Dr. Rommel Romero
Laparoscopic Surgery | Minimally Invasive Surgery | Gastrointestinal Surgery | General & Cancer Surgery

When it comes to your health, choosing the right surgeon is of utmost importance. You need someone skilled, experienced, and dedicated to providing you with the best possible care. In Bacolod City, there is one name that stands out in the field of surgery – Dr. Rommel E. Romero. With his extensive expertise and commitment to patient well-being, Dr. Romero has established himself as a leading surgeon in the region.

Dr. Rommel E. Romero offers a comprehensive range of surgical services, specializing in various areas to cater to the unique needs of his patients. Let's take a closer look to the services provided by Dr. Romero and his surgical clinic:

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery:

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery is a specialized branch of surgery dedicated to treating obesity and metabolic disorders. It provides a comprehensive approach to help patients achieve significant weight loss and enhance their overall health and quality of life. Typically, this type of surgery is recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) above 40 or a BMI above 35 with obesity-related comorbidities like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease.

Several procedures fall under metabolic and bariatric surgery, each with its unique benefits and considerations. Some common procedures include:

• Gastric Bypass: The surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. This leads to reduced food intake and decreased calorie and nutrient absorption.

• Sleeve Gastrectomy: Involves removing a significant portion of the stomach, leaving behind a small, banana-shaped sleeve. The reduced stomach size limits the amount of food that can be consumed, resulting in weight loss.

• Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band): A band with an inflatable balloon is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band can be adjusted to control the pouch's size and the rate of weight loss.

• Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): This procedure combines a sleeve gastrectomy with rerouting of the small intestine to reduce calorie absorption.

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery is not a quick fix but rather a tool to help patients adopt healthier lifestyles and achieve long-term weight management. Candidates for these procedures undergo thorough evaluation and counseling to ensure they are physically and mentally prepared for the surgical process and post-operative lifestyle changes. Read more >> 

Gastrointestinal Colorectal Surgery:

Gastrointestinal colorectal surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly the colon and rectum. Common conditions treated by GI colorectal surgeons include colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), diverticular disease, polyps, and various functional bowel disorders.

The goal of GI colorectal surgery is to effectively address these conditions while preserving as much healthy tissue and function as possible. Depending on the specific condition and its severity, different surgical approaches may be employed, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to open surgeries.

Some common gastrointestinal colorectal surgeries include:

• Colectomy: This involves the partial or total removal of the colon, depending on the extent of the disease. The surgeon may reattach the remaining healthy portions of the colon or create a stoma (colostomy or ileostomy) to divert stool.

• Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, the surgeon may perform a local excision, a partial colectomy, or a more extensive resection with lymph node removal.

• Rectal Resection: For conditions affecting the rectum, a portion of or the entire rectum may be removed, and the remaining healthy rectum may be reattached or a colostomy created.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Surgery: Surgery for IBD aims to alleviate symptoms and complications. Procedures may include stricturoplasty, bowel resection, or the creation of an ileostomy or colostomy.

• Hemorrhoidectomy: This involves the removal of hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus.

Gastrointestinal colorectal surgery often involves a multidisciplinary approach, with collaboration between surgeons, gastroenterologists, oncologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care and improve patient outcomes. Read more >> 

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy:

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to remove the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, which is essential for digesting fats in the small intestine.

This procedure is most commonly performed to treat gallstones, which are solid particles that can form in the gallbladder. Gallstones can block the bile duct, leading to pain, inflammation, and potential complications.

During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, several small incisions are made in the abdomen, through which a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) and surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon uses the laparoscope to visualize the gallbladder and surrounding structures on a monitor and then carefully removes the gallbladder through one of the incisions.

The benefits of laparoscopic cholecystectomy over traditional open surgery include smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of complications. Most patients can go home on the same day or the day after the surgery and can resume normal activities within a few weeks. Read more >> 

General & Cancer Surgery:

General surgery is a broad surgical specialty that encompasses various procedures involving the abdomen, digestive tract, breast, skin, soft tissues, and endocrine system. General surgeons are trained to diagnose, manage, and surgically treat a wide range of conditions, both benign and malignant.

