HHH E-Newsletter                          February 2017
HHH - Steps into the Future!      
Dr.Calvin Atwell, General Surgeon displaying the da Vinci Robot.

Hammond-Henry Hospital is enhancing its surgical department with the launch of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. This system is a tool that utilizes advanced, robotic, computer and optical technologies to assist surgeons with operations. Despite preconceived notions of robotics, the da Vinci system does not act on its own. Its movements are controlled by the surgeon sitting at a console in the same room. It has a 3D high-definition vision system, special instruments and computer software that allow the surgeon to operate with enhanced vison, precision, dexterity and control. The da Vinci instruments have mechanical wrists that bend and rotate to mimic the movements of the human wrist - allowing the surgeon to make small, precise movements inside the body. Dr. Calvin Atwell, general surgeon at Hammond-Henry, welcomes the new purchase stating, "It's important to stay on top of cutting-edge technology for surgical equipment. Utilization of the robot in general surgery has sky-rocketed, and the wristed instruments make a huge difference in performing difficult operations in a minimally invasive manner."
Because of fewer incisions, less scarring can be expected along with less blood loss, fewer complications, less need for pain medicine, lower infection rate, faster recovery and a shorter hospital stay. Hammond-Henry Hospital has completed 23 robotic surgeries.
Technology is quickly changing the face of healthcare and Hammond-Henry intends to change with it. Jeff Lingerfelt, CEO comments, "For several reasons we're excited about being able to offer robotic surgery. Studies have shown that patients have better clinical outcomes and quicker recovery time to normal activities. Owning the da Vinci will hopefully extend Dr. Atwell's career and also help us attract other physicians to Hammond-Henry. Dr. Nathan Fierce has already done several robotic procedures and plans to do more. We are expecting to offer gynecological and possibly urological services as well."
Many people have been involved in bringing the robot to Hammond-Henry. It took a team and Hammond-Henry is no doubt proud. It is a wonderful step into the future for Hammond-Henry Hospital, its patients and the communities it serves.
Foundation Update   
   

The Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation Annual Giving Project was to raise funds for the Emergency Department to purchase seven new mobile stretchers with a fundraising goal of $44,000. With the wonderful community support we received, we exceeded our goal raising $48,520,enough to purchase an additional stretcher that was needed. This project helps continue our efforts to provide excellent patient care to our community. The new stretchers will enhance patient comfort with a mattress that offers superior pressure redistribution and reduces the risk of falls and physical strain for the clinicians transporting patients.  
 
Pictured above are as follows:
Back Row: Elyse Wolf, Emergency Department Manager; Annual Support Committee Members - Linda Rakestra, Jim Unrath and Judy Deutsch
Front Row: Darcy Hepner, Foundaton Manager and Annual Support Committee Member - Kathleen Repass
 
Go to www.hammondhenry.com for more detailed information on the upcoming events.
 
  www.hammondhenry.com | 309.944.6431
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