July is UV Safety Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. As the sun shines brighter and we spend more time outdoors, it’s essential to understand how UV exposure can affect our skin and overall health. At Premier Surgical Associates, with locations in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, TN, we emphasize the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of skin tumors and skin cancers.

The Dangers of UV Radiation

UV radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin damage and can lead to serious health issues, including skin cancer. There are two main types of UV rays that affect the skin:

• UVA Rays: These rays penetrate deep into the skin and are responsible for premature aging and wrinkles. They can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.
  
• UVB Rays: These rays primarily affect the outer layer of the skin and are the main cause of sunburn. They play a significant role in the development of skin cancer.

Both types of UV rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and the potential development of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Preventing Sun Damage

Protecting your skin from UV radiation is crucial to prevent sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Here are some effective strategies to keep your skin safe:

• Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
  
• Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can provide additional protection against UV rays. Look for clothing with a high UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating.
  
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. Seek shade under umbrellas, trees, or shelters.
  
• Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can be just as harmful as the sun. Choose sunless tanning products instead.

The Importance of Early Detection

Despite taking preventive measures, it’s essential to remain vigilant for signs of skin damage and skin cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks with your dermatologist can help identify potential issues early. Look for the following warning signs:

• New Growths: Pay attention to any new moles or growths on your skin.
• Changes in Existing Moles: Monitor moles for changes in size, shape, color, or texture.
• Non-Healing Sores: Watch for sores that do not heal or persist for more than a few weeks.
• Itching or Bleeding: Be aware of moles or growths that itch, bleed, or become tender.

Treatment of Skin Tumors and Skin Cancers

At Premier Surgical Associates, we provide comprehensive treatment options for skin tumors and skin cancers. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, our experienced team is equipped to treat your issue using advanced techniques. The most common types of surgeries used to treat skin cancers include:

• Excision: The growth and its surrounding border of tissue are removed.
• Curettage and Electrodesiccation: The growth is scraped off and the tumor site is treated with an electric needle to destroy remaining cancer cells. This technique is normally for smaller lesions.
• Lymph Node Surgery:  Lymph nodes are removed to check for cancer or if cancer cells have spread to the lymph nodes.

UV Safety Month serves as a timely reminder of the importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. By taking preventive measures and being proactive about early detection, you can reduce the risk of sun damage and skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, don’t hesitate to reach out to Premier Surgical Associates for expert care and treatment.

Stay safe this summer and protect your skin. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our offices in Knoxville, Cleveland, or Johnson City, TN. Your skin health is our priority.

Perianal skin tags are a common yet often misunderstood condition affecting many individuals. These small, benign growths of skin around the anal area can cause discomfort and concern, but with proper understanding and treatment, they can be managed effectively. At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, we aim to provide comprehensive care and support for those experiencing perianal skin tags. In this post, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for this condition.

Causes of Perianal Skin Tags

Perianal skin tags can develop due to various factors. The most common causes include:

1. Hemorrhoids: Sometimes, skin tags form as a result of stretched skin left behind after the swelling of hemorrhoids subsides. External hemorrhoids, in particular, can lead to the formation of these tags.
2. Friction and Irritation: Continuous friction and irritation in the anal area, often caused by tight clothing, prolonged sitting, or vigorous wiping, can contribute to the development of skin tags.
3. Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea: Conditions that lead to straining during bowel movements or frequent bowel movements can increase the likelihood of skin tags.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and irritation around the anus, leading to skin tag formation.
5. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure in the pelvic area during pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids and skin tags.

Symptoms of Perianal Skin Tags

Perianal skin tags are usually harmless and asymptomatic. However, they can cause discomfort and hygiene issues. Common symptoms include:

• Visible Growths: Small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker skin protrusions around the anal area.
• Discomfort: Tags can cause itching, irritation, or a feeling of something being present around the anus.
• Hygiene Issues: Difficulty in cleaning the anal area properly, leading to potential secondary infections or odor.
• Bleeding: Occasional bleeding may occur if the skin tag is irritated or injured.

Treatment for Perianal Skin Tags

While perianal skin tags are generally harmless, they can be a source of discomfort, pain and irritation for many individuals. At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, the process of anal tag excision is a simple, quick, in-office procedure. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, and the tag is removed with surgical scissors. Disposable stitches are used to close the incision. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a couple of days as they heal. Pain relievers may be used to alleviate any discomfort. 

Understanding the causes and symptoms are the first steps towards effective management. At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, we offer expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you regain comfort and confidence.For more information, schedule a consultation through our online form or call our Confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952. Our dedicated team is here to provide the support and treatment you need.

As we step into March, recognized as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a crucial time to focus on one of the most preventable yet still prevalent forms of cancer. At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, TN, we’re committed to educating our community about the risks and prevention strategies for colorectal cancer.

