How long does it take to get results from general surgery?

The results of general surgery vary depending on the type of surgery, the severity of the disease and the general health status of the patient. Since laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive method, patients are usually discharged within a few days after surgery and have a short recovery period. Laparoscopic surgery methods allow patients to return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks. However, in cases requiring open surgery, the recovery period may be longer and full recovery may take several weeks to several months. Open surgeries usually require larger incisions, so the recovery period may be longer and the risk of complications may be higher. However, thanks to modern surgical techniques and minimally invasive methods, patients' recovery times have been significantly shortened.

What is the Procedure Before Stomach Reduction Surgery?

Before gastric sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve gastrectomy), the health status of the patients is comprehensively evaluated. As a first step, the patient's body mass index (BMI) is calculated to determine whether the patient is suitable for surgery. Then, the patient's current diet and lifestyle are analyzed. In the preoperative period, a special diet program is applied to patients to gain healthy eating habits and prepare them for lifestyle changes. Patients are also given detailed information about lifestyle changes, diet and possible complications after surgery. The difficulties that patients may face in the postoperative period and the new lifestyle they need to adapt to are vital for the long-term success of the surgery. Psychological support is offered to patients as part of the pre and post gastric reduction surgery processes. This support increases the motivation of patients and increases the success rate in the weight loss process.

What are the Disadvantages of Laparoscopic Surgery?

Although laparoscopic surgery offers many advantages as it is a minimally invasive method, it also has some disadvantages. This surgical method may not be suitable for all patients. Especially in patients who have had previous abdominal surgery, laparoscopic surgery may be difficult due to adhesions between internal organs. Adhesions can limit the surgeon's field of vision and increase the complexity of the surgical intervention. In addition, in some cases, especially in cases of large tumors or severe internal organ damage, laparoscopic intervention may not be sufficient. In such cases, it may be necessary to switch to open surgery. Although rare, there may be a risk of damage to internal organs or complications during laparoscopic surgery. Nevertheless, since this type of surgery requires more precision for surgeons, it is recommended to be performed by a specialized team to minimize the risks.

Which Surgeries in General Surgery will be Performed in the Hospital?

In the General Surgery department; various operations such as obesity surgery, thyroid surgery, gall bladder surgery, hernia repairs, appendectomy, breast surgery, gastrointestinal surgery and liver surgery are performed by experienced and specialized general surgeons. Surgeries are performed with the most appropriate surgical methods according to the needs of the patients. These methods include laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery and open surgery. NPISTANBUL Hospital aims to provide safe and high quality surgical services to patients with its technologically equipped operating rooms and multidisciplinary treatment approach. Each surgical intervention is meticulously planned and implemented to ensure that patients regain their health as soon as possible.

How Should I Prepare Before Surgery?

Proper preparation before surgery increases the success of the operation and accelerates the healing process. Before general surgery operations, it is usually necessary to pay attention to the preoperative preparation process. It is important that patients fast for a certain period of time (usually 8-12 hours) and follow the instructions given by the doctor before surgery. In addition, you should follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the use of blood thinners or other prescription medications. It is also important to wear comfortable clothes on the day of surgery and to have the necessary documents with you.

How Long Does Recovery After General Surgery Take?

Recovery time after general surgery varies depending on the type of surgery. In minimally invasive methods such as laparoscopic surgery, the recovery time usually varies between 1-2 weeks, whereas it can take up to several weeks after open surgeries. In some cases, full recovery may take several months. To shorten the recovery time, it is important to follow the treatment plan recommended by your doctor and to pay attention to the necessary rest periods.

In Which Surgeries Laparoscopic Method is Used?

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive method preferred for many general surgical procedures today. Major surgeries using this method include gallbladder surgery, appendectomy, hernia repairs and some bowel surgeries. The major advantages of laparoscopic surgery include smaller incisions, faster recovery and less risk of infection. This method, which is especially preferred for intra-abdominal surgeries, also shortens the hospital stay of patients.

What are the Risks of General Surgery Operations?

As with any surgical procedure, general surgery carries certain risks. Common risks include infection, bleeding, clotting problems and complications related to anesthesia. In addition, the operated area may not heal or may require re-surgery. However, these risks are minimized thanks to experienced surgeons and modern surgical techniques. It is important to discuss these risks in detail with your surgeon before surgery.

When Can I Return to My Normal Life After Surgery?

