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Renown Health’s Orthopedic Program and Rehabilitation Hospital Recognized Among Top 100 in the U.S. By Becker's Hospital Review
Renown Health is proud to announce that its Orthopedic Program and Rehabilitation Hospital have been named among the top in the United States by Becker’s Hospital Review. This recognition reflects Renown’s dedication to delivering exceptional orthopedic care and innovative rehabilitation services for patients in northern Nevada and the 100,000 square rural region it serves. This prestigious recognition highlights Renown’s commitment to excellence in patient care and innovative treatment options. Renown’s orthopedic program, located at both Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center, is known for its leading-edge treatments, advanced surgical techniques, and comprehensive care for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Renown Rehabilitation Hospital located one block east of Renown Regional at 1495 Mill St, Reno, NV specializes in providing personalized, evidence-based therapies to help patients recover and regain independence following injury, surgery or illness and is the region’s only hospital with certification by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) In their announcement, Becker’s highlighted that, “Renown Health (Reno, Nev.). Renown Regional Medical Center is home to one of the busiest trauma centers. It is accredited by the American College of Surgeons, caring for thousands of people, the vast majority requiring some level of orthopedic care. With more than 160 years of excellence in orthopedics, the Joint Commission has given its Gold Seal of Approval accreditation to Renown for total knee replacement, total hip replacement and total shoulder replacement. Highly regarded in pediatric orthopedic and scoliosis care, surgical specialists offer care for congenital deformities, limb deformities, hip disorders, clubfoot and foot disorders, neuromuscular diseases, sports injuries and complex spinal disorders. The Orthopedic Program also specializes in orthopedic oncology, employing a specialist who is a member of the Connective Tissue Oncology Society and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society. Additionally, the orthopedic oncology program’s leader is part of the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute and specializes in the treatment of benign and malignant tumors of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissues for children and adults. Many orthopedic patients recuperate at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, which has received accolades for its rehabilitative care.” Becker's announced its list of 100 hospitals and health systems with great orthopedic programs | 2024, stating, “These programs and institutes are devoted to delivering comprehensive, compassionate care for patients experiencing musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. Treating thousands of patients annually, the expert providers staffing these programs also run cutting-edge clinical trials and employ the latest innovations in orthopedic technology. These institutions have earned accolades from prestigious organizations like U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek and Healthgrades, receive funding from organizations like the National Institutes of Health, serve as official providers for elite sports teams, and hold the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval. “We are honored to receive this national recognition from Becker’s Hospital Review,” said Benjamin Pence, DO, Director of Renown’s Institute for Neurosciences, and a specialist in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “This achievement is a testament to the expertise, innovation and patient-centered approach that defines our trauma, orthopedic, neurosciences, sports medicine, pain management and rehabilitation teams. We are honored to be acknowledged for our commitment to excellence in care and for improving the lives of the people we serve.” The ranking by Becker’s Hospital Review acknowledges programs that demonstrate excellence in clinical outcomes, research, patient satisfaction and access to advanced treatment technologies. Key Highlights of Renown’s Orthopedic Program and Rehabilitation Hospital include: • Comprehensive Orthopedic Services: Specialized care for joint replacement, sports injuries, spine care, trauma and arthritis management. • Leader in Innovative Surgical Techniques: Minimally invasive procedures, robotic-assisted surgery with the latest Mako Surgery, and advanced pain management protocols and specialists. • Renown Rehabilitation Hospital Expertise: Comprehensive integrated inpatient rehabilitation program, stroke specialty program, medical rehabilitation case management, state of the art therapies, including physical, occupational, recreational, cognition and speech therapy tailored to each patient’s unique journey. Renown Rehabilitation Hospital provides 24-hour nursing care with nurse/therapist-to-patient ratios that are unmatched in the region. Case managers are assigned to assist in determining the best plan of care from admission to discharge. Patients receive therapy every day, based on their functional abilities. Intensive therapy services guide patients to higher function, independence and wellness. • Multidisciplinary Teams: Collaboration among orthopedic surgeons, rehabilitation specialists, nurses and therapists