Founded in 1997, Surgical Specialists of Alabama (SSA) is the combined services of Surgical Associates of Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa Surgical Specialists. The center specializes in the surgeries of gall bladder, breast and hernia, as well as in various areas, such as vascular, vein stripping, rectal cancer, colonoscopy and mammotomes. Surgical Specialists of Alabama also offers treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease that occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly and stomach contents leak back. In addition, the center performs laparoscopy, which is a procedure that allows surgeon to view the organs in patient s abdomen, such as intestines, stomach, gall bladder and pelvic organs. Surgical Specialists of Alabama performs surgeries at Druid City Hospital Regional Medical Center, Northport Druid City Hospital and HealthSouth Surgical Center. It maintains a location in Tuscaloosa, Ala.