for complications, and ensure proper healing of the surgical site.

7. Resumption of normal activities

After a few weeks to months, most patients can gradually return to normal activities. However, physical activities, including heavy lifting or intense exercise, should be avoided for a longer period.

Ensuring a Smooth Recovery and Optimal Health

General surgery is crucial in addressing various medical conditions. Understanding the procedures, preparation, and post-operative care helps ensure a successful recovery.

By following medical guidance and focusing on proper care, patients can regain their health and return to daily life confidently.