Anytime a medical procedure involves cutting into a certain part of the body, it is considered surgery. There are various kinds of surgical procedures, and some are much more complex than others. These more complex surgeries are performed on the heart, brain, spine, and other parts of the body on which there is a higher risk for complications. However, there are also many other procedures that are considered general surgery. These kinds of surgical procedures may be minimally invasive and have a lower risk of complications.
Here are four common surgical procedures that are considered general surgery.
1. Cataract Surgery
Cataracts occur when the clear lens of the eye begins to get cloudy. When the cloudy lens starts to interfere with vision and everyday activities, cataract surgery is performed. During this general surgery, a clear artificial lens replaces the cloudy one.
More than half of all Americans will have a cataract by the age of 80. Due to the millions of Americans who develop this eye condition, the removal of cataracts is a very common general surgery.
2. Cholecystectomy
The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ just beneath the liver. This organ is part of the digestive system and is responsible for storing bile that gets released into the small intestine. When a person has gallstones, it blocks the gallbladder and leads to a buildup of bile.
This condition is called cholecystitis. If cholecystitis becomes a chronic issue, a type of general surgery called a cholecystectomy will need to be performed. During a cholecystectomy, a general surgeon removes the gallbladder.
3. Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoids occur when the veins around the rectum become swollen. Obesity and straining to have a bowel movement are some of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Pregnant women are also susceptible to getting them. For many, hemorrhoids are uncomfortable and can even be quite painful. When the condition is severe, a general surgery called a hemorrhoidectomy can be performed to remove them.
4. Tonsillectomy
The soft mass of tissues at the back of the throat are called tonsils. As part of the immune system, the tonsils help prevent germs from entering the body through the mouth. Sometimes, viral infections cause the tonsils to become inflamed, which results in a condition called tonsillitis. This condition usually affects children.
When children have recurrent bouts of tonsillitis their pediatrician may recommend a general surgery called a tonsillectomy. During this procedure, the tonsils are removed. A tonsillectomy is also performed to help alleviate breathing problems caused by enlarged tonsils.
Share27 January 2021
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