Cancer surgery, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the surgical treatment of cancerous tumors. Cancer surgery can be the primary treatment for some cancers, aiming to remove the tumor entirely, or it can be part of a multi-modal treatment plan that may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy.

The scope of general and cancer surgery includes:

• Tumor Excision: Surgical removal of tumors, which can vary in complexity depending on the tumor size, location, and involvement of adjacent structures.

• Biopsies: Removal of a sample of tissue for examination and diagnosis of suspicious growths or tumors.

• Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of lymph nodes in the vicinity of the tumor to determine if cancer has spread and to prevent its further spread.

• Organ Resection: Removal of diseased or damaged organs, such as the gallbladder, appendix, spleen, or part of the colon.

• Mastectomy: Surgical removal of the breast tissue, often performed in cases of breast cancer or certain high-risk conditions.

• Endocrine Surgery: Surgery involving the thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, or other endocrine organs.

General and cancer surgery may be performed using open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery. The choice of approach depends on the individual patient's condition and overall health. Read more >> 

Breast Surgery/Mastectomy:

Breast surgery, also known as mastectomy, involves the partial or complete surgical removal of one or both breasts. It is commonly performed to treat breast cancer or to reduce the risk of breast cancer in individuals with a high risk of developing the disease.

There are different types of breast surgery:

• Total Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast tissue, including the nipple and areola.

• Modified Radical Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast tissue, along with the underlying muscles and some lymph nodes in the armpit (axillary lymph nodes).

• Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Removal of breast tissue while preserving the breast skin, nipple, and areola. This technique is often used in breast reconstruction surgeries.

• Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Removal of breast tissue while preserving the breast skin, nipple, and areola. This technique is also used in breast reconstruction when appropriate.

Breast surgery is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan for breast cancer, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. It can also be performed as a preventive measure for individuals with a high risk of breast cancer due to genetic factors or a previous history of the disease.

Breast reconstruction may be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or as a separate procedure at a later stage. Reconstruction options include implants or tissue flap procedures using the patient's tissue from other parts of the body. Read more >> 

Thyroid Surgery:

Thyroid surgery involves the removal of all or part of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism and play a crucial role in various bodily functions.

Thyroid surgery may be recommended for various conditions, including:

• Thyroid Cancer: Removal of the affected lobe or the entire thyroid gland may be necessary to treat thyroid cancer.

• Benign Thyroid Nodules: Large or symptomatic benign nodules that cause swallowing difficulties or aesthetic concerns may require surgical removal.

• Hyperthyroidism: Surgery may be considered when medications and other treatments fail to control an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).

• Goiter: Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) causing compression of nearby structures or causing difficulty breathing or swallowing may require surgical intervention.

There are different surgical approaches to thyroid surgery:

• Total Thyroidectomy: Removal of the entire thyroid gland.

• Hemithyroidectomy: Removal of one lobe of the thyroid gland.

• Subtotal Thyroidectomy: Removal of a large portion of the thyroid gland, leaving behind a small remnant.

The surgeon may choose an open surgical approach or perform a minimally invasive thyroidectomy, such as a robotic or laparoscopic thyroidectomy, depending on the patient's condition and other factors. Read more >> 

Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery (TAPP/TEP):

Laparoscopic hernia surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to repair hernias, which occur when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot or opening in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Laparoscopic hernia repair involves the use of a laparoscope and specialized surgical instruments to repair the hernia through small incisions in the abdomen.

There are two common techniques used in laparoscopic hernia surgery:

• Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) Repair: In this approach, the surgeon accesses the hernia from inside the abdominal cavity, between the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) and the abdominal muscles. The surgeon places a mesh to reinforce the weakened area and prevent the hernia from recurring.

• Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP) Repair: With this technique, the surgeon operates outside the peritoneal cavity, creating a space between the abdominal wall and the peritoneum to access and repair the hernia. Again, a mesh is used to reinforce the area.

