A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

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Recently, Shared Content was named as one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. The debut ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care.

As an AMSURG affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of gastroenterology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 57 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News.

“Every day, AMSURG surgery centers provide worldclass care for patients, making us a leader in multiple outpatient surgery operations,” said Jeff Snodgrass, president and chief executive officer of AMSURG. “U.S. News’ recognizing 57 AMSURG Partners highlights the excellent work accomplished day in and out by our teams across the country. Congratulations to all those named to the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers list for 2024.”

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated nearly 5,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas, including Gastroenterology, Orthopedics and Ophthalmology.

Click here for more information, and for more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs.

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

by

Recently, Shared Content was named as one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. The debut ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care.

As an AMSURG affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of ophthalmology. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 57 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News.

“Every day, AMSURG surgery centers provide worldclass care for patients, making us a leader in multiple outpatient surgery operations,” said Jeff Snodgrass, president and chief executive officer of AMSURG. “U.S. News’ recognizing 57 AMSURG Partners highlights the excellent work accomplished day in and out by our teams across the country. Congratulations to all those named to the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers list for 2024.”

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated nearly 5,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas, including Gastroenterology, Orthopedics and Ophthalmology.

Click here for more information, and for more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs.

A U.S. News & World Report Best Ambulatory Surgery Center!

by

Recently, Shared Content was named as one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. The debut ratings of outpatient surgical centers offer patients a data-informed resource when seeking outpatient surgical care.

As an AMSURG affiliated surgery center, we are at the forefront of orthopedics. AMSURG is a leader in ambulatory surgery center services with 57 of its surgery centers being recognized by U.S. News.

“Every day, AMSURG surgery centers provide worldclass care for patients, making us a leader in multiple outpatient surgery operations,” said Jeff Snodgrass, president and chief executive officer of AMSURG. “U.S. News’ recognizing 57 AMSURG Partners highlights the excellent work accomplished day in and out by our teams across the country. Congratulations to all those named to the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers list for 2024.”

U.S. News and its partner CareJourney rated nearly 5,000 surgery centers across the country on several criteria, including how successfully they avoided complications, ER visits, unplanned hospitalizations and other undesirable outcomes; patient outcomes; risk-adjustment and more. Ambulatory Surgery Centers were evaluated in four separate specialty areas, including Gastroenterology, Orthopedics and Ophthalmology.

Click here for more information, and for more on the U.S. News Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers ratings, explore Facebook and Instagram using #BestASCs.

Understanding a Nervous Stomach: Symptoms and Seeking Help from a Gastrointestinal Doctor

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Do you ever find your stomach tied up in knots during stressful situations? You’re not alone. Many people experience what’s often referred to as a “nervous stomach,” where emotional stress or anxiety manifests as physical symptoms in the digestive system — but there could also be underlying medical conditions that feel heightened when you’re in a stressful situation.

What you could be brushing off as a “nervous stomach” could be a sign of something else…and the doctors at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. can help determine the cause of your discomfort.

What is a Nervous Stomach?

A nervous stomach refers to gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and changes in bowel habits that are triggered or exacerbated by emotional stress or anxiety.

Symptoms of a Nervous Stomach:

  • Stomach Pain: This can range from mild discomfort to sharp, cramping pains in the upper abdomen.
  • Bloating: Feeling of fullness and swelling in the abdomen, often accompanied by gas.
  • Nausea: Queasiness or the urge to vomit, which may or may not lead to actual vomiting.
  • Changes in Bowel Habits: This may include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two.
  • Loss of Appetite: Feeling full quickly or having a decreased desire to eat.

How Can a Gastrointestinal Doctor Help?

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe symptoms of a nervous stomach, it’s essential to seek help from a gastrointestinal doctor at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. — because those symptoms are also symptoms of a wide range of gastrointestinal issues that we can diagnose and treat.

During bouts of nervous stomach, your symptoms may be exacerbated, and you may notice them more intricately. There could be conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Lactose Intolerance, GERD, or more underlying that your body is asking you to pay attention to.

