Did You Know…

About Surgical Services Available in Monticello?

By Dr. Lawrence George

Drew Memorial Hospital provides outstanding care for wide ranges of medical problems, including obstetrics and surgery. Our ability to take care of our community’s surgical needs continues to expand, allowing more patients to stay in the local area when the need for surgery arises.

I came to Monticello to practice surgery in January 2003. I am board certified in general surgery, and have practiced specialized surgery since 1985. In the past few months, I’ve gotten to know all the team members that make medical care work at Drew Memorial. The nurses, anesthetists, technicians, therapists, and support staff work together to meet your health care needs in a pleasant, safe, state-of-the-art facility. I’m very pleased with the way this team has come together.

The surgical services we provide literally cover the spectrum from “head to toe”. Common problems include tonsillectomy, hernia repair, gall bladder surgery, appendectomy, and gynecologic procedures such as hysterectomy. Malignant and benign tumors of the breast, thyroid, or colon can be safely managed. Diabetic infections of the foot, circulation problems and other non-healing wounds may benefit from surgical evaluation and treatment.

Additionally, we often see patients to diagnose causes for abdominal pain or bleeding. After lab and x-ray studies we often evaluate further with upper or lower GI endoscopy, and possible diagnostic laparoscopy.

A wide variety of surgeries are done with minimally invasive, laparoscopic “scope” techniques. These can include gall bladder and appendix removal, drainage of ovarian cysts, hernia repairs, lysis of adhesions and even some intestinal surgery.

An additional benefit of having a general surgeon nearby is that traumatic injuries such as from falls, car accidents, on the job injuries, can be more quickly and safely managed.

We are constantly looking for ways to improve our services to the community. It is our hope to be able to bring more specialized care to Monticello in the near future. We live in a great place and we want to make it even better.

Patients do not need a referral from their doctor fur a surgical evaluation. Appointments can be made directly by calling Drew Clinic at 460-4850. Our offices are in Drew Memorial Hospital, across from the Emergency Room.

Thank you all for making me and my family feel at home in Monticello. I look forward to getting to know all of you. Let me know if I can help you!