General Surgery
Surgical Association is the premier laparoscopic surgery center on the Gulf Coast. The surgeons at SAMPA are pioneers of laparoscopic surgery in the Southeast. In 1989, they performed the first laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Alabama and were later the first in Mobile to perform laparoscopic colectomy, hernia, vagotomy, hiatal hernia and adrenalectomy surgeries. We performed our first open gastric bypass surgery in 1977 and first laparoscopic gastric bypass in 2001. Our surgeons perform many general surgery procedures, most of which can be performed laparoscopically or robotically. We also offer the option of Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS).
The surgeons of Surgical Association are advanced in laparoscopic, robotic and SILS techniques. They are well trained on the latest surgical procedures in the following areas:
Adrenal Surgery
Also known as Adrenalectomy, removes a malfunctioning adrenal gland (each located just above a kidney) due to Cushing Syndrome or other adrenal conditions. Temporary hormone therapy is often needed to allow the remaining adrenal gland to compensate for the removal. Learn more about adrenal surgery >>
Appendicitis Surgery / Appendectomy
Appendicitis is the inflammation or infection of the appendix. Unfortunately, appendicitis is not very responsive to medical treatment (antibiotics) and usually gets worse very quickly. It often begins with pain in the center of the abdomen around the bellybutton and progresses to the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. This pain will become severe and piercing when the area is pressed and pressure is then relieved. Appendicitis may also present with fever, nausea, and other severe symptoms. Learn more about appendicitis surgery >>
Breast Surgery
Involves the removal of malignant tissue in the breast. When surgical intervention is indicated for the breast, we strive to remove the least amount of tissue possible, while ensuring that all malignancy is removed. Learn more about breast surgery >>
Colon Surgery
Also known as Colectomy, can be performed for a number of reasons, including non-cancerous conditions such as diverticulitis or alternately those that involve malignancy. During the procedure, some or all of the colon (large intestine) is removed. Learn more about colon surgery >>
Gallbladder Surgery
Also known as Cholecystectomy involves the removal of the gallbladder, usually due to gallstones. This can be performed in a traditional laparoscopic manner or using Single Incision technology for even better aesthetic results. Learn more about gallbladder surgery >>
Hernia Surgery
Hernias involve the protruding of abdominal contents through the fascia of the abdomen and can produce lifestyle-compromising symptoms. In rare cases, a strangulated hernia can cause an emergency situation. These defects are most often found in the upper thigh, groin, umbilicus or upper abdomen and are repaired using surgical mesh and minimally invasive techniques. Learn more about hernia surgery >>
Chronic Acid Reflux
Also known as GERD, acid reflux is a common concern for patients, especially those suffering from excess weight and obesity. Reflux can be caused alternately by a hiatal hernia or the dysfunction of the valve between the esophagus and stomach. When conservative measures do not work, surgery can be a long-term, effective solution. Learn more about acid reflux surgery >>
You can also learn more about Nissen Fundoplication and LINX device for GERD
Spleen Surgery
Splenectomy is often indicated when a severe trauma affects the integrity of the spleen or cancer, illness or other conditions cause the spleen to function improperly. Patients who have their spleen removed are at a higher risk of certain bacterial infections. Learn more about spleen surgery >>
Thyroid/Parathyroid Surgery
is often indicated for patients that are suffering from significant symptoms that cannot be controlled with medication. Because the thyroid and parathyroid glands are located in the neck, we place special emphasis on aesthetics, using advanced techniques to minimize scarring. Learn more about thyroid/parathyroid surgery >>
Weight Loss Surgery
Also known as bariatric surgery, this involves restrictive or malabsorptive procedures to help patients suffering from obesity lose excess weight. Our surgeons offer three minimally invasive surgical procedures and one non-surgical procedure to assist patients with losing weight and resolving obesity related diseases. Learn more about weight loss surgery >>
Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS)
SILS is a medical device technology that allows our surgeons to access the abdomen using only one single incision in the umbilicus or belly button, for ideal aesthetic results. Currently, SILS is available for gallbladder procedures. Learn more about SILS >>