Define surgery
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Defining Surgery: An Overview
What is Surgery? - Medical Specialty and Techniques
Surgery is a medical specialty that involves the use of operative manual and instrumental techniques on a patient to investigate or treat a pathological condition such as a disease or injury, improve bodily function or appearance, or repair unwanted ruptured areas. The term "surgery" originates from the Greek word "cheirourgikē," meaning "hand work," and has evolved through Latin as "chirurgiae". The act of performing surgery is referred to as a "surgical procedure" or "operation," and the verb "operate" means to perform surgery. The adjective "surgical" pertains to anything related to surgery, such as surgical instruments or a surgical nurse.
Historical Evolution of Surgery - From Rudimentary to Advanced Techniques
The history of surgery spans over two centuries, evolving from rudimentary and often unsuccessful procedures to advanced techniques such as bold reconstructions, intricate microsurgery, and organ transplantation. This evolution reflects significant advancements in medical knowledge, technology, and surgical techniques, transforming surgery into a critical component of modern healthcare systems.
Global Need for Surgery - Addressing Disease Burden
Surgery is a foundational component of healthcare systems worldwide, addressing a broad spectrum of disease states. A study estimated that at least 321.75 million surgical procedures are needed globally to address the burden of disease for a population of 6.79 billion. The need for surgical procedures varies across regions, with the highest rates observed in western sub-Saharan Africa and the lowest in central Latin America. These estimates highlight the critical role of surgery in global health and the need for integrating surgical services into health systems, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) .
Psychological Preparation for Surgery - Reducing Anxiety and Improving Outcomes
Psychological preparation is an essential aspect of comprehensive surgical care. Patients undergoing surgery often experience significant anxiety and fear, which can impact their recovery and overall outcomes. Studies have shown that proper psychological preparation, including emotional support and rapport with medical personnel, can reduce anxiety, improve the patient's acceptance of surgery, and lead to better postoperative outcomes . This preparation is crucial for both emotionally normal and neurotic patients, emphasizing the need for a total-care approach in surgical management.
Surgical Infections - Prevention and Management
Infections in surgical patients are common and can lead to severe complications, including sepsis, which has a high mortality rate. The prevention and management of surgical infections involve various strategies, such as preoperative skin preparation, the use of prophylactic antibiotics, and robust antimicrobial stewardship. The World Health Organization has published global guidelines to prevent surgical-site infections, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts to address this critical issue.
Conclusion
Surgery is a vital medical specialty that has evolved significantly over the past two centuries. It plays a crucial role in addressing a wide range of pathological conditions and improving patient outcomes. The global need for surgical procedures underscores the importance of integrating surgical services into health systems, particularly in LMICs. Additionally, psychological preparation and infection prevention are essential components of comprehensive surgical care, contributing to better patient outcomes and reduced complications.
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