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At the Institute for Surgical Excellence, our seasoned care team performs more general surgery procedures than any other center in the region – and consistently delivers exceptional results.
Our expert team of surgeons, nurses and other professionals works together toward one goal: a seamless experience with the best possible outcome – for every patient, every time.
When you choose Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence, you’re in the best hands. We offer expert, personalized care for a wide range of routine and complex general surgery procedures, including hernia surgery and bariatric surgery. Get the expertise you need and the patient experience you deserve at every point in your care.
At the Institute for Surgical Excellence, our seasoned care team performs more general surgeries than any other center in the region – and consistently delivers exceptional results.
Our expert team of surgeons, nurses and professionals in our general surgery subspecialties works together toward one goal: a seamless experience with the best possible outcome – for every patient, every time.
Unmatched surgical expertise
Many of our physicians trained at renowned academic institutions. Our surgeons perform more than 35,000 general surgeries every year – 70 percent more than other centers in the area. We perform a wide range of routine and complex surgeries, and use the least invasive method for your circumstances, such as robotic surgery.
Level I Trauma Center
We were the first in the Lehigh Valley to offer a trauma center and earn Level I trauma certification. Our board-certified trauma surgeons have decades of experience caring for the most difficult situations. Our Level I Trauma Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest offers 24/7 coverage for general surgery emergencies and other urgent cases.
Level II Trauma Center
Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg received Level II trauma certification in July 2021. Like LVH–Cedar Crest, it offers round-the-clock coverage offering lifesaving treatment for traumatic injuries.
Patient satisfaction
Our enhanced recovery program focuses on getting people moving faster after general surgery. These research-backed protocols often lead to shorter hospital stays and reduced reliance on opioid pain medication.
General surgery procedures we offer
Our general surgeons have decades of experience with both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques, including endoscopy and laparoscopy. They perform the following procedures as well as care for post-surgical complications:
- Appendectomy (appendix removal)
- Bariatric surgery
- Benign/malignant breast and colon disorders
- Biologic mesh (pelvic organ prolapse, hernia and other conditions)
- Cancer Surgery
- Colorectal surgeries
- Esophagectomy (removal of all or part of the esophagus)
- Fistulas (abnormal openings) and infections
- Gallbladder removal/surgery
- Gastrointestinal surgery
- Hernia surgery
- Hiatal hernia (heartburn surgery)
- Melanoma removal and surgery
- Reflux surgery (fundoplication)
- Stomach surgery
- Thyroid/endocrine removal/surgery
- Whipple surgery (pancreas, small intestine and bile ducts)
Undergoing general surgery can be an overwhelming experience. At the Institute for Surgical Excellence, we offer skilled expertise throughout your entire general surgery experience. Our surgeons will work with you to provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing your options and having expert guidance on difficult decisions.
We’ll meet with you to:
- Confirm a diagnosis
- Explore all treatment options, including those that may not be widely available
- Discuss what treatment or care plan is the best fit for you
- Ensure you’re confident in the approach and expertise of your care team
Request a Second Opinion for General Surgery
Undergoing a procedure or surgery can be an overwhelming experience. At the Institute for Surgical Excellence, we offer expert insight on care for a range of routine and complex procedures including hernia and weight-loss surgery. Our skilled surgeons will work with you to provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing your options and having expert guidance on difficult decisions.
We'll meet with you to:
- Confirm a diagnosis
- Explore all treatment options, including treatments or procedures that may not be widely available
- Discuss what treatment or care plan is the best fit for you
- Ensure you're confident in the approach and expertise of your care team
General surgery FAQs
A general surgeon is a specialist who is broadly trained in a range of surgical conditions and can operate on almost any area of your body.
The general surgeon provides your diagnosis, performs the operation and provides care before and after your procedure.
Procedures to treat everything from gallstones and appendicitis to hernia or prolapse repair are considered general surgery. Procedures that fall under “the most common” include appendix removal, reflux surgery, bariatric surgery, gallbladder surgery and others.