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectum and is often detectable in its early stages through regular screening. Despite its high treatability when caught early, it remains the third most diagnosed cancer in the United States.

Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

Several factors can increase your risk of colorectal cancer, including age (50 years and older), a family history of the disease, certain genetic syndromes, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, and lifestyle factors such as diet, obesity, and smoking.

Prevention Strategies

1. Regular Screening: The most powerful tool in colorectal cancer prevention is regular screening, starting at age 45 or earlier if you have a family history of the disease. Screenings like colonoscopies can detect precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer.
2. Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meats can reduce your risk. Fiber plays a crucial role in digestive health, while antioxidants and other nutrients provide protective benefits.
3. Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity is shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise most days of the week.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of colorectal cancer. Work towards a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
5. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are linked to an increased risk. Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking can have a significant impact on your overall cancer risk.
6. Know Your Family History: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to start screening earlier. Genetic testing can also be a valuable tool.

Community Involvement

During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage the community to participate in awareness events, educational sessions, and screenings. Remember, early detection saves lives, and your actions today can make a significant difference in your health tomorrow.

At Premier Surgical Associates, we’re dedicated to your health and well-being. Reducing your risk of colorectal cancer is a combined effort of regular screenings, a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed. Let’s use this month to spread awareness and take proactive steps towards a healthier future. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against colorectal cancer.

For more information about colon and rectal cancer and our Premier Surgeons who specialize in the treatment of it, please visit: https://www.premiersurgical.com/specialties/colon-and-rectal-surgery/ 

As we approach the festive greenery of St. Patrick’s Day in March, it’s a timely reminder that not everything should be left to luck, especially not your health. This includes the treatment and management of hemorrhoids, a common yet often ignored health issue. At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, we encourage taking a proactive and effective approach to hemorrhoid treatment, rather than relying on temporary solutions or sheer luck.

Hemorrhoids, swollen veins in your rectum or anus, are more than just an inconvenience; they can be painful, cause bleeding, and significantly impact your quality of life. While over-the-counter treatments might offer temporary relief, they often fall short of addressing the root cause of the problem. This is where Infrared Coagulation (IRC) comes into play.

What is Infrared Coagulation (IRC) for hemorrhoid treatment?

IRC is a minimally invasive, highly effective treatment method for hemorrhoids. Unlike traditional methods, which can be painful and require a lengthy recovery, IRC is quick, relatively painless, and has a much shorter recovery time. This advanced technique involves the application of infrared light to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and recede. This process is quick, typically taking only a few minutes per hemorrhoid, and is highly effective in providing long-term relief.

What are the main advantages of (IRC) for hemorrhoid treatment?

One of the main advantages of IRC is its precision and effectiveness. The treatment targets only the hemorrhoid, leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed. This precision significantly reduces the risk of complications and makes for a more comfortable recovery. Patients can often return to their normal activities the same day, a far cry from the recovery time associated with more invasive procedures.

Furthermore, IRC is an excellent option for patients who have found little to no relief from over-the-counter treatments. These treatments, while convenient, often only mask the symptoms without treating the underlying cause. IRC, on the other hand, addresses the hemorrhoid directly, reducing the likelihood of recurrence and providing lasting relief.

At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, our team of hemorrhoid specialists provides the highest standard of care. We understand that dealing with hemorrhoids can be a sensitive and uncomfortable experience. That’s why we offer a compassionate, patient-centered approach, ensuring that you receive the most effective and comfortable treatment possible.

While it’s fun to indulge in the luck of the Irish as we approach St. Patrick’s Day, remember that when it comes to health matters like hemorrhoids, relying on luck is not the way forward. With treatments like Infrared Coagulation available at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, you have access to advanced, effective, and reliable solutions. Don’t leave your hemorrhoid health to chance; take the first step towards lasting relief by contacting our center today. Request an appointment online with our hemorrhoid specialist at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, or call our confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952.

February marks Gallbladder Cancer and Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on these relatively rare but serious cancers. At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, TN, we believe in the power of awareness, prevention, and advanced treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery, to combat these diseases.

Understanding Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancers

Gallbladder cancer begins in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver. Bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, occurs in the bile ducts that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. These cancers can be challenging to diagnose early, as they often do not present symptoms until advanced stages.

Prevention Tips

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent gallbladder and bile duct cancers, certain lifestyle changes can reduce risk:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Obesity is a risk factor for gallbladder cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can lower this risk.

2. Eat a Balanced Diet:

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed and fatty foods, can contribute to overall liver and gallbladder health.