The time to return to daily life after surgery varies depending on the type of surgery and the general health status of the patient. After laparoscopic surgery, patients are usually back on their feet within a few days, whereas after open surgery, this process can take up to several weeks. Your surgeon will tell you when you can return to work and start your normal activities after surgery. In general, it is recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks to avoid heavy physical activities and sports.

Is There Pain After Surgery?

Some postoperative pain is normal, but with modern pain management techniques this pain can usually be controlled. Laparoscopic surgeries usually cause less pain, whereas open surgeries can cause more prolonged pain. Your doctor will give you painkillers to relieve pain after surgery. Appropriate movement and rest techniques can also help with pain management.

Who is Suitable for Obesity Surgery?

Weight loss after bariatric surgery varies depending on the type of surgery and the patient's compliance with the diet and exercise regimen. Generally, a rapid weight loss is observed in the first 6 months and this process continues for 1-2 years. Patients can lose 50-70% of their excess weight after procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. Doctor and dietitian support is very important in this process. Adopting healthy lifestyle changes is essential for permanent weight loss.

Which Lifestyle Changes Should Be Made After Obesity Surgery?

After bariatric surgery, it is imperative to make some lifestyle changes for long-term weight control. It is important to adhere to a healthy eating plan after surgery, consuming low-calorie but nutritious foods. At the same time, regular physical activity is also essential for maintaining weight loss and improving overall health. In addition, the use of supplementary vitamins and minerals after surgery should be done on doctor's recommendation. Adhering to lifestyle changes after surgery significantly increases the success rate of the operation.

General Surgery

General surgery is a broad medical specialty that involves the treatment of organs in many different parts of the body using various surgical methods. The field of general surgery aims to treat diseases that cannot be cured with medication or other therapeutic methods by resorting to surgical intervention. General surgeons specialize in the treatment of a wide range of organs and systems, including the digestive system, abdominal organs, the breast, the thyroid, the endocrine system, and skin tissues. They also perform surgical procedures to treat diseases affecting internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

General surgery also encompasses highly specialized fields such as trauma surgery, oncological surgery (cancer surgery), and organ transplantation. Thanks to technological advancements in modern medicine, minimally invasive methods such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery are used to help patients recover more quickly. Furthermore, general surgery manages treatment processes in coordination with other medical specialties through extensive multidisciplinary collaboration.

At NPİSTANBUL Hospital, general surgery procedures are performed safely with a focus on patient satisfaction and high success rates.

What Is General Surgery?

General surgery is a medical specialty that treats chronic or advanced diseases—which cannot be managed with medication or other medical methods—through surgical interventions. General surgeons treat various conditions by using surgical methods to repair the body and remove damaged or non-functioning organs. These operations are typically performed when there are serious conditions or acute situations that threaten the patient’s health.

General surgery is not limited to a single discipline but has a multidisciplinary structure. It requires close collaboration with specialties such as oncology (cancer surgery), endocrinology (surgery of the hormone-secreting glands), and traumatology (surgery for injuries and trauma). Thanks to this multidisciplinary approach, the most appropriate treatment method is determined by incorporating the opinions of different specialties when planning a patient’s surgical treatment.

General surgeons, who provide care to patients of all ages, meticulously manage preoperative preparation, surgical techniques during the procedure, and postoperative care. Particularly during the postoperative period, to accelerate patients’ recovery, general surgeons utilize minimally invasive surgical techniques—such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery—that enable patients to return to their daily lives quickly. Thanks to these techniques, surgical interventions cause minimal harm to the patient, and the recovery period is significantly shortened. The advanced surgical devices and

technological innovations offered by modern medicine ensure more successful and safer outcomes in the field of general surgery.

What Conditions Does General Surgery Treat?

General surgery is a medical specialty that treats a wide range of diseases through surgical interventions targeting various organs and systems of the body. General surgeons are responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting various parts of the body. Focusing on areas such as the digestive system, intra-abdominal organs, skin, and soft tissues, general surgery also treats various other conditions, including breast diseases, endocrine system disorders, and tumors. General surgeons assess the severity of the condition, determine whether surgical intervention is necessary, and develop the most appropriate treatment plan for patients.

Some of the main conditions addressed by general surgery include:

Stomach and Intestinal Disorders: Stomach ulcers, intestinal obstructions, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are among the most common conditions treated by general surgeons. These conditions may require surgical intervention; particularly in cases that do not respond to medication, surgical methods can halt the progression of the disease and improve the patient’s quality of life. Intestinal surgeries can be performed using minimally invasive techniques to ensure rapid recovery for patients.

