It's as much a surgical procedure as having an IV cannula, nasogastric tube or catheter inserted is. IE not really.
It's a procedure that, whilst performed under aseptic conditions can be carried out by any individual adequately trained to do so and does not require an operating theatre to do so. Most A&E doctors aren't recognised surgeons. Neither are chest physicians. Or anaesthetists.
( Amorous Badger NAKED BEA ARTHUR PHOTOS 4U, Wed 17 Jul 2013, 20:40, Reply)