SPECIAL SERVICES PROVIDED AT OUR OFFICE:
Surgical Treatment of Breast Disease
Biopsy: When your patient finds a breast lump or has an abnormal mammogram, they should be referred to us for further evaluation. Frequently a biopsy is required to definitively identify the cause of the abnormality. Several biopsy techniques are available depending on the circumstances, including fine-needle aspiration, stereotactic core biopsy and open surgical biopsy. Our surgeon will provide information to assist you and your patient in choosing the best procedure.
When Cancer Is Found
Although the majority of abnormalities in the breast are benign, when the diagnosis of cancer is made, further surgery may be required. Breast cancer encompasses many different varieties and stages that may lead you to recommend certain surgical therapies. But again, there are frequently difficult choices to make.Lumpectomy and Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
One choice may be lumpectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a technique where only the first couple of lymph nodes to receive primary lymphatic drainage from the breast are identified and removed. This procedure helps to prevent the side effects that may be seen when all of the axillary lymph nodes are removed, such as arm numbness and pain, fluid collections, infections and arm swelling. Frequently, radiation treatment may be added to the breast after lumpectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy.Mastectomy
The other choice may be mastectomy, which may be followed by immediate breast reconstruction by a plastic surgeon if the patient desires. Radiation may not be required with this treatment. Additional chemotherapy or hormone therapy may be recommended, depending on the stage of the disease.
Laparoscopic Treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) results from exposure of the lining of the esophagus to the contents of the stomach, which are usually acidic. GERD treatment usually consists of medications that reduce acid secretion or improve gastric emptying. These have proven effective for a majority of patients. Patients who do not tolerate medical therapy may be helped by laparoscopic anti-reflux procedures.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Millions of Americans have occasional heartburn. But if your patient has it more than twice weekly, it could be a sign of the more serious condition known as GERD. GERD occures when stomach contents leak back up to the esophagus. Untreated, GERD can lead to ulcers or even cancer. When medicine and lifestyle changes do not work, your patient may need surgery.Laparoscopic Fundoplication
Nissen fundoplication is standard surgical treatment for GERD. Catawba Valley Surgery & Cancer Center performs this procedure using a laparoscope, so it requires only tiny incisions in the abdomen. Laparoscopic fundoplication has been used safely and effectively in people of all ages. When performed by experienced surgeons such as those at Catawba Valley Surgery & Cancer Center, the procedure is reported to be better than standard fundoplication. Patients can leave the hospital in a day and return to work in approximately two weeks.
Advanced Laparoscopy
A few tiny incisions are all that is needed for laparoscopic, or minimally invasive, surgery. This revolutionary approach involves using a videoscope and small instruments to perform operations that used to be done through large incisions. This major advance has allowed patients to experience decreased postoperative pain, minimal scarring and a much quicker return to their everyday lives.
Laparoscopic Colon Surgery
If your patient needs colon surgery, make Catawba Valley Surgery & Cancer Center your first choice. Send them to the only surgeon in the area qualified to perform these procedures and skilled enough to do them without a hand port. Not only does this save an incision, it is less invasive, faster, less painful, less costly to the patient and offers shorter recovery.Advanced Laparoscopic Procedures
At Catawba Valley Surgery & Cancer Center, our surgeons have always been committed to learning and mastering the newest techniques and technology for performing advanced procedures. These procedures, which historically required large incisions and extended recovery periods, can result in significantly reduced recovery time and much smaller incisions when performed laparoscopically.
We presently provide advanced laparoscopic surgery for most intra-abdominal problems, including:
- Appendectomy
- Lung disease: benign & malignant
- Hernia repair
- Colon disease: benign & malignant
- Gallbladder
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Splenectomy
After-Hours:
For after-hours emergencies please call 911 or go to Catawba Valley Medical Center’s Emergency Department