to provide seamless, coordinated care. • Patient Outcomes: Outstanding patient outcome success rates and patient satisfaction scores that exceed national benchmarks means patients have shorter hospital stays and leave with a higher level of functionality and independence. “Renown’s Orthopedic Program and Rehabilitation Hospital are driven by a shared mission to help patients achieve their highest level of health and mobility,” said Seth Langevin, PT, DPT, MBA, Vice President, Neuroscience & Cardiovascular Services. “Being included in Becker’s Top 100 underscores the hard work and dedication of our entire team in helping our patients return back to an active lifestyle.” “At Renown Health, we are constantly investing in our clinicians, essential services, and medical innovations to help keep care local,” said Sam Weller, MHPA, CEO of Renown South Meadows and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. “We are deeply grateful for our dedicated physicians and healthcare professionals, patients, donors and the northern Nevada community for their support. This national recognition serves as an inspiration to continue delivering world-class oncology care so that people can stay close to home and loved ones, and no longer need to leave Nevada for advanced orthopedic or rehabilitation care. "Through the generosity of our community, we are working to provide the best expertise, technology and programs for our patients,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer, Renown Health Foundation. “As the only charitable, not-for-profit integrated academic healthcare organization in Reno, we appreciate that our community has helped us further our healing mission in providing exceptional orthopedic and rehabilitation care." People may donate to the Renown Health Foundation, a non-profit organization registered with the State of Nevada and recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) entity at www.renown.org/give or 775-982-5545. As the region’s only Level 2 Trauma Center for adults and children, Renown serves over 1 million people and 100,000 square miles. In U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings, Renown Regional Medical Center is named #1 Hospital for the State of Nevada for 2024, 2023 and 2022. For more information about Renown Health’s Orthopedic Program, visit https://www.renown.org/Health Services/Orthopedics Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. To join the Renown Health team, visit renown.org/careers.
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Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You?
You’ve likely heard about bariatric surgery — and perhaps even have friends who’ve done it. But is it a potential solution for you? Here, Dawn Remme, RN, Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Program Manager, provides insight. You may have been struggling with excess weight for years. You’ve tried high-protein diets, low-carb diets and more. Most patients considering weight loss surgery have tried numerous dieting methods. The truth is, some patients who suffer with obesity are successful dieters. Unfortunately though, excess weigh often returns. This impacts their health and the quality of their life. It can be a disheartening battle. Weight loss surgery is a big decision. In making this decision, keep in mind that surgery is only one step toward your goal of achieving better health. It is neither magic, nor is it the “easy way out.” Weight loss surgery can offer you a TOOL to help you become more successful in controlling the disease of morbid obesity. By combining this tool with a lifelong commitment to important lifestyle changes, medical follow-up and nutritional modifications, you have the potential to become a healthier you. Bariatric Surgery By the Numbers Exploring the facts about obesity, how it impacts your health, and how surgery can resolve or significantly improve your chronic medical conditions is the first step to making a decision. Obesity is medically defined as “excess body fat” and is measured by a mathematical ratio known as the Body Mass Index (BMI). To calculate your BMI, we consider your height, weight, age, gender and body build. Here are the standards: “Normal” BMI: less than 25 Overweight: 25 – 29.9 Obese: BMI of 30 – 39.9 Morbid obesity: BMI of 40 or more Morbid obesity (BMI over 40) is a lifelong, progressive disease, and the prevalence of morbidly obese Americans (100 or more pounds over a healthy weight) is increasing rapidly. According to the CDC, the disease of obesity affects 78 million Americans. Further estimates indicate about 24 million have morbid obesity. Serious medical problems known as co-morbidities often occur when someone is morbidly obese. Studies tell us conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and degenerative arthritis increase in severity as the BMI is increasing in patients. When may weight loss surgery be an option? When someone has a BMI greater then 40. If a person’s BMI is 35 – 39.9 and they have significant health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or other diagnosed health conditions related to obesity. Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass Explained To resolve or significantly reduce these health conditions, bariatric surgery can be done when diet and exercise haven’t worked. Weight loss surgery makes changes to your digestive system to help you lose weight. The gastric sleeve limits how much you can eat, whereas gastric bypass limits how much you can eat and reduces the absorption of certain nutrients. Other Benefits of Surgery You can greatly increase life expectancy by resolving or significantly improving conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and obesity itself. Infertility can also be positively affected. A significant weight loss and relief from serious health conditions and diseases will greatly improve your quality of life. Studies tell us that type 2 diabetes is resolved or significantly improved in 84 percent of patients following bariatric surgery. Cholesterol levels dropped in 95 percent of patients. And hypertension and sleep apnea showed improvement in 68 and 80 percent of patients, respectively, following bariatric surgery. Bariatric Surgery at Renown In making the decision to move forward to better health, it is important to remember: Obesity is a disease, and the desire to have a healthier, longer, more fulfilling life is possible. If you are interested in learning more, please visit the Bariatric Surgery Program page to view more information about Renown Regional Medical Center’s MBSAQIP accredited bariatric program, as well as information about upcoming educational seminars. Or call 775-982-RSVP (7787) to reserve your seat. Learn More
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Surgical Services
Renown Surgical Services is with you every step of the way, providing the support, guidance and information you need throughout the entire surgical process — from preparation to recovery. Whether you need same-day surgery or an advanced procedure, our team helps you find the option that provides the best possible outcome. Need help with your pre-admitting appointment or a price estimate? Call 775-982-3993. Preparing for Your Procedure Now that you have your surgery scheduled, let’s help get you ready for your pre-admitting appointment. The following checklist provides steps for you to follow from the time it’s determined you need surgery. The checklist covers: How to prepare 1-28 days before your procedure How to prepare the night before your procedure How to prepare the day of your procedure How to take care of yourself after your procedure View the Checklist (English) Ver en Español
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Why Can't I Eat Before Surgery?
If you’re having surgery on your shoulder, why does it matter what’s in your stomach? We asked Dr. Matthew Hoberg to explain more about pre-surgery directives, including fasting. If you have an upcoming surgery, your care team likely gave you instructions to fast before your procedure. But why? We asked Matthew Hoberg, M.D., medical director of Renown Surgical Services, to explain why it’s important to forgo food and drinks before surgery. Why are patients instructed to fast before surgery? Regardless of surgery type or site, we want the stomach to be empty before having anesthesia, because anesthesia can reduce your body’s ability to protect and prevent food or acids from the stomach from entering the lungs. Normally, your body is able to prevent this, but anesthesia medicines make it harder for your body to do so. When food or liquids from the stomach get into the lungs, doctors call it “aspiration.” This is rare, but can be dangerous if it does happen. Solid foods and liquids leave the stomach at different rates too. Solid food takes longer to empty from the stomach than liquids, so the time to stop eating solids (eight hours) is longer than that for clear liquids (two hours). The body has energy reserves to produce needed nutrients and fuel during fasting. Recently, studies have shown it is important to stay hydrated and have some carbohydrates in clear liquids up to two hours before surgery, so clear liquids are allowed until two hours before surgery. There are also special rules for babies and young children who need surgery. For example, you may give breast milk up to four hours before surgery. If your baby drinks formula, you should stop six hours before surgery, and all solid foods you should stop eight hours before. Your child’s doctor or nurse will give you exact instructions. What if you show up for surgery and have broken the no-eating rule? Will surgery be re-scheduled? If patients have not followed the fasting guidelines, surgery will be postponed or rescheduled due to the possible increased risk associated with not having an empty stomach. The exception would be emergency surgery that cannot be delayed in which case special precautions are taken to help prevent anything from getting into the lungs. What other pre-operative rules should be followed to the letter? All instructions given to patients before their surgery or procedure should be followed. There are specific medical reasons behind all the instructions and they are designed for safety — to minimize risks, lower complications like infections and enhance the recovery process to help patients get back to normal as quickly as possible. Also, many patients ask if they should continue taking medications before surgery. The answer is: It depends. Your doctor or nurse will tell you which medicines you should take and when. Some medicines need to be stopped before surgery. But for others, it’s important you keep taking them as usual. You may also get new medicines to take before surgery. You may be asked to take some medications before surgery as part of advanced pain management protocols. If you need to take medicine right before your surgery, you can take it with a sip of water.
