It is estimated that 234 million surgeries are performed each year worldwide. This means that 1 out of every 25 people will have a surgical procedure done each year. Having to undergo surgery may seem frightening, but if you have a painful condition that can be cured with surgery, it is beneficial to consider it. While no surgery is without risk, weighing out the benefits versus risks is a good way to make that kind of decision.
Some surgical procedures are a lot more common than you may think, and doctors have successfully performed these procedures many times over.
Thyroidectomy
Thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland, which is located in the front of the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that control all aspects of your metabolism. It affects your heart rate as well as how quickly you burn calories. A Thyroidectomy may be recommended as a treatment for thyroid cancer, goiter, or hyperthyroidism.
Breast Biopsy
A biopsy is a procedure to remove a piece of tissue or a sample of cells for testing. It is also used to remove abnormal breast tissue. A biopsy may be done using a hollow needle to extract tissue, or a lump may be partially or completely removed for examination and/or treatment.
Mastectomy
A mastectomy is the removal of all or part of the breast. Mastectomies are usually done to treat breast cancer. There are different types of mastectomies such as partial mastectomy, total mastectomy, or modified radical mastectomy.
- A partial (segmental) mastectomy involves the removal of the breast cancer and a larger portion of the normal breast tissue around the breast cancer.
- A total (or simple) mastectomy is when the surgeon removes the entire breast, including the nipple, the areola, and most of the overlying skin, and may also remove some of the lymph nodes under the arm, also called the axillary lymph glands.
- Modified radical mastectomy is when the surgeon removes the entire breast (including the nipple, the areola, and the overlying skin), some of the lymph nodes under the arm, and the lining over the chest muscles. In some cases, part of the chest wall muscles is also removed.
Partial Colectomy
A partial colectomy is the removal of part of the large intestine (colon) which may be done to treat colon cancer or inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis or diverticulitis.
Appendectomy
An appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, a small tube that branches off the large intestine, to treat acute appendicitis. Appendicitis is the acute inflammation of this tube due to infection.
A medical professional informing you that you need surgery can be scary, but rest assured, you are in the right hands at Townsen Memorial Hospital and Emergency Room. Our skilled surgeons provide patients with the best quality surgical care and offer services in multiple medical specialties. Our facilities contain the most up-to-date medical technology, allowing our experienced surgeons to perform surgeries laparoscopically or with very minimal scarring. Our surgeons are dedicated to ensuring an efficient surgery and a smooth recovery, allowing you to get back to normal as quickly as possible.
Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You
At Townsen Memorial, safe, effective, and affordable care is our top priority. Therefore, we strive to provide the best patient experience across all Townsen Memorial affiliated sites. The high-quality care starts at our Emergency Room and carries on through our Imaging Centers, Surgery Centers, and up through our Townsen Memorial Hospital. Our medical sites are located in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, to provide the best care to patients in and around Harris County. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.
Dr. Andrew Tsao Huang, MD FACS, is an Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery specialist as well as an Associate Professor at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX. After finishing his undergraduate and medical degree (MD) at the University of Miami (FL), he went on to do his residency at Virginia Commonwealth University followed by fellowship training at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, achieving certifications from the American Board of Otolaryngology, the American Head and Neck Society, and a fellowship from the American College of Surgeons.
A Proud Member of the Townsen Memorial Health System
In early September of this year, our esteemed Dr. Andrew Huang performed his 300th Inspire procedure. This procedure has helped thousands of people across the country manage their symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. As a condition that affects millions of adults in America alone, this is an impressive feat made by one of our own.
We are proud to have Dr. Huang working with Townsen Memorial Health System and would like to congratulate him on this achievement. We are looking forward to his bright future and thank him for helping make our goal of accessible and patient-centered healthcare happen.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA for short, is a disorder that affects an estimated 39 million adults in the U.S. and over a billion worldwide. Not only is OSA a significant cause of poor sleep, it also is associated with early heart attack, stroke, and death if left untreated.
It commonly happens because the soft tissue in the airway collapses during sleep resulting in blockage to the windpipe, blocking the passage of air. This often leads to snoring or other disruptive events, such as waking up due to lack of oxygen. Other common symptoms of OSA include: feeling tired or exhausted when waking up, sleepiness during the day, mood changes or disorders, disruptions to brain function, headaches, and insomnia. If untreated, OSA can increase the risk of other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, kidney disease, and stroke.
The Wonder of The Inspire Procedure
While there are many ways to treat OSA, through lifestyle changes or positive airway pressure (PAP) machines, The Inspire procedure has opened a better way of treatment for those with this condition. Compared to a PAP machine, this implant addresses the problem from the root of the cause. It sends gentle pulses that move the tongue out of the way, allowing for better airflow and intake during sleep.
The Inspire procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that can be done as an outpatient. Often taking an estimated 90 minutes, an Inspire-trained doctor makes two small incisions to place the implant near the collarbone and connects it to a nerve that controls the tongue. With some over-the-counter pain medication, those who undergo this procedure recover within just a few days.
Let Townsen Memorial Be Your Partner in Healthcare
At Townsen Memorial Health System, we put the needs of our patients above everything. We seek out the latest innovations in the medical field to provide the best possible healthcare solutions, and offering the Inspire Procedure is a testament to that.
With OSA affecting many people across the country, we want to help by providing an effective, long-term solution for their healthcare needs. With many experienced doctors on our team, like our very own Dr. Huang, we are able to provide the most advanced personalized care. Let Townsen Memorial Health System be your partner in achieving a healthier life and experience excellence in healthcare every step of the way. Do you or someone you love suffer from OSA? Get in touch with us today to inquire about the Inspire Procedure.
