General Surgery

General Surgery is a foundational branch of health sciences and represents the cornerstone of surgical disciplines. It primarily focuses on the surgical intervention of diseases and conditions that affect various organs and tissues of the body. Embracing the principle that "A chance to cut is a chance to cure", general surgery has historically stood at the forefront of medical advancements.

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Surgeon

Introduction

General Surgery has evolved over time from the earliest instances of trepanation to the complex, minimally invasive procedures performed today. Encompassing a wide range of procedures aimed at treating diseases, injuries, and deformities, general surgery holds a pivotal position in the medical fraternity.

Sub-specialties within General Surgery

The vastness of general surgery has given birth to several sub-specialties, each dedicated to specific anatomical regions or types of diseases:

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Nurses and doctors during a surgery at Minor Private Hospital, circa 1920

• Endocrine surgery: Focuses on the surgical treatment of endocrine organs such as the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands.
• Breast surgery: Concentrates on the surgical treatment of breast diseases, including cancer.
• Colorectal surgery: Specializes in disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus.
• Gastrointestinal surgery: Involves surgical treatment of the stomach and intestines.
• Hepatobiliary surgery: Deals with diseases of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
• Laparoscopic surgery: Uses minimally invasive techniques to operate on the abdominal and pelvic organs.
• Trauma surgery: Addresses injuries, especially those requiring emergency care.
• Vascular surgery: Focuses on the surgical treatment of diseases of the arterial, venous, and lymphatic systems, excluding the heart and brain.
• Oncologic surgery: Concerned with the surgical removal of tumors and cancerous growths.

Essential Resources for General Surgery

For surgeons, residents, and medical students alike, various resources have been curated to provide knowledge and improve surgical skills. Here are some significant resources for general surgery:

• eMedicine: A comprehensive online platform providing detailed medical articles and resources. [1]
• Emergency War Surgery Handbook: Tailored for war-related injuries and their surgical interventions. [2]
• Ethicon Wound Closure Manual: A manual focusing on the nuances of wound closure, a critical component in surgery. [3]
• LearnSurgery.com: A digital platform designed to enrich the learning experience for surgical aspirants. [4]
• Surgical Treatment: A segment from the NCBI discussing various surgical treatments in depth. [5]
• Surgical Tutor: An educational portal offering resources on numerous surgical topics. [6]
• Vesalius Surgical Education: A platform emphasizing surgical anatomy and procedure details. [7]
• Ethicon Knot Tying Manual: A thorough guide on the art of knot tying, fundamental in surgical practice. [8]
• General Medical Officer Manual: Encompassing a spectrum of medical knowledge, this manual also dedicates sections to surgical topics. [9]
• GP Notebook: A wide-ranging general practice resource, beneficial for both medical students and practitioners. [10]
• Iowa Family Practice Handbook: Detailed guide catering to family medicine, including aspects of general surgery. [11]

Summary

General Surgery, with its myriad sub-specialties, stands testament to the evolution and advancements in the field of medicine. As technology continues to progress, so too will the depth and breadth of surgical capabilities. Embracing the tenet that every cut has the potential to cure, general surgeons worldwide strive to offer their patients a renewed chance at life.

General Surgery Resources
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