Here’s how we can help:

Accurate Diagnosis: A gastrointestinal doctor can conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Personalized Treatment Plan: Once you have a diagnosis, we can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and needs.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: We will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan if anything isn’t getting you back to tip-top shape. Regular follow-up appointments allow them to track changes in your symptoms and ensure that you’re receiving the most effective care.

Get Treated Today

A nervous stomach can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, but it’s important to remember that help is available — and it may be covering up another gastrointestinal condition that can be treated.

By seeking assistance from a gastrointestinal doctor, you can receive an accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and support to manage your symptoms effectively. Don’t suffer in silence — reach out for help and take control of your digestive health today.

Got questions? Schedule your appointment with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. today so you can start feeling better.

AMSURG and Palomar Health Form Strategic Surgery Center Partnership

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The organizations established a joint venture to maximize access and quality care in San Diego County through Poway Surgery Center

NASHVILLE, Tennessee, June 4, 2024 — AMSURG, an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center (ASC) services, and Palomar Health, the most comprehensive healthcare provider in North San Diego County, have established a new joint venture with the health system’s Poway Surgery Center. The strategic partnership will enable the organizations and its affiliated physicians to increase access and quality outpatient care in Poway and the greater San Diego community.

“Palomar Health is known for providing quality care and services for its communities, which is aligned with AMSURG’s model of clinical and operational excellence,” said John Lamberth, Senior Vice President of Development at AMSURG. “Leveraging our organizations’ strengths and resources, this partnership will accelerate advancements in quality outpatient care and access for patients and communities in Poway and North San Diego County.”

Poway Surgery Center is a freestanding outpatient facility accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). It has been operating as a multi-use facility, widening the range of care for Palomar Health patients. AMSURG has been involved in the surgery center prior to this new venture. The state-of-the-art facility boasts five operating rooms, with physicians providing outpatient surgical care across multiple specialties, including gastroenterology; orthopedics; ear, nose and throat; and more.

“AMSURG’s vast ASC network, demonstrated commitment to clinical excellence and high standards for patient safety and experience benefit both our providers and the patients we serve,” said Ryan Olsen, Chief Executive Officer of Palomar Health Medical Group and Chief Ambulatory & Strategy Officer of Palomar Health. “We come together to bring a modern and innovative surgery center that helps integrate the newest technologies and practices in a beautiful place of healing. With aligned goals and values that prioritize patients, this partnership will ensure that our communities continue to access and benefit from quality outpatient care.”

The center is currently open and accepting patients. If you or someone you know could benefit from Poway Surgery Center’s care and services, visit www.powaysc.com for more information or to request an appointment.

About AMSURG

AMSURG is an independent leader in ambulatory surgery center services, operating a network of more than 250 surgery centers nationwide. In partnership with physicians and health systems, the organization delivers high-quality patient care across a diverse spectrum of medical specialties, including gastroenterology, ophthalmology and orthopedics. With a focus on strategic growth and innovation, AMSURG is committed to transforming the future of ambulatory surgery center care and services. To learn more about AMSURG, visit www.amsurg.com.

About Palomar Health

Established in 1948, the award-winning team at Palomar Health provides the most comprehensive healthcare in North San Diego County through its two medical centers and more than 900 affiliated medical providers, serving more than half a million people. Palomar Health is nationally recognized as operating one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals; a Best 100 Hospital for joint replacement and orthopedic surgery; a Best Hospital for stroke care, heart care and bariatric surgery; a Diabetes and Stroke Center of Excellence; and a Blue Distinction Center for spine surgery, cardiac care and maternity.

Through its network of providers, Palomar Health offers medical services in virtually all fields of medicine, including primary care, cardiovascular care, emergency services, trauma, cancer, orthopedics, women’s health, behavioral health, rehabilitation, robotic surgery and bariatric surgery at offices strategically located throughout the North San Diego County region. For more information, please visit PalomarHealth.org.

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AMSURG Contact:

Rick Curtsinger

Sr. Manager, Public Relations

AMSURG

Rick.Curtsinger@AMSURG.com

 

Palomar Health Contact:

Bianca Kasawdish

Vice President, Public Relations

InnoVision Marketing Group

Bianca@TeamInnoVision.com

Cataract Surgery Can Clear Up Your Cloudy Vision

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Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness and vision impairment, but surgery can restore cataract-related vision loss.

