Patient Education

Key West Surgical Group, Inc. would like to be your partner in health care. Feel free to ask your questions and share your concerns with us. We will work with you to develop a wellness program for the care and treatment you need.

We welcome you to our practice and look forward to caring for you.

Key West Surgical Group, Inc. provides a full range of medical services including the following:

Abscess Drainage

An abscess is a mass caused by a bacterial infection; it forms when a cavity fills with pus, which is a combination of dead tissue, white blood cells and bacteria. Although an abscess can develop anywhere (sometimes as a postsurgical complication), moist areas such as the armpits, groin, tailbone region (pilonidal cyst) and mouth (dental abscess) are particularly susceptible. Although some drain on their own, many abscesses require medical intervention. ...

Appendectomy

An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the appendix, a small organ located at the junction of the small intestine and colon. The appendix, once thought to be only vestigial, is now known to help lubricate the colon, and assist the immune system. Appendectomies are, therefore, performed only when necessary. ...

Biopsy of Skin Lesions

A skin lesion biopsy is a diagnostic test that involves removing a tissue sample and examining it under a microscope. This test is used to identify suspicious lesions and to differentiate normal cells from abnormal ones.

Reasons for Skin Lesion Biopsies

Skin lesion biopsies are performed when simple visual examination by the physician is insufficient to make a clearcut diagnosis. Such biopsies are done in order to make a definitive diagnosis of: ...

Breast Biopsy

A biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes a sample of abnormal tissue to determine whether it is benign or malignant. A biopsy can be performed on many different areas of the body, but is commonly used to diagnose, and sometimes treat, lumps found in breast tissue.

A breast biopsy may be performed after abnormalities have been detected in the breast as a result of a breast self-exam, mammogram or other imaging procedure. In addition to its diagnostic purpose, a biopsy can remove small tumors or other abnormalities that are found during the procedure, eliminating the need for additional surgery. ...

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer affects a significant number of women each year. It is the second-most-common cancer, and the second-leading cause of cancer death, among women. Most breast cancers are slow-growing, but there are types that are aggressive, which is why early detection is essential. Regular screenings are the best way to detect breast cancer in its early stages. The most common screenings are mammograms and doctor-performed clinical breast exams. ...

Breast Self-Exam

Breast cancer affects a significant number of women each year. Most breast cancers are slow-growing, but there are types that are aggressive, which is why early detection is essential. Regular screenings are the best way to detect breast cancer in its early stages. The most common recommended screenings are mammograms and doctor-performed clinical breast exams. ...

Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder is responsible for collecting and releasing bile, a fluid produced by the liver that is used in the digestion of food.

Cholecystectomy is usually performed when the gallbladder is not functioning properly, or if painful gallstones are present. ...

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure performed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum; it is used to determine causes of abdominal pain; rectal bleeding; and changes in bowel activity. It is also used to detect early signs of cancer. Colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years for everyone between the ages of 50 and 75. They may be recommended more frequently, or at a younger age, for people at elevated risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), typically patients with certain medical conditions or with a family history of the disease. Colonoscopies are also performed as follow-ups to other screening tests with positive results, such as a fecal occult blood tests. ...

Colonoscopy FAQs

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure performed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.

Why is a colonoscopy performed?

The colonoscopy procedure can aid in determining the cause of changes in bowel activity, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, as well as detect early signs of cancer. A colonoscopy may be recommended as an option for people who are at risk of developing cancer of the colon and rectum, known as colorectal cancer, or CRC. ...

Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are clusters of cells that form on the lining of the colon or rectum. While most colon polyps are harmless, some are malignant or may become malignant. It is important to have regular colon screenings and to have any existing polyps removed, particularly because colon polyps most often do not result in symptoms. Left undetected, they are more likely to become cancerous and colon cancer is more likely to be fatal when discovered at a later stage. ...

Colon Resection

A colon resection, or colectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove either part, or all, of the large intestine (colon). This procedure is performed to repair a congenital abnormality or damage caused by a disease condition, a traumatic injury or a severe infection. A colon resection may be performed as an open procedure or laparoscopically. Wherever possible, the laparoscopic procedure is preferred since it results in smaller incisions, fewer complications, and a shorter recovery period. Normally, during a colon resection, after the diseased portions of the colon are removed, the healthy ends of the colon are reattached to one another with sutures. In more serious cases, however, a colostomy may be necessary, either temporarily or permanently. ...

