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Gynaecological Procedures: From Cosmetics to Contraceptives

When it comes to women’s health, understanding the various gynaecological procedures available can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being. The field of gynaecology includes a diverse range of medical interventions designed to address an array of concerns that impact patients’ bodies and lives. By gaining insights into these procedures, you’ll be ready to engage in meaningful conversations with healthcare providers. And you’ll be better equipped to make choices aligned with your individual aspirations.

Dilation and Curettage (Scraping Inside of Uterus)

One of the most common gynaecological procedures is dilation and curettage, which involves the gentle scraping and cleaning of the inside of the uterus. It’s often performed to diagnose and treat various conditions, such as abnormal bleeding and uterine polyps. The procedure is also effective at removing tissue after a miscarriage.

Endometrial Ablation: Finding Relief from Menstrual Bleeding

Heavy menstrual bleeding can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, and endometrial ablation could be the solution. This minimally invasive procedure targets the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. With the aim of reducing or stopping menstrual bleeding altogether. By gently removing or destroying the endometrial tissue, women can experience a noticeable improvement in their monthly cycles. No incisions are required during an endometrial ablation. Your surgeon will use specialised tools to access the uterus through a passageway between the vagina and cervix.

Labiaplasty: Navigating Cosmetic Gynaecology

Labiaplasty is a procedure that falls under the umbrella of cosmetic gynaecology. While not generally medically necessary, it addresses aesthetic concerns by reshaping the labia minora – the inner part of the vulva. Women choose labiaplasty for a variety of reasons, ranging from discomfort during physical activities to improving their self-confidence. This procedure truly reflects the personal nature of gynaecological care, recognising that good health encompasses both physical and emotional aspects.

Laparoscopic Sterilization: A Reversible Contraceptive Option

If you have completed your family planning journey, laparoscopic sterilization presents a viable option to ensure there are no new additions to the clan. This minimally invasive procedure involves the placement of small devices in the fallopian tubes, creating a barrier that prevents eggs from encountering sperm. These tubes can also be clamped, severed or sealed, depending on the circumstances and the hospital. While it’s considered a permanent form of contraception, it’s worth noting that some individuals may undergo a reversal procedure if circumstances change.

Hysteroscopy: Insights into Uterine Health

When a closer look inside the uterus is required, a hysteroscopy is the perfect choice. This procedure involves the insertion of a thin, lighted tube with a camera (hysteroscope) through the vagina and into the uterus. It’s commonly used to identify and address issues such as abnormal bleeding, polyps, fibroids and even infertility. By providing direct visualization of the uterine cavity, hysteroscopy empowers gynaecologists to make accurate diagnoses and develop targeted treatment plans.

Whether you’re seeking relief or exploring options for contraception, gynaecological procedures offer a path towards a better quality of life. Remember, each individual’s journey is unique, and open communication with medical professionals remains essential. Contact Centurion Day Hospital today if you want to find out more about any of these procedures, or book a consultation online today!

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Is Rhinoplasty Surgery the Right Choice for You?

The nose is one of the most prominent features of the face and if you are unhappy with the shape or size of your nose it can have a negative effect on your self-esteem. You might feel that your nose does not complement the shape of your face, and a slight alteration would be able to address the issue. In some cases, individuals could have trouble breathing through the nose because of a deformity or injury. Rhinoplasty surgery (Nose Job) seeks to address these issues as it is able to change the size and shape of the nose, whether the purpose is cosmetic or reconstructive.

Rhinoplasty Procedure (Nose Job)

Before the day of your surgery, you will need to have a number of consultations with your surgeon. During these sessions, your surgeon will enquire about your expected results and establish precisely what you wish to change. Your surgeon will take into account the shape of your face and consider your facial features, which they will then use to make recommendations. Your surgeon will make it clear to you if they feel that your expectations are unrealistic. Similarly, they will tell you if they think that your desired shape or size would not match the rest of your face.

Rhinoplasty surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and patients are either sedated or administered general anaesthesia, depending on the surgeon’s recommendation. The procedure can be performed in two ways: open surgery or closed surgery. If the incisions are made inside the nostril it is considered a closed procedure, with the incision being somewhat hidden. When an incision is made across the tissue that separates the nostrils it is considered an open procedure as the incisions are more visible.