At Townsen Memorial Health System, our pledge to deliver individualized care for all patients is the cornerstone of everything we do. With a steadfast commitment to accessible, high-quality, patient-centered healthcare, we continuously seek to innovate and enhance our medical services. It is with great pride that we introduce the latest advancement in our surgical offerings – Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment for an enlarged prostate, otherwise known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a testament to our dedication to excellence, innovation, and compassion in patient care.
What is Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment?
Aquablation therapy represents a groundbreaking approach in the treatment of BPH, an enlarged prostate condition that affects a significant number of men worldwide. Unlike traditional treatments, Aquablation therapy employs the precision of robotically controlled waterjets to remove prostate tissue efficiently, guided by real-time ultrasound imaging. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to target and treat the symptoms of BPH with unmatched precision, reducing the risk of side effects commonly associated with conventional methods.
Advantages Over Traditional Treatments
The introduction of Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment at Townsen Memorial Hospital brings forth a multitude of advantages over traditional BPH treatments. Key benefits include:
Precision and Safety
With real-time imaging and robotic control, Aquablation therapy offers a level of precision that significantly reduces the risk of complications and preserves sexual function, a common concern among men undergoing prostate surgery.
Faster Recovery Times
Patients can expect a quicker return to their daily activities, thanks to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure.
Effectiveness Across Various Prostate Sizes
Aquablation therapy is effective for a wide range of prostate sizes, offering a versatile solution for many patients.
Reduced Hospital Stay
The efficiency and safety of the procedure often result in shorter hospital stays, emphasizing our value of accommodating your healthcare needs swiftly and responsively.
No More Compromises: A Closer Look at Aquablation Therapy Benefits
We are thrilled to offer Aquablation therapy at Townsen Memorial Hospital because we recognize the profound impact BPH can have on a man's life. Many men find themselves having to compromise between inadequate symptom relief and the risk of significant side effects from traditional treatments. Aquablation therapy emerges as a pioneering solution, aiming to minimize these compromises, enabling men to regain their quality of life without sacrificing sexual function, which is a significant concern for many.
- 83% of men with BPH are unwilling to compromise sexual function for symptom relief.
- 75% believe surgery requires a trade-off between symptom relief and side effects.
- 50% did not realize the importance of maintaining sexual function until faced with surgery options.
Addressing Concerns Over Side Effects
The decision to delay surgery often stems from concerns over potential side effects. Surveys indicate that 85% of men worry about surgery leading to incontinence, and 80% fear a permanent impact on sexual function. However, Aquablation therapy has demonstrated a significantly lower rate of irreversible complications in clinical studies:
- Zero impact on erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, or overall sexual satisfaction.
- Approximately 90% of men preserve ejaculatory function post-Aquablation therapy.
- 99% of men did not experience incontinence following the procedure.
Our Commitment to You
The introduction of Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment at Townsen Memorial Health System is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation, while maintaining the integrity and excellence that our patients deserve. We believe that everyone should have access to the latest treatments and technologies in their journey toward optimal health.
In line with our core values, we continue to embrace cutting-edge medical advancements to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for our patients. Aquablation therapy is more than just a new treatment option; it's a symbol of our dedication to providing compassionate, quality, and patient-centered care.
For those seeking more information about Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment for BPH or to schedule a consultation, we invite you to contact Townsen Memorial Hospital. Let us help you navigate your health journey with the care, excellence, and innovation that you deserve.
Outpatient surgery offers a convenient and efficient way to receive necessary medical procedures without requiring an overnight hospital stay. However, proper post-surgical care is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications. At Townsen Memorial Health System, we are committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care across our Houston healthcare locations. Whether you undergo surgery at a Houston hospital or one of our outpatient centers, following the right recovery steps will help you heal safely and effectively.
Follow Post-Op Instructions Carefully
Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions tailored to your procedure. These guidelines cover everything from wound care to activity restrictions. Follow them closely to avoid complications and ensure a faster recovery.
- Take medications as prescribed, including antibiotics and pain relievers.
- Follow wound care instructions to prevent infection.
- Avoid strenuous activities until your doctor gives you clearance.
- Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
If you have any concerns about your recovery, contact your Houston medical services provider immediately.
Manage Pain and Discomfort
Pain management is a crucial part of the recovery process. Most patients experience some level of discomfort after surgery, but proper management can make it more tolerable.
- Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Keep the surgical area elevated, if applicable, to minimize discomfort.
- Engage in gentle movement, as advised, to prevent stiffness.
If your pain becomes severe or does not improve with medication, contact your Houston hospital or healthcare provider for guidance.
Prioritize Rest and Hydration
Your body needs time to heal, and rest is one of the most effective ways to support recovery. Make sure to:
- Get enough sleep and rest during the day.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein to support healing.
Proper rest and hydration not only speed up recovery but also reduce the risk of complications.
Recognize Signs of Complications
While most outpatient surgeries are low-risk, complications can still arise. It’s essential to recognize warning signs and seek medical attention if needed. Contact your Houston healthcare locations if you experience:
- Excessive pain that does not improve with medication.
- Persistent fever.
- Redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision site.
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems.
Ease Back Into Daily Activities
Many patients are eager to resume their daily routines, but it’s important to ease back into activities gradually.
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding work, exercise, and driving.
- Start with light activities and gradually increase movement as you feel comfortable.
- Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities until fully healed.
Rushing your recovery could lead to setbacks, so listen to your body and allow yourself time to heal.
Maintain A Healthy You
Recovering from outpatient surgery requires careful attention to post-operative care, pain management, and a gradual return to daily activities. By following these steps and working with your healthcare provider, you can ensure a safe and successful recovery.
At Townsen Memorial Health System, we are dedicated to providing high-quality Houston medical services across our Houston healthcare locations. If you need post-surgical support or have concerns about your recovery, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a follow-up and receive the expert care you deserve.
