Gastrointestinal and General Surgery

General surgery involves surgical care for many areas of the body, from the head to the rectum and vital gastrointestinal, vascular and endocrine systems as well. Although “general” in name, general surgery demands highly specialized skills to achieve optimal outcomes.

Minimally Invasive Techniques | Collaborative Team

2018 Surgery Annual Report

While skilled in performing traditional “open” surgery, NorthShore general surgeons have pioneered some of the latest minimally invasive and, in some cases, incisionless techniques in the world. These surgical options typically offer less pain, faster recovery and reduced scarring for patients. The sheer number of minimally invasive procedures we offer for a broad range of diseases and disorders—especially of the gastrointestinal tract—sets us apart from all others in the region, state and beyond.

Our surgeons possess advanced training in the use of leading-edge endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques that are not always available at all hospitals. Thin surgical instruments including endoscopes/laparoscopes equipped with small cameras and lights inserted through several small incisions allow our exceptionally talented surgeons to “operate” with as little damage to surrounding tissue as possible. We routinely use minimally invasive techniques for colon cancer, disorders of the esophagus and gallstone disease, to name a few. For weight loss, we perform both surgical and non-surgical endoscopic procedures for the treatment of morbid obesity.

Participation in clinical trials continues to allow us to offer leading edge care such as the use of innovative mesh materials for hernia repair and an endoscopic suturing device for primary weight loss.

Our physician specialists work alongside advanced practice nurses with subspecialty experience and training. Depending on the condition, the general surgery team collaborates with colleagues from multiple disciplines including oncologists, gastroenterologists and primary care physicians.

Nutritionists, exercise therapists and psychologists are essential members of our bariatric surgery program.