Colon Resection FAQs

Colon resections may be performed for a number of reasons, all of them serious, but since this surgery is performed frequently, surgical techniques are constantly improving. As a result, recovery from a colon resection generally proceeds much more smoothly than it did in the past.

What is a colon resection?

A colon resection is a surgical procedure to remove either part, or all, of the colon (large intestine). When the whole colon is removed, the operation is also known as a colectomy. A colon resection is performed to treat, or prevent the spread of, certain diseases of the colon. ...

Colostomy

A colostomy is a surgical procedure performed to attach one end of the large intestine to an opening in the abdominal wall (a stoma) through which body waste drains into a bag designed for the purpose. This operation is performed when a section of the colon has to be removed due to illness, infection or injury in order to give the remaining portion of the colon a chance to heal. The procedure may be performed as a temporary measure until healing takes place, or may be a permanent solution, especially when the rectum has also been removed. ...

Da Vinci® Surgical System

In a relatively new approach to minimally invasive surgery (MIS), the da Vinci® system applies robotic technology to various types of surgery. Although laparoscopic surgery is also minimally invasive, it limits the surgeon to rigid and fairly restricted movements. The da Vinci surgical system offers flexibility and control, and permits precise, effective results in a wide range of surgical procedures, including those used in treating cardiac, colorectal, gynecologic, head and neck, thoracic, and urological problems. ...

Debridement

Debridement is the removal of dead, devitalized or contaminated tissue from ulcers, burns and other wounds. By helping to reduce the number of toxins, microbes and other substances in a wound, debridement promotes healing and reduces the risk of infection. In conjunction with other methods, debridement is considered an essential component in the treatment of chronic (nonhealing) wounds. ...

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is the inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches found in the inner lining of the intestinal tract. Diverticulosis, the condition that causes the pouches to form, is common in people age 40 and older. Nearly half the people in the United States develop diverticulosis by the age of 60. Diverticula, which are multiple small pouches, can occur anywhere along the digestive tract, but are most commonly found in the lower portion of the large intestine, the sigmoid colon. Most often, these pouches are not troublesome, but when they become infected and inflamed, the resulting condition is known as diverticulitis. ...

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy, also known as an EGD or upper endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that examines and treats certain conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine, with an endoscope. An EGD is able to aid in the diagnosis of conditions affecting the upper digestive tract issues, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, abdominal pain and ulcers. During the EGD procedure, tissue samples can be obtained for biopsy, objects can be removed and therapeutic procedures may be performed. ...

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid, used for digestion, regurgitates or refluxes into the esophagus, causing inflammation and damage to the lining of the esophagus. GERD is a complication of gastroesophageal reflux, also known as GER, a less serious form of GERD. Most people have occasional episodes of GER, but when GER becomes more frequent, occurring more than two times a week, it is classified as GERD. The stomach acid causes pain or burning in the chest or throat, known as heartburn. ...

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal canal. In their normal state, these veins provide cushioning during bowel movements. They can, however, swell from lifting, straining, being constipated, passing hard stools and having diarrhea, or from pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are not life-threatening, but they can be painful. If swelling persists, the veins may become permanently stretched (prolapsed). ...

Hernia

A hernia occurs when an abdominal organ, usually the small intestine, protrudes through the abdominal wall. The protruding tissue may become obstructed or incarcerated, or may strangulate. In the latter case, blood flow to the tissue is impeded and the results may be life-threatening. Hernias do not heal on their own and may be uncomfortable or painful. Surgery is the only method to correct them. Small hiatal hernias, however, can sometimes be kept at bay through diet and medication. Among the most common procedures in the United States, hernia surgery is performed to push the protruding tissue back into place and repair the weakness in the abdominal wall which allowed it to pass through. ...

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder collects and releases bile to aid in the process of digestion. Although the gallbladder performs a digestive function, it is not necessary for proper body functioning and may be removed if diseased. ...

Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair is a minimally invasive procedure for repairing a ventral (abdominal) hernia, which occurs when there is a weakness in the abdominal wall that develops into a tear or hole. The hernia is created as the inner lining of the abdomen pushes through the opening, forming a sac into which a portion of abdominal or intestinal tissue protrudes. The hernia manifests itself as a bulge in the outer wall of the abdomen. Depending on its severity, a ventral hernia may or may not require surgical repair. Using laparoscopic surgery rather than traditional open surgery for repair has significant advantages; they include less scarring, less pain, less risk of infection, and a shorter recovery period. ...

