General Surgery

At Northwestern Associates in Surgery, we’re dedicated to ensuring our community has access to high-quality surgical care close to home.

If you’re dealing with pain, a lump, or a condition that may need surgery, our team is here to help. We care for common surgical needs—from hernias and gallbladder problems to colon cancer screening and reflux.

Our surgeons perform surgeries right here at Northwestern Surgical Services, so you can get expert care without traveling far.

Why patients choose us

  • Fewer infections after surgery, with strong safety practices at every step
  • Patients tell us they feel listened to, informed, and cared for
  • Care close to home, with a team that knows you and follows through
  • A dedicated team of surgeons with a wide range of specialties.
  • Quick access for appointments and surgeries.
  • High-quality care at lower costs

To get started

Most patients need a referral from their primary care provider, urgent care, or the emergency department. If you’re not sure where to begin, fill out our form for more information or give us a call—we’ll help guide you.

If you need surgery, we can walk you through the process of asking for a referral from your primary care provider.

Common reasons patients see us

We treat a wide range of conditions. Here are the most common:

  • Hernias
    A bulge or pain in your abdomen or groin. We repair hernias using techniques that support faster recovery.
  • Gallbladder problems
    Pain after eating, especially fatty foods, may be a sign of gallbladder disease. Surgery can often relieve symptoms.
  • Heartburn or reflux (GERD)
    If medicine isn’t helping, surgery may be an option to reduce reflux and improve your quality of life.
  • Hiatal hernia
    A condition where part of the stomach moves into the chest. We offer surgical repair when needed.
  • Lumps, cysts, or skin growths
    We safely remove many types of lumps and send them for testing if needed.
  • Colonoscopy (colon cancer screening)
    A routine test that helps find and prevent colon cancer.
  • Digestive conditions
    Including diverticulitis and other bowel concerns that may need surgical care.

    Dr. Anna Royer is a surgeon in our Northwestern Associates in Surgery practice.

    In this brief video she shares how NMC as a smaller hospital offers benefits of personalized care and quick scheduling for our patients.

    Hear from Dr. Gino Trevisani

    A surgeon of Northwestern Associates in Surgery, he’s happy to get back to the roots of what he wants to do as a general surgeon—connecting closely with patients.

    Dr. Ned Gray specializes in foregut surgery

    Dr. Gray combines clinical skill with a personal approach. He takes time to explain your options and help you feel comfortable every step of the way.

    General Surgery

    Services and conditions

    • Biopsy
    • Breast surgery
    • Cholecystectomy
    • Colectomy
    • Colonoscopy
    • Cysts and fissures treatment
    • Debridement
    • Diverticulitis treatment
    • Excision
    • Exploratory abdominal surgery
    • Hernia repair
    • Ileostomy
    • Inflammatory bowel disease treatment
    • Internal sphincterotomy
    • Laparoscopy
    • Pilonidal cystectomy
    • Skin graft
    • Upper endoscopy

    Take the next step

    If you think you may need surgery or have questions, we’re here to help. Call us to talk about next steps or fill out the form below to learn more. Talk to your provider about a referral.

    Surgeon sitting on table smiling at camera

    Find a provider

    Meet the care team

    Meet the surgical team behind Northwestern Associates in Surgery, a group of experienced surgeons and providers dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate care close to home.

    Find a provider

    Contact, hours & location

    Getting a colonoscopy?

    We know that prep can be an intimidating part of a colonoscopy. Our office will provide detailed instructions to help you prepare and feel more comfortable. We’ve also outlined some helpful advice to help everything go smoothly.

    Colonoscopy prep advice

    What people are saying

    I could have chosen any doctor or gone elsewhere for the procedure. I chose Dr. Anna Royer because I was impressed with her. My instinct paid off because the procedure couldn’t have gone better.

    NMC patient

    What people are saying

    Although I am a resident of Florida and not a full-time patient, I was treated very well and they took care of my problem immediately and I was grateful for that.

    NMC patient

    Frequently asked questions about our surgeries

    Yes. Most patients need a referral from a primary care provider, urgent care, or the emergency department.

    We perform common procedures like hernia repair, gallbladder removal, colonoscopy, reflux surgery, and removal of lumps or cysts.

    Your procedure will be done at Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.

    It depends on the procedure. Many surgeries are minimally invasive, which often means a faster recovery.

    If medications no longer control your symptoms, or if reflux is affecting your daily life, surgery may be an option. Our team can evaluate your condition and talk through next steps.

    Yes. Your surgeon will walk you through what to expect and answer your questions before and after your procedure.

    featured patient story

    Madden GraffBell standing in front of trees smiling

    Appendectomy of a brave teen: NMC is ‘her hospital’

    “Being in the ER was less dramatic than you see in movies or on television,” says Madden GraffBell, a 14-year-old freshman, who found herself at NMC’s Emergency Department this past February. 

    “You don’t see that scary side,” she says, “Everyone was supportive and friendly.” 

    Madden Graffbell NMC patient