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A Transformative Journey: Mary's Bariatric Surgery Story at Renown Health
Embarking on the path to bariatric surgery is a unique and deeply personal journey. Individuals like Mary Escobar choose this life-changing route for reasons ranging from improved cardiovascular health to managing diabetes or finding relief from various health complications. In Mary's case, her two-decade-long healthcare journey not only underscores the challenges she faced but also highlights the support and expertise that ultimately led to her successful transformation through bariatric surgery. Mary's Resilience: December 2002 through February 2003 More than two decades ago, Mary experienced unforeseen health complications just days after giving birth via c-section. Septic shock, hemolytic uremic syndrome, thrombocytopenia, renal failure and a blood clot in her lung plunged her into a critical state. Intensive care, plasma exchange and a long recovery followed. After being discharged with compromised kidney function, Mary faced complete renal failure two years later, leading to dialysis and a spot on the donor list. Mary's brother, a perfect match, selflessly donated his kidney on Dec. 14, 2007, marking a turning point in Mary's health. However, the post-transplant period brought new challenges, including diabetes, high blood pressure and a significant weight gain, reaching 230 pounds. Determined to regain control, Mary explored various diets without success until she consulted with a bariatric doctor. Journey to Bariatric Surgery: November 2009 - April 2021 In November 2009, Mary opted for a gastric band, shedding 40 pounds within a year. Despite initial success, issues with the gastric band arose, prompting a consultation with Dr. John Ganser at Renown Health in April 2021. Together, they decided to transition to a gastric sleeve, with comprehensive education provided to ensure long-term success.
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Renown Resumes Medically Necessary Surgeries in Phased Approach
Health System Follows Governor’s Announcement to Resume Necessary Surgeries on May 11, Remains Ready for Possible COVID-19 Surge. Renown Health announced today that they will align with the Governor’s Office and the state Medical Advisory Team in adopting a phased-in approach to resume limited medical and surgical procedures under strict guidelines and lift temporary restrictions due to the COVID-19 virus. The decision follows yesterday’s release of Governor Sisolak’s “Nevada United: A Roadmap to Recovery,” a plan designed to move forward to safely restart Nevada under a “new normal.” The health system will begin a phased approach to scheduling non-high risk patients as soon as Monday, May 4 for necessary surgeries beginning on Monday, May 11, 2020. “We’re able to resume some surgical services due to the flattening of the COVID-19 surge curve and the low COVID-19 transmission rate within our community due to the implementation of strong social distancing practices,” said Tony Slonim, MD, D.Ph., President and CEO, Renown Health. He added, “Our primary concern will always be the health and safety of our patients, physicians, healthcare employees and community members. We continue to monitor the surge curve and our current situation. Until a vaccine or cure is found, Renown Health remains prepared at all times to handle a surge and continues to care for those across northern Nevada.” “Elective-optional” procedural cases were temporarily postponed at Renown hospitals on March 17, to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to preserve critical resources. Christopher P. Demers, MD, FAANS, Managing Partner at Sierra Neurosurgery Group and Medical Director of Neurosurgery at Renown, said, “I know how important surgery is to enhancing a patient’s quality of life. I am privileged to have the opportunity to perform surgeries that help people get back to doing the activities they love. We are guided by a simple and important principle: the patient always comes first.” “This is excellent news for so many patients who may have placed their surgeries and care plans on hold due to COVID-19,” said Christos Galanopoulos, MD, chair, department of surgery for Renown Medical Group, and a specialist in oncologic surgery. “Renown’s expert team is ready to deliver safe and effective care to all patients and has earned recognition as the region’s leader in patient safety, technology and specialized care,” said Galanopoulos. “We are proud of the incredibly detailed health and safety measures in place at Renown.” Health and safety protocols in place at Renown facilities include: All individuals entering Renown sites, including team members, are screened for COVID-19 symptoms; Patients scheduled for elective procedures will be tested for COVID-19 up to 5 days prior to scheduled procedure date. Patients will remain in isolation following the test, up to the time of surgery. Positive COVID-19 patients and symptomatic patients will not be scheduled for elective surgery. All individuals entering Renown sites are asked to don a cloth mask. Patients may bring their own mask or may opt to wear one supplied by Renown. All care team members wear surgical masks and protective eye wear, as well as other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), at all times when caring for patients. Visitor restrictions are still in place. A support person is still encouraged for surgical patients, delivering OB mothers; children under the age of 18; patients with confusion, altered mental status or developmental delays; and end-of-life patients. Six-foot social distances have been established in public areas such as waiting rooms, elevators, cafeterias. Extra cleaning and disinfection is in place for all high-touch, public surface areas. Erik Olson, MHA, Chief Executive Officer of Renown Regional Medical Center adds, “Renown’s mission is to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve. We deliver on this promise by collaborating with expert surgeons to offer general and specialized surgical interventions to alleviate disabilities and reduce the risk of death from traumatic injuries, cancers, cardiovascular disease and other conditions. Together we are dedicated to delivering safe, high-quality, compassionate, personalized health care.” Patients who wish to schedule their elective surgery or outpatient procedure should first contact their appropriate ordering provider. -END- Those interested in supporting Renown’s healthcare heroes are invited to visit www.renown.org/give for more ways on how to help. For up-to-date information on Renown’s approach to keeping our community safe, visit our website at www.renown.org/covid-19/. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.