Learn the Facts about Cataracts During Cataract Awareness Month

Are spring flowers no longer as vibrant as you remember? Do you experience blurred or double vision? Is driving at night becoming increasingly difficult? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may have cataracts.

June is Cataract Awareness Month, a time to learn about how cataracts form and what you can do to preserve your vision. A cataract forms in the lens of the eye. Over time, the lens clouds and prevents light from passing through. This clouded area is a cataract, and it will gradually impair vision as it grows.

Over time, cataracts can make everyday activities like reading, driving and house cleaning difficult and will cause vision loss if untreated.

Does Everyone Get Cataracts?

You can get cataracts in one eye or both eyes, but it does not spread from one eye to the other. By age 80, most adults have cataracts or have had cataract surgery.

Most cataracts form due to the natural aging process, but some cataracts can form because of the following:

  • Eye injury or surgery
  • Use of certain medications like steroids
  • Other diseases like diabetes

Cataract Surgery Is Safe and Effective

Your doctor may suggest cataract surgery if your condition is preventing you from doing your everyday activities. Clear vision is important for safety, especially for older adults.

Most people do not have to rush to have cataract surgery. Unlike other eye diseases like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration, cataracts do not cause permanent eye damage. However, there is no reason to wait for cataracts to stop your normal daily activities before removing them.

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgical procedures in the United States and around the world. Eye surgeons perform about four million cataract surgeries every year (nearly 28 million worldwide).

How Does Cataract Surgery Work?

When you are unable to do your daily activities while wearing your glasses, it is time to consider cataract surgery. An ophthalmologist is a physician with expertise in treating eye disorders and performing surgical procedures related to the eyes.

On the day of your procedure, you will receive drops to dilate your pupils. You may also receive mild sedation to help you relax. After you arrive in the operating room, an anesthesiologist will give you intravenous or local anesthesia. You won’t feel pain because your surgeon uses topical anesthetic.

During cataract surgery, your eye surgeon removes your damaged lens and replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL). An IOL is a small, artificial lens for the eye. It is constructed from silicone, acrylic or another type of plastic material. Unlike contacts, IOLs are implanted inside the eye and are permanent.

In most cases, cataract surgery only takes about 10 to 20 minutes to complete. You’ll wake up feeling drowsy, but the recovery team will monitor you until you can walk around.

Shortly after surgery, you should notice colors appear brighter, but you may still experience some blurred vision for the first few days. You shouldn’t feel pain, but some people say their eyes feel scratchy. Your eye doctor will prescribe drops to prevent inflammation, and you will return for several post-op visits to make sure you are healing properly.

How Do I Choose the Best Type of IOL for My Vision?

IOLs have an array of features and focusing powers. Your ophthalmologist will take measurements of the eye length and curvature of the cornea to calculate your IOL’s focusing power.

There are three major categories of IOLs:

  • Monofocal IOL — Medicare and other insurance usually cover monofocal IOLs for cataract surgery. Monofocal lenses are designed for sharp distance vision, so you still may need reading glasses. If you have astigmatism and choose a monofocal lens, you likely will need to wear glasses all the time.
  • Astigmatism-correcting IOL — Astigmatism causes blurred vision because the cornea has an irregular shape. In some cases, a surgeon can make limbal relaxing incisions to alter the shape of the cornea and correct low levels of astigmatism. Toric IOLs can help with higher levels of astigmatism. This type of lens is not covered by insurance so you will pay an extra fee.
  • Multifocal IOL — A multifocal lens can help you see near, intermediate and distance and sometimes correct astigmatism so you may be able to be glasses-free. About 80 to 90 percent of patients with multifocal lenses don’t need to wear glasses. This is the most expensive IOL because insurance will not cover it. However, the multifocal lens potentially will save thousands of dollars because most people won’t have to purchase new eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Get a Comprehensive Eye Exam During Cataract Awareness Month

How long has it been since your last comprehensive eye exam? A dilated eye exam is the only way to properly diagnose cataracts. All adults older than 40 should get a complete eye exam with dilation.

