Mike and Amy visited Kenneth Reese, MD, an internal medicine specialist in Knoxville. Dr. Reese ordered ultrasounds and made Mike an appointment with a vascular surgeon for consultation. The couple went to Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in downtown Knoxville for the ultrasounds and were told to head straight to the emergency room to wait for the results.

The Danger of Blood Clots

It was more serious than they originally thought – the ultrasounds revealed multiple blood clots in Mike’s right leg. The blockages were preventing blood flow to the leg and foot. At Fort Sanders Regional Premier Surgical Vascular Surgeon Maksim Gusev, MD, immediately performed emergency surgery to prevent the blood clots from moving to his brain or heart and to establish blood flow to the right foot.

Dr. Gusev says, “Mr. Campbell presented with excruciating pain and motor weakness in his right foot, which had mild sensory weakness and no pulse. His left foot and the rest of his vasculature was normal.”

Because Mike is a smoker, he is predisposed to forming blood clots, which in his case occurred behind the knee. Dr. Gusev explains that the clots were blocking blood flow to the lower extremity and his right foot, causing numbness, pain and a gray color.

“The patient had profound neuro motor deficits, meaning the nerves and muscles were affected by the lack of oxygen. I performed an emergent revascularization to reestablish blood flow to his foot.” Dr. Gusev used an endovascular approach, which means he accessed the clots from within the blood vessels. The surgery allowed Dr. Gusev to remove the clots and clear out Mike’s arteries, opening up the narrowed areas to reestablish blood flow.

Minimally Invasive Surgery Helps Patient Avoid Amputation

“The nurse called me every hour with an update,” says Amy. “Finally, after the surgery was done, Dr. Gusev called me himself to give me the report that everything went well, but my husband needed to stay overnight for observation and healing.”

Mike spent one night in the intensive care unit at Fort Sanders Regional for observation. Dr. Gusev confirms immediate surgical intervention saved Mike’s foot from being amputated.

“My husband is a mechanic and works 10 to 12-hour days,” Amy says. “An amputation would have taken him out of work.”

“At Fort Sanders Regional, we have cutting-edge technology that is always changing and allowing us to treat the patient with minimally invasive intervention. This reduces complications and shortens recovery time and reduces pain during recovery,” says Dr. Gusev.

Dr. Gusev made an incision for one needle access point in the groin and then two incisions in the calf muscle to “let it breathe.” The two skin fascia incisions along Mike’s calf allowed for temporary swelling after injury. Dr. Gusev says, “The muscles in his foot were starved of oxygen for several days. When fresh blood and oxygen flood back in, the area swells up. We had to make room for this temporary swelling or else the nerves can suffocate and die afterward.”

The Campbells are from Florida and are fans of the University of Florida and its mascot, the Gator. Mike has a gator tattoo on his leg, right in the place where the incisions were made. Dr. Gusev ended up having to make an incision between the gator’s eyes and teeth, and later told his patient, “I did my best to keep the head intact, but your alligator now has crooked teeth!”

Mike was discharged to go home and instructed to rest for several days before returning to work. He had two follow-up appointments and is feeling great.

An Important First Step for Preventing Blood Clots

Dr. Gusev’s advice for preventing blood clots in adults? Quit smoking. He says, “People who smoke are predisposed to forming these clots, so my first recommendation is smoking cessation. If you cannot quit, then reducing tobacco use is advised. It’s also important to have frequent checkups and to know what to do if symptoms of blood vessel abnormality arise, like not being able to find your pulse in your foot.”

The Campbells are so thankful for the expert care they received at the hospital and would recommend it to any of their friends. “Dr. Gusev was amazing,” Amy says. “He was on top of things He has a great bedside manner and was very knowledgeable about everything that was happening. He saved Mike’s foot.”

Dr. Maksim Gusev is a Vascular Surgeon with Premier Vascular and Vein Center in Knoxville, TN. To request an appointment with Dr. Gusev call (865) 588-8229 or visit https://www.premiervascularveincenter.com/book-online/

The post Quick Vascular Intervention Saves Knox Man’s Foot first appeared on Premier Surgical.