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Nine Additional Anesthesiologists Join New Local Practice Serving Patients at Four Renown Hospitals
Group improves diagnosis, medical management and quality of life for patients. If you are preparing for a surgical procedure, you have probably given a lot of thought to the education, training and experience of the surgeon performing the procedure. But you may not have thought much about the anesthesiologist or the importance of his or her expertise in your procedure — before, during, and after — to keep you safe and comfortable. “As the region’s only not-for-profit integrated healthcare network and Trauma Center, we are trusted and chosen by patients as the #1 provider of inpatient care, including surgeries, for northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. To continue to serve the needs of hundreds of surgeons and thousands of patients with safe, high quality and effective anesthesia coverage, we now employ sixty anesthesiologists through our Department of Surgery through Renown Medical Group Anesthesiology, a new local practice providing services to patients in northern Nevada,” said Sy Johnson, MBA, President of Renown Health. Patients served include those at Renown Regional Medical Center, the only Level II Trauma Center between Sacramento and Salt Lake City, and #1 Hospital in the State of Nevada in U.S. News and World Report Best Hospital Rankings for 2021. Physician anesthesiologists will also provide services to patients at Renown Children’s Hospital, the only children’s hospital in the region; Renown South Meadows Medical Center, named #1 Best Hospital for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report; and to patients at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital, northern Nevada’s only Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)- accredited hospital, specializing in the treatment of brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke. Renown Health is integrated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada’s first medical school, which serves to enhance the health of the community through increased access to care, innovative health care delivery, expansion of clinical research and training for the next generation of physicians and health care professionals. The nine anesthesiologists who recently joined Renown Health include: Houry Kahwajian-Mock, MD, starting 5/1/2022 Brian Turchioe, MD, starting 6/1/2022 Kristina Coger, MD, starting 6/13/2022 Shannon Martin, MD, starting 7/1/2022 Joshua Moody, DO, starting 7/1/2022 Vu Luu, MD, 7/1/2022 Robert Childs, MD, 8/1/2022 Jörg Dünckelmeyer, MD, starting 8/22/2022 Jonathan Miller, MD, starting 10/31/2022 About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the regions largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.
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Nationally Recognized Heart Surgeons Join Renown Health
Two Open-Heart Surgeons and Two Advanced Practitioners Bring Nearly 70 Years of Local Experience. As part of a continuing focus on offering comprehensive care for patients experiencing cardiac and vascular disease across northern Nevada, Renown Health Department of Surgery and Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health have developed Renown’s first division of cardiothoracic surgery dedicated to heart surgery patients. “Today, I am proud to announce cardiothoracic surgeons, Athan Roumanas, M.D., FACS, and Joseph Brandl, M.D., FACS, who have more than 45 years of combined experience caring for northern Nevadans in need of open-heart surgery, will lead this new practice at Renown,” said Anthony Slonim, M.D., Dr.PH., FACHE, President and CEO of Renown Health. “Advanced practitioners Cindy Powers and Ashley White bring another 23 years of expert care to our community and the new division of cardiothoracic surgery.” Dr. Roumanas has 18 years of experience in northern Nevada. He is a clinical associate professor of surgery at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and currently serves as medical director of cardiothoracic surgery for Renown Regional Medical Center. Since 1991, Dr. Brandl has cared for our region and held numerous positions throughout the community including Renown’s director of cardiac surgery and community adjunct faculty for UNR Med. Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health offers the most highly-skilled and experienced heart and vascular team and the most advanced heart center in the region. Renown has long been the region’s heart care leader – performing the area’s first open-heart surgery, angioplasty, stent and valve replacements decades ago. In 2015, Renown Regional became the first hospital in the region to offer transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), a lifesaving alternative to open-heart surgery for patients considered high-risk or inoperable. Renown is among the nation’s top-performing hospitals for heart attack treatment and one of only 105 hospitals nationwide to receive the American College of Cardiology ACTION Registry Silver Performance Achievement Award recognizing success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients. Additionally, Renown’s Roseview, Sierra and Cardiac Intensive Care Units (ICUs) were the only ICUs in Nevada to receive the Beacon Award of Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. This distinction is based on sustained unit performance and patient outcomes that exceed national benchmarks. As Reno’s only locally-owned, charitable, not-for-profit integrated health network, Renown continues to meet customer demand for affordable healthcare and enhanced service and access by keeping the highest levels of clinical quality care right here in our community. Patients in need of advanced heart care can speak with their care provider about Renown Medical Group – Specialty Care, which can be reached at 775-982-6270 or visit renown.org/HeartCare.