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions in the abdominal and pelvic areas. During a laparoscopic procedure, a thin tube with a camera on the end, known as a laparoscope, is inserted through a tiny incision to allow the doctor to closely examine the organs of the area. Surgical instruments can be inserted through additional incisions to treat any identified problems or to retrieve tissue specimens. ...

Mastectomy

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the breast(s) in a patient with breast cancer. It is one of the most commonly used and effective options for treating breast cancer because it removes all traces of cancer, and reduces the risk of its recurrence.

Types of Mastectomy

There are several different mastectomy procedures designed to eradicate the cancer but retain as much of the natural breast as possible. Some of the most commonly used techniques include: ...

Pilonidal Cyst Removal

A pilonidal cyst is a fluid-filled, pimple-like sac at the coccyx (tailbone), just below the crack of the buttocks. Pilonidal cysts are prone to infection; if one does become infected, filling with pus, it is technically called a "pilonidal abscess." Pilonidal abscesses are always treated with excision and drainage because, left untreated, the infection can spread. ...

Spider Veins

Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, thin blood vessels visible beneath the skin. They usually develop on the face or legs, and may look like a series of thin tree branches or strands of a spider web. Although most spider veins are only a cosmetic issue, for some people they can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling and leg-cramping. ...

Thyroid Biopsy

During a thyroid biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken from the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that helps regulate the body's metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure and temperature.

If a lump is detected after a thyroid sonogram, a doctor may choose to perform a biopsy to determine whether the nodule is malignant. A biopsy may also be recommended if the thyroid gland is enlarged without explanation. ...

Thyroidectomy

Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid lobes. Overactive thyroid hormone production, known as hyperthyroidism, is a common condition that causes an increase in metabolic function throughout the body. An overactive thyroid is often caused by an adenoma, which causes the thyroid gland to enlarge. If left untreated, this condition can lead to kidney problems or extreme stress on vital organs.

Upper Endoscopy

Upper endoscopy, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD, is a diagnostic procedure used to visually examine and diagnose conditions of the upper gastrointestinal, or digestive tract. The upper gastrointestinal tract includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, or upper part of the small intestine. An upper endoscopy is performed using a flexible tube with an attached light and camera, called an endoscope. It is inserted through the mouth and guided along to thoroughly examine the upper gastrointestinal tract. ...

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins, which appear as unsightly bulges, usually on the legs, may be a medical, as well as cosmetic, problem. Varicose veins affect both men and women. According to the The National Institutes of Health, a quarter of patients who suffer from this condition are men. More women seek help for this disorder than men not only because more women suffer from them, but because in our culture women expose their legs more frequently to public view. Regardless of gender, however, varicose veins can be a serious problem requiring medical intervention. ...

Abscess Drainage

An abscess is a mass caused by a bacterial infection; it forms when a cavity fills with pus, which is a combination of dead tissue, white blood cells and bacteria. Although an abscess can develop anywhere (sometimes as a postsurgical complication), moist areas such as the armpits, groin, tailbone region (pilonidal cyst) and mouth (dental abscess) are particularly susceptible. Although some drain on their own, many abscesses require medical intervention. ...

Appendectomy

An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the appendix, a small organ located at the junction of the small intestine and colon. The appendix, once thought to be only vestigial, is now known to help lubricate the colon, and assist the immune system. Appendectomies are, therefore, performed only when necessary. ...

Biopsy of Skin Lesions

A skin lesion biopsy is a diagnostic test that involves removing a tissue sample and examining it under a microscope. This test is used to identify suspicious lesions and to differentiate normal cells from abnormal ones.

Reasons for Skin Lesion Biopsies

Skin lesion biopsies are performed when simple visual examination by the physician is insufficient to make a clearcut diagnosis. Such biopsies are done in order to make a definitive diagnosis of: ...

Breast Biopsy

A biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes a sample of abnormal tissue to determine whether it is benign or malignant. A biopsy can be performed on many different areas of the body, but is commonly used to diagnose, and sometimes treat, lumps found in breast tissue.

A breast biopsy may be performed after abnormalities have been detected in the breast as a result of a breast self-exam, mammogram or other imaging procedure. In addition to its diagnostic purpose, a biopsy can remove small tumors or other abnormalities that are found during the procedure, eliminating the need for additional surgery. ...