Laparoscopic hernia surgery offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery times, and lower risk of complications. The specific approach chosen depends on the size and location of the hernia, as well as the surgeon's expertise and the patient's individual circumstances. Read more >> 

Diagnostic Laparoscopy:

Diagnostic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine and diagnose certain conditions affecting the abdomen and pelvic region. It involves the insertion of a laparoscope through a small incision in the abdominal wall, allowing the surgeon to visualize the internal organs and tissues directly.

Diagnostic laparoscopy is often recommended when other diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies, blood tests, or physical examinations, do not provide a definitive diagnosis. Some common conditions for which diagnostic laparoscopy is used include:

• Unexplained Abdominal Pain: When the cause of persistent or severe abdominal pain cannot be determined through non-invasive methods, diagnostic laparoscopy can help identify potential sources of the pain.

• Infertility: In cases of unexplained infertility or suspected pelvic adhesions, diagnostic laparoscopy can assess the reproductive organs and identify any issues that may be affecting fertility.

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs. Diagnostic laparoscopy can help confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the severity of the infection.

• Appendicitis: In some cases, particularly when the symptoms are unclear, diagnostic laparoscopy can be used to confirm or rule out appendicitis.

During the procedure, the surgeon may also perform certain therapeutic interventions, such as removing scar tissue (adhesiolysis) or draining fluid collections (abscesses) if they are detected. Read more >> 

Laparoscopic Upper GI Surgery:

Laparoscopic Upper GI (gastrointestinal) surgery refers to minimally invasive procedures performed on the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. These surgeries are used to treat various conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal hernia, and certain esophageal or gastric cancers.

Common laparoscopic upper GI surgeries include:

• Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: This procedure is performed to treat severe GERD by reinforcing the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

• Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia Repair: In cases of hiatal hernia, where a part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, laparoscopic repair can be performed to reposition the stomach and repair the opening in the diaphragm.

• Laparoscopic Gastrectomy: This surgery involves the removal of part or all of the stomach to treat gastric cancer or other conditions affecting the stomach.

• Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy: This procedure is used to treat achalasia, a condition characterized by the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, leading to difficulty in swallowing.

Laparoscopic upper GI surgery offers advantages such as smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and improved cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional open surgery. Read more >> 

Hepatobiliary Surgery:

Hepatobiliary surgery focuses on the surgical management of conditions affecting the liver, bile ducts, and gallbladder. These procedures are crucial for the treatment of various benign and malignant diseases in this region. Hepatobiliary surgery often requires a high level of expertise and collaboration between hepatobiliary surgeons, hepatologists, and other specialists.

Some common hepatobiliary surgeries include:

• Liver Resection: Surgical removal of a portion or the entire liver affected by tumors, cysts, or other diseases. Liver resection aims to preserve as much healthy liver tissue as possible while removing the diseased part.

• Liver Transplantation: In cases of end-stage liver disease or unresectable liver tumors, a liver transplant may be considered, where a healthy liver from a donor is transplanted into the patient.

• Cholecystectomy: As mentioned earlier, this procedure involves the removal of the gallbladder, often performed to treat gallstones or certain gallbladder conditions.

• Common Bile Duct Exploration: Surgical exploration and clearance of the common bile duct to remove stones or manage strictures.

• Biliary Bypass: Creation of an alternative pathway for bile flow to bypass an obstructed or damaged part of the bile duct.

• Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy): A complex surgery involving the removal of the head of the pancreas, a portion of the small intestine, the gallbladder, and sometimes a portion of the stomach. It is performed to treat pancreatic cancer or other conditions affecting the pancreas. Read more >> 

Laparoscopic Colon/Rectal Surgery:

Laparoscopic colon and rectal surgery, also known as minimally invasive colorectal surgery, involves the use of laparoscopic techniques to treat conditions affecting the colon and rectum. These procedures offer several benefits, including smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, quicker recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to open surgery.

Common laparoscopic colon and rectal surgeries include:

• Laparoscopic Colectomy: Removal of a portion or the entire colon affected by conditions such as colorectal cancer, diverticular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.

• Laparoscopic Rectopexy: Surgical treatment for rectal prolapse, where the rectum protrudes from the anus.