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Update on Elective Surgical Procedures and Medical Services
Today, in accordance with recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General and the American College of Surgeons, the Renown Health Joint Medical Executive Committee decided that effective Tuesday, March 17, surgical cases scheduled at both Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center, considered to be ELECTIVE-OPTIONAL will be postponed to a later date. Patients with scheduled ELECTIVE-OPTIONAL surgeries will be called by Renown Health representatives over the next week. Surgeon’s offices will also be reaching out to assist patients with rescheduling their surgeries for a future date. Elective surgeries that are REQUIRED and not optional will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis daily with the surgeon, patient and a medical leadership review committee at Renown. Your surgeon’s office will be in contact with you with more information about these REQUIRED surgeries This temporary measure will allow Renown’s physicians and staff to enact the emergency preparedness plans they have been developing for weeks to create additional capacity for inpatients and to continue to deliver high quality care during the anticipated surge in COVID-19 cases in northern Nevada. The new guidelines do NOT apply to EMERGENCY surgeries performed in Renown hospitals. There are different types of surgery, this decision impacts Elective-Optional surgeries only. Elective – Optional surgery – Elective surgeries are not usually necessary for the individual to stay in good health. They are non-emergency and planned in advance. A wide range of surgeries can be elective. Most cosmetic surgeries are elective. Other surgeries such as organ donation, scoliosis surgery, tonsillectomies and other minor surgeries can also be considered elective. Required surgery – Surgery which needs to be done in order to retain quality of life. As opposed to urgent or emergency surgery, required surgeries do not need to be performed immediately. Examples of required surgery are kidney stone or tumor removal. Urgent or emergency surgery – When a patient’s condition is life threatening, surgery is considered emergent. Emergency surgeries must be performed immediately, even when the patient is unconscious and cannot give consent. Examples include trauma and appendicitis. Life-threatening conditions can occur during labor and delivery which may require emergency surgery. Other services making changes include: Pulmonary Services and Procedures Renown Health today will begin rescheduling patients scheduled for Pulmonary Function Testing, Outpatient bronchoscopy and patients at Thomas S. Dolan Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Patients who are affected by this change are being called by Renown to reschedule their appointments for Monday, April20, 2020 or later. Starbucks at Renown and Renown Dining Options As with many of the Starbucks around the U.S., the Starbucks at Renown Regional Medical Center will shift to a “to-go” model, with no seating available. The cafeterias at Renown Regional Medical Center and South Meadows Medical Center remain open, will temporarily eliminate self-service options and will add more ‘grab and go’ options. Other Renown Services Remain Open Renown Medical Group offices remain open. Planned imaging procedures such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), mammograms and non-invasive cardiology testing will continue at Renown hospitals and office locations and will NOT be postponed at this time. Patients confirmed for imaging appointments will be contacted prior to their scheduled visits to identify those who may be at higher risk of COVID-19 infection. Renown has expanded access to Teladoc virtual visits, available to all Hometown Health and Senior Care Plus subscribers. For up-to-date information on Renown’s approach to keeping our community safe, visit our website at https://www.renown.org/covid-19/. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.
