General surgery is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system, liver, bile ducts, thyroid, breast, hernias, anorectal region, and soft tissues. The treatment process is planned according to the type and stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health status.

1. Initial Examination and Evaluation

The patient presents with complaints such as abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating, hernia swelling, a breast lump, gallbladder pain, or thyroid-related symptoms.

A detailed medical history is taken and a physical examination is performed. When necessary, ultrasound, endoscopy, tomography, colonoscopy, or laboratory tests are requested.

2. Diagnosis and Disease Classification

Based on the findings obtained, the cause of the disease is determined.
The most common diseases encountered within the scope of general surgery are:

Gallstones and gallbladder inflammation
Hernias (inguinal, umbilical, hiatal hernia)
Appendicitis
Reflux and stomach diseases
Thyroid nodules and goiter
Breast diseases (lump, fibroadenoma, cancer)
Hemorrhoids, anal fissure, fistula
Liver and pancreatic diseases

Depending on the type of disease, a decision is made for medical treatment or a surgical method.

3. Preoperative Preparation

In patients scheduled for surgery, a general health evaluation is performed.

Blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray are performed.
Blood-thinning medications are temporarily discontinued, and the patient is informed about the fasting period.
If necessary, an anesthesiologist performs a preoperative evaluation.

4. Surgical Procedure

General surgery operations are performed using open or closed (laparoscopic) methods depending on the condition of the disease.

Laparoscopic (closed) surgery: A modern method performed through small incisions with the assistance of a camera. It is frequently preferred for gallbladder, hernia, reflux, and appendicitis surgeries.
Open surgery: Applied in advanced-stage or complex cases. The operation duration generally ranges between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

5. Early Postoperative Period

After the operation, the patient is transferred to the ward once the effects of anesthesia wear off.

Liquid foods are started within the first few hours, and early mobilization is ensured.
Pain control and wound care are provided. In laparoscopic surgeries, patients are usually discharged within 1 day.

6. Discharge and Home Care

Before discharge, the patient is informed about dressing changes, suture care, and medication use.

The wound site heals within 7–10 days.
Diet recommendations (especially after gallbladder, stomach, and intestinal surgeries) are explained in detail.

7. Follow-up and Monitoring

The first follow-up is usually performed on the 7th day for suture removal and wound evaluation.

The surgeon evaluates the patient’s general condition, nutrition, and possible complications.
If necessary, an advanced treatment plan is determined based on the pathology result.

8. Non-Surgical Treatment Approaches

In some diseases, treatment is possible without surgery:

Reflux and gastritis: Medical treatment and dietary regulation
Thyroid nodules: Observation and ultrasound follow-up
Breast cysts: Needle aspiration and follow-up
Hemorrhoids: Laser or band ligation methods

9. Recovery and Lifestyle Adjustments

During the postoperative period, patients are advised to take regular walks, avoid smoking, and maintain a balanced diet.

Exercises that increase intra-abdominal pressure should be avoided during the first 4 weeks.
The digestive system should be supported with adequate fluid intake and fiber-rich foods.

10. Multidisciplinary Approach

In the treatment of general surgery patients, coordinated work is carried out with the departments of gastroenterology, endocrinology, oncology, radiology, and dietetics.

Especially in oncological surgeries (stomach, colon, breast cancer), a multidisciplinary approach increases treatment success.

The main goal of general surgery treatments is not only to eliminate the disease but also to ensure a comfortable recovery process and a permanent improvement in quality of life.