A general surgeon may manage surgical conditions in the following areas: gastrointestinal tract; abdomen; breast, skin, and soft tissue; endocrine system; head and neck surgery; pediatric surgery; surgical critical care; surgical oncology; trauma and burns; and vascular surgery.
I have found general surgeons to be especially focused and exceptionally quick thinkers. It is often difficult to get their attention long enough to attend a full program because they are so busy. But, when I have gotten their attention, general surgeons have been some of the most intense participants during the training process. This intensity and focus is probably reflective of their need to move from a gastrointestinal to a pancreatic to a breast surgery perhaps all in one day, and do an excellent job on each.
Training post-residency is two to three years of fellowship. Board certification is through the American Board of Surgery.
Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.
