The StealthStation – Utilizes 3D imaging to literally see inside a patient’s body with images so precise that neurosurgeons are able to use them to plan the surgery in advance.  By converting CT or MRI scans to three dimensional images, the surgeon can determine the best route to a targeted area – one that will cause the least damage to surrounding tissue, nerves and blood vessels.  During the operation, the technology allows the surgeons to manipulate their instruments with precision and make adjustments as necessary.

Laser Applications – These include Ophthalmology, ENT, General Surgery, Gynecology, Plastic Surgery, and Urology.

Vitrectomy Retinal Surgery – Uses miniature instruments that are inserted into the eye through very small incisions.  A fiber optic light illuminates the interior of the eye, while a videomicroscope gives the ophthalmologist a magnified picture of the area.  Using a tiny cutting tool or laser, the surgeon can work very precisely, repairing the ocular damage caused by eye conditions involving the vitreous.

Instatrak Image-Guided Surgery System – A three dimensional guidance system utilizing a computer, specialized software and electromagnetic field tracking.  The surgeon’s instruments appear on a computer model of the patient’s head, allowing him or her to see exactly where those instruments are in relation to the sinuses and guide them with great precision.  

Capsule Enteroscopy – A capsule that sends data to external sensor to diagnose disorders of the small intestine.

Intraoperative Lymphatic Mapping – Used to evaluate the potential spread of cancer to lymph node tissues and other organs.

Autologous Blood Transfusions - Many surgical procedures involve a significant loss of blood, requiring patients to receive transfusions.  At Catawba Valley Medical Center, patients can donate blood to themselves prior to an operation, afterwards, and in many cases during the operation itself.  We utilize advanced equipment and highly skilled, thoroughly trained nurses to collect and process a patient’s blood, clean it and return it to the patient’s system.  Several hospitals offer this service, but unlike Catawba Valley Medical Center, most contract with outside vendors to perform the procedure.  The medical center’s OR staff includes a team of cell saver nurses who have completed the training and are dedicated to the safety of the blood products our patients receive – another example of the commitment to quality our patients can expect.  

Minimally Invasive Surgery – CVMC continues to pursue minimally-invasive technologies for a wide variety of surgical procedures.  These include state-of-the-art systems, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, and advances in laparoscopic surgery for specialized surgical needs.  Minimally-invasive surgery has been proven to benefit patients through shorter hospital stays and recovery times, making it a key component of CVMC’s surgical offerings.