Dr. Higgins specializes in breast surgery, colon surgery, hernia surgery, gallbladder surgery, and general surgery. His office is in Bend, Oregon.
I fell in love with surgery the first time I was exposed to it. My current focus is breast care, however, I continue to keep myself well-balanced as a general surgeon. I participate in a general surgical call schedule for St. Charles Medical Center, Bend, where I care for all general surgical patients. I also take trauma calls for our regional level 2 trauma center. I hold a special place in my heart for helping people through a variety of general surgical procedures. Breast, colon, hernia, and gallbladder surgeries are a special part of my practice.
Hernia repair
A hernia is a weakness in the strong connective tissue layer that surrounds the muscles, the fascia. This tear or hole in the fascia could allow the contents inside to be squeezed out (herniated). When it occurs in the groin area it is termed an inguinal hernia. There are the less common groin hernia, the femoral hernia. My preferred approach to the repair of an inguinal hernia is a trans-abdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) repair. I have found, and the literature will support, this is a less painful recovery than an open repair. I am time and again impressed with the rapid return to non-strenuous activities.
Laparoscopic & open inguinal hernia repair
Laparoscopic & open incisional (post-operative) hernia
Endocrine Surgery
Through my years of practice this has been an area of intrigue and interest. I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing endocrine surgeons and have learned a great deal from them. I have also been able to share my experience with laparoscopic approaches of the adrenal gland with them. I enjoy the meticulous process required to do a safe and successful endocrine operation.
Laparoscopic & open adrenal surgery
Thyroid surgery
Parathyroid surgery
Abdominal and Colon Surgery
This is the area of the body I have a great deal of comfort and familiarity working in. I have the experience to evaluate and treat patients for a variety of abdominal complaints. My goal is to help you understand the reason you may need an operation. We will discuss potential alternatives to the operation. I will do my best to set the stage for you to have the best outcome.
Laparoscopic & open gallbladder surgery
Laparoscopic & open bowel surgery
Laparoscopic & open appendectomies
Laparoscopic & open splenectomy
Removal of scar tissue (Adhesiolysis)
Removal of masses
Again, breast surgery and breast care are my special areas of focus, but I remain active in and up-to-date on helping those who need general surgical procedures — especially colon surgery, hernia surgery, and gallbladder surgery.
Please call my office to schedule a consultation. I promise to listen carefully and help you decide how to proceed.