She went to Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center and was eventually admitted to the hospital with an infection in her abdomen tissue caused by an abscess that perforated and leaked. The infection was life-threatening, as it could have led to sepsis. Parlon needed emergency surgery and additional testing. After surgery, she qualified for a new program called Advanced Care at Home that allows patients with certain conditions to receive hospital-level care at home instead of at a facility.

Surgery at Fort Sanders Regional

Parlon’s surgery was performed by Premier Surgical colorectal surgeon Sung Lee, MD, at Fort Sanders Regional. He says his patient suffered from several comorbidities and needed a drain for her abscess. After further testing, Parlon was also diagnosed with diverticulitis.

Dr. Lee performed dual procedures called a colectomy and a colostomy. A colectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a diseased or damaged part of the colon. A colostomy is a surgical procedure that brings the side of the colon up to an opening in the abdomen so that a patient can use an ostomy bag.

Parlon stayed in the hospital for several days after surgery. Dr. Lee says, “Soon after the operation, Parlon was eating, drinking and walking. She was eligible to receive the rest of her care in her home.”

Parlon qualified for a program called Advanced Care at Home which allows patients with certain conditions to receive hospital-level care at home instead of at a facility. Thanks to this innovative program, she continued her IV medications, received 24/7 virtual monitoring and had visits several times a day from in-home practitioners.

Advanced Care at Home

With Advanced Care at Home, Covenant Health physicians and nurses can monitor patients in their homes from a virtual care command center that operates 24 hours a day. Before a patient enters the program, the virtual care team determines whether there are adequate home resources such as a stable residence, water and electricity, and an overall support system.

A team of healthcare professionals then sets up an at-home technology kit along with any medical supplies needed. This is arranged with the patient’s caregiver and completed before the patient arrives home from the hospital. While the patient is receiving care and monitoring by nurses and doctors, couriers will deliver medications and pick up bloodwork.

Dr. Lee says, “After a major surgery, we wanted to make sure she felt good. She was a good candidate for this program since she needed a few more days on IV antibiotics. By healing at home, her loved ones could come visit her where it was more comfortable and convenient.”

Healing at Home

“I just so appreciate what a good team they are,” Parlon says about Advanced Care at home. “They have some really good people who are extremely qualified, and the nurse was on-call 24/7.”

She says, “Anyone who visited me, they explained everything and how it would work. When they first told me about the program, I didn’t quite understand, but once they got me home, I saw the set-up. You really are getting the same type of care, but have the privilege of wearing your own clothes and getting in your own bed.

“All the paramedics are well-educated and trained. I did a video conference daily with my doctor and the nurses. Morning or night, I could call anytime,” she says,, noting that the paramedics were on time for their appointments and treated her with compassion. “I did have to go back and forth to the hospital for tests and scans; they picked me up and brought me home each time and got me situated.”

Compassionate Care

Parlon would have spent many more days in the hospital if not for Advanced Care at Home. “I have a beautiful home that looks out over the lake. It was nice to be home and move around, and visit with family,” she says. Parlon calls the program “a godsend” and hopes to use it again if she ever needs additional care.

 For more information about Advanced Care at Home, visit CovenantHealth.com/ACH.

The post Care at Home Program Helps Knox Woman After Surgery first appeared on Premier Surgical.

How Do I Reduce My Risk of Colorectal Cancer?

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/ 

The post How Do I Reduce My Risk of Colorectal Cancer? first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Healthcare professional Kim Johnson has always kept an eye on her health. With a diagnosis of melanoma (skin cancer) in her past, she now takes preventive measures for herself and her family, including routine exams.

After genetic testing revealed multiple cancer-causing mutations, Johnson underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery to prevent the development and spread of cancer cells in her breast tissue.

Thanks to the expert team at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, Johnson is a living  testament to the benefits of taking action in the right moment.

To protect her young family Kimberly had preventative breast cancer surgery after genetic testing showed her at high risk of the disease.

Living Faithfully

It was after turning 40 and having her first mammogram that Johnson began to think about her breast health and family history of breast cancer. After the mammogram was inconclusive, Johnson was referred to the Parkwest Comprehensive Breast Center, located at Parkwest Medical Center.