3. Avoid Environmental Toxins:

Exposure to certain industrial chemicals and toxins may increase the risk of bile duct cancer. It’s essential to follow safety guidelines if you work in environments with these substances.

4. Regular Health Check-Ups:

Regular medical check-ups can help identify risk factors, such as gallstones or liver diseases, which may increase the risk of these cancers.

Treatment Options

1. Surgical Treatment:

Surgery is often the primary treatment option for gallbladder and bile duct cancers, particularly in early stages. The goal is to remove the cancer and some of the surrounding tissue.

2. Minimally Invasive Surgery:

Minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgery is increasingly being used for these cancers. These techniques involve smaller incisions, resulting in less pain, quicker recovery, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery. 

3. Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy:

These treatments may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells. They can also be the main treatments if surgery isn’t an option.

4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy:

In some cases, newer treatments like targeted therapy, which targets specific genes or proteins in cancer cells, and immunotherapy, which helps the immune system fight cancer, are used.

The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery 

Minimally invasive surgery has revolutionized the treatment of gallbladder and bile duct cancers. It offers several advantages over traditional open surgery:

– Less Postoperative Pain: Smaller incisions mean less pain and discomfort after surgery.

– Quicker Recovery: Patients often have a shorter hospital stay and quicker return to normal activities.

– Reduced Complication Risk: Minimally invasive surgery is associated with a lower risk of surgical complications, such as infections.

– Better Cosmetic Results: Smaller incisions result in minimal scarring.

At Premier Surgical Associates, our skilled surgeons are experts in minimally invasive techniques for gallbladder and bile duct cancers, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care with the least amount of disruption to their lives.

Awareness, early detection, and advanced treatment options are key to combating gallbladder and bile duct cancers. This February, let’s spread awareness about these cancers and the importance of prevention and early intervention. If you or a loved one is facing a diagnosis of gallbladder or bile duct cancer and surgery has been recommended, know that Premier Surgical Associates is here to provide compassionate, state-of-the-art care. Request an appointment with one of our gallbladder experts at Premier Surgical through our online appointment form.

Valentine’s Day is approaching, and it’s a perfect time to focus on loving and caring for your health. At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, we’re dedicated to providing an innovative treatment for a common yet often distressing condition, hemorrhoids. One of the most significant advancements in this field is Infrared Coagulation (IRC), a minimally invasive, highly effective treatment that is changing the way we approach hemorrhoid care.

Understanding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, often resulting from increased pressure due to straining during bowel movements, obesity, or pregnancy. Symptoms can include discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding. While many turn to over-the-counter remedies, these solutions are only temporary. For lasting relief, medical intervention to eradicate the diseased vein is needed.

The Revolutionary Approach of Infrared Coagulation

Infrared Coagulation (IRC) has emerged as a revolutionary method in treating hemorrhoids. It involves the use of infrared light to coagulate, or clot, the blood vessels in hemorrhoids, leading to their shrinkage and eventual healing. Here’s why IRC is a game-changer in hemorrhoid treatment:

1. Minimally Invasive

Unlike traditional surgical methods, IRC is minimally invasive. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and does not require incisions or stitches. Patients appreciate the simplicity of the procedure and the fact that it can be completed in just a few minutes.

2. High Success Rate

IRC boasts a high success rate, with many patients experiencing significant relief from symptoms after the procedure. It effectively treats both internal and external hemorrhoids and is particularly useful for early-stage hemorrhoids. Depending on the severity and location of the hemorrhoids, 3-4 treatments, usually a month apart, may be recommended.

3. Low Risk of Complications

One of the most appealing aspects of IRC is its low risk of complications. Unlike more invasive surgical treatments, IRC has minimal side effects, making it a safer alternative for many patients.

4. Quick Recovery

Recovery time post-IRC is significantly shorter compared to traditional surgery. Most patients can return to their regular activities almost immediately, with little to no downtime.

5. Cost-Effective

IRC is also a cost-effective treatment option. The treatment is covered by most insurance plans. Its efficiency, coupled with the fact that it can be done in an outpatient setting without the need for general anesthesia, makes it a financially viable option for many patients.

Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle

While IRC offers a fantastic solution to hemorrhoids, it’s also important to embrace lifestyle changes for long-term health and comfort. Simple measures such as maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and regular exercise can help prevent the recurrence of hemorrhoids.

This Valentine’s Day, and throughout the year, show some love to your health by addressing and treating those troublesome hemorrhoids. Infrared Coagulation at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution. If you’re struggling with the discomfort of hemorrhoids, don’t wait – IRC might just be the game-changer you need.

Request an appointment online with our hemorrhoid specialist at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, or call our confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952. As the ONLY dedicated hemorrhoid center in the southeast, we’ve helped thousands of people live a more comfortable life without hemorrhoids!