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Groundbreaking Historic Milestone: Renown Pioneers Histosonics Edison® System Delivering Histotripsy for Non-Invasive Liver Tumor Treatment
Renown’s Surgical Oncology team amongst the first to use HistoSonics' image guided histotripsy system to deliver non-invasive, personalized treatments for patients with liver tumors, thanks to a private donation. Watch this video to learn more about the technology. Renown Health announced today that the first patients have received targeted liver tumor treatments through the Edison® System histotripsy technology, which uses focused ultrasound waves to noninvasively destroy a designated tissue or tumor in the liver. This revolutionary technology represents a significant advancement in providing leading-edge surgical care to patients. Renown joins the Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins in being amongst the first in the country to offer this revolutionary non-invasive clinical procedure. Surgical oncologists Christos A. Galanopoulos MD, MBA, MSc, FACS; Nicholas Manguso, MD; and Randy Zuckerman, MD of the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health, are amongst the first physicians in the world trained to perform the procedure which destroys both primary and metastatic liver tumors, including those that can’t otherwise be removed surgically. Renown’s multidisciplinary team includes surgical oncologists, radiologists, oncologists and nurses who collaborate to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs. “At Renown Health, we are constantly investing in our clinicians, essential services, and medical innovations to help keep care local,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO for Renown Health. “We are grateful to a generous local donor, who provided us with a $1.4-million private donation to help purchase the equipment, training and to establish one of the few histotripsy programs in the U.S. at Renown. This non-invasive technology is a game changer in helping our liver surgeons and surgical oncologists to target and destroy malignant tissue in patients with either liver cancer or tumors that have spread to the liver from cancers based elsewhere in the body. This means people can now stay close to home and loved ones, and no longer need to leave Nevada for this type of advanced care.” “As a surgeon, it’s rewarding to offer a procedure where we can precisely destroy liver tumors without using a scalpel or needles, enabling a patient’s quick recovery while avoiding certain complications common with other modalities,” says Dr. Christos Galanopoulos, Chair, Department of Surgery at Renown Health, and one of the oncology surgeons trained to perform the HistoSonics procedure. “Histotripsy uses focused ultrasound waves to mechanically destroy targeted tissue, offering a promising alternative to traditional surgical methods. This non-invasive approach reduces recovery time, minimizes complications, and improves patient outcomes. We look forward to the role this innovative technology will have in our treatment plans going forward.” Revolutionary Technology “Histotripsy is a novel form of therapeutic ultrasound that precisely targets and liquefies tissue without damaging surrounding structures,” says Dr. Randy Zuckerman, surgical oncologist at Renown. “The system works by sending out focused ultrasound to targeted areas of tissue. The ultrasound energy creates pressure in the targeted tumor causing naturally existing gas bubbles to rapidly expand and collapse, helping break down and liquefy the targeted tissue. The entire process—from pre-treatment planning to real-time visualization—is assisted by advanced imaging technologies. We are confident that histotripsy will have a meaningful impact for patients suffering from unresectable liver disease, including liver tumors, and we are excited to share this advancement with our patients and community.” The HistoSonics Edison® System and histotripsy procedure allows for: Precision and Accuracy: Histotripsy targets only the tumor cells, sparing adjacent healthy tissue, which is particularly advantageous in treating tumors located near critical structures. Non-Invasiveness: As a completely non-invasive procedure, histotripsy eliminates the need for incisions, resulting in less pain and potentially faster recovery times for patients. Reduced Risk of Complications: With no need for surgical intervention, patients face a lower risk of infection, bleeding, and other post-operative complications commonly seen in more invasive procedures. Renown’s Commitment to Innovation “The introduction of histotripsy underscores Renown Health’s dedication to staying at the forefront of medical advancements,” says Bill Plauth, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Renown Health and Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. “By continually investing in the latest technologies and treatment modalities, we can ensure that patients receive the highest standard of care - right here in Reno.” Clinical trial results recently shared by the company showed that physicians were able to achieve a technical success rate of 95.5% in targeting and destroying malignant tissue in 44 patients with either liver cancer or tumors that had spread to the liver from cancers based elsewhere in the body. Thanks to the Generosity of Our Community "Through the generosity of our community, we are working to provide the best expertise, technology and programs for our patients,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer, Renown Health Foundation. “As the only charitable, not-for-profit integrated academic healthcare organization in Reno, we appreciate that our community has helped us further our healing mission." For more information about supporting innovative clinical care at Renown Health, visit www.renown.org/Foundation. To schedule a new patient appointment with the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health at 1155 Mill St in Reno, NV, call 775-982-4000. To schedule a patient for the HistoSonics procedure, call Dr. Christos Galanopoulos’ office (Renown Surgical Care) at 775-982-6270. For media interviews, contact news@renown.org or 775-691-7308. The Edison® System is intended for the non-invasive mechanical destruction of liver tumors, including the partial or complete destruction of unresectable liver tumors via histotripsy. The FDA has not evaluated the Edison System for the treatment of any specific disease or condition. Use of Edison System in kidney applications is limited by federal law to investigational use. About HistoSonics HistoSonics is a privately held medical device company developing non-invasive platforms and proprietary sonic beam therapy utilizing the science of histotripsy, a novel mechanism of action that uses focused ultrasound to mechanically destroy and liquify unwanted tissue and tumors. The company is currently focused on commercializing their Edison System in the US and select global markets for liver treatment while expanding histotripsy applications into other organs like kidney, pancreas, and others. HistoSonics has offices in Ann Arbor, Michigan and Minneapolis, MN. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated health care network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,500 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.