Anal Disorders: Conditions affecting the anal region—such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and anal fistulas—can significantly impair daily quality of life and may require surgical intervention. These conditions typically present with pain, bleeding, and a sensation of discomfort. Surgical treatment provides a permanent solution to these conditions. Hemorrhoid surgery is a procedure frequently performed by general surgeons; when performed using minimally invasive techniques, it shortens the patient’s recovery time.

Intra-abdominal Masses: Intra-abdominal masses can be benign or malignant. Tumors generally require surgical removal, and early intervention can prevent the spread of cancerous tissue and extend the patient’s life expectancy. Surgical intervention is frequently the preferred treatment for intra-abdominal tumors. Laparoscopic surgery is widely used in such cases because it is minimally invasive and accelerates the postoperative recovery process.

Liver Diseases: Serious liver diseases, such as liver cancer, liver cysts, or cirrhosis, can be treated with surgical interventions performed by general surgeons. Liver surgeries may include procedures such as tumor removal or liver transplantation. Liver transplantation is a life-saving treatment option in cases of severe liver failure.

Gallbladder Diseases: Conditions such as gallstones or gallbladder inflammation may require the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Gallbladder surgery performed using laparoscopic techniques offers patients a minimally invasive solution. This method involves a surgical procedure performed through small incisions and allows patients to recover more quickly. The pain and complications caused by gallstones can be permanently treated with this surgical intervention.

Spleen Disorders: Conditions such as an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) and spleen injuries may require surgical intervention. A splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) is a treatment performed when the spleen has lost its function or has been injured. This procedure can be life-saving, particularly in cases of spleen injury following trauma. Laparoscopic splenectomy is preferred as a less invasive method and shortens the patient’s recovery time.

Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid disorders are among the conditions that require surgical intervention. Thyroid surgery may be necessary in cases of thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, or goiter. Thyroid surgery is performed by removing part or all of the thyroid gland, particularly in cases of cancer. This procedure helps correct thyroid dysfunction and restores patients’ health.

Reflux and Hernia Disorders: Gastroesophageal reflux disease and abdominal hernias (such as inguinal hernias and hiatal hernias) are common conditions that may require surgical intervention. Minimally invasive surgical techniques are generally preferred for the surgical treatment of these conditions. Hernia surgeries provide a permanent solution to these conditions, which result from the displacement of abdominal organs. Reflux surgery offers a permanent solution by preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. These procedures improve patients’ quality of life and accelerate the recovery process.

General surgeons utilize the technologies and surgical techniques offered by modern medicine when treating these conditions.

General Surgery Departments

General surgery is a broad field of expertise that serves many different medical areas. This field is divided into various subspecialties based on patients’ surgical treatment needs. Each department performs surgical procedures in its relevant area of expertise and plans patients’ treatment processes. General surgery departments and their primary areas of focus:

Endocrine Surgery

Endocrine surgery focuses on the surgical treatment of diseases affecting the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands—organs that produce hormones. Tumors, nodules, or other diseases in these glands can cause

and may require surgical intervention. Particularly in serious conditions such as thyroid cancer, the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) is a commonly used treatment method.

Endocrine surgery aims to restore patients’ metabolic and hormonal balance. Modern surgical methods and advanced imaging techniques make surgical procedures safer and more effective. Thyroid surgery can also be used to surgically remove benign nodules in the thyroid gland.

Gastroenterological Surgery

Gastroenterological surgery deals with the surgical treatment of diseases of the digestive system. In this field, surgical interventions are performed on digestive system organs such as the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. Stomach cancer, intestinal obstructions, ulcers, diverticulitis, and other digestive system disorders are the primary areas of focus in this surgical field.

In serious diseases such as colon cancer and rectal cancer, surgical intervention can be life-saving. Surgical procedures performed using minimally invasive techniques shorten patients’ recovery time while increasing the success of treatment. Gastroenterological surgery effectively treats many disorders related to the digestive system, helping patients regain their health.

Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery

Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery is a specialty that involves the surgical treatment of diseases of the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts. Serious conditions such as liver cancer, pancreatic tumors, gallstones, and bile duct obstructions fall within the scope of this surgical specialty.

Since the liver and pancreas are among the body’s most critical organs, treating diseases in this region requires great precision. Advanced techniques, such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery, enable more successful outcomes in procedures involving these delicate organs.

