I don’t have any symptoms of colon cancer, so why bother to go through a colonoscopy?

There are few noticeable symptoms of very early colon cancer. The only way to know for sure is to have regular colonoscopies, that may be more or less often depending upon you risk factors.  Ask your provider what she/he recommends for you.

Will I be uncomfortable or embarrassed during my colonoscopy? How long is the recovery? 

You will be made comfortable and the colonoscopy team understands and treats you with the utmost respect. Within a couple of hours you are free to leave with a driver and able to carry on with normal activities the next day.

Can I afford a colonoscopy?

Most insurance companies will pay for this screening as will Medicare.

What is the preparation like? 

Many people fear prepping for a colonoscopy is hard and unpleasant. Your preparation only lasts one day of a clear liquid diet. It is accompanied by another fluid to thoroughly clean out your colon.

How do I make an appointment?

You can start with your primary care provider or you can reach out to one of our general surgery offices.

What is an endometrial ablation?

This is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat heavy menstrual cycles by destroying the tissue that lines the uterus (endometrium).

Why is this procedure performed? 

This is a treatment for very heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding that lasts longer than 8 days, or chronic anemia from excessive blood loss. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of these issues.

How long does an endometrial ablation take?

The procedure is typically 30-45 minutes long. The surgeon will insert a scope to get a look at the lining of the uterus and then proceed with the ablation.

How long is the recovery from an endometrial ablation? 

It does not take long to heal from an ablation. Most women are back to their normal routine within a few days. However, it is important to follow the guidelines given to you by your surgeon.

What is a kidney stone?

Kidney stones are a hard deposit of minerals and acid salts that stick together in concentrated urine. They are extremely painful when passing through the urinary tract.

What are the treatment options for a kidney stone?

There are several types of surgical treatments for kidney stones including extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWL), ureteroscopic stone removal and laser lithotripsy. Your physician will discuss the best option for your kidney stone.

• ESWL – This uses high energy waves to break kidney stones into tiny pieces.
• Ureteroscopic Stone Removal – This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a tiny scope is inserted into the ureter and locates the stone. The stone is then removed using a tiny wire basket.
• Laser Lithotripsy – This procedure is similar to the ureteroscopic stone removal, however the stone is too big to be pulled out of the ureter with a basket. The physician will take a tiny laser fiber and break the stone up in the ureter, allowing it to pass.

Will I need a stent?

The physician may place a small stent in the ureter during the procedure. This will help the stone fragments pass through into the bladder. Stents can be removed in the office at your follow up appointment.