Your doctor will give you a visual acuity test, look for refractive errors and evaluate your most recent prescription for glasses or contact lenses. Not all vision problems are obvious. Many conditions that affect your vision have no symptoms in the early stages. Eye exams are the best way to detect and diagnose common eye diseases like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.

Make an appointment with your eye doctor during the month of June to evaluate your eye health and screen for cataracts. Don’t miss out on the glorious colors of the season. Get screened for cataracts and say “yes” to clear vision!

Stay Cool in the Summer Heat to Prevent Joint Injury

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Are you looking for ways to stay active this summer but are worried about aggravating your arthritis? Research shows people with arthritis benefit from moderate exercise to relieve pain and improve mobility, but hydration and breaks are essential to prevent injury.

One in Five Americans Has Arthritis

About 53.2 million adults in the United States, or 21.2 percent of the population, have arthritis. The National Health Interview Survey between 2019 and 2021 found one in five Americans was diagnosed with arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia or gout (CDC).

The survey also found arthritis was …

  • More common in women compared to men.
  • Less common with a college degree or higher.
  • More common among veterans compared to non-veterans.
  • More common as people age.

A Sedentary Lifestyle Makes Arthritic Symptoms Worse

Your activity level has a significant impact on arthritis and joint pain. Arthritis is more prevalent among sedentary adults (30.9 percent) compared to adults who meet physical activity recommendations (18.8 percent).

Inactivity due to arthritis can contribute to other chronic conditions like heart disease, obesity, diabetes and functional challenges.

Mild to Moderate Exercise Can Increase Mobility and Reduce Pain

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and sports. Low-impact exercises like walking, biking, swimming and pickleball can benefit your heart as well as your joints and soft tissue.

The Arthritis Foundation suggests 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity. Any type of physical activity that increases your heart rate for 25 minutes is recommended three times per week. Staying active is essential for joint health because it can circulate synovial fluid to keep joints lubricated.

How to Exercise Safely in Summer Temperatures

In the peak of summer heat, it is a good idea to exercise indoors at a gym or fitness facility equipped with air conditioning and supervision from qualified personnel. Some people prefer to exercise outdoors, but you must take precautions.

“If you plan to exercise in the heat, know your fitness level, take frequent breaks, wear proper clothing, wear sunscreen, avoid [the] hottest times of the day and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate,” said Melanie McNeal, physical and occupational therapy manager in the Joseph Barnhart department of orthopedic surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

Swimming can be especially deceiving because you may not realize you are losing water through sweating. It is important to take breaks to get out of the direct sun and hydrate with water or electrolyte drinks.

Six Safety Tips for Outdoor Exercise

  1. Consider working out in the morning or evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day when the sun is the most intense.
  2. Wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and reapply it according to the instructions on the bottle.
  3. Opt for light-colored clothing made of wicking fabric to keep moisture away from your skin.
  4. Take plenty of fluids with you when you exercise outside. For an hour workout, you will need 40 to 60 ounces of water. It is always wise to bring more than you think you will need.
  5. Bring a large plastic bag with a cooling towel to apply to your neck and shoulders after your workout or during breaks.
  6. Wear a hat or sun visor, and always wear sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection.

Pace Yourself During Your Workout to Avoid Injury

If you are new to exercise, it is important to pace yourself and begin slowly, especially if you have any form of arthritis or an artificial joint. Overexertion can cause dizziness and make you more prone to sprains, fractures and cruciate ligament tears.

Start your workout slowly and gradually increase the intensity. Warm up your muscles with a walk and stretch before you begin. Your stamina will improve and your chances of injury will decrease.

Aquatic exercises are excellent and appropriate for people of all ages, ability levels and body composition. This form of exercise is especially beneficial for joint health, as the buoyancy of the water helps alleviate the impact of your body weight on the joints and connective tissues. Exercises performed in shoulder-height water provide sufficient resistance while being easy on the knees and hips.

Do not get discouraged if you experience stiffness in various parts of your body when you begin a new type of physical activity. It may take six to eight weeks to adjust, but be patient. Maintaining an exercise regime will help your osteoarthritis and joint pain overall.

