General Surgery

The University of Florida Department of Surgery at Shands Jacksonville provides an extensive array of specialized surgical services. The Division of General Surgery is responsible for the evaluation and management of a diverse list of surgical diseases, with selected conditions detailed here. The highly qualified and board-certified faculty members are committed to excellence in all aspects of patient care.

Services

The UF Division of General Surgery at Shands Jacksonville specializes in the evaluation and treatment of:

• Adrenal masses
• Anorectum disorders
  • Anal fissures
  • Anal fistulas
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Rectal abscess
• Breast disease
• Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, bile ducts, pancreas and soft tissue
• Colon disorders
  • Crohn's disease (Crohn's colitis)
  • Ulcerative colitis
• Diverticular diseases
• Gallbladder and bile duct disorders (cholecystitis and other gallbladder disease)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Hernias
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Intestinal obstructions
• Melanoma
• Obesity, morbid
• Polyps
• Stomach and small bowel disorders (ulcer disease)
• Parathyroid diseases
• Thyroid and parathyroid diseases
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Thyroid nodules
• Volvulus

Whenever possible, UF physician employ minimally invasive surgical procedures to decrease healing time and improve outcomes.

Diagnostic Procedures and Evaluations

Pre- and post-surgical procedures may include:

• CT scans
• Imaging studies
• MRIs
• Needle biopsies
• Ultrasound
• Upper and lower GI endoscopy

There are minimal risks associated with these procedures. Your physician will go over any potential risks beforehand.

Treatment Options

Treatment typically consists of open or laparoscopic (through small incisions) surgery through the abdomen or overlying tissue.

Postoperative recovery length depends on the extent of the surgery. Additional treatment may be needed for conditions such as cancer (i.e., chemotherapy, radiation).