General Surgery
Short answer: General surgery covers the diagnosis and treatment of abdominal wall hernias, gallbladder disease, anal conditions and skin–subcutaneous conditions. In some cases observation or medication is enough, in others surgery is needed; the decision is made after examination and the necessary tests. Operations are performed at Memorial Göztepe Hospital.
Which treatment for which complaint?
| Complaint | Treatment to consider |
|---|---|
| A groin bulge that appears when standing and disappears when lying down | Inguinal hernia surgery |
| A bulge at the navel or an old surgical scar | Hernia surgery |
| Upper-right abdominal pain after fatty meals, gallstones | Gallbladder surgery |
| Anal bleeding, itching or prolapse | Haemorrhoid treatment |
| Discharging openings at the tailbone | Pilonidal sinus treatment (Local Surgical Procedures) |
| Looking for a supportive approach in Hashimoto's thyroiditis | Thyroid laser therapy (investigational; does not replace medication) |
Treatments
- Hernia surgery: Repairing the abdominal wall defect, usually with mesh.
- Inguinal hernia surgery: Open or keyhole (laparoscopic) repair.
- Gallbladder surgery: Removing the gallbladder, usually by keyhole surgery, for symptomatic stones or inflammation.
- Haemorrhoids: Depending on grade: diet changes, medication, office procedures, laser-assisted methods or surgery.
- Hashimoto (thyroid laser therapy): Investigational supportive use of low-level laser.
- Pilonidal sinus: Laser and phenol treatments are covered on Local Surgical Procedures; surgery comes first for recurrences, very extensive sinus openings and cases where laser has not worked.
How is the assessment done?
At the first consultation, symptoms and examination findings are assessed; imaging and blood tests are requested when needed. If surgery is required, the method, hospital process and recovery plan are discussed in advance. Operations are performed at Memorial Göztepe Hospital.
Frequently asked questions
Does a hernia go away on its own?
No; a hernia does not close by itself, and the timing of treatment is decided at consultation.
Does everyone with gallstones need surgery?
For stones that cause no symptoms, observation is usually enough.
Do haemorrhoids always need surgery?
No; in early stages diet and medication are often enough.
Related articles
General patient information. Individual treatment is planned in consultation.