She underwent a 3D ultrasound and a biopsy of tissue was taken for testing. The biopsy was negative for cancerous tissues, which meant she wasn’t facing a cancer diagnosis – a welcome piece of news.

Knowing her grandmother and two aunts had previously battled breast cancer and wanting to be an example for her sisters, Johnson decided to pursue genetic testing at the Breast Center. The non-invasive tests indicated rare genetic mutations that put her at a high risk of developing breast cancer and other cancers later in life.

A Big Decision

“It was concerning, and I was surprised at the initial results,” Johnson shares. “I have a twin sister who ended up having the same genetic mutation as I did. I have a younger sister who could also have been at risk.

“My thoughts immediately went to my family. I want to stay around for my kids. None of us knows the number of days we have left. I wanted to increase the likelihood of being around for my family.”

At age 42 and already having had children, Johnson was a candidate for a preventive mastectomy. In this procedure, the breast is removed to prevent the development of cancer in high-risk women.

Her surgeon was William C. Gibson, MD, FACS, Premier Surgical general surgeon at Parkwest Medical Center. Dr. Gibson says that without intervention, the genetic mutations linked to cancer and Johnson’s strong family history would have put her at about 75 percent risk of developing breast cancer and possibly other cancers.

Dr. William Gibson specializes in Breast Cancer Surgery.

It was after much conversation, prayer and research that Johnson decided to have preventive surgery. In March 2023, she underwent a bilateral prophylactic nipple- sparing mastectomy. Both breasts were surgically removed and implants were later inserted.

“I’m grateful to have caught and identified the risk before it turned into cancer,” Johnson says. “I have no regrets.”

Worth the Risk

Post-operation, Johnson’s risk of developing cancer went from 75 to 1 percent, says Dr. Gibson. “Kimberly did extremely well. We did thorough imaging and testing to make sure no cancer was present. Because none was present, we could take preventive steps and address the risk on the front end. If cancer had been present and we were treating existing cancer cells, that would be a different story.”

He added, “Those who could benefit from genetic testing are typically people with a strong family history of cancer, or women who have already had a cancer diagnosis before age 50. Anyone who is curious about it should consult their primary care physician.”

Confidence at Parkwest and Beyond

Johnson says, “I knew Dr. Gibson would be meticulous with my case; he is amazing to work with. This was a big decision to make but I had no trouble going through with the surgery under his care because I had all confidence in him. He also helped me find peace of mind. My faith and belief in God gave me hope and helped guide some of these big decisions,” she says. “I know surgery is not for everyone. There are so many factors that come into play. I encourage people to be in tune with their bodies and use that knowledge to empower them to take healthy steps for themselves.”

Dr. William Gibson is a general surgeon with the Premier Surgical Associates office at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. He specializes in the surgical treatment of breast cancers. To request an appointment with Dr. Gibson, please call (865) 690-5263.

The post Genetic Testing and Preventative Surgery Brighten Outlook for Knox Mom first appeared on Premier Surgical.

A few months after giving birth, Haley Carrington discovered a lump in her right breast. She felt it near her armpit while she was nursing, and it was about the size of a marble.

The young mother initially thought it must have been a clogged milk duct, and her doctor didn’t seem overly concerned. But when that little lump wouldn’t go away, Carrington was referred to Thompson Comprehensive Breast Center for an ultrasound and then a biopsy.

At just 30 years old Haley was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her commitment to her family and future prompted her to opt for an aggressive treatment

The results were life-altering. At the age of 30, Carrington was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I was really shocked,” Carrington says. Her thoughts immediately turned to her family, especially the tiny baby boy who still needed his mother so much.

“The first thing that came to my mind was ‘I’m not going to see him grow up. I’m going to miss these important dates in my kids’ lives.’”

Strength Meets Hope

Facing her diagnosis, Carrington embarked on a challenging journey. Breast cancer was a frightening adversary, but Carrington found strength in her medical team from the start.

