At the Hernia Institute of Louisiana, Dr. David C. Treen specializes in advanced minimally invasive general surgery, offering patients exceptional care, reduced post-operative discomfort, and accelerated recovery. Using leading-edge laparoscopic techniques, Dr. Treen performs a comprehensive range of abdominal and endocrine surgical procedures designed to help patients return to normal life quickly and safely.
Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)
Dr. Treen performs laparoscopic cholecystectomy to safely and efficiently remove the gallbladder, most often due to gallstones or inflammation. The surgery is completed using 3–4 tiny incisions, allowing this to be an outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort. Patients can typically resume a normal diet immediately after surgery and return to work within a few days.
Gastric Surgery
At the Hernia Institute of Louisiana, Dr. Treen offers laparoscopic gastric surgery, including partial or complete stomach removal for qualifying conditions. These procedures require approximately a 24-hour hospital stay, and patients generally transition to a normal diet within 1–2 weeks. With minimal scarring and a smooth recovery process, most individuals can return to work in about one week.
Colon Surgery
Dr. Treen performs colon resections using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques for both partial and complete colon removal. Patients usually experience minimal scarring, require only a 1–2 day hospital stay, and can often return to work after one week. A normal diet is typically resumed within a week, depending on healing and condition.
Splenectomy
Laparoscopic splenectomy at the Hernia Institute of Louisiana allows for precise surgical removal of the spleen while minimizing discomfort and downtime. This approach involves minimal scarring, a 1–2 day hospital stay, and a rapid recovery—patients may return to work within 3–5 days and resume a normal diet within 1–2 days after surgery.
Mass Removal
Dr. Treen provides expert evaluation and removal of soft-tissue masses, with each procedure customized based on the mass’s size, location, and depth. Most mass removals are outpatient procedures with minimal discomfort, and patients generally return to work within 2–5 days, depending on the treatment area.
Appendectomy
Using a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach with three tiny incisions, Dr. Treen performs appendectomy procedures designed for fast recovery and minimal pain. Patients can expect minimal discomfort, immediate return to a normal diet, and typically a 1-day hospital stay. Most are able to return to work within 2–5 days.
Thyroid Surgery
Dr. Treen offers both partial and total thyroid gland removal using modern minimally invasive techniques. These procedures are often completed on an outpatient basis, providing minimal discomfort and allowing most patients to return to work within 2–5 days.
Heller Myotomy
A minimally invasive Heller myotomy helps relieve swallowing difficulties associated with achalasia. Performed laparoscopically, the procedure typically requires a 1-day hospital stay. Patients follow a gradual diet progression over 1–3 weeks and are usually able to return to work within 2–5 days.
Adrenalectomy
Dr. Treen performs laparoscopic adrenalectomy to remove one or both adrenal glands with precision and minimal downtime. Most patients experience a smooth recovery, including a 1-day hospital stay and the ability to resume a normal diet the next day.
Why Choose the Hernia Institute of Louisiana for General Surgery in New Orleans, LA?
The Hernia Institute of Louisiana is led by David C. Treen, Jr., MD, FACS, a highly respected general surgeon with more than 30 years of experience. A Tulane University School of Medicine graduate, Dr. Treen completed his surgical training at Ochsner and served as Chief Resident. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has held multiple leadership roles, including Chief of Surgery and Chief of Staff at West Jefferson Medical Center. As Medical Director, he brings extensive expertise in advanced laparoscopic techniques. Dr. Treen is also an active educator, published author, and internationally recognized speaker in hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction.
FAQs
What Are the Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery vs. Traditional Open Surgery?
Laparoscopic procedures use small incisions and specialized instruments, which typically result in less post-operative discomfort, reduced scarring, and a decreased risk of complications compared to open surgery. Hospital stays are often shorter, and recovery times are often faster, so patients can return to normal activities sooner. This minimally invasive approach also minimizes disruption to surrounding tissues, which can support smoother healing and improved overall outcomes for many abdominal and endocrine procedures.
Will I Need to Arrange a Ride Home After Outpatient Surgery?
Yes, you must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after outpatient surgery. Even if the procedure is minimally invasive, anesthesia and sedation can temporarily affect your coordination, alertness, and reaction time. It’s also helpful to have someone stay with you for at least the first day to assist with basic tasks and monitor your recovery. Your care team will provide specific discharge instructions to simplify planning.
What Type of Anesthesia Is Used During These Procedures?
Most laparoscopic general surgery procedures are performed under general anesthesia, so you will be fully asleep and comfortable throughout the operation. In some cases, additional local anesthesia may be used at the incision sites to help manage post-operative discomfort. Your anesthesia team will review your medical history, explain your options, and monitor you closely during the procedure to support safety and comfort from start to finish.
What Conditions May Require Gastric Surgery, and How Do I Know if I Qualify?
Gastric surgery may be recommended for conditions such as stomach tumors, severe ulcers, bleeding, or certain functional disorders. In some cases, partial or complete stomach removal may be necessary. Whether you qualify depends on your diagnosis, overall health, and response to non-surgical treatments. A thorough evaluation, including imaging and a review of your medical history, helps determine whether surgery is appropriate and which approach will best support your recovery.
What Symptoms Indicate That an Appendectomy May Be Needed Urgently?
An urgent appendectomy is often needed when symptoms suggest acute appendicitis. Common warning signs include sudden abdominal pain that starts near the navel and shifts to the lower right side, worsening pain with movement, nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite. Some people may also experience abdominal swelling or difficulty passing gas. Because the appendix can rupture if untreated, it’s important to seek immediate medical care if these symptoms develop.
Schedule a General Surgery Consultation in New Orleans
If you’re considering minimally invasive general surgery, the Hernia Institute of Louisiana offers experienced, patient-focused care. Dr. Treen and his team are committed to helping you move forward with confidence, from your first visit through recovery. Call 504-218-4922 to speak with a team member and Schedule Consultation.