Fred Betros

I am a general surgeon who has been working as a consultant in Western Sydney and the Hawkesbury region for more than 10 years. I obtained my fellowship in general surgery in 2006 after undergoing extended training in both upper and lower gastrointestinal surgery. Prior to completing medicine in 1997, I obtained a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in 1991 (both through the University of Sydney).

I perform a wide range of common surgical procedures including laparoscopic cholecystectomy, laparoscopic (and open) hernia repair, gastroscopy and colonoscopy. In addition to this, I am experienced in the management and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers such as gastric cancer and bowel cancer. I am a member of the regional multidisciplinary teams that manage both upper and lower gastrointestinal cancers within Western Sydney.

My area of special interest is in the multidisciplinary management of complex and recurrent hernia disease. My techniques for hernia management are at the forefront of evidence-based surgical care and I am active in the research and development of these new techniques.

I have a very strong commitment to both public and private health care. My public appointments are at Blacktown Hospital and Hawkesbury Hospital. My private appointments are at the Lakeview Private Hospital, Hawkesbury Hospital and Norwest Private Hospital. I have active memberships with General Surgeons Australia and the Conjoint Committee for the Recognition of Training in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. I am also active in the training, development and education of trainees for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

I completely understand the anxiety and apprehension of having a problem that may require surgery and the uncertainty this can create. I am a firm believer in the value of high quality, plain English communication with my patients, as I feel this is the key to achieving realistic goals in the management of surgical problems.

Outside of medicine, I certainly have human interests like everybody else. I have a wife and three children who help keep life in perspective. I am also a keen fan of rugby league, professional basketball and most motorsports.