General Surgery

General Surgery Services Across Central Iowa

At Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics, our board-certified general surgeons offer safe, effective, and advanced surgical care for patients in Belmond, Clarion, and throughout Central Iowa. Whether you need a routine surgical procedure or emergency surgery, our team is here to provide modern medical treatment with a personal touch.

Personalized Treatment From Specialty-Trained Iowa Surgeons

We offer a wide range of general surgery procedures, from hernia repair and gallbladder removal to cancer surgery and emergency care.

What is general surgery?

General surgery is a medical specialty focused on treating a wide variety of conditions that may require surgical intervention. Our general surgeons are specially trained to manage conditions affecting the:

• Abdomen (stomach, intestines, appendix, gallbladder, liver, pancreas)
• Skin and soft tissues
• Breast
• Gastrointestinal tract (GI)
• Hernias and trauma-related injuries

Whenever possible, our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic surgery, which allow for smaller incisions, faster healing, and reduced pain.

What conditions do general surgeons treat?

We care for many common and complex conditions, including:

Abdominal conditions:

• Appendicitis
• Bowel obstructions
• Colon and rectal cancers
• Diverticulitis
• Gallbladder diseases (gallstones, cholecystitis)
• Hernias (inguinal, hiatal, umbilical, and more)

Breast conditions:

• Breast cancer
• Breast masses

Skin and soft tissue conditions:

• Anal fissures
• Cysts and abscesses
• Hemorrhoids
• Lipomas (fatty tumors)
• Pilonidal cysts
• Skin cancers (melanoma, basal, and squamous cell)
• Soft tissue masses
• Wound infections

Emergency conditions:

• Acute appendicitis 
• Acute cholecystitis 
• Bowel obstructions
• Perforated organs
• Severe infections

Other:

• Port placements

Our team is equipped to handle both scheduled and emergency procedures.

What general surgery procedures are offered?

We provide a full range of general surgical services, including but not limited to:

• Gallbladder Surgery – Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder)
• Hernia Repair – Open and laparoscopic repair of abdominal, groin, and hiatal hernias
• Breast Surgery – Biopsies, lumpectomies, and mastectomies for breast cancer
• Appendectomy – Surgical removal of the appendix
• Bowel Resection – Removal of a diseased portion of the intestine
• Hemorrhoidectomy – Surgical treatment of painful or bleeding hemorrhoids
• Skin Lesion Removal – Removal of moles, tumors, or cysts
• Wound and Abscess Care – Cleaning and surgical drainage of infected areas
• Endoscopy Procedures – Colonoscopy and gastroscopy for digestive evaluation
• Minimally Invasive (Laparoscopic) Surgery – Smaller incisions, faster recovery

If you don’t see your condition listed here, please contact us to learn more. We offer many additional procedures and work with specialists when needed.

What is laparoscopic surgery?

Laparoscopic surgery is a technique where your surgeon makes very small incisions—usually less than 1 inch—and uses a camera and slim instruments to perform the procedure. It’s used for gallbladder removal, appendectomy, hernia repairs, and more.

Benefits include:

• Smaller scars
• Less post-operative pain
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster return to work or daily activities

Why choose Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics for surgery?

We understand that choosing to have surgery is a big decision. Here’s why patients across Iowa trust our team:

1. Highly Skilled Surgeons
Our Iowa general surgeons are board-certified, experienced, and continually trained in the latest techniques.

2. Personalized Care
From your first visit to post-operative recovery, we guide you through every step with clarity, compassion, and support.

3. Minimally Invasive Options
We prioritize laparoscopic techniques whenever possible to reduce discomfort and speed recovery.

4. Advanced Technology
Our surgical suites are equipped with the latest tools and imaging equipment, enabling more precise procedures.

5. Convenient Locations
You don’t have to travel far for high-quality care. Our hospitals in Clarion and Belmond are ready to serve you and your family.

6. Focus on Comfort and Healing
We know surgery can be stressful. That’s why our staff focuses on creating a welcoming, supportive environment for every patient.

What should I expect before and after surgery?

Before surgery:

• You’ll meet with your surgeon to discuss your overall health, condition, options, and expectations
• Your team may order labs, imaging, or other pre-op tests
• Instructions will be provided about medications, fasting, and day of arrival

After surgery:

• Some procedures allow you to go home the same day
• Others may require a short hospital stay
• We’ll give you clear instructions for recovery, activity limits, wound care, and follow-up
• Many patients can return to normal routines within days or weeks, depending on the procedure

What if I need a specialist?

Our general surgery team works closely with other surgical specialists across Iowa Specialty Hospitals, including:

• Hand and wrist surgery
• Foot and ankle surgery
• Weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery)
• Orthopedics and ENT (Ears, Nose, and Throat)
• Vascular and Vein Care

If your condition requires another specialty, we’ll connect you with the right provider and coordinate your care.

How do I schedule a surgical consultation?

If you are experiencing symptoms that you feel may require you to have surgery, we encourage you to see your primary healthcare provider first.  If necessary, your provider can refer you for a consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. During your consultation, you will discuss your condition, ask questions, and learn more about the surgical options available. Our team is here to guide you through the entire process and ensure you receive the best possible care.

For more information or any questions about a procedure, please visit our Locations & Hours page for additional information.

To find a specific provider at one of our Iowa clinics, visit our Medical Providers page for contact and additional provider information.

We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to optimal health.