- Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogFibroids are benign tumors in the uterus that affects 20 percent to 80 percent of women by the time they reach age 50. Symptoms can include heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, and pelvic pain. In some cases, there are no symptoms. Some women experience unmanageable pain, as well as swelling of the abdomen or pelvic area. While doctors still don’t know what causes fibroids, we now have minimally invasive treatments, eliminating the need for large incisions that were common just a few decades ago. Here’s what you need to know: During minimally invasive surgeries, smaller incisions and precise surgical tools are used, sometimes with robotic assistance like the da Vinci surgical system. Compared to traditional open surgery, there are numerous benefits, including: Less pain Less stress on your immune system Quicker healing Decreased need for pain medications, especially narcotic medication Lower risk of post-surgery complications Shorter recovery time Shorter hospital stays – many times, patients can go home the same day Shorter operating time with less time under anesthesia Smaller incisions with smaller, more subtle scars What are the options? Minimally invasive techniques can treat various gynecologic conditions, such as fibroids, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, heavy and painful menstrual periods, and ovarian cysts. Based on your condition, health history, and other unique factors, your gynecologist may recommend one of the following types of minimally invasive surgery: Advanced laparoscopic surgery and robotics Laparoscopic surgery could be an alternative to a traditional hysterectomy (removal of uterus) or myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids). small incisions are made in the surgical area to accommodate surgical tools and a camera for precision during the surgery. It can be used for complex cases, including large fibroids, advanced stage endometriosis, or certain gynecologic cancers. The Acessa® procedure, a laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids, is an advanced uterine-sparing treatment option. Heat is delivered directly to the fibroid tumor, causing it to shrink. It is an outpatient, same day procedure that allows you to return to work in four to five days and return to your normal activities quicker. Robotic surgery, most commonly using the DaVinci® system, enhances precision and allows access to small or hard-to-reach areas. With laparoscopic surgery (with or without robotics), patients typically return to light activity and driving within two weeks. Hysteroscopic surgery During a hysteroscopic procedure, your surgeon uses a camera (called a hysteroscope) to get a view of the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It requires no incisions, as this surgery is performed through the natural orifices of the vagina and cervix. This type of surgery is often used to treat abnormalities inside the lining of the uterus like fibroids. Hysteroscopic surgery can often be performed in an office setting without the need for sedation. The recovery time is about 24-48 hours. Vaginal surgery By inserting surgical tools through your vagina to the area where the surgery is being performed, surgeons can perform many procedures without making any incisions. And, depending on the exact minimally invasive procedure you undergo, it’s possible you could even return home the same day. How do I know which is right for me? Having open conversations with your doctor is essential in developing the best treatment plan for you. By sharing your health and wellness goals and getting answers to all your questions, you can make an informed decision and improve your quality of life. Authors Dr. Jonelle Samuel and Dr. Jessica Ton specialize in many types of gynecologic surgery at Luminis Health.
- Orthopedics, WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWe all notice sore and stiff joints occasionally, like a sore hip after skiing or stiff shoulders after heavy lifting. Often, these issues go away on their own. But if you find sore and stiff joints are taking a toll on your daily life, it could be time to consider surgery. Our experts weigh in on when you should opt for surgery, and what to expect during recovery. Is there a best time for surgery? There’s no perfect time of year for joint replacement surgery. The best time, really, is when it’s most convenient for you. Some people may reach a point where the pain becomes unbearable, and mobility issues disrupt their daily life. In that case, they may opt for surgery right away. Others are able to plan ahead and schedule surgery at a time that fits their work or family commitments. If you have the flexibility to plan, there are a few factors worth considering. For example, if you usually have a busy holiday season in late winter, you may want to schedule surgery in the early fall. This timing allows for recovery before large family gatherings and activities. On the other hand, if you participate in spring or summer sports, it could be best to schedule surgery in winter. That way, you’ll be healed and ready to make the most of the warmer months. 5 signs it’s time for a joint replacement You may be tempted to put surgery off until your pain is unbearable. In some cases, delaying could lead to more joint damage and a longer recovery. Instead, consider discussing joint replacement with your provider if you have these problems: You need help with daily tasks like walking up and down stairs, getting dressed or standing up. Joint pain keeps you awake at night even after you’ve taken pain-relieving medication. Other treatment options like anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections and physical therapy have failed. You make decisions about activities based on how far you must walk or if you must use stairs. You have advanced joint damage or osteoarthritis. Recovery is part of the process Surgical advancements have transformed joint replacement procedures. Operations take less time, incisions are smaller, pain is reduced and recovery is faster. Most of the time hip and knee replacement surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis. Still, it’s important to remember that healing takes time. Your body needs time to adjust, strengthen, and help you return safely to your usual routine. Here’s what to expect during recovery and how to set yourself up for a smooth return to the activities you love. Pain management begins immediately.Even with a minimally invasive procedure, you’re going to feel some pain. Your provider may suggest medications for pain, inflammation, or nerve pain. You’ll be up and moving within hours.Most patients start walking with a walker shortly after surgery, then transition to a cane as they gain strength. Physical therapy is essential.Rehabilitation starts as soon as you can get out of bed to improve motion and rebuild strength. You’ll return to a fully active life.Typically, patients are back to their usual routines within two to three months, although a full recovery can take up to a year. Be patient with yourself as you regain strength and mobility. If you have questions about joint replacement surgery or want to schedule a procedure, make an appointment with Luminis Health Orthopedics at Luminis.Health/JointPain. Our experienced and caring team is ready to support your recovery every step of the way. Authors Dr. Andrey Zuskov is a hip and knee replacement surgeon at Luminis Health.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, MD — Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) has once again been recognized as a High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News & World Report. This prestigious designation highlights LHAAMC’s commitment to delivering high-quality care for expectant parents and their growing families. “Since arriving at Luminis Health this fall, I have been impressed and inspired by our physicians, nurse midwives, nurses, nurse practitioners, technologists, and the entire care team for their dedication to delivering high-quality maternity care,” said Catherine Maloney, Luminis Health’s chief operating officer and president of LHAAMC. “It’s clear to me that our caregivers don’t just provide care, they uplift families and strengthen our entire community.” This recognition comes during the 30th anniversary of the Clatanoff Pavilion, a cornerstone of maternity care at LHAAMC since its opening in 1995. Over the past three decades, the Thomas J. Frank Family Birth Center has welcomed roughly 150,000 babies, becoming a trusted and cherished place for families across the region. U.S. News evaluated 899 hospitals from across the United States for its latest ratings. Hospitals were evaluated on objective measures on quality, including: C-section delivery rates Severe unexpected newborn complication rates Rates of routine vaginal birth after c-section Implementation of best practices to support breast milk feeding Exclusive breast milk feeding rates Whether each hospital met new federal criteria for “birthing-friendly” practices Reporting on outcome disparities Episiotomy rates “We are honored to be recognized among the nation’s top-performing maternity hospitals,” said Dr. Monica Jones, System Chair for Luminis Health Women’s and Children’s Services. “This achievement speaks to how well our teams work together across the system to provide consistent, reliable care. At the heart of our approach is a deep commitment to patient preferences and shared decision-making. By listening closely to the patients and families we serve and engaging them as partners, we are able to provide culturally customized, respectful maternal care. These elements—safety, reliability, and personalization—come together to drive better outcomes for all.” In addition to its Maternity Care recognition, LHAAMC was recently named a High Performing hospital by U.S. News & World Report in seven specialties for common procedures, including cardiac care, cancer services, and orthopedics. These accolades further reinforce LHAAMC’s role as a trusted leader in delivering exceptional, comprehensive care to the communities it has served for more than 120 years.
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