After the incision is made, a surgeon is able to access the nasal bones and cartilage of the nose. Depending on the desired results, your surgeon will either add or remove bone and cartilage to increase or reduce the size of the nose. Cartilage from the septum and ear can be used to alter the shape and size of the nose. If a patient has trouble breathing, as is the case with a deviated septum, a surgeon will correct the septum or remove tissue fragments to improve breathing.

Recovery After Rhinoplasty Surgery (Nose Job)

As with any surgery, patients should refrain from strenuous activity for a period of time. You should also avoid putting pressure on the surgery site, for example by blowing the nose or by pulling tight clothing over the nose. There will be a fair amount of swelling, of which the majority should subside within a few weeks. Patients should not use ice packs to reduce swelling as this could lead to complications.

Contact Centurion Day Hospital if you have any questions regarding rhinoplasty surgery (Nose Job) or if you wish to book a consultation with one of our qualified surgeons. Feel free to browse our website for more information on all of the procedures performed at our hospital.

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What can you Expect from Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that is able to alter the shape and size of a patient’s nose. This procedure is also commonly referred to as a nose job and it involves the modification of the bones, cartilage and skin of the nose. Patients often consider rhinoplasty because they are unhappy with the appearance of their noses. Some might feel that their nose is too big or that it does not match the shape of their face. This procedure is indeed able to address these issues, but it can also be performed to improve the nasal functions of individuals. Patients with breathing problems and those that have experienced trauma to their nose could see these issues resolved by the surgery. 

Rhinoplasty Procedure

The bridge of the nose is made up of bone with the lower part of the nose consisting of mostly cartilage. Rhinoplasty does not have a standard procedure as each patient’s needs can be quite different. This means that each surgery is customised to a certain degree, in order to achieve results that are specific to each patient. The procedure can be performed from within the nose opening or by making a small incision at the base of the nose. 

Depending on the desired result, a surgeon will usually alter the shape of either the nasal bones or cartilage and in some cases both, to change the shape and structure of the nose. Surgeons might have to use bone and cartilage from different areas of the body if there is not enough material available in the nose to complete the procedure. 

Rhinoplasty Consultation

The consultation with your doctor before rhinoplasty will be quite extensive because of the dynamic nature of the surgery. A patient that is experiencing trouble breathing due to a deviated septum will require a procedure that is slightly different from someone that wants to reduce the size of their nose. This is why it is important to be specific about your expected results during your consultation, to ensure that your doctor is able to properly plan their approach to the surgery. 

The surgeon will take your wishes into consideration and assess your facial structure to develop a customised surgery plan which will deliver results that complement the other facial features. Your medical history and physical health will play a large role in determining whether or not you are a suitable candidate for surgery and honesty is essential during consultations with your doctor.

Centurion Day Hospital is well equipped to perform rhinoplasty surgery at our facility in Gauteng. Feel free to contact us if you have any other questions regarding the procedure. If you are considering surgery you are encouraged to fill in our pre-admission form online. This helps to speed up the process and can be done from the comfort of your home at any time.

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Orthopaedic Procedures That Could Improve Your Quality of Life

Orthopaedic surgery is a specialised set of procedures that seek to treat ailments and defects in the musculoskeletal system. The bones, muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons are all a part of this system. As you can imagine, many problems can arise in these parts of our bodies, as they are constantly moving and often put under large amounts of strain. Orthopaedic procedures are indeed specialised in nature and several surgeries fall under this classification. Many orthopaedic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, making day hospitals a great option when you are in need of treatment. Centurion Day Hospital is equipped to perform a number of orthopaedic procedures, with qualified orthopaedic surgeons available to diagnose and treat various ailments.

Open or Closed Reduction Treatment

When a patient has fractured a bone they might require surgery to reset the bones. After examining the X-rays of the fracture, an orthopaedic surgeon will determine whether an open- or closed reduction should be performed. Open reduction surgery is performed by making an incision above the fracture site. This allows the orthopaedic surgeon to adjust the fragments directly and enables them to insert screws, rods or plates to realign the fractured bone.
A closed reduction is nonoperative and is normally used to treat less complicated fractures. This orthopaedic procedure does not require an incision and the surgeon is able to realign the bones externally before applying a cast or splint.

Peripheral Nerve Surgery (Release of Painful Nerve)

The peripheral nervous system is made up of all the nerves in your arms, legs, face and chest. Injury to the peripheral nerves can lead to chronic pain and the entrapment of nerves can be difficult to treat without surgical intervention. Peripheral nerve surgery can be performed by an orthopaedic surgeon and it can be used to treat a number of conditions associated with nerve damage. Peripheral neuropathy (damage to the nerves) can be difficult to diagnose, as there is a range of symptoms associated with it. Patients should seek consultation with qualified surgeons if they are experiencing any associated symptoms.

