General surgery is a surgical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting various regions of the body. This field encompasses surgical interventions for conditions involving the digestive system (such as stomach ulcers, reflux disease, intestinal obstructions, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer), endocrine glands (including thyroid, parathyroid), breast, skin lesions, and many other organs and tissues.

Areas of General Surgery:

Digestive System Surgery: Surgical treatment of digestive system disorders such as gastric ulcers, reflux disease, intestinal obstructions, diverticulitis, and intestinal cancer.

Colon and Rectal Surgery: Surgical management of conditions related to the colon and rectum, including colon cancer, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease).

Liver and Gallbladder Surgery: Surgical interventions for liver cancer, gallstones, and gallbladder inflammation.

Endocrine Surgery: Surgical treatment of endocrine gland disorders including thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, parathyroid diseases (hyperparathyroidism), and adrenal gland disorders.

Breast Surgery: Surgical treatment of breast diseases such as breast cancer, fibroadenomas, and breast infections.

Surgical Oncology, on the other hand, is a subspecialty focusing on the surgical treatment of cancer. Cancer is a disease characterized by rapid cell proliferation occurring in various parts of the body. Surgical oncology specializes in the removal and treatment of cancerous tissues. This field includes the surgical removal of cancerous tumors, examination of lymph nodes, and other surgical interventions.

Functions of Surgical Oncology:

Removal of Cancerous Tumors: Surgical oncology applies various surgical procedures to remove cancerous tumors from the body. These procedures are determined based on the size, location, and extent of the tumor.

Examination of Lymph Nodes: Since cancer cells tend to spread through the lymphatic system, surgical oncology involves the examination and, if necessary, removal of lymph nodes. This is crucial for evaluating the risk of cancer spread and determining treatment strategies.

Reconstructive Surgery: During cancer surgery, reconstructive surgical procedures may be performed to correct tissue loss or deformities resulting from tumor removal.

Surgical oncology requires a multidisciplinary approach. Surgical oncologists collaborate with oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to develop the most effective treatment plan for cancer patients.