Overview of Surgical Careers
Surgical careers are diverse and cater to various systems and conditions in the body. From addressing diseases of the abdomen and blood vessels to critical heart conditions and neurological disorders, each branch of surgery requires focused training and expertise. In this blog post, we'll explore several key surgical specialties, the conditions they treat, and the training required to pursue them. Whether you are a medical student (or soon to be medical student) choosing a specialty or just curious about these surgical fields, you'll learn valuable information in this post. Listen to the full episode on this topic here.
General Surgery
General surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures focused on diagnosing and treating diseases affecting the abdomen, endocrine system, breast, and blood vessels. General surgeons also treat patients with physical trauma and employ both traditional and minimally invasive techniques. Common procedures include endoscopies, laparoscopy, and other minimally invasive approaches that help reduce recovery times and complications.
Common Conditions Treated
Hernias
Gallstones
Appendicitis
Bowel obstructions
Colon inflammation and cancer
Breast tumors
Pancreatitis
Thyroid disorders
Training
To become a general surgeon, doctors undergo 5 years of residency training after completing medical school. This training prepares them to handle a broad range of surgical interventions and diagnoses, making them skilled in treating a wide variety of conditions.
Colorectal Surgery
Colorectal surgery focuses on the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal system. It is a subspecialty pursued after completing a general surgery residency.
Common Conditions Treated
Hemorrhoids
Fissures
Abscesses
Fistulas
Colon cancer
Polyps
Inflammatory bowel disease
Training
After completing a general surgery residency, prospective colorectal surgeons undergo an additional year of specialized training. This training helps them master the complexities of the GI system, preparing them to perform intricate procedures that involve the colon, rectum, and other digestive organs.
Thoracic Surgery
Thoracic surgery specializes in the management of conditions in the chest, including the heart, lungs, esophagus, and trachea. Thoracic surgeons perform life-saving surgeries and critical care procedures for conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and trauma. These surgeons use both invasive and non-invasive techniques, including endoscopy, chest cavity drainage, and advanced heart support devices.
Common Conditions Treated
Coronary artery disease
Lung and esophageal cancer
Heart valve abnormalities
Transplants
Congenital anomalies
Chest trauma and injuries
Training
A thoracic surgeon’s residency training lasts 6 years and provides the expertise necessary to treat complex conditions in the chest cavity.
Vascular Surgery
Vascular surgery focuses on the treatment of arteries, veins, and lymphatic systems, with particular attention to the aorta, carotid arteries, and the arteries in the lower extremities and kidneys. Vascular surgeons are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the body’s blood vessels, using both traditional surgery and advanced, minimally invasive procedures such as angioplasty, endovascular treatment, and the placement of intravascular stents.
Common Conditions Treated
Aneurysms
Peripheral artery disease
Carotid artery disease
Deep vein thrombosis
Varicose veins
Training
Vascular surgeons complete 5 years of specialized residency training.
Neurosurgery
Neurosurgery focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system. Neurosurgeons also address issues with the supporting structures, such as the meninges, skull, vertebrae, and vascular systems with procedures like like spinal fusion, endovascular surgery, and radiosurgery.
Common Conditions Treated
Brain tumors
Spinal cord injuries
Chronic pain related to the nervous system
Neurovascular conditions
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal deformities
Training
Neurosurgery is the longest surgical specialty training, requiring 7 years of rigorous study. This extended training prepares surgeons to perform complex procedures.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgery deals with the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments. Orthopedic surgeons focus on treating trauma, infections, deformities, injuries, tumors, and degenerative diseases.
Common Conditions Treated
Fractures and bone injuries
Joint replacements
Musculoskeletal tumors
Sports injuries
Degenerative diseases such as arthritis
Training
Orthopedic surgeons typically undergo 5 years of specialized residency training, during which they learn to handle both surgical and non-surgical treatments for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery is a specialized field focused on the reconstruction and repair of skin, facial structures, and other body parts. This can be performed for both medical purposes, such as after trauma or disease, and for cosmetic enhancement. Plastic surgeons use advanced techniques, including grafts, flaps, and free tissue transfers, to restore or improve bodily structures.
Common Conditions Treated
Skin cancer reconstruction
Facial trauma
Burn injuries
Cosmetic enhancements
Reconstructive surgery of extremities and breasts
Training
Plastic surgeons undergo 6 years of specialized residency training, learning detailed knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and surgical techniques necessary for reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
Conclusion
Surgical specialties are an integral part of modern healthcare. From general surgery, which treats a broad spectrum of conditions, to highly specialized fields like neurosurgery, surgeons are skilled professionals trained to handle some of the most complex medical challenges.