Emergency and Trauma Surgery
Urgent surgical care for acute abdominal conditions and traumatic injury, including motor vehicle collisions, gunshot and stab wounds.
What it involves
Emergency general and trauma surgery covers urgent surgical assessment and treatment of acute conditions such as perforated or bleeding peptic ulcers, diverticulitis, bowel obstruction and traumatic abdominal injury. The specific procedure performed depends entirely on clinical findings at the time.
Why it may be recommended
Emergency surgery is recommended when a condition poses an immediate risk to health and requires urgent surgical intervention rather than planned, elective treatment.
Preparing for surgery
Given the urgent nature of these presentations, preparation time is limited. The surgical and anaesthetic team will act on the information available at the time, including any medical history, medication and allergies you or your family can provide.
What to expect afterwards
Recovery varies significantly depending on the condition and procedure performed. You and your family will be kept informed, and specific guidance on recovery, wound care and follow-up will be provided as your condition allows.
Day case or hospital admission
Emergency and trauma surgery requires hospital admission. Length of stay depends entirely on the nature and severity of the condition treated.
