Classifications of Surgical Procedures

Perioperative Nursing |

There are different classifications of surgical procedures which can be classified as to: urgency, purpose and risk. These classifications can help identify the risk of degree of the surgery.

Based on Purpose

Diagnostic. These kind of surgeries are done to determine cause of illness and/or make confirm a diagnosis. Examples includes: biopsy, exploratory laparotomy (explorelap)

Ablative/Curative. These kind of surgeries are performed to remove a diseased part or organ. Examples include: gastrectomy (partial or full removal of stomach), thyroidectomy, and appendectomy.

Palliative. To relieve symptoms without curing the disease. These include: colostomy, debridement of necrotic tissue.

Re-constructive. These includes skin graft, plastic surgery, scar revisions. These are done to restore function to traumatized or malfunctioninig tissue and to improve self concept.

Transplant. To replace organs or structures that are diseased or malfunctioning.

Constructive. To restore function in congeinital anomalies. Cleft palate repaire (palatoplasty), closure of atrial-septal defect.

Exploratory. To estimate of the extend of the disease or confirmation of diagnosis. Examples: Exploratory laparotomy, pelvic laparotomy.

Aesthetic. To improve of physical features that are within normal range. Example: breast augmentation.

Based on Urgency

Elective. These are kind of surgeries wherein they are pre-planned. Delay of surgery has no ill-effects. These can be scheduled in advanced based on the client’s choice. Examples: tonsillectomy, hernia repaire, cataract extraction, mammoplasty, face lift, and cesarean section.

Urgent. Surgeries that are necessary for the client’s health, usually done within 24 to 48 hours. Examples: Removal of gall bladder, amputation, colon resection, coronary artery bypass, surgical removal of tumor

Emergent. Surgeries that must be done immediately to preserve client’s life, body part of body function. Examples: Control of hemorrhage, perforated ulcer, intestinal obstruction, repaire of trauma, tracheostomy

Tags: surgery