Operating suites in United Regional’s new Bridwell Tower, scheduled to open in August 2009, will offer some of the latest in surgical technology. One of the surgical suites dedicated to cardiovascular surgeries is the hybrid endovascular suite. This suite combines endovascular, cardiac surgical, laparoscopic and radiological capabilities, providing flexibility and speed in the treatment of patients with complex cardiac and vascular conditions.

 

“The hybrid endovascular suite allows us the advantage of no longer needing to move the patient to a different operating room to accommodate multiple heart and vascular procedures or surgeries,” says William Dean, M.D., cardiovascular surgeon at United Regional. The suite combines highly advanced technology and computer systems with the skill of cardiovascular surgeons and cardiologists to treat complex cases. 

 

The hybrid suite also allows for minimally invasive cardiac surgical procedures because of the high-resolution imaging provided by the x-ray system. United Regional cardiovascular surgeon, Peter Tauriainen, M.D., states, “With its large field of view, surgeons are provided visualization of tiny details to support intricate procedures.” 

 

Endovascular surgery is less invasive, which can promote faster recoveries and shorter length of stays. “Patients also benefit from lower dose radiation and minimized use of anesthetics,” adds James Obney, M.D., a cardiovascular surgeon who joined the staff of United Regional in 2008. 

 

Surgeries that can be performed in the suite include minimally invasive stent placement and valve repair, peripheral vascular procedures, vascular angiogram, pacemaker insertion, and open heart surgery. 

 

United Regional is a leader in the treatment of cardiac and vascular diseases. More than 550 cardiovascular surgeries and 460 pacemaker surgeries were performed at the hospital in 2008.