general surgery
A specialist consultation in General Surgery is a key stage in the diagnostic and therapeutic pathway for patients presenting with conditions requiring surgical intervention, whether elective or urgent.
General Surgery deals with the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of numerous conditions affecting the organs and tissues of the digestive system, the abdominal wall, the skin and subcutaneous tissue, as well as various inflammatory, traumatic or neoplastic conditions.
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At our centre, consultations are carried out by qualified specialists who adopt a professional, comprehensive and patient-centred approach. The aim is to accurately identify the cause of the reported symptoms, assess whether surgery or medical treatment is required, and guide the patient through every stage of their care pathway.
When to see a general surgeon
A consultation with the General Surgery department is recommended if you have symptoms, complaints or medical conditions that may require further surgical investigation. It is advised when the following occur:
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Recurrent or acute abdominal pain
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Swelling, bulges or lumps in the abdominal wall
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Inguinal, femoral, umbilical or epigastric hernias
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Digestive problems or suspected gastrointestinal disorders
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Presence of skin or subcutaneous lumps
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Recurrent skin inflammation or infections
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Pain or swelling in the anal region
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Uncontrolled gastro-oesophageal reflux
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Cholecystitis or gallstones
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Conditions affecting the colon, rectum and bowel
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Suspected appendicitis
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Lipomas, sebaceous cysts, abscesses or fistulas
It is also advisable to undergo a specialist assessment prior to any surgery, in cases where there is a family history of conditions requiring surgery or where risk factors are present that necessitate specific checks.
What does the surgeon assess during the consultation?
1. Detailed medical history interview
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The specialist takes the patient’s medical history, analysing:
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Current symptoms
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Onset and duration of the condition
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Any previous surgical history
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Concomitant conditions
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Current medication
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Family history of relevant conditions
This step enables us to establish an initial diagnostic approach and to identify any potential issues.
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2. Physical examination
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This is followed by a thorough clinical assessment of the affected area:
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Palpation of the abdomen
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Assessment of the abdominal wall and checking for hernias
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Inspection and palpation of skin lumps
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Anorectal examination, where indicated
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Checking for signs of inflammation or infection
A physical examination helps to confirm diagnostic suspicions and guide the patient towards specific investigations.
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3. Referral for diagnostic tests
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To complete the assessment, the surgeon may prescribe tests such as:
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Abdominal or wall ultrasound
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CT scan or MRI
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Gastrointestinal endoscopies (e.g. gastroscopy, colonoscopy)
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Blood tests
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Specific X-rays
These investigations make it possible to accurately diagnose the condition and determine the best course of treatment.
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4. Pre-operative assessment
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If the consultation reveals that surgery is required, the specialist will provide:
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Information on the available surgical options
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Explanations of the timing, risks and benefits
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Details of the pre- and post-operative care
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Advice on how to optimise your clinical condition before the operation
The patient is then guided through all the necessary stages of preparation for the operation.