“The doctors made me feel hopeful, and that this was treatable,” she says. “I think that’s the number-one thing I needed when I was diagnosed. Hope.”

Carrington had triple-negative breast cancer, meaning it didn’t have the most common  receptors for various treatment options Triple-negative cancers are generally more aggressive and are more likely to spread early in the disease process. For this reason, chemotherapy is generally recommended before surgery, and that was the case with Carrington. After phase one of chemotherapy at Thompson Cancer Survival Center, Carrington noticed the tumor shrinking. By phase two, it had disappeared completely.

However, Carrington’s commitment to her future and her family’s well-being prompted her to make a personal choice going one step further. She chose to undergo a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction.

A Personal Choice

“I want to be able to see my kids grow up and I understand the chances of cancer coming back,” Carrington says. “Just for my peace of mind, I wanted to eliminate that chance.”

Ana Wilson, DO, Surgical Oncologist

Her surgeon was Ana Wilson, DO, a surgical oncologist with Premier Surgical and affiliated with Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center. Dr. Wilson specializes in breast cancer, melanoma and other related cancers. She says bilateral mastectomy is not uncommon among young women, even in cases like Carrington’s where the tumor is small enough to be removed with a lumpectomy.

Dr. Wilson says, “She wanted to have a more aggressive surgery, not just to treat this breast cancer, but try to prevent future breast cancers because she has a long life left to live.”

Another reason young women choose mastectomies over lumpectomies may be that the  procedure can now be performed in a way that preserves more of the breast’s appearance. A plastic surgeon worked alongside Dr. Wilson to begin the first phase of breast reconstruction immediately after the removal procedure.

“She had a bilateral, nipple-sparing mastectomy. We removed both breasts and preserved the skin of the breast and the nipple,” Dr. Wilson explains. She adds that no cancer was found in the lymph nodes during the surgery, so radiation was not necessary.

Sharing Her Story to Save Lives

Carrington’s courage and resilience have led her to a place of triumph.“I’m cancer-free,” she says proudly. Her story is not just about survival, it’s a testament to the power of hope, determination and women taking charge of their health at every age.

She is spreading the word that early detection saves lives. Carrington is also encouraging friends and family to keep up with self-breast exams and schedule mammograms as appropriate.

Her message to others, especially young women, is direct: “Take your health seriously, because cancer does not care how old or young you are.”

Dr. Ana Wilson is a surgical oncologist with Premier Surgical Associates at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville, TN. She specializes in treating breast, skin, and thyroid cancers. To request an appointment with Dr. Wilson or any Premier Surgical physician visit  https://www.premiersurgical.com/request-an-appointment/

The post Breast Cancer Doesn’t Care How Young You Are first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hemorrhoids – a term that can evoke a sense of discomfort just by its mere mention. They’re a common health issue that millions of people deal with at some point in their lives. However, due to the stigma and embarrassment associated with this condition, many individuals lack the necessary knowledge about hemorrhoids. This lack of awareness can sometimes lead to a delay in treatment, thereby complicating the condition. In this article, the team at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN, aims to help you understand hemorrhoids, their causes, symptoms, and various treatment options.

What are Hemorrhoids? 

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins located around the anus or in the lower rectum, similar to varicose veins. They can either be internal, occurring inside the rectum, or external, developing under the skin around the anus.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing hemorrhoids:

• Straining during bowel movements: This is one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Continuous straining puts pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to swelling.
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea: These conditions can result in increased straining during bowel movements, promoting the development of hemorrhoids.
• Age: Hemorrhoids are more common in individuals who are aged 45 and older due to the weakening of the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women often develop hemorrhoids due to the pressure exerted by the growing uterus on the rectal veins.
• Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle: These factors increase the risk of hemorrhoids due to the additional pressure on the pelvic veins.

 Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can manifest a range of symptoms. These can include: 

• Itching or irritation in your anal region
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling around your anus
• Bleeding during bowel movements
• A lump near your anus, which may be sensitive or painful

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids

Thankfully, hemorrhoids are generally not serious and are treatable. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. For milder cases, lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and over-the-counter remedies can effectively treat hemorrhoids. This can include high-fiber diets, increased water intake, regular exercise, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. 