Start Your Fitness Journey by Taking a Walk

Fitness and joint health do not have to be expensive or complicated. Walking is a free activity that can increase cardio fitness, promote weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease and hypertension. It also tones muscles and maintains bone mass, which reduces the risk of fractures during exercise or daily activities.

Everyone has different ability levels and challenges, so discuss your workout plans with your doctor or physical therapist. If you experience chronic pain or mobility challenges, call your orthopedist. You may need a supportive brace, pain medication or a procedure to relieve joint pain.

You also might be a candidate for total joint replacement surgery. Hip and knee joint replacements can help increase quality of life, maintain an active lifestyle and improve your mobility for years to come.

Colon Cancer Is Preventable With Routine Screenings

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Did you know that the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States is one of the most preventable cancers? About 90 percent of colon cancer cases and deaths may be preventable, but millions of adults are not getting screened and are at risk for this life-threatening disease.

Study Suggests Millions of Americans Need Colon Cancer Screening

The lifetime risk of developing colon cancer is approximately five percent, or one in 20. New research published in JAMA Network Open found that there are approximately 57.1 to 59.6 million individuals aged 45 to 85 who are eligible for screening.

Despite the common belief that colon and rectal cancer only affect older individuals, it can impact people of all ages. Cases diagnosed before age 50 (called early-onset) have increased consistently in recent decades, but the reasons behind this trend remain unclear.

Approximately 20 percent of colon cancer diagnoses are linked to heredity, like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The other 80 percent may result from environmental factors such as alcohol and tobacco use and a low-fiber and high-fat diet.

Due to the rise in early-onset colon cancer cases, the American Cancer Society advises individuals with an average risk of developing the disease to start undergoing regular screenings at age 45.

Deficits in Colon Cancer Screenings

Many Americans are not up to date on colorectal cancer screening, leading to millions not receiving necessary medical care.

Derek W. Ebner, MD, of the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at the Mayo Clinic, conducted a study of people between 45 and 85 who were at average risk for colon cancer. In that sample, 59.3 percent to 61.8 percent were current on screening.

“We hope our estimates can support policy makers and health care stakeholders to advance initiatives surrounding colorectal cancer screening to prevent this disease or identify it earlier when more can be done to treat it,” Dr. Ebner said.

What Are the Screening Options for Colon Cancer?

Two main categories of colon cancer screening methods are tests that analyze stool samples and visual examinations. All tests have different risks and benefits.

  • Stool-based tests — These tests are non-invasive and check for signs of cancer in a stool sample. You must repeat these tests more often. Examples of stool-based tests include the following:
    • Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) — You must repeat this test every year.
    • FIT/Stool DNA test — You must repeat this test every three years.
    • Guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) — You must repeat this test every year.
  • Visual exams — These cancer screening tests look for abnormalities in the structure of the rectum and colon. Examples of visual exams include the following:
    • Colonoscopy — This is the gold standard for colon cancer screening because a doctor can remove pre-cancerous polyps during the procedure and reduce the risk of cancer. If you do not have polyps, you may not need to repeat the test for 10 years.
    • CT colonography — This screening must be repeated every five years.
    • Sigmoidoscopy — This must be repeated every five years.

Which Colorectal Cancer Screening Method Is Best?

Many tests can screen for colon cancer, but a colonoscopy can detect, diagnose and remove polyps in the same procedure, making it the gold standard of screening methods.

Often, the best colon cancer screening is the one that gets done. Because screening rates are lower than they should be, any colon cancer screening is better than no colon cancer screening.

Stool-based tests have the benefit of being non-invasive and convenient. Many average-risk patients prefer a stool test because it does not require preparation, diet changes or sedation. If you receive an abnormal result from a stool-based test, it is important to follow up with a colonoscopy (American Cancer Society). Follow-up is recommended within six months after an abnormal test result.

Lifestyle Factors That Affect Colon Cancer Risk

Since most colon cancers are not hereditary, you can make choices that affect your personal risk. Actionable steps you can take to prevent colon cancer include the following:

  1. Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fiber.
  2. Decrease your intake of red meat like beef, pork and lamb and processed meat such as hot dogs and deli meats.
  3. Get daily exercise. Obesity is linked to colon cancer risk, so a healthy BMI will reduce your risk.
  4. Manage your weight. A healthy BMI will make you less prone to obesity, which can make you more likely to develop colon cancer.
  5. Do not smoke or use tobacco.
  6. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol use increases your risk of colon and rectal cancer, so it is best to not drink.
  7. Get screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 45 if you are at average risk.

