The Surgical Health Collective (SHC) was established in 1996 to address unmet health needs throughout the greater Metropolitan Atlanta area. The Surgical Health Collective is dedicated to providing excellent overall care for people with general surgical and medical problems. Our motto; “Helping People with Skill and Caring” is the essence of what we do. Our focus is on the patient at all times. Any illness is complex in scope. We work to provide a comprehensive plan to address the problem.
Abdominal Surgery
The common procedures include ventral hernia repair, inguinal hernia repair, Cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), Colon resections for inflammatory conditions like diverticulitis or colon resections for neoplastic conditions like colon cancer. Colostomy formation colon obstruction and colostomy reversals. Abdominal explorations for bowel obstruction with small bowel resections are included in this category as well.
Endocrine Surgery
The endocrine glands produce circulating substances called hormones that work at distant sites from the point of production. These glands include the thyroid gland, the parathyroid glands, the adrenal glands and the pancreas. Thyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone, circulating steroids and insulin are some of the hormones produced by these glands. Excessive activity can produce severe illness that may require surgical intervention. Excessive production of thyroid hormone produces a state called hyperthyroidism and this may require surgical intervention in addition to medical therapy. Endocrine surgery usually involves the surgical removal of a portion of a gland or glands to limit or eliminate the effects of overproduction.
Cancer Surgery
Removal of a primary tumor with the associated lymph nodes is a standard part of cancer surgery. Common cancers include breast, colon, rectal, prostate and lung cancer. Staging of the tumor will take place usually with imaging and a biopsy. The surgeon works with the medical oncologist and radiation oncologist to develop a treatment plan best suited for each individual patient.
Trauma Surgery
Severe injuries from a motor vehicle collision, falls from a height, penetrating trauma including gunshot wounds and stab wounds are managed. The surgeon works to stop the bleeding and preserve circulation and avoid secondary injury from lack of oxygen or a low flow state. Operative intervention for neck, chest, or abdominal injuries may be needed. Often the patient will be in the intensive care unit for continued rapid resuscitation after the acute injury
Surgical Critical Care
The management of the severely ill surgical patient is complex. Attention to ventilator support and circulation support is vital. The critical care surgeon is adept at ventilator management, hemodynamic support, nutritional support and the treatment of the patient with severe infection (sepsis). The surgeon will consult additional specialists to provide supportive services (such as dialysis) on a case by case basis.
Skin & Soft Tissue
A number of problems arise in this area. Frequently referred to as “lumps and bumps”, these problems may impair ones daily activities or create difficult social interactions. Lipomas, skin tumors, moles and other lesions fall under this category. Life threatening soft tissue infections (necrotizing fasciitis) are also managed.
Client Testimonials
“He was very caring with my mother explained things so she could understand and answered all her questions. My mother thinks that if all doctors are like him she would never have waited to go the hospital.”
Self-verified patient of
Mark L. Walker, MD
“That was the easiest appointment i had , every thing went so smoothly and dr walker himself is one of the most experienced doctors on the field and most of all a very kind hearted human being ..”
Self-verified patient of
Mark L. Walker, MD
“Dr Walker saved my life. If it wasn’t for him I would of not had made it. I want to thank you so much you are a hero in my eyes thank you so much again ..”
Self-verified patient of
Mark L. Walker, MD