# What a general surgeon does

### What does a general surgeon do?

A general surgeon diagnoses and surgically treats diseases of the abdomen and abdominal wall, such as gallstones, hernias, appendicitis and reflux, as well as superficial lesions. They also decide when an operation is not needed.

### When should I see a general surgeon?

When you have persistent or recurring abdominal pain, a bulge in the groin, navel or a scar, discomfort after fatty meals, reflux that does not improve with treatment, or a growing lump under the skin. For severe pain, fever or persistent vomiting, go to the emergency room.

### What is minimally invasive surgery?

It is surgery done through small incisions with a camera and specialised instruments, such as laparoscopy. In selected patients it can mean a quicker recovery and an earlier return to normal activities.

## Conditions treated

- [Gallstones and cholecystitis](https://droscarblancarte.com/en/procedures/laparoscopic-cholecystectomy)
- [Inguinal hernia](https://droscarblancarte.com/en/procedures/inguinal-hernia-repair)
- [Abdominal wall hernias](https://droscarblancarte.com/en/procedures/umbilical-and-ventral-hernia)
- [Appendicitis](https://droscarblancarte.com/en/procedures/laparoscopic-appendectomy)
- [Gastro-oesophageal reflux](https://droscarblancarte.com/en/procedures/reflux-and-hiatal-hernia)
- [Superficial lesions and wounds](https://droscarblancarte.com/en/procedures/lipomas-cysts-and-skin-lesions)

URL: https://droscarblancarte.com/en/what-does-a-general-surgeon-do

Versión en español: https://droscarblancarte.com/que-hace-un-cirujano-general