• Laparoscopic Abdominoperineal Resection (APR): Removal of the rectum and anus for the treatment of certain rectal cancers.

• Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection (LAR): Surgical removal of a portion of the rectum for the treatment of rectal cancer while preserving anal sphincter function.

Read more >> 

Laparoscopic Adrenal Surgery:

Laparoscopic adrenal surgery is a minimally invasive approach used to treat adrenal gland disorders. The adrenal glands are small glands located on top of each kidney and are responsible for producing hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and stress response.

Laparoscopic adrenal surgery may be performed for the following conditions:

• Adrenal Tumors: Surgical removal of benign or malignant tumors affecting the adrenal glands.

• Hyperaldosteronism: Removal of one or both adrenal glands in cases of overproduction of aldosterone, which can cause high blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances.

• Cushing's Syndrome: Surgical removal of adrenal tumors causing excessive production of cortisol, a hormone that regulates metabolism and stress response.

• Pheochromocytoma: Removal of adrenal tumors that produce excessive adrenaline and noradrenaline, which can lead to severe hypertension.

Read more >> 

Laparoscopic Appendectomy:

Laparoscopic appendectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove the appendix, a small pouch-like structure located at the junction of the small intestine and the large intestine. Appendectomy is the standard treatment for acute appendicitis, which occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and infected.

During a laparoscopic appendectomy, several small incisions are made in the abdomen, through which a laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon uses the laparoscope to visualize the appendix and surrounding tissues and then removes the inflamed appendix.

Laparoscopic appendectomy offers advantages such as faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and reduced risk of complications compared to open appendectomy. Read more >> 

Hemorrhoids/Anal Fistula Surgery:

Hemorrhoids and anal fistulas are two common conditions affecting the anal region. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus, while anal fistulas are abnormal connections or tunnels that form between the anal canal and the skin near the anus.

Surgical treatment for hemorrhoids may include:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids.

• Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids - PPH): A less invasive procedure where a circular stapler is used to remove excess hemorrhoidal tissue.

Anal fistula surgery involves the removal of the fistula tract and the promotion of proper healing. The specific surgical approach depends on the complexity and location of the fistula. Read more >> 

Antireflux Surgery and Hiatal Hernia Surgery 

Antireflux surgery, medically referred to as fundoplication, serves as a surgical remedy for addressing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernias, conditions characterized by the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, often leading to heartburn and other related symptoms.

The Nissen fundoplication represents the most prevalent form of antireflux surgery. During this procedure, the upper segment of the stomach is encircled around the lower section of the esophagus, effectively fortifying the lower esophageal sphincter to impede acid reflux. Both open surgery and laparoscopic methods can be employed to perform this operation.

Regarding hiatal hernia surgery, a laparoscopic repair akin to the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication may be conducted. This approach involves repositioning the stomach and closing the hiatal hernia opening within the diaphragm.

These surgeries are intended to ameliorate symptoms, diminish reliance on medication, and mitigate complications associated with chronic acid reflux. Read more >> 

In conclusion, the field of surgical specialties is diverse and covers a wide range of medical conditions. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, have significantly improved patient outcomes, with reduced pain, faster recovery times, and improved cosmetic results. It's essential for patients to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for their individual needs and conditions.

If you or your loved ones require specialized surgical care, place your trust in Dr. Rommel Romero. With extensive experience and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes, Dr. Romero is a highly skilled surgeon proficient in advanced minimally invasive techniques, laparoscopic procedures, gastrointestinal surgeries, general surgeries, and cancer surgeries.

By remaining at the forefront of surgical advancements, Dr. Romero Surgical Clinic continues to shape the future of surgical care, ensuring that our patients receive the highest standard of treatment and support. To schedule your consultation, please call Dr. Romero Surgical Clinic at (034) 7094000 local 1024 or reach out via these contact numbers: 09637932926 or 09811377068.

Embrace the expertise of Dr. Romero and start on a path to improved health and well-being. Call now and experience the difference of trusted surgical excellence in Bacolod City.