However, for persistent or more severe cases medical treatment such as Infrared Coagulation may be recommended for long term relief. 

Infrared Coagulation (IRC): This non-invasive procedure uses infrared light to cause small, bleeding, internal hemorrhoids to harden and shrivel. The Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center specializes in IRC. It is effective in eliminating more than 90 percent of troublesome hemorrhoids. IRC is covered by most insurance plans.

We are the only dedicated hemorrhoid treatment center in the southeastern region.  Our skilled and compassionate professionals prioritize your comfort and privacy, offering top-notch treatment options, including the minimally invasive IRC method. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids, don’t let discomfort or embarrassment hold you back from seeking help. Contact our Confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952 or submit our PREMIER HEMORRHOID CENTER APPOINTMENT REQUEST FORM to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards eliminating your hemorrhoids for good.

With our help, you can regain your comfort and peace of mind. Remember, there’s no shame in having hemorrhoids, but there’s a great deal of victory in overcoming them!

The post Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Last December, Lisa Dockery of Knoxville, woke up with stomach cramps that she had never felt before. After a trip to the emergency department at Parkwest Medical Center, she discovered she had appendicitis and underwent emergency surgery to remove her appendix. Two months later, she has fully recovered and is thankful for the excellent care she received in her moment of need.

An appendix attack led to emergency surgery for Lisa.

December Plans

The day she woke up with stomach cramps, Dockery recalls the dull ache subsiding during
the day. “I laid down to rest, and we were watching the Dallas Cowboys game,” she recalls. “I woke up later in the evening, around 6 p.m., with throbbing pain. I thought my stomach was going to explode.”

Lisa’s husband Donnie took her to the emergency department at Parkwest around 7 p.m. that night. She was examined and given IV fluids while diagnostic tests were administered. A CT scan revealed appendicitis, or a condition in which a blockage or inflammation of the appendix causes internal inflammation and can result in abdominal pain around the belly button area.

Surgery at Parkwest

Dockery was admitted overnight and underwent surgery the next morning. She met Shannon Beierle, MD, a Premier Surgical acute care general surgeon at Parkwest Medical Center.

“I see patients all over the hospital, depending on where I’m needed that day,” Dr. Beierle says. “I perform emergency surgery on hernias, gallbladders, appendixes, perforated ulcers and colon obstructions. I see a lot of GI issues and am there when someone needs emergency surgery due to these types of conditions.”

Making a Game Plan

“Once they knew what was wrong, we had a plan, and I was good,” Dockery says. “I was still in pain, but I was constantly being checked on. I remember when the surgeon introduced herself, I was very comfortable with her.”

Dockery underwent an appendectomy, a minimally invasive procedure using three small incisions to remove the appendix. Dr. Beierle says, “This laparoscopic procedure includes dissolvable stitches and patients go home the next day, or in some cases the same day as surgery. After some limited movement and no heavy lifting for a few days, they can get back to normal lives after one or two weeks.”

Dr. Shannon Beierle, Acute Care Surgeon

Dr. Beierle reports that appendicitis is common, in fact one in 10 adults will experience it in their lifetime in the U.S. She says it’s one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain and often results in emergency surgery.

“When someone is hurting, and comes to the hospital, I love that I’m able to have the tools to relieve the pain,” she says. “I like to work quickly to help people feel better.”

Compassionate Care

Dockery spent one night at Parkwest and went home the next day following her surgery.
“We had already missed the Dallas Cowboys game and luckily we were home in time for the
Tennessee football game,” she jokes.

Dockery recalls, “I couldn’t have been more pleased with Dr. Beierle. When I came back two weeks later for my follow-up, I got to spend more time with her and I enjoyed our conversation.

“The operating room staff were fantastic,” Dockery says. “All the nurses spoke to me, and I remember the anesthesiologist and nurse anesthetist were wonderful. Everyone made sure there were no complications.”

The Power of a Positive Mindset

Dockery says “I believe our mindset is powerful. After going through a lot, including this emergency surgery, I decided my word of inspiration for going into the new year would be ‘warrior.’ I want to remind myself that I can face whatever is out there.”