Breast Surgery

Breast surgery is a specialty focused on the surgical treatment of breast cancer and other breast diseases. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women, and surgical intervention is often one of the most important steps in treating the disease. Breast surgery involves not only the removal of cancerous tissue but also breast aesthetics and reconstructive surgeries.

Surgeries such as mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) or lumpectomy (removal of cancerous tissue) are commonly used surgical methods in the treatment of breast cancer. Surgical interventions in this field aim to extend patients’ life expectancy while also improving their quality of life.

Organ Transplantation

Organ transplant surgery encompasses life-saving surgical procedures performed to replace organs that have lost their function with healthy ones.

Liver, kidney, and pancreas transplants are the primary areas of application in organ transplant surgery. Organ transplantation is one of the most critical surgical procedures capable of saving patients’ lives and, therefore, must be performed using a multidisciplinary approach.

These critical operations can be successfully performed with surgeons specialized in organ transplantation and well-equipped operating rooms. Throughout the organ transplantation process, numerous stages—including patient preparation, identifying a suitable donor, and postoperative care—are carried out with meticulous attention to detail.

What Types of Surgeries Are Performed in General Surgery?

General surgery is a broad field of expertise that encompasses various surgical interventions involving organs and systems located in different parts of the body. General surgeons can perform successful operations using both open surgery and minimally invasive techniques by determining the most appropriate surgical method based on the patient’s health condition and the type of disease. The most common surgical procedures performed by general surgeons are detailed below:

Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive surgical method performed through small incisions in the abdominal region. In this method, internal organs are visualized using a camera, and the procedure is carried out using small surgical instruments. The major advantages of laparoscopic surgery include less scarring, less pain, and a faster recovery process. Additionally, patients typically have shorter hospital stays. Laparoscopic surgery, which is frequently used in procedures such as gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, and appendectomies, provides patients with a comfortable and rapid recovery.

Open Surgery: Open surgery is a surgical method performed by making larger incisions. This method is generally preferred for the removal of large tumors, surgeries involving major organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines, or in trauma cases. In open surgery, the surgeon gains direct access to the organs, allowing for more detailed interventions. This method, particularly favored for complex surgeries, is suitable for extensive and comprehensive surgical procedures.

Hernia Surgeries: These involve the surgical repair of weak areas in the abdominal wall. A hernia occurs when abdominal organs protrude through weak spots in the abdominal wall, and in such cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. There are different types of hernias, such as inguinal, umbilical, and hiatal hernias, and different surgical techniques are used for each. Hernia surgeries can be performed using open or laparoscopic methods. Laparoscopic hernia surgeries are often preferred because they accelerate the recovery process and allow patients to return to their normal activities quickly.

General surgeons conduct a detailed evaluation of the patient before surgery and provide information about lifestyle changes to be made after surgery.

Gallbladder Surgery: This is a surgical procedure performed to treat gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. Gallstones can block the bile ducts, causing pain and infection, which may require the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Known as cholecystectomy, this procedure is typically performed using laparoscopic techniques. Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is a minimally invasive technique that allows patients to recover quickly. With this method, patients can return to their normal lives more rapidly. Gallbladder surgeries are successfully performed by experienced general surgeons.

Appendectomy: This is a surgical procedure performed on an emergency basis when the appendix becomes inflamed. If left untreated, the appendix may rupture, posing a life-threatening risk. Therefore, the inflamed appendix must be surgically removed. Laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions, allowing patients to recover more quickly. General surgeons safely perform appendectomies using advanced surgical techniques.

Thyroid Surgeries: These are surgical procedures performed to address tumors, nodules, or abnormal growths in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a vital organ responsible for hormone production; therefore, problems with the thyroid can have negative effects on overall health. In cases such as thyroid cancer, large nodules, or hormonal imbalances, part or all of the thyroid gland may be surgically removed. General surgeons ensure patients recover successfully by utilizing the latest technologies in thyroid surgery.

General Surgery Diagnostic Methods

General surgery diagnostic methods play a critical role in accurately diagnosing diseases and planning the treatment process. Depending on the patient’s health status and the nature of the disease, various diagnostic techniques are used to determine an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods. General surgeons utilize these modern diagnostic methods when deciding on the severity of the disease and whether surgical intervention is necessary. This ensures that patients’ treatment processes are managed as effectively as possible.