Trigger Finger Release (Stiff or Cramped Finger Joint)

Trigger finger is the common term used to describe a condition caused by an inflamed tendon in the finger. This causes the tendon to contract and makes it difficult to extend the finger, leaving it in a constantly bent position. Trigger finger release, or tenolysis, is an orthopaedic procedure that is performed to release the tension in the tendon. A small incision is made above the swollen part of the tendon to release pressure and allow the patient to straighten their finger. This allows the tendon to glide more freely as there is more space available.

Contact Centurion Day Hospital to arrange a consultation with one of our orthopaedic surgeons if you are suffering from any musculoskeletal ailments. Our facilities are well equipped to perform numerous orthopaedic procedures that could greatly improve your quality of life. Feel free to visit our website for more information on our extensive range of procedures or book a consultation online to start your journey towards recovery.

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Centurion Day Hospital is Fully-Equipped for Hip Arthroscopy Procedures

Our hips generally experience a lot of strain during the course of our lives. Whether your job requires you to do a lot of walking or spend a lot of time seated at work, your hips and surrounding muscles are constantly working to maintain a good posture. It should come as no surprise then that we tend to experience problems with our hips as we age. And with so many moving parts being put under tension regularly, you face the possibility of experiencing medical issues in this area, no matter your age. If you are experiencing lingering issues with your hips your doctor might advise you to undergo a hip arthroscopy procedure to diagnose and possibly treat your condition.

When is an Arthroscopy Necessary?

This procedure could be your best option if you experience hip joint pain for extended periods. Especially if the pain does not respond to nonsurgical treatment such as physical therapy, rest and medications intended to reduce inflammation. If you have previously experienced an injury in the hip area fragments of bone or cartilage may have become separated and could now be the source of discomfort within the joint. Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that is able to locate and remove these fragments. 

Hip Arthroscopy Procedure

An arthroscope is a thin, flexible device that is equipped with a light and a camera that is connected to a monitor system. During a hip arthroscopy procedure, your surgeon will make a small incision close to the affected hip. They will then insert an arthroscope into the incision and direct the camera towards the hip joint. The surgeon is able to navigate the camera using a magnified video feed on the monitor. This view of the hip joint enables them to visually identify the cause of the patient’s symptoms.  

Hip arthroscopy is effective at diagnosing hip ailments and it can also be used to treat certain conditions. The procedure can be used to remove damaged tissues from the joint, repair tears in the ligaments surrounding the joint or repair damage to the bones. To be able to reach the affected areas with special surgical tools, a surgeon might have to make an additional cut close to the initial one. Hip arthroscopy surgery could be an option to treat hip impingement, a hip labral tear, hip dysplasia, snapping hip syndrome and synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining) to name a few. 

Hip arthroscopy is performed on an outpatient basis at Centurion Day Hospital and the procedure does generally not take longer than 3 hours. Our facilities are well equipped to perform arthroscopies on different joints in the body and our surgeons have extensive experience treating related conditions. Contact us today if you require any orthopaedic services or browse our website for more information on any of the surgeries performed at our facility!  

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Orthopaedic Surgery: Diagnosing and Treating Bone and Joint Pain

Orthopaedic surgeons are able to perform a number of surgical and non-surgical procedures focused on treating and preventing musculoskeletal disorders or trauma. Our bones and muscles inevitably degrade as our bodies age, and our movement becomes limited. Orthopaedic surgery is not only focused on correcting chronic defects but also endeavours to treat many of the injuries or ailments caused by old age. If these issues are addressed earlier in life, you reduce your risk later in life.

Let’s take a look at some common orthopaedic procedures:

Facet Joint Injection

A facet joint injection can be used to diagnose and treat patients that are experiencing joint pain in their back. The affected area is sterilised with an antibacterial solution and a local anaesthetic is injected into this area to numb the facet joint. Surgeons use imaging guidance to direct the needle to the exact spot. If the pain subsides it can be concluded that the joint is indeed what is causing the problem. This injection will only provide temporary pain relief and a mix of anti-inflammatory medicine is needed to deliver long term pain relief.