Is It Time for Your Colon Cancer Screening?

Many insurance plans cover screening colonoscopies for patients starting at age 45. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage. Colonoscopy prep has never been easier, thanks to the low-dose prep solution.

If you have risk factors or a family history of the disease, talk to your doctor about screening earlier. If you have digestive symptoms, see your healthcare provider for evaluation.

Ask your gastroenterologist for more information about colon cancer screening, inflammatory bowel disease or other digestive system conditions. Call today to make an appointment.

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Mobility Improves Following Robotics-Assisted Knee Surgery

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Gainesville, Florida, retiree Kim Slattery loves walking her Siberian huskies, Madigan and Mingo, around her neighborhood.

Her energetic dogs require individualized attention during their daily excursions because of their size.

“I can only walk one at a time because they think I’m a sled,” Slattery, 66, laughed.

Along with her dog-walking workouts, Slattery’s active lifestyle includes exercising and playing golf, while managing slight tendonitis in her knees. In the winter of 2023, intense pain in her left knee forced her to stop her activities.

“I always stayed pretty active,” she said. “It got to the point where I could hardly walk.”

X-rays in March 2023 showed Slattery had started developing osteoarthritis, and an MRI revealed a complex meniscus tear in her left knee.

“Instead of going right to a knee replacement, we went and cleaned up the tearing in the cartilage in her knee,” said Slattery’s orthopedic surgeon Tristan Altbuch, MD. “I think from her X-rays and from her functional level, and the amount of pain that she was having, a knee replacement at that time wasn’t warranted.”

Over the next six months, the arthritis worsened in Slattery’s knee. Osteoarthritis causes the deterioration of cartilage in joints, resulting in bones rubbing against each other, leading to pain and limited movement. This type of arthritis develops in the hips, knees and hands most frequently.

Kim Slattery playing golf

Constant pain made it difficult for Slattery to complete household chores and affected her daily routine. She relied on over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to sleep at night.

“I couldn’t golf. I was pretty limited. I couldn’t walk my dogs anymore. I was limping everywhere I went. It totally affected my social life,” Slattery said. “[Arthritis] really didn’t bother me until I tore my meniscus. I could barely walk. It hurt so bad.”

Patient Opts for Robotics-Assisted Procedure

After consulting with Dr. Altbuch, Slattery opted for a robotics-assisted total knee replacement on Nov. 16, 2023, at an ambulatory surgical center (ASC).

“Her knee joint spaces continued to narrow and compress against each other,” Dr. Altbuch said. “That led to her having more pain, significant enough to interfere with activities and daily living.”

Every year, approximately 790,000 knee replacement procedures are performed in the United States. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons estimates these procedures will increase to 3.5 million annually by 2030.

“Once I had that [cartilage] removed, it progressed pretty fast to bone-on-bone,” Slattery said. “I knew I was looking at a total knee eventually, but I didn’t think it would be that fast.”

Surgery consideration depends on the patient’s past treatments and level of pain. Treatments may include anti-inflammatory pain medications, icing the joint, injections or modifying activities like trying low-impact walking instead of high-impact jogging or running.

“Knee replacements really aren’t for people who have [lower pain levels of] two or three. The best results are in patients who have severe pain,” Dr. Altbuch said. “This is a big operation. It’s a big undertaking. It’s changing the knee joint permanently. We think for people with severe arthritis it’s making it better.

Dr. Altbuch used a robotics platform for Slattery’s knee replacement procedure. The system uses a CT scan of a patient’s joint to develop a personalized surgical plan. During the procedure, the surgeon guides a robotic arm to remove arthritic bone and cartilage from the knee and replaces it with prosthetic components called implants.

Patients may experience less swelling and faster recovery with a robotics-assisted procedure but still encounter post-operative knee pain.

