208600000X Surgery Physician

Definition
A general surgeon has expertise related to the diagnosis - preoperative, operative and postoperative management - and management of complications of surgical conditions in the following areas: alimentary tract; abdomen; breast, skin and soft tissue; endocrine system; head and neck surgery; pediatric surgery; surgical critical care; surgical oncology; trauma and burns; and vascular surgery. General surgeons increasingly provide care through the use of minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques. Many general surgeons also possess expertise in transplantation surgery, plastic surgery and cardiothoracic surgery.
Classification
Surgery
Section
Individual
Notes
Source: American Board of Medical Specialties, 2007. www.abms.org [7/1/2007: definition added, source added; 7/1/2011: modified source]<br/>Additional Resources: American Board of Surgery, 2007. http://www.absurgery.org/. American Osteopathic Board of Surgery, 2007. http://www.osteopathic.org/certification<br/>Board certification for Medical Doctors (MDs) is provided by the American Board of Surgery. Board certification for Doctors of Osteopathy (DOs) is provided by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery.

Specializations

2086H0002X
Hospice and Palliative Medicine (Surgery) Physician
A medical professional who is a surgeon specializing in caring for patients with serious, life-limiting illnesses. They focus on relieving pain and other symptoms, improving quality of life, and supporting patients and families through difficult decisions. Services include managing pain, addressing emotional and spiritual needs, helping with end-of-life care, and coordinating care with other healthcare providers. Patients can expect compassionate support and guidance during advanced illness and the dying process.
2086S0120X
Pediatric Surgery Physician
A medical professional who performs surgery on infants, children, and teenagers to treat a wide range of conditions. Pediatric surgery physicians manage problems such as birth defects, hernias, tumors, injuries, and issues with the digestive, urinary, or respiratory systems. Patients can expect expert care before, during, and after surgery, with a focus on the unique needs of growing children and support for families throughout the treatment process.
2086P0122X
Physician Nutrition Specialist (Surgery)
A healthcare provider who specializes in assessing and managing nutrition-related health issues, especially for patients before and after surgery. They help diagnose and treat conditions like malnutrition, obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. Patients can expect guidance on meal planning, support for special diets, help with feeding tubes or IV nutrition if needed, and advice to improve recovery and overall health through proper nutrition.
2086S0122X
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Physician
A healthcare provider who performs surgeries to repair, restore, or improve the appearance and function of body parts. They help patients with injuries, birth defects, burns, or conditions affecting the skin, face, breasts, hands, or other areas. Services include cosmetic procedures, reconstruction after trauma or cancer, scar revision, and correcting deformities. Patients can expect care aimed at improving physical appearance, function, and quality of life.
2086S0105X
Surgery of the Hand (Surgery) Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and performing surgery on conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and sometimes the forearm. They care for injuries such as fractures, tendon or nerve problems, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other disorders that impact hand function. Patients can expect expert evaluation, surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and guidance on recovery and rehabilitation to restore hand and wrist movement and strength.
2086S0102X
Surgical Critical Care Physician
A surgeon who cares for patients who are seriously ill or injured, especially after surgery or trauma. They manage patients with life-threatening conditions such as severe infections, organ failure, or complex injuries, often in an intensive care unit. Patients can expect close monitoring, advanced treatments, and coordination with other medical specialists to provide the highest level of support during critical illness or recovery from major surgery.
2086X0206X
Surgical Oncology Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in performing surgery to diagnose, treat, and manage cancer. Surgical oncology physicians remove tumors, help determine cancer stages, and may perform biopsies or other procedures. They commonly treat cancers such as breast, colon, skin, and soft tissue tumors, and work closely with other cancer specialists. Patients can expect expert care in surgical options and guidance throughout their cancer treatment journey.
2086S0127X
Trauma Surgery Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in treating people with serious injuries, such as those from car accidents, falls, or gunshot wounds. Trauma surgery physicians perform emergency surgeries to stop bleeding, repair damaged organs, and stabilize patients. They care for patients with broken bones, internal injuries, and other life-threatening conditions, often working in hospital trauma centers to provide immediate and ongoing surgical care.
2086S0129X
Vascular Surgery Physician
A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating problems with blood vessels outside the brain and heart, such as arteries and veins. They perform surgeries and procedures to treat conditions like blocked arteries, varicose veins, aneurysms, and poor circulation. Patients may see this provider for evaluation, minimally invasive treatments, or complex surgeries to restore healthy blood flow and reduce the risk of serious complications.