Physical Examination: This is the first and most fundamental step in diagnosing general surgical conditions. The patient’s medical history is reviewed in detail, symptoms are evaluated, and a comprehensive physical examination is conducted. Findings such as swelling, pain, or abnormal masses in the abdominal region can be important indicators for identifying conditions that require surgical intervention. This examination process helps clarify the symptoms of the disease and lays the foundation for the diagnostic process. General surgeons can assess the severity of the condition at this stage.

Blood Tests: These play a major role in identifying the underlying causes of conditions that may require surgical intervention. These tests help detect organ function, the presence of infections, and hormonal imbalances in the body. For example, liver function tests, kidney function tests, and thyroid function tests

assess the overall condition of these organs. Additionally, blood tests provide important information about conditions such as anemia, infection, and cancer.

Radiological Imaging Techniques: These play a crucial role in diagnosing conditions that require surgical intervention. A 3 Tesla MRI scanner provides higher-resolution and more detailed images compared to other imaging methods, enabling a clearer visualization of tumors, cysts, and vascular structures in particular. Advanced imaging techniques such as ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and 3 Tesla MRI help surgeons clarify their intervention plans by providing a detailed examination of the condition of internal organs. This enables a more informed decision regarding the surgical technique to be used.

Endoscopic Examinations: These are a crucial diagnostic method, particularly for diagnosing diseases of the digestive system. Techniques such as gastroscopy and colonoscopy allow for direct visualization of the internal structure of the stomach and intestines. Using these techniques, issues such as ulcers, polyps, tumors, or inflammation can be detected early. Endoscopic examinations play a vital role in determining whether patients require surgical intervention and offer the possibility of early diagnosis.

Biopsy: This procedure involves taking a sample from suspicious tissue for examination under a microscope. Especially in cases where cancer is suspected, a biopsy is one of the most important diagnostic methods for establishing a definitive diagnosis. The presence of abnormal cells in various organs, such as the breast, liver, thyroid, and skin, can be confirmed through biopsy. This method plays a major role in determining the type and stage of cancer, thereby helping to establish an appropriate surgical treatment plan.

Nuclear Medicine Methods: A diagnostic technique that uses radioactive substances to evaluate organ function. These methods are frequently used to detect conditions such as thyroid diseases, bone metastases, and certain liver disorders. Nuclear medicine provides an effective means of identifying the spread of disease and abnormalities in organ function. Nuclear medicine imaging serves as an important guide in planning procedures that require surgical intervention.

Echocardiography and Electrocardiography (ECG): When it is necessary to assess heart function prior to general surgery, echocardiography (ECHO) and electrocardiography (ECG) tests are used. These tests are used to detect heart valve diseases, heart muscle problems, and arrhythmias. These tests can be life-saving, especially when heart health is a critical factor in surgical intervention.

At NPİSTANBUL Hospital, these diagnostic methods—performed with modern medical equipment and under the supervision of specialist physicians—ensure rapid and accurate diagnosis of the condition. General surgery diagnostic methods help determine whether surgical intervention is necessary and assist in planning the patient’s recovery process as effectively as possible. Early diagnosis and accurate diagnosis significantly increase surgical success rates.

General Surgery Treatment Methods

General surgical treatment methods vary depending on the type and severity of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health. Modern medicine offers many advanced

techniques in the field of surgery, ranging from minimally invasive techniques to major open surgical procedures. General surgeons select the most appropriate treatment path for each patient following the diagnostic phase and plan surgical procedures in the most efficient manner. To ensure patients recover quickly and safely, the following treatment methods are commonly used in general surgery:

Laparoscopic Surgery: a minimally invasive surgical method widely preferred today. In this technique, small incisions are made in the abdominal region, and internal organs are visualized using thin surgical instruments and a camera inserted through these incisions. Laparoscopic surgery offers patients numerous advantages. Recovery time is short, postoperative pain is reduced, and the hospital stay is minimized. It is frequently used in procedures such as gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, and appendectomies. This method allows patients to return to their daily lives quickly and reduces the risk of postoperative infection. General surgeons perform laparoscopic surgery using the latest technology to ensure patients experience a comfortable recovery process.

Endoscopic Surgery: A method used to examine and treat internal organs using a small camera and instruments. Gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and other endoscopic methods play a major role in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system diseases. With this method, organs such as the stomach, intestines, and rectum are directly visualized, enabling early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Endoscopic surgery offers patients a faster recovery, less pain, and a lower risk of infection. Endoscopic surgical procedures are performed meticulously by experienced surgeons to ensure patients recover in a healthy manner.