Ganglionectomy (Removal of Cyst on Hand)

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form when a ligament or joint capsule herniates. These cysts most commonly form on the wrists and ankles, as these areas experience a lot of movement. These cysts can cause extreme pain in some cases where they press on the nerves of a patient. A ganglionectomy is performed on an outpatient basis and the surgery is relatively quick. After the cyst has been surgically removed the wound is stitched up and bandaged. Patients will have pain medication prescribed to them to mitigate any excessive pain.

Insertion or Removal of K-Wires

Kirschner wires, also known as K-wires, are strong wires that are used to repair bone fractures. These wires are used to hold bone fragments together to help with the healing process. During the procedure, a surgeon will insert the wires under the skin and tie together the pieces of the bone that have been separated. These wires are only temporary and will commonly be removed after three or four weeks. 

Make Centurion Day Hospital your chosen destination if you are in need of orthopaedic surgery! Our qualified surgeons perform a wide range of procedures in our state-of-the-art medical facilities. Feel free to browse our website for more information on any of our procedures, or contact us today to book a consultation

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Orthopaedic Surgery – Understanding Different Orthopaedic Procedures

Orthopaedic surgery is quite a broad term used to describe several procedures that are generally focused on correcting bone and joint conditions. Orthopaedics as a whole is a field of study that concentrates on the movement of our bodies and the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that facilitates movement. As our bodies age these parts of our body, known as the musculoskeletal system, will degenerate slowly. As the muscles and tendons start to become weaker the likelihood of sustaining an injury to the joints increases.

Many people will indeed require orthopaedic surgery due to acute conditions caused by the effects of ageing, but there are also a number of chronic conditions that orthopaedic surgeons can address. 

Let’s have a look at some of the Orthopedic procedures commonly performed:

Tenotomy – Ankle Tendon Lengthening

Individuals with an atypical foot can experience a contracture of the Achilles tendon, which can lead to muscle spasticity and chronic pain in the foot. A contracted muscle could also lead to poor posture and cause even more discomfort in the future. During tenotomy surgery, an orthopaedic surgeon lengthens the Achilles tendon by making small cuts on the tendons to relieve tension on the tendon, when the tendon heals it then retains the new length. This procedure has also been effective at treating clubfoot as it improves the flexibility of the ankle and corrects the positioning of the foot.

Arthroscopy – Joint Diagnostic and Repair

During an arthroscopy, a surgeon uses a very small camera to inspect the inside of a patient’s joint. A small incision is made and the device is manoeuvred to the affected site, giving the surgeon a close-up view of whatever may be causing the patient discomfort. In some cases, the surgeon is able to correct the problem using small instruments within the arthroscope tube. An arthroscopy can be used to diagnose ailments within both the knee and shoulder joints.  

Carpal Tunnel Release

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, is compressed. This can lead to numbness in the hand and the condition tends to worsen over time. A carpal tunnel release procedure can be used to relieve pressure on the median nerve if it becomes compressed by bones or ligaments. An incision is made in the palm of your hand and the carpal tunnel ligament is then cut to reduce the tension on the nerves while also increasing the size of the tunnel.

Various orthopaedic procedures are performed at Centurion Day Hospital’s state of the art facilities daily. Our professional team of staff members are dedicated to providing the best possible care to all of our patients. Book a consultation with one of our qualified surgeons today, or browse our website for more information on any of the procedures performed at our facility.

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Breast Augmentation and Liposuction Promotion

If you feel like exercising and following a strict diet has left you with little to show for it, cosmetic surgery might be the solution! Contour your body with breast augmentation- or liposuction surgery this winter at Centurion Day Hospital, and make sure that your body is beach-ready by the time summer rolls around! 

Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation surgery is able to enlarge and contour the breasts according to the patient’s wishes. There are many reasons why women consider augmentation mammoplasty. Some women wish to balance out the size and shape of their breasts, others may feel that their breasts are too small in proportion to the rest of their body. Women can lose breast volume after giving birth and also breastfeeding the child, and they may wish to rectify this. Breast enlargement surgery can address these issues by reshaping the breasts and replacing lost volume.

Breast augmentation surgery is usually completed within an hour and is done under general anaesthesia. Patients are able to return home on the same day, but they will require someone to transport them from the hospital. During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision where the breast and the chest meet, making the scar as inconspicuous as possible. An implant is then inserted directly under the breast tissue or beneath the chest wall muscle, and after the implant has been secured in place the incisions are stitched up.

Patients can expect some pain and discomfort in the days after their surgery, but your doctor will prescribe painkillers that will manage your pain quite effectively. You will also have to refrain from strenuous activities for a few weeks after your surgery to prevent any injury from occurring.

