Author: St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Liver surgeries have typically relied on an open (traditional) or a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach. Robotic-assisted surgery is a new method that shows great promise. In robotic liver surgery, surgeons incorporate robotic technology for added dexterity and to enhance precision during complex procedures. Recent studies suggest robotic liver surgery improves patient health outcomes. “We know robotic-assisted surgery can lead to less blood loss and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery,” says Dr. Brent Xia, MD, a Surgical Oncologist practicing at St. Elizabeth Healthcare. “This can create a more positive overall experience for our patients.” What is Robotic Liver…

Every patient’s cancer is unique. That means your cancer treatment should be, too. At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, we’re committed to delivering the personalized care you need. To provide the most accurate risk assessment to developing cancer and the most effective treatments with the fewest side effects if you develop cancer, we rely on precision medicine to create your care plan. This innovative approach examines your genetic makeup, lifestyle behaviors and environment. We use this information to identify the right strategies for you. “At St. Elizabeth, we don’t view cancer care as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ endeavor,” says Jaime Grund, MS, LGC, Director…

St. Elizabeth Healthcare has reached a new milestone in cardiac surgery with the adoption of state-of-the-art 3D 4K endoscopic technology, ensuring the care you receive remains at the forefront of surgical innovation in the United States.The new system was successfully used in June by the cardiac surgery team. It allows surgeons to perform complex heart procedures through small incisions with enhanced precision and safety—offering patients faster recovery, less pain and fewer complications.“With traditional techniques, we often had to make larger incisions to see clearly through them,” says Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang, MD, a Cardiothoracic Surgeon at St. Elizabeth. “Now, with 3D…

Few people give their gallbladder — a small, pear-shaped organ beneath the liver that stores bile for digestion — a second thought when it works properly. But if gallstones or other gallbladder-related problems arise, the resulting abdominal pain can severely disrupt day-to-day life. When that occurs, removing the gallbladder laparoscopically may provide the simplest, fastest symptom resolution. Conditions That Require Gallbladder Removal Surgery Doctors often recommend a cholecystectomy, surgery to remove the gallbladder, for patients experiencing severe pain from gallstones. Gallstones are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Roughly 10% to 15% of adults have gallstones, according…

The lifestyle choices you help your kids make today can go a long way in protecting their hearts tomorrow. Here are five simple, powerful ways to help them incorporate heart-healthy habits into their daily routines: 1. Make Movement a Daily Habit Kids need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. That doesn’t mean structured workouts – it can be as simple as biking, dancing, playing tag or walking the dog. The key is consistency. Make it fun, not a chore. Pro Tip: Turn off screens for an hour and turn on music for a family dance party or nature walk. 2.…

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in America for both men and women. Despite this fact, many women don’t seriously consider their risk for heart disease. Some of this gender awareness gap stems from popular media. TV shows and movies tend to portray heart attacks and stroke as primarily male concerns. In 2019, an American Heart Association survey found that only 44% of women correctly named heart disease as the leading cause of death facing females in the U.S. Social media campaigns, such as the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women project, have increased awareness of…

Experiencing a pregnancy is an exciting time in a woman’s life. In addition to all the steps to prepare for the healthy new arrival of her baby, an expecting mom should also make a point of checking in on her own health — especially when it comes to her heart. A woman’s body undergoes many changes during pregnancy, including increased blood volume and heart rate. These changes help supply the growing fetus with oxygen and nutrients. However, pregnancy can also trigger heart-related complications in some women. Expectant mothers should discuss any concerns about their cardiovascular health with their provider. …

Hot flashes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, mood changes. They’re all changes synonymous with menopause. But there’s another symptom of menopause many women may not be aware of: increased risk of heart disease. Most women experience menopause (the end of their monthly periods) in their late 40s or early to mid-50s. Certain menopause-related biological changes, including a decrease in estrogen production, can cause women to accumulate belly fat. The added weight can lead to abdominal obesity, a known risk factor of heart disease. At the same time, as women age, they’re more likely to develop high blood pressure and have higher…

Sisters Laura Smith and Marie Sartori grew up dreaming of being mothers. They’d often role-play with Barbies or baby dolls. Just two years apart, the sisters now have three children each. Marie welcomed her third child — a baby girl — at St. Elizabeth Healthcare Family Birth Place in March. Laura returned to the Family Birth Place in May for her third delivery. “It feels surreal to go through this chapter of my life with my sister — my best friend,” Laura says. “We communicate daily about sleep schedules, mom hacks or best products.” “We love each other’s kids like our…

At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, we believe every patient is unique. And that’s why your surgery should be, too. We personalize each procedure based on your specific needs, medical background and anatomy. This makes surgeries safer. Patients experience a faster recovery and better long-term results. What Is a Personalized Surgery Plan? A personalized surgery plan uses the newest technologies, including 3D imaging and robotic-assisted tools. We customize procedures to each patient’s needs. By understanding your medical history and examining your detailed imaging scans, our expert surgeons perform procedures with greater precision and less risk. “One of the most important aspects of…