Every day, millions of people undergo a multitude of surgeries to address and treat various health conditions. In some cases, surgery becomes the most appropriate course of action. Dr Manuel Abreu will discuss some of the common health conditions that often necessitate surgical intervention.
Appendicitis: A Potentially Life-Threatening Emergency
Appendicitis is one of the most prevalent surgical conditions and involves the inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a small, tube-like organ attached to the large intestine.
And though its exact function remains uncertain, it is widely considered an essential part of the immune system. Once the appendix becomes inflamed, surgery — specifically, an appendectomy — is typically required to prevent complications, such as rupture and infection.
Gallstones: Restoring Balance in the Biliary System
Dr Manuel Abreu Gallstones form in the gallbladder due to the hardening of digestive fluid components. Some patients may never even know they have gallstones, as they may not cause symptoms.
However, if the stones block ducts, leading to complications and discomfort, doctors may recommend a cholecystectomy, or gallbladder removal. This procedure can be performed either as open surgery or laparoscopically, depending on the patient’s general health and the severity of the condition.
Hernia: Repairing Structural Weaknesses
A hernia develops when an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue layer, causing pain and discomfort. Inguinal, incisional, femoral, and hiatal hernias are among the most common types.
Surgical intervention is often necessary to repair the damaged tissue and alleviate pressure on the affected organ, reducing the risk of complications. Depending on the specific hernia type and severity, either open or laparoscopic surgery might be employed.
Cataracts: Clearing The Cloud
Dr Manuel Abreu As one of the leading causes of vision loss, cataracts are characterized by the lens of the eye becoming cloudy, adversely affecting vision. Cataract surgery is considered a relatively simple procedure in which the surgeon removes the affected lens and replaces it with an artificial one. This procedure significantly restores visual acuity, improving the quality of life for many patients.
