General surgery relates to surgery and treatment on many different parts of the body. It may involve abdominal surgery, treatment for traumatic injuries, surgical treatment of cancer, and surgery related to the heart and blood vessels.
A hernia occurs when tissues, or sometimes intestines, protrude through a gap in the muscles of the abdominal wall.
Laparoscopic treatment of hernias is a minimally invasive technique used on patients whose hernias are small. Laparoscopy generally has a lower risk of infection, less recovery time, and less pain for patients.
A cholecystectomy is the removal of a patient’s gallbladder. This surgery is often performed laparoscopically and is generally used for patients experiencing gallstones, large gallbladder polyps, and pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation).
Colonic surgeries refer to surgeries involving the colon or rectum (the large intestine). These surgeries are often performed to treat cancers in that area, inflammatory bowel disease, or bowel blockages. Depending on the surgery needed, Dr Whiting will determine what sort of colonic surgery you may require and the recommended treatment.
A haemorrhoid occurs due to the thickening of the lining in the anal canal, causing the veins in that area to enlarge and show symptoms such as bleeding, pain, and discomfort. Haemorrhoids can be either internal or external to the anus. If you are noticing blood when you have a bowel movement, it is important to consult your General Practitioner as the symptoms of haemorrhoids can be similar to bowel cancer.
In addition to his general surgery specialties, Dr Whiting also performs emergency surgeries for patients. These include:
Laparoscopic gallbladder removal is routinely performed as a day procedure or with a single overnight hospital stay. Most patients resume light everyday activities within a week and can return to work within 1 to 2 weeks.
Yes. The liver continues producing bile to digest food, draining directly into the small intestine rather than being stored in the gallbladder. Most patients experience immediate relief from gallstone pain and return to a normal, balanced diet within a few weeks.
While most abdominal and groin hernias are repaired electively, you should seek emergency medical attention if a hernia bulge becomes suddenly painful, firm, red or purple or is accompanied by nausea, vomiting or an inability to pass gas (signs of bowel strangulation).
