Surgery

Overview

Surgery is a medical treatment where a doctor, called a surgeon, makes a cut in your body to repair, remove, or replace part of it. It is used to treat many conditions, from injuries to long-term illnesses.

Yes. Surgery is a common part of healthcare. Thousands of operations happen in hospitals every day around the world.

Anyone of any age might need surgery at some point. It may be for a sudden injury, a long-term health condition, or a planned procedure to improve quality of life.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Severe or long-lasting pain that does not go away with medicines or rest
• A lump or swelling that your doctor wants to investigate
• Internal bleeding or a serious injury, such as after an accident

Symptoms in children

• Children might need surgery for conditions like ear tubes, tonsillitis, or fixing a hernia. Signs include persistent pain, fever, or a visible swelling.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may need surgery for joint replacements, heart problems, or removing a blocked artery. Symptoms may be less obvious, such as tiredness, confusion, or a fall.

Causes

Main causes

• Surgery is not a disease. It is a treatment. You may need surgery because of an injury, a condition you were born with, or an illness such as cancer. Your doctor will explain why they recommend it.

Risk factors

• You may be more likely to need surgery if you have a family history of certain conditions, do heavy physical work, or have a chronic illness. But many surgeries cannot be predicted.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain, sudden weakness, heavy bleeding, or any warning sign that might mean an emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a symptom that is not going away, like a lump, pain, or change in bowel habits, make a routine appointment with your GP.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will talk with you, examine you, and may arrange tests. A specialist surgeon will decide if surgery is the best option for you.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests
• X-rays
• Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans
• Other tests as needed, such as a biopsy or endoscopy

What to expect at your appointment

You will have a consultation before surgery. The surgeon will explain the benefits and risks. You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for a few hours beforehand. You will also be told how to prepare.

Treatment

Surgery is one type of treatment. Your healthcare team will explain what happens before, during, and after. They will also discuss alternatives, like medicines or other procedures, so you can make an informed choice.

Self-care at home

• Before surgery: stop smoking, eat healthily, and follow your hospital's instructions.
• After surgery: keep the wound clean and dry, take pain relief exactly as advised, move around gently, and follow your activity limits.
• Arrange help at home for the first few days or weeks, depending on your operation.

Medical treatments

There are many types of surgery, from minor procedures with a local anaesthetic to major operations with a general anaesthetic. All are done with strict sterile conditions to prevent infection. Your doctor may also give you medicines such as antibiotics or blood thinners to reduce risks, but these are chosen based on your individual needs.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is recommended when it is the safest and most effective treatment for your situation. Your surgeon will discuss the reasons, the expected benefits, and the possible risks with you before you agree to proceed.

Living with this condition

Recovery at home depends on the operation. You may need help with household tasks for the first few days or weeks. Follow your discharge plan and ask for support when you need it.

Lifestyle tips

• Attend all follow-up appointments so your healing can be checked.
• Take medicines exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Increase your activity gradually, as guided by your healthcare team.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with enough protein can help your wound heal. Gentle walking is usually encouraged after surgery, but avoid heavy lifting until your doctor says it is safe.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel anxious about surgery and during recovery. Talk to your healthcare team, family, or a counsellor if you feel low or worried. You do not have to cope alone.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent the need for surgery. But a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of some conditions, such as heart disease or certain cancers, that may need surgery.

Vaccines

Some vaccinations, such as flu and pneumonia, can prevent infections that might lead to complications needing surgery. Ask your GP about recommended vaccines for you.

Screening programmes

Screening tests, such as bowel cancer screening or abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, can find problems early. Early treatment may prevent the need for more complex surgery.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a condition that needs surgery is not treated, it may get worse or become life-threatening. For example, an infected appendix can burst, or a blocked artery can cause a heart attack.
• Delaying treatment can also lead to more pain and a longer recovery later.

Long-term outlook

Most people do well after surgery. Modern techniques are much safer than in the past. Your healthcare team will do their best to reduce risks and support your recovery. With careful planning and good aftercare, you can look forward to a positive outcome.

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