Dr. Beierle also has a specific mindset in her approach to medicine, including making sure her patients understand what’s going on and are treated like family.

“I encourage family members to ask questions and be present. I want my patients to feel empowered and know what’s happening with their bodies.” She adds, “I always treat people how I would want my family members to be treated. Anytime someone comes in for an emergency surgery, it can be scary, so my colleagues and I always want to assure people we are here to care for people in the best way possible.”

Dr. Shannon Beierle is an Acute Care General Surgeon with Premier Surgical Associates at Parkwest Medical Associates in Knoxville. To learn more about Dr. Beierle visit: https://www.premiersurgical.com/physicians/shannon-beierle-md-facs/

The post Surgery “Game Plan” Leads to Successful Appendectomy Recovery first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Determined. Motivated Resolved. When Harriman resident Rich Robertson was diagnosed with early-stage rectal cancer, he knew he would do whatever it took to tackle it.

Through two years of radiation, chemotherapy treatments and an intensive surgery that involved removing the cancerous tumor, he kept his sight on his goal: being cancer-free.

Rich and his colon and rectal surgeon, Dr. Sung Lee.

Robertson has always been a fighter. He is retired from his 22-year military career, during which he was wounded in active duty. While on tour in Iraq, he was injured during an IED explosion and, as a
result of his injuries, is paralyzed from the waist down. Robertson now works as a program and project manager at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

His rectal cancer was detected early, in July 2021, when a take-home screening kit presented abnormal results. The veteran was prompted to get a colonoscopy, which revealed a cancerous mass. He was referred to Thompson Cancer Survival Center at Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge. He was prescribed chemotherapy and radiation to shrink the tumor.

A Winning Team

Robertson’s case was treated by a multidisciplinary tumor board. The tumor board includes specialists who are directly involved in a patient’s case, from radiology and pathology to oncology and surgery. Coming together, the specialists are able to gain every perspective on cancer cases in order to make a fully informed recommendation.

The tumor board for Robertson’s case included Elliot Navo, MD, radiation oncologist, and Michael Thompson, MD, medical oncologist, both at Thompson Cancer Survival Center at Methodist, and Sung Lee, MD, Premier Surgical colon and rectal surgeon at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville.

After several rounds of chemo and radiation, Robertson underwent surgery at Fort Sanders Regional to remove the mass. Dr. Lee performed a procedure called a robotic-assisted abdominoperineal resection. During the procedure he removed the distal colon, rectum and anal sphincter and created a colostomy. This minimally invasive approach gives patients a lower risk of complication, shorter recovery time and less pain than traditional surgery.

Robertson recovered in the hospital for a few days. “Dr. Navo, Dr. Thompson and Dr. Lee all made me feel like I was in as much control as I could be,” Robertson says. “By nature I’m aggressive, so I wanted to get it over and done with.

“They listened and asked how I was doing. They were upfront about the side effects and what I could do to mitigate them, so I wasn’t surprised by much. My employer was very accommodating and I didn’t miss much work. Plus, it was caught early so the cancer didn’t spread.”

Today, he is six months post-op and feeling great. But it’s been a journey.

Receiving Support

After being injured in Iraq in 2005, Robertson is no stranger to medical care. He considers himself lucky and has learned to keep his circumstances in perspective.

“I know I could have a worse prognosis. The treatment team caring for me have exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t be luckier.”

His wife Sarah has been through the thick of it alongside him, Robertson says. “We have been together 30 years. It’s thanks to her I get to my appointments and take all my medications on time. The team has also been great to communicate everything with my diagnosis and treatment, too.”

Because Robertson is a paraplegic, his rectal cancer symptoms were masked. It was only through the at-home screening kit followed by a colonoscopy that his cancer was detected.

Robertson is thankful to his family and his healthcare team for supporting him through treatment and recovery.

Dr. Lee adds, “Mr. Robertson had no complications and did very well with surgery. He was an active guy and had a positive attitude, and he was motivated to get through his cancer treatment. He did very well and will undergo yearly CT scan for surveillance, but his treatment was curative.”