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer affects a significant number of women each year. It is the second-most-common cancer, and the second-leading cause of cancer death, among women. Most breast cancers are slow-growing, but there are types that are aggressive, which is why early detection is essential. Regular screenings are the best way to detect breast cancer in its early stages. The most common screenings are mammograms and doctor-performed clinical breast exams. ...

Breast Self-Exam

Breast cancer affects a significant number of women each year. Most breast cancers are slow-growing, but there are types that are aggressive, which is why early detection is essential. Regular screenings are the best way to detect breast cancer in its early stages. The most common recommended screenings are mammograms and doctor-performed clinical breast exams. ...

Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder is responsible for collecting and releasing bile, a fluid produced by the liver that is used in the digestion of food.

Cholecystectomy is usually performed when the gallbladder is not functioning properly, or if painful gallstones are present. ...

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure performed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum; it is used to determine causes of abdominal pain; rectal bleeding; and changes in bowel activity. It is also used to detect early signs of cancer. Colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years for everyone between the ages of 50 and 75. They may be recommended more frequently, or at a younger age, for people at elevated risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), typically patients with certain medical conditions or with a family history of the disease. Colonoscopies are also performed as follow-ups to other screening tests with positive results, such as a fecal occult blood tests. ...

Colonoscopy FAQs

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure performed to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.

Why is a colonoscopy performed?

The colonoscopy procedure can aid in determining the cause of changes in bowel activity, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, as well as detect early signs of cancer. A colonoscopy may be recommended as an option for people who are at risk of developing cancer of the colon and rectum, known as colorectal cancer, or CRC. ...

Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are clusters of cells that form on the lining of the colon or rectum. While most colon polyps are harmless, some are malignant or may become malignant. It is important to have regular colon screenings and to have any existing polyps removed, particularly because colon polyps most often do not result in symptoms. Left undetected, they are more likely to become cancerous and colon cancer is more likely to be fatal when discovered at a later stage. ...

Colon Resection

A colon resection, or colectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove either part, or all, of the large intestine (colon). This procedure is performed to repair a congenital abnormality or damage caused by a disease condition, a traumatic injury or a severe infection. A colon resection may be performed as an open procedure or laparoscopically. Wherever possible, the laparoscopic procedure is preferred since it results in smaller incisions, fewer complications, and a shorter recovery period. Normally, during a colon resection, after the diseased portions of the colon are removed, the healthy ends of the colon are reattached to one another with sutures. In more serious cases, however, a colostomy may be necessary, either temporarily or permanently. ...

Colon Resection FAQs

Colon resections may be performed for a number of reasons, all of them serious, but since this surgery is performed frequently, surgical techniques are constantly improving. As a result, recovery from a colon resection generally proceeds much more smoothly than it did in the past.

What is a colon resection?

A colon resection is a surgical procedure to remove either part, or all, of the colon (large intestine). When the whole colon is removed, the operation is also known as a colectomy. A colon resection is performed to treat, or prevent the spread of, certain diseases of the colon. ...

Colostomy

A colostomy is a surgical procedure performed to attach one end of the large intestine to an opening in the abdominal wall (a stoma) through which body waste drains into a bag designed for the purpose. This operation is performed when a section of the colon has to be removed due to illness, infection or injury in order to give the remaining portion of the colon a chance to heal. The procedure may be performed as a temporary measure until healing takes place, or may be a permanent solution, especially when the rectum has also been removed. ...

Da Vinci® Surgical System

In a relatively new approach to minimally invasive surgery (MIS), the da Vinci® system applies robotic technology to various types of surgery. Although laparoscopic surgery is also minimally invasive, it limits the surgeon to rigid and fairly restricted movements. The da Vinci surgical system offers flexibility and control, and permits precise, effective results in a wide range of surgical procedures, including those used in treating cardiac, colorectal, gynecologic, head and neck, thoracic, and urological problems. ...

Debridement

Debridement is the removal of dead, devitalized or contaminated tissue from ulcers, burns and other wounds. By helping to reduce the number of toxins, microbes and other substances in a wound, debridement promotes healing and reduces the risk of infection. In conjunction with other methods, debridement is considered an essential component in the treatment of chronic (nonhealing) wounds. ...

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is the inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches found in the inner lining of the intestinal tract. Diverticulosis, the condition that causes the pouches to form, is common in people age 40 and older. Nearly half the people in the United States develop diverticulosis by the age of 60. Diverticula, which are multiple small pouches, can occur anywhere along the digestive tract, but are most commonly found in the lower portion of the large intestine, the sigmoid colon. Most often, these pouches are not troublesome, but when they become infected and inflamed, the resulting condition is known as diverticulitis. ...

