Advanced surgical care in Chicagoland
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Robotic surgery
Surgeons at Ascension Illinois use robotic-assisted surgery.
- da Vinci™ robotic assisted surgery - This system of interactive robotic arms and a high-definition 3D screen helps surgeons perform delicate operations through a few tiny incisions. This can help reduce pain and shorten recovery after surgery.
- Mako® and MAKOplasty® robotic assisted surgery - For orthopedic procedures, the Mako system creates a 3D model specific to your anatomy. And the robotic arms allow a high degree of precision in removing diseased bone, preserving healthy bone and tissue, and more accurately positioning implants.
- Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy - For patients diagnosed with a lung nodule or lung mass, we use robotic-assisted bronchoscopy to biopsy the tissue. This robotic technology helps surgeons to precisely move the bronchoscopy tube using a controller.
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Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a non-surgical procedure that uses a flexible scope with a light at the end. There is usually a camera attached to the endoscope, which allows your doctor to view inside your body. Ascension Illinois was one of the first systems to use EVIS EXERATM II high-definition endoscope technology. High-definition endoscopy can provide sharper images and better contrast — which may lead to a more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that uses a long, thin tube with a high-intensity light and high-resolution camera. It’s inserted into the body through small incisions. This minimally invasive approach allows your doctor to see inside your body. Laparoscopy is most frequently used to diagnose sources of pelvic, abdominal or gastrointestinal pain. It’s also used to diagnose many gynecologic conditions. The procedure can also be used to perform biopsies, help eliminate scar tissue and collect tissue samples from an internal organ. The improved visibility helps your doctor make a diagnosis, while the minimally invasive incisions may allow for faster and more comfortable recovery.
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How do I know if it’s the right time to have surgery?
Talk to your surgeon about whether surgery is right for you. Here are three questions to consider asking your doctor:
- How might surgery help ease my pain or get rid of it?
- How might this procedure help improve how my body works and change daily life afterward?
- How might this surgical treatment help keep my condition from getting worse?
At Ascension Illinois, you’ll have an entire team dedicated to your care. Your care team will explain the surgery, tell you if you may need to stay in the hospital overnight, and explain your follow-up care as part of your recovery care plan.
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What is a general surgeon?
General surgeons are highly trained in the repair and reconstruction of wounds, bones, muscles and organs in the body. And they use minimally invasive techniques when possible to remove tumors and diseased tissue, helping to shorten your recovery time.
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Where will the surgery be performed?
Surgery is done in our hospitals and free-standing surgery centers. Many procedures are done as outpatient surgery, which means the procedure is a same-day surgery. But some procedures may require you to stay in the hospital.
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Will my doctor communicate with my family while I am in surgery?
At our surgery center, your healthcare representative (the family member or friend you have chosen to receive your healthcare information) is updated by your care team. When your procedure is complete, your surgeon will provide a verbal update on your condition.
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How will my family or caregiver know what to do after surgery?
Talk with your doctor before your surgery about how to better prepare for your return home after surgery. When you are ready to go home, your care team talks with you and your healthcare representative about the care you will need after surgery. A discharge plan with home instructions will be provided to you and explained to your healthcare representative. We help you understand your pain management, wound care and dietary needs to help make your recovery as comfortable and safe as possible.