Dr. Lee emphasizes that colon and rectal cancer often don’t show any symptoms until advanced stages. He encourages people to follow the recommended screening guidelines and report any gastrointestinal symptoms to their primary care physician.

Dr. Sung Lee is a colon and rectal surgeon with Premier Surgical at Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville. To learn more about Premier Surgical’s Colon and Rectal Cancer services, visit: https://www.premiersurgical.com/specialties/colon-and-rectal-surgery/

The post Harriman Veteran Receives Curative Cancer Care first appeared on Premier Surgical.

After a career in the United States Air Force, Jesus Navarro has developed a can-do and will-do attitude. If something needs to be taken care of, he gets the job done.

So it’s no surprise he was stoic when he received a diagnosis of thyroid cancer. “I really had no big reaction. There was something in me that needed to be taken care of,” Navarro says.

In this case, he got that “something” taken care of at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center.

A Growing Concern

As Navarro has moved away from military life and into retirement, he’s been pleased to swap his uniform for gardening clothes and discovered a gift for making things grow. Along with the tomatoes, potatoes and onions that have graced his garden through recent years, he’s become a fan of flowers.

“I like to buy flowers that are distressed and bring them back to life,” Navarro says. “I’ve had pretty good luck with that, and I like to grow flowers from bulbs, also.”

In December 2021, this peaceful life was interrupted by a lump growing on his neck. A Veterans Administration doctor recommended an ultrasound and CT scan, and Navarro soon received the news that the lump was a malignant tumor.

Choosing Fort Sanders Regional

Like the distressed plants he carefully nurtured, Navarro needed detailed and compassionate care to help him preserve his quality of life. That care came from Ana Wilson, DO, a surgical oncologist with Premier Surgical Associates at Fort Sanders Regional who is fellowship-trained in endocrine surgery.

“If the cancer is fairly small and is what we call a well-differentiated cancer, we can remove either half of the thyroid or the whole thyroid depending on the size of the lesion,”  Dr. Wilson says. “If there are any abnormal- appearing lymph nodes in the lateral parts of the neck, sometimes we have to perform a neck dissection to remove all of the lymph nodes on that side.”

Thyroid procedures can be delicate to perform. Dr. Wilson says the thyroid gland lies directly on top of the trachea, and there is also a risk of injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve.

“That’s the nerve that controls the vocal cords,” Dr. Wilson says. “It has to be carefully identified during the surgery, and protected to avoid permanent hoarseness in the patient.”

Other risks include bleeding, because the thyroid is a very vascular organ requiring continuous blood circulation, and decreased calcium levels.

“The parathyroid glands lie directly next to the thyroid, and they control calcium levels in our bodies,” Dr. Wilson says. “If those are damaged or accidentally removed during the surgery, it can cause low calcium levels in the postoperative period.”

Regaining Command of His Life

Navarro’s papillary (well-differentiated) cancer was removed with a complete thyroidectomy, and a neck dissection to catch lymph nodes where cancer had spread. With Dr. Wilson’s advanced training in endocrine surgery and special skill in removing cancerous tumors on the thyroid, Navarro’s procedure was a success.

“The surgery went excellent, and I highly praise Dr. Wilson,” Navarro says. He also praises her for her approach to caring for him before and after surgery. “It was just very patient-oriented, and she has a lot of compassion and understanding.”

Navarro has been prescribed medication and vitamins to take over the function of the gland that was removed and is doing well now. Dr. Wilson says survival rates for this most common type of thyroid cancer are usually very good.

“As with all cancers, prevention and early detection are important,” Dr. Wilson says. “If a person notices an unusual lump in the neck that wasn’t there previously or starts to have trouble swallowing, or has any other concerning symptoms of compression in the neck, they should alert their doctor and think about getting an ultrasound.”

Dr. Ana Wilson is a Surgical Oncologist with Premier Surgical Associates at Fort Sanders Regional in Knoxville. To request an appointment with Dr. Wilson, call (865) 524-3695 or visit  https://www.premiersurgical.com/request-an-appointment/.

