General Surgery & Endoscopy

general surgery in vascular clinic singapore

General surgery encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures aimed at treating conditions and diseases of various body systems. Endoscopy, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that allows surgeons to view the inside of the body using a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it.

These are common and can arise from various causes, ranging from benign growths to more serious conditions.

  • Causes:
    • Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can lead to localized swellings.
    • Cysts: Closed pockets of tissue filled with fluid or other material.
    • Benign Growths: Non-cancerous overgrowths of skin cells.
    • Tumors: Abnormal growths which can be benign or malignant.

  • Expected Outcomes: Most skin lumps and bumps are benign and can be easily treated or removed. Regular monitoring ensures they don't pose a health risk.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Excision: Surgical removal of the lump or bump.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Peace of mind from accurate diagnosis.
    • Cosmetic improvement.
    • Prevention of potential complications.

A lipoma is a benign tumour made up of fat tissue. They are soft to the touch and usually painless.

  • Causes:
    • Genetic Factors: Some families may have a higher predisposition.
    • Minor Injuries: Sometimes, trauma can lead to lipoma formation.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Surgical removal is straightforward, with minimal risk of recurrence.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Surgical Excision: The most common method where the lipoma is cut out.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Relief from discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
    • Ensures the growth is benign.

These are benign lumps beneath the skin, arising from blocked hair follicles.

  • Causes:
    • Blocked Sebaceous Glands: When oil-producing glands in the skin get obstructed.
    • Swollen Hair Follicles: Can lead to cyst formation.
    • Skin Trauma: Injuries can sometimes cause cysts.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Excision: Complete surgical removal to prevent recurrence.
    • Incision and Drainage: A cut is made in an infected cyst, and its contents are drained.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Can be surgically removed, with minimal scarring and low recurrence rates.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Alleviation of discomfort or pain.
    • Cosmetic improvement.
    • Prevention of potential infections.

Inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine.

  • Causes:
    • Blockage: Often from faeces, a foreign body, or, rarely, tumours.
    • Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can lead to inflammation.

  • Expected Outcomes: Requires prompt surgical intervention (appendicectomy) to prevent complications.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Appendicectomy: Surgical removal of the appendix, through laparoscopic or open surgery.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Prevention of life-threatening complications like peritonitis.
    • Rapid recovery with modern laparoscopic surgical techniques.

A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue.

  • Causes:
    • Strain: Lifting heavy objects without stabilizing the abdominal muscles.
    • Weak Muscles: Sometimes present from birth or develop later in life.
    • Persistent Coughing: Increases pressure inside the abdomen.
    • Obesity: Excess weight strains abdominal muscles.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Surgical repair restores the organ or tissue to its proper place and strengthens the weakened area.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Hernia repair: Surgical repair of the hernia.
    • Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Relief from pain and discomfort.
    • Prevention of complications like incarceration or strangulation.

Endoscopic procedures that allow visualization of the upper and lower parts of the gastrointestinal tract, respectively.

  • Uses:
    • Diagnosis: Identify digestive disorders or screen for cancers.
    • Investigation: Explore symptoms like abdominal pain or unexplained bleeding.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Accurate diagnosis, biopsy collection, or treatment of certain conditions.

  • Treatment Options (if abnormalities are found):
    • Polyp Removal: Using specialized tools during the endoscopy.
    • Biopsy: Taking tissue samples for further examination.

  • Benefits of Procedure:
    • Minimally invasive diagnostic tool.
    • Early detection of potential issues.
    • Direct treatment of some conditions, like polyp removal.

Bleeding that occurs along any part of the gastrointestinal tract.

  • Causes:
    • Peptic Ulcers: Open sores in the stomach or small intestine due to Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
    • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining.
    • Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus.
    • Cancer: Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract can bleed.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Identification of the bleeding source and appropriate treatment, often using endoscopy.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Endoscopic Therapy: Using endoscopy to stop bleeding, such as cauterization.
    • Medications: Drugs to reduce stomach acid or treat infections.
    • Surgery: In severe cases, to remove the bleeding source.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Rapid stabilization of the patient.
    • Prevention of further complications.
    • Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
pelvic congestion syndrome treatment

A common complaint with a wide range of causes.

  • Causes:
    • Infections: Bacterial or viral infections affecting the digestive system.
    • Inflammatory Conditions: Such as gastritis or pancreatitis.
    • Obstructions: Blockages in the intestines.
    • Tumours: Benign or malignant growths can cause pain.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Accurate diagnosis followed by targeted treatment.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Medications: Pain relievers, antibiotics, or antispasmodics.
    • Dietary Changes: To manage or prevent symptoms.
    • Surgery: In cases of obstructions or tumors.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Relief from pain and discomfort.
    • Early detection and management of underlying conditions, especially cancers.

Surgical procedures performed to address life-threatening conditions or severe pain.

  • Indications:
    • Acute Appendicitis: Rapid inflammation of the appendix.
    • Bowel Obstructions: Blockages in the intestines.
    • Trauma: Injuries requiring surgical intervention.
    • Perforated Organs: When an organ ruptures or tears.

  • Treatment Options:
    • Laparotomy: Open surgery to explore the cause and treat it.
    • Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive approach for certain conditions.
    • Specific Procedures: Depending on the diagnosis, such as appendectomy for appendicitis.

  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Stabilization of the patient's condition and prevention of further complications.

  • Benefits of Treatment:
    • Rapid intervention to save lives.
    • Alleviation of severe pain or discomfort.
    • Prevention of long-term complications.
Seek Expert Care

General surgery and endoscopy are vital in diagnosing and treating a plethora of conditions. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms or conditions mentioned above, it is crucial to consult with a specialist. Our team offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services tailored to individual needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Mount Elizabeth Novena
Specialist Centre

38 Irrawaddy Road
#10-33/34/35
Singapore 329563
Tel: +65 6041 0933 

Farrer Park Hospital
Medical Centre

1 Farrer Park Station Road
#08-14 Connexion
Singapore 217562
Tel: +65 6974 8859

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