Technology has made ambulatory surgery in Oregon more efficient and effective as ever, with centers offering more procedures than they ever have before.
Here's what you need to know.
1. Shoulder and ankle replacement surgery. Several ASCs in the state, including the Eugene-based Slocum Surgery Center, have begun offering same-day shoulder and ankle replacement surgeries.
The centers have been able to perform the advanced surgeries because of new pain management tools coupled with I.V. Tylenol use.
“This approach allows patients to go home the same day in comfort, knowing they will have continued extended pain relief, without needing constant monitoring from medical staff,” says Shelley Yuva, administrator at Slocum Surgery Center.
2. Total joint replacement surgery. Some Oregon centers have also begun performing peripheral nerve blocks for joint replacement surgery instead of spinal anesthesia. The nerve block numbs the nerve above the surgical site so patients go him with less pain and fewer possible side effects, said Cammy Gilstrap, director of the Cascade Surgicenter in Bend.
3. Robotic knee surgery. The Cascade Surgicenter is also using the Stryker Navigation System for its total knee replacement surgeries. This technology allows surgeons to use digital cameras and dual monitors to improve the surgical process.
4. Urolift. The Bend Surgery is beginning to offer Urolift, a urology procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Instead of having to use a transurethral resection of the prostate, Urolift uses a rigid scope to open the urethra and deploy a suture that holds the enlarged tissue out of the way.
The center is also considering using robot to perform laparoscopic hernia surgery.
5. NUsurface meniscus repair. Sports Medicine Oregon in Tigard is participating in a clinical trial for individuals with persistent knee pain because of a meniscus injury or deterioration. In this trial an artificial meniscus made of medical-grade plastic is inserted into the knee through a small incision.
More articles on healthcare:
20 ASCs with total disc replacement spinal surgery
Olympus returns troubled electric morcellator: 4 key notes
Allergan moves corporate headquarters: 3 key notes