The post Removing the Threat of Thyroid Cancer first appeared on Premier Surgical.

Tracy Shelton is a business owner and mom of two teenagers who leads a busy lifestyle. Four years ago, she underwent bariatric surgery at Fort Sanders Regional
Medical Center and has since lost 175 pounds. She works hard to maintain her habits post-operation, and encourages others who are in similar situations that there are options available.

Down and Depressed

Tracy before Gastric Sleeve

After suffering an injury that tore several ligaments in her left knee, Shelton had multiple surgeries to fix her damaged tissue. It was a devastating time that required a long recovery process. One year after knee surgery she reached her highest weight, which was about 310 pounds.

“I have always been an active person, and my weight hovered around the 200 mark,” Shelton explains. “But being inactive after my knee injury made me depressed. I was so limited in my mobility during that time. My doctor told me the extra weight I put on was putting a strain on my body, especially my knee that was trying to heal. He suggested I look into bariatric surgery, so I did.”

Tracy is 175 lbs lighter after surgery

At Fort Sanders Regional

Shelton underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, known as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy. The surgeon removes a portion of the stomach through several small incisions in the upper abdomen. Limiting the size of the stomach restricts the amount of food a person is able to consume.

Mark Colquitt, MD, bariatric surgery specialist with Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons, performed the procedure in June 2018 at Fort Sanders Center for Bariatric Surgery. “We knew of Dr. Colquitt, and he was great,” she says. “I had a good experience with the nurses, too.”

She stayed one night in the hospital and went home the following day. Dr. Colquitt says many patients getting a sleeve gastrectomy tolerate the procedure very well and often go home the same day.

Dr. Colquitt explains the type of weight-loss procedure depends on the patient and their other health conditions. He emphasizes the safety of the procedures and how well his patients are able to tolerate them. “Tracy was clearly a good candidate for the sleeve,” he says.

“Physical recovery is quick,” Dr. Colquitt says. “Within a week, patients can typically get back to their usual activities.

Mark Colquitt, MD
Bariatric Surgeon

“The biggest thing for a patient right after bariatric surgery is to follow the diet progression, control their eating and drinking habits, and to wait 30 minutes after eating before drinking liquids. Otherwise, the flushing of the food with liquid could affect weight loss or cause discomfort.”

Milestones and Motivation

Shelton owns a home cleaning service and is on her feet most of the day. “Now that I’ve lost all the weight, I realize how much I struggled to move around before. With a heavier body it would hurt to be on my feet all day.”

Now weighing 135 pounds, she says it was a personal milestone to see a number on the scale read less than 200 pounds. She can also enjoy amusement parks with her two children. She says, “Before, I wouldn’t have the energy, or I was told I was too big for the ride. Now, it’s a lot more fun because I can move around easier.”

A New Way of Living

Shelton has come off her depression medication and says her mindset shift has played a major part in her weight-loss and health journey. Shelton encourages everyone who may be struggling with body image or eating habits to reach out for help.

“Anyone who has asked me how I do it, I tell them, you have to have a good doctor, good support and ask for help if you need it. If you don’t know how to meal prep, or feel you are falling behind or not making progress, just ask for help.

“I would definitely recommend Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center to a friend,” she says.

Dr. Colquitt encourages patients to attend the classes, meet with dieticians and accept the lifestyle changes indefinitely, especially related to eating and drinking, in order to keep the weight off.

“For Tracy, our first goal was to reduce her BMI from 48 to 40, then when that happens, strive for 35, then 30, so she would not be in the obese category anymore,” he says.

“It’s about creating healthy habits that help us live longer and enjoy the quality of life that we want, and she has done that. She has done great.”

If you’re considering bariatric surgery, the first step is to watch the free onliner informational seminar offered by Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons. Visit the GET STARTED page for details on how to view it.

Foothills Weight Loss Surgeons is affiliated with the Fort Sanders Center for Bariatric Surgery in Knoxville. Foothills is a division of Premier Surgical Bariatrics.

The post Friendsville Mom Loses 175 Lbs After Weight Loss Surgery first appeared on Premier Surgical.