“The hardest thing for patients is you have to move it when it hurts the most,” Dr. Altbuch said. “It does require a great deal of commitment from the patients to push through that first couple of weeks, which are the toughest.”

knee X-ray after robotics-assisted procedureDays after surgery, Slattery started physical therapy.

“You can’t let your knee stiffen, so you’ve got to work it. Therapy is tough, and I went twice a week,” she said. “I saw my X-ray, and my X-ray looked perfect. I just knew it was all up to me now to put in the work to get it going again.”

After three months of hard work, Slattery completed her physical therapy and resumed regular activities including walking, standing and climbing stairs.

Six months after her total knee replacement, Slattery bikes, golfs and walks her dogs with her husband. She enjoys life again with her new knee.

“I’m pain free,” she said. “I have no pain.”

Schedule an Evaluation during Arthritis Awareness Month

May is Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis is the leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S., impacting more than 53 million adults. By 2050, cases of osteoarthritis are projected to increase more than 74 percent for knees, 48 percent for hands and 78 percent for hips.

If you are experiencing chronic pain due to arthritis, contact your orthopedist, who will evaluate your symptoms. There is no cure for arthritis, but your doctor may suggest at-home pain management options like hot or cold therapies and massage, physical therapy or even surgery.

“I would definitely recommend a total joint, if they’re having the symptoms I had,” Slattery said. “Why wait around when you’ve got a solution to fix it?”

Tristan Altbuch, MD

If you are advised to have surgery, consider our ASCs for your orthopedic treatment. Factors determining whether patients are suitable for outpatient surgery include their age, existing medical conditions and the support they receive at home.

ASCs offer patients a more comfortable environment at a lower expense, convenient parking, shorter wait times and a decreased ratio of patients to nurses. Patients are sent home on the same day as the procedure to recuperate.

“Rapid recovery protocols help patients to get through these operations better. The quicker you can get people moving, the better for that patient’s recovery,” Dr. Altbuch said. “Ambulatory surgery centers are designed for rapid recovery.”

Before deciding on any treatment plan for your chronic pain, request an appointment with an orthopedist for an evaluation.

This article is designed for educational purposes only. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health concern or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health concern, you should consult your healthcare provider.

5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Metro Detroit, Michigan

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Are you experiencing abdominal discomfort, bloating, or irregular bowel movements? Are you 45 or older and need a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer? Either way, you can visit us at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, for a thorough evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment – plus, you can go here instead of a hospital for your procedures (which saves you time and money!).

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., we specialize in determining what’s causing your intestinal issues, for whatever your gastrointestinal issue is – from heartburn, Celiac Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colon Cancer, Lactose Intolerance, and everything in between.

Here’s why scheduling an appointment with our specialized team is the right choice for your digestive well-being:

1. Comprehensive Care

Our team of board-certified gastroenterologists specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of digestive conditions. Whether you’re dealing with abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or anything else (in addition to other non-digestive symptoms that may be related), we offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs so your colon can be in tip-top shape.

2. Expertise in Gastrointestinal Disorders

From acid reflux to swallowing difficulties and gastrointestinal bleeding, our specialists have the knowledge and experience to pinpoint the underlying causes of your symptoms. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques to provide accurate assessments and develop effective treatment plans, so you start feeling better.

3. Colonoscopies

Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE – and regular colonoscopies are essential for early detection and prevention. Our clinic offers comprehensive colonoscopy services in a comfortable and convenient setting, not a hospital, and the costs are often a third of what it would be in a hospital for the same procedures.

4. Cost-Savings

Unless you have a health condition that requires access to a full-service hospital, your surgical procedures can be performed at our surgical center. As a result, you’ll generally save at least half the cost than those performed at a hospital – all while still receiving the same quality of care.

5. Comfortable Environment

Unlike hospitals, our practice focuses exclusively on gastrointestinal care. This specialization allows us to offer streamlined appointments, shorter wait times, convenient parking, a smaller and more comfortable atmosphere, and a more personalized experience for our patients. You’ll receive attentive care from our dedicated team of specialists every step of the way.

Schedule Your Way to Better Health Now!

Don’t let digestive issues hold you back from living your best life. Schedule an appointment with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan and take the first step toward better digestive health. Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.