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4 \ CONNECT your + health Getting Back to Life Faster After Surgery In the past, most types of surgery required large incisions, blood transfusions and lengthy recovery times. However, advances in medical technology have introduced many less invasive alternatives that minimize damage to the body. By using tiny instruments and observing their work utilizing cameras, surgeons can reduce blood loss, decrease hospital recovery time and lower the risk of postsurgical scarring. For patients, that means a quicker return to their families, their jobs and their favorite activities. Cartersville Medical Center and Redmond Regional Medical Center both offer a wide range of minimally invasive surgeries. Cartersville's Source for Advanced Surgery Cartersville Medical Center is equipped to provide patients with a full range of minimally invasive procedures, thanks to our team of highly skilled surgeons and advanced technology. The robotic da Vinci® Si™ Surgical System at Cartersville Medical Center allows physicians to make small incisions with pinpoint accuracy. During a procedure, the surgeon sits at a console where he or she is in control of the machine. As the surgeon moves his or her hands, the robotic arms mimic the surgeon's hand movements to perform the procedure. The da Vinci robot is currently utilized in the areas of gynecology and urology at Cartersville Medical Center. ................................................ Back in the Swing of Things When Florence Record, 66, retired from a career in human resources and moved to scenic Ellijay, Ga., she hoped to enjoy spending time with her husband and family. However, it wasn't long before joint stiffness and pain began hampering her mobility. "In summer 2009, I started noticing some leg problems," says Record. "My doctor prescribed some medications that helped me somewhat, but after about a year, I realized I needed a more permanent solution." After her primary care physician recommended hip replacement surgery, Record did her homework and determined that she preferred the shorter recovery time associated with the direct anterior approach. "I started searching for doctors in my area who specialized in this surgery and found Dr. Atwell," says Record. "I really appreciated his attitude and enthusiasm for this procedure. I really felt like I could trust him with my health." Record underwent a direct anterior approach hip replacement in September 2011. She was among the first patients to enjoy the benefits of minimally invasive hip replacement surgery with Cartersville Medical Center's new HANA™ table—a special surgical table that gives the surgeon increased access to the hip during surgery. "I did rehab for about three months, and by Christmas, I was back to doing the things I love," Record says. "I even went to a New Year's Eve party and danced!"