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

An esophagogastroduodenoscopy, also known as an EGD or upper endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure that examines and treats certain conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine, with an endoscope. An EGD is able to aid in the diagnosis of conditions affecting the upper digestive tract issues, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, abdominal pain and ulcers. During the EGD procedure, tissue samples can be obtained for biopsy, objects can be removed and therapeutic procedures may be performed. ...

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid, used for digestion, regurgitates or refluxes into the esophagus, causing inflammation and damage to the lining of the esophagus. GERD is a complication of gastroesophageal reflux, also known as GER, a less serious form of GERD. Most people have occasional episodes of GER, but when GER becomes more frequent, occurring more than two times a week, it is classified as GERD. The stomach acid causes pain or burning in the chest or throat, known as heartburn. ...

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal canal. In their normal state, these veins provide cushioning during bowel movements. They can, however, swell from lifting, straining, being constipated, passing hard stools and having diarrhea, or from pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are not life-threatening, but they can be painful. If swelling persists, the veins may become permanently stretched (prolapsed). ...

Hernia

A hernia occurs when an abdominal organ, usually the small intestine, protrudes through the abdominal wall. The protruding tissue may become obstructed or incarcerated, or may strangulate. In the latter case, blood flow to the tissue is impeded and the results may be life-threatening. Hernias do not heal on their own and may be uncomfortable or painful. Surgery is the only method to correct them. Small hiatal hernias, however, can sometimes be kept at bay through diet and medication. Among the most common procedures in the United States, hernia surgery is performed to push the protruding tissue back into place and repair the weakness in the abdominal wall which allowed it to pass through. ...

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder collects and releases bile to aid in the process of digestion. Although the gallbladder performs a digestive function, it is not necessary for proper body functioning and may be removed if diseased. ...

Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair

Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair is a minimally invasive procedure for repairing a ventral (abdominal) hernia, which occurs when there is a weakness in the abdominal wall that develops into a tear or hole. The hernia is created as the inner lining of the abdomen pushes through the opening, forming a sac into which a portion of abdominal or intestinal tissue protrudes. The hernia manifests itself as a bulge in the outer wall of the abdomen. Depending on its severity, a ventral hernia may or may not require surgical repair. Using laparoscopic surgery rather than traditional open surgery for repair has significant advantages; they include less scarring, less pain, less risk of infection, and a shorter recovery period. ...

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions in the abdominal and pelvic areas. During a laparoscopic procedure, a thin tube with a camera on the end, known as a laparoscope, is inserted through a tiny incision to allow the doctor to closely examine the organs of the area. Surgical instruments can be inserted through additional incisions to treat any identified problems or to retrieve tissue specimens. ...

Mastectomy

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the breast(s) in a patient with breast cancer. It is one of the most commonly used and effective options for treating breast cancer because it removes all traces of cancer, and reduces the risk of its recurrence.

Types of Mastectomy

There are several different mastectomy procedures designed to eradicate the cancer but retain as much of the natural breast as possible. Some of the most commonly used techniques include: ...

Pilonidal Cyst Removal

A pilonidal cyst is a fluid-filled, pimple-like sac at the coccyx (tailbone), just below the crack of the buttocks. Pilonidal cysts are prone to infection; if one does become infected, filling with pus, it is technically called a "pilonidal abscess." Pilonidal abscesses are always treated with excision and drainage because, left untreated, the infection can spread. ...

Spider Veins

Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, thin blood vessels visible beneath the skin. They usually develop on the face or legs, and may look like a series of thin tree branches or strands of a spider web. Although most spider veins are only a cosmetic issue, for some people they can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling and leg-cramping. ...

Thyroid Biopsy

During a thyroid biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken from the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that helps regulate the body's metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure and temperature.

If a lump is detected after a thyroid sonogram, a doctor may choose to perform a biopsy to determine whether the nodule is malignant. A biopsy may also be recommended if the thyroid gland is enlarged without explanation. ...

Upper Endoscopy

Upper endoscopy, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD, is a diagnostic procedure used to visually examine and diagnose conditions of the upper gastrointestinal, or digestive tract. The upper gastrointestinal tract includes the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, or upper part of the small intestine. An upper endoscopy is performed using a flexible tube with an attached light and camera, called an endoscope. It is inserted through the mouth and guided along to thoroughly examine the upper gastrointestinal tract. ...