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Want to Recover from Surgery Faster? Get Moving!
To be on the move is a scary concept when you’re recovering from surgery. But did you know getting up and at ’em could be the key to a quicker recovery, post-surgery? Here’s some expert insight from Renown Surgical Services. The team at has some news for you: Rest and movement are important to prevent serious complications. Here are some tips about how to get mobile after your procedure — and why it’s fundamentally important. Tip 1: Start Simple While you’re in bed, move your legs and feet up and down. Be sure to ask the nurses to help you get out of bed and into the chair for all your meals, or walk to the bathroom when needed. If you feel up to it, take a walk in the hallways with the nursing staff. Tip 2: The Sooner, the Better This may be surprising, but too much rest is not necessarily a good thing. The old saying “You use it, or you lose it” rings very true to maintaining the strength needed to get yourself out of bed. Beginning the mobility process early in your hospital stay will not only help you maintain strength and function, it may also help you get home sooner. Though it may seem counter intuitive, lying in bed all day can delay your healing time and cause serious complications to arise, including pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis or blood clots, pressure ulcers and sometimes constipation. Tip 3: Mobilize Your Support System Getting out of bed, sitting in a chair for meals and walking around your room or hospital unit can help reduce your risk of complications. The nursing staff will help you out of bed the same day of your surgery if it’s cleared by your doctor. Tip 4: Safety First The nursing staff is here to keep you safe, so make sure you call them for assistance getting out of bed. Even if you think you can do it yourself, use your call light to notify the nursing staff you are ready to get up and move. In addition, new medications can sometimes impair our judgment, balance and safety, so it’s always better to have help even though you may not need it. This is also why you may have a “bed alarm” on, to remind you to call for help and keep you safe while you are recovering. Tip 5: Move, But Manage Your Pain Many people find that getting up and moving actually helps their pain, rather than making it much worse. Taking the right amount of medication at the right times will minimize your pain and help you to get moving. Your care team will work with you on how much pain medication is right to manage any postoperative pain, with the goal for you to be comfortable enough to be able to move and gradually increase your activity each day. Tip 6: Maintain that Momentum at Home Mobility doesn’t end once you’re discharged from the hospital. It’s key to keep moving to maintain health and function. When you first arrive home, it’s crucial to take frequent movement breaks throughout the day. Increase activity as it becomes more comfortable, and be sure to ease back into an active daily routine. If you have concerns about your mobility once home, be sure to discuss this with your doctor at your follow-up appointment. Renown Surgical Services | 775-982-3993 Ask your doctor if you have any questions about your medical condition or the specific surgical procedure planned, or contact the team at Renown Surgical Services. Learn More
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How Do I Prepare for Surgery?
Renown’s team of nurses and respiratory therapists discuss what you need to know before undergoing surgery, including fasting guidelines and how to improve recovery. There are several things to know before you undergo surgery, including steps to prepare at home in advance of your procedure. Fasting Guidelines: No solid foods eight hours prior to surgery You may have clear liquids three hours before your surgery. Clear liquids include water, apple juice and lemon or lime-flavored soda water (not cola). In addition, do not chew or smoke tobacco (regular or e-cigarettes) after midnight the night before your surgery, unless instructed by your doctor or anesthesiologist.