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Department of Surgery

Surgery is the practice of treating diseases and disorders through incisions (surgical openings) in a patient's body that allow surgeons to remove or change parts of the body.

The Department of Surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital provides the highest quality of surgical care to patients, from minimally invasive procedures to emergency surgery. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is ranked No. 10 (tie) in Gastroenterology and GI Surgery and No. 7 in Cardiology and Heart Surgery in 2024–2025 by U.S. News & World Report.

Our team includes physicians on the staff of:

Our surgical programs are dedicated to serving our patients' specific surgical needs. Northwestern Medicine is also committed to ensuring safe surgical procedures. To improve patient safety, efficiency and satisfaction throughout the surgical experience, all patients are required to undergo a pre-surgical evaluation at our Preoperative Clinic.

Meet the Team

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The General Surgery team at Northwestern Medicine is committed to providing an excellent surgical experience.

Meet the Downtown Chicago General Surgery Team

Preparing for Surgery

Northwestern Memorial Hospital Preoperative Clinic

The Northwestern Memorial Hospital Preoperative Clinic serves as a single point of intake that ensures patient preparedness for surgery and procedures.

Before Your Surgery and Anesthesia

Learn how to plan for surgery and anesthesia, including what you should bring with you, what you should eat or drink, and more.

What to Expect on the Day of Surgery

On the day of your surgery, follow these guidelines. Plus, learn where to park, what will happen before your surgery, and how many visitors you can have.

What to Expect After Surgery

Learn what will happen immediately after your surgery and once you're ready to be discharged.

Treatments

Surgical procedures performed at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University include:

  • Surgical Oncology
  • Plastic Surgery
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Trauma and Critical Care

Surgical procedures are also performed at Olson Pavilion (Prentice Surgical Services), Galter Pavilion, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute (Cardiac and Vascular Surgery), Digestive Health Center (GI Surgery), and Lavin Family Pavilion (Preoperative Clinic).

Locations & Contact Information
    Machine that measures a patient's vitals while in surgery

    Types of Anesthesia

    There are four main types of anesthesia used during surgery and other procedures. Your anesthesiologist will discuss with you the type of anesthesia that would be appropriate for your surgery or procedure.

    Care Where You Need It

    Northwestern Medicine offers surgical services conveniently located near you.