Dr Bernie Maree Surgeon Pinelands

Dr. Bernie Maree – General Surgeon at Disa Specialist Surgeons

About Dr. Bernie Maree

Dr. Bernie Maree is an experienced General Surgeon at Disa Specialist Surgeons, a well-established surgical practice based at Vincent Pallotti Hospital. He, alongside his colleagues Dr. Ian Lorimer and Dr. Anna Coccia, provides a wide array of both major and minor surgical procedures, as well as a comprehensive endoscopy service.

Dr. Maree’s practice focuses on offering exceptional care in a range of general surgical procedures, with a particular emphasis on keyhole surgery (also known as laparoscopic surgery). He is committed to offering patients the highest standard of care through evidence-based procedures and a multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Maree’s surgical philosophy is rooted in the principles of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS), which aims to promote quicker recovery times, early mobilisation after surgery, and an earlier discharge from hospital when medically appropriate.

Surgical Services Provided by Dr. Bernie Maree

Dr. Maree and his team offer a wide range of surgical services, catering to both elective and emergency surgeries. Below is an overview of the procedures offered:

Laparoscopic Surgery (Keyhole Surgery)

Dr. Maree specialises in advanced laparoscopic surgery, which is a minimally invasive technique used for a variety of abdominal surgeries. This technique involves making small incisions (typically 5-10mm) through which surgical instruments and a camera are inserted. Laparoscopic surgery offers several benefits, including reduced recovery time, less scarring, and quicker return to normal activities. Dr. Maree uses this method for a variety of procedures, including:

• Gallbladder Surgery
• Colorectal Surgery
• Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery
• Hernia Repairs
• Emergency Surgeries

Endoscopy Services

Disa Specialist Surgeons boasts a newly upgraded in-rooms endoscopy suite, complete with a recovery room for post-procedure comfort. Gastroscopies and colonoscopies are performed both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. These procedures allow for the evaluation of a range of conditions:

• Gastroscopy: Used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract and assess issues such as dyspepsia (indigestion), heartburn, difficulty swallowing, anaemia, and hiatus hernias.
• Colonoscopy: Provides screening for conditions like colonic polyps, colon cancer, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Regular screening for colon cancer is particularly important, as colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in South Africa.

Dr. Maree is assisted by a team of highly skilled endoscopy nurses who guide patients through these procedures, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.

Colorectal Surgery

Dr. Maree offers comprehensive care for colorectal cancer, as well as non-cancerous conditions such as diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease. He works within a multidisciplinary team to ensure optimal outcomes for patients, including surgical management, follow-up care, and rehabilitation. Dr. Maree also performs perianal surgery for conditions like haemorrhoids and other related issues.

Hernia Surgery

Hernias are a common surgical condition where a portion of an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue. Dr. Maree treats several types of hernias, including:

• Inguinal Hernias
• Umbilical Hernias
• Incisional Hernias

The vast majority of hernia repairs are performed laparoscopically, providing patients with a faster recovery time and less post-operative discomfort.

Breast Surgery

Dr. Maree’s practice also focuses on breast surgery. He offers comprehensive breast assessments and diagnostic services, including the evaluation of breast lumps. Surgical options include:

• Breast Cancer Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue from the breast, which may involve a mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery (wide local excision).
• Surgery for Benign Conditions: Treatment of non-cancerous breast conditions, such as fibroadenomas and cysts.

Endocrine Surgery

Dr. Maree is experienced in performing endocrine surgery, which involves the removal of glands that produce hormones, such as the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands. The most common endocrine surgery performed is thyroid surgery, particularly for the removal of thyroid nodules or masses.

Additional Information

Disa Specialist Surgeons

Disa Specialist Surgeons is a well-established practice that offers comprehensive general surgery services. Located at Vincent Pallotti Hospital, the practice prides itself on its ability to provide both emergency surgical cover and a wide range of elective procedures. Dr. Maree and his team ensure that each patient receives personalised care in a comfortable, professional setting.

24-Hour Emergency Surgical Service

Dr. Maree, along with Dr. Aaron Ndhluni, provides 24-hour emergency surgical cover at Vincent Pallotti Hospital. This ensures that patients in need of emergency surgery or surgical referrals are always attended to promptly, with expert care available around the clock.