Liposuction Surgery Procedure 

Stubborn fat clusters that do not respond to regular exercise or a healthy diet may seem impossible to get rid of. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that breaks up and removes these unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body. Liposuction can be performed on the thighs, hips, abdomen, buttocks, arms, face and neck to reduce the size of fat deposits. Both men and women can benefit from liposuction, and the procedure is very common around the world.

During liposuction surgery, a surgeon inserts a narrow tube, called a cannula, into a small incision close to the area of the body that is being targeted. The cannula is then used to break apart fat deposits and in some cases, a liquid is used to aid in this process. Suction is then applied to the cannula in order to get rid of fat from under the skin, removing those fat cells from the body for good. Liposuction surgery is a relatively quick procedure, but it is largely dependent on the size of the area that is targeted. Your recovery time will likewise be largely dependent on the size of the area as well as the placement of the affected area.

If you are considering liposuction or breast augmentation surgery, there has never been a better time to book! Take advantage of Centurion Day Hospital’s liposuction and breast augmentation promotion this month and get the look you’ve always wanted, at the best price. Be sure to book a consultation with one of our qualified surgeons today or browse our website to find out more.

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Pain Management Techniques After Surgery

Pain is an unfortunate consequence of any surgical procedure and it could be the reason why many people try to avoid surgery altogether. Fortunately, extensive research has been done into the topic of pain and medical advancements enable us to manage pain very effectively. With the right prescription of medication and the use of a few non-medicinal pain management techniques, you can greatly reduce the amount of pain you experience while also speeding up your recovery.

When you are recovering from surgery it is important to remember that you are experiencing what is called acute pain. Acute pain is defined as pain that occurs as a response to a specific stimulus. But, it is also defined as pain that is short-lived. Knowing that your pain is temporary should help you to mentally prepare for the recovery period. Overcoming the psychological barriers to surgery before the day of your procedure helps to reduce your stress levels a great deal. And the last thing you need when going in for surgery is unnecessary stress!

Using Pain Medication

There are various pain medicines that help you with pain management, while also reducing inflammation and treating high fever. Medications such as aspirin do this by blocking chemicals called prostaglandins which cause inflammation and swelling. These chemicals also make nerves more sensitive and lead to a more intense feeling of pain.

Your Surgeon will prescribe certain pain medication for you after your surgery and it is very important to follow their instructions diligently. Self-medication can be dangerous as it could interfere with your prescribed medication. It is always advised that you seek professional medical advice when you are experiencing excessive pain. 

Non-Medicinal Pain Management Techniques

In addition to medication, there are some activities that could help you with pain management:

  • Physical Activities – Walking and stretching are great activities that you can return to gradually after surgery. Patients should however be careful to not over-exert themselves and give their bodies enough time to recover before resuming physical activities.   
  • Massage – Massaging the muscles encourages blood flow in the body, which in turn promotes healing. Massaging also helps to prevent the muscles from becoming too tense.
  • Hot or Cold Packs – Ice packs are very effective at reducing swelling and inflammation, while heat pads are commonly used to reduce muscle- and joint pain. 

Contact Centurion Day Hospital to book a consultation for your surgery today! Browse our website for more information on any of the procedures performed at our facility. Our team of doctors will be with you every step of the way and provide you with everything you need to make a speedy recovery.

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Post-Operative Instructions to Help You During Your Recovery

The recovery period is often the worst part of going in for surgery. The lack of mobility and the discomfort that comes with surgery can easily get on a patient’s nerves and cause them to disregard their surgeon’s post-operative instructions. This, unfortunately, can often cause more complications that might lead to the extension of the recovery period. The good news is that when you follow your doctor’s instructions, you will spend less time in recovery and you will be able to see the results of your surgery sooner!  

So what are the post-operative instructions to speed up your recovery?

Get Enough Rest

Most surgeons will agree that rest plays a big part in any patient’s recovery process. Sufficient rest gives your body time to recover properly, but it also greatly reduces the likelihood that an injury may occur. In some cases, simply walking around too soon can lead to complications or cause you pain. Patients are advised to refrain from any strenuous activity for a period of time, depending on the surgery they received. Your doctor will provide you with a timeframe for your recovery, indicating when you should be able to once again perform your everyday activities.  

Wound Care

Caring for your wounds is extremely important as infection can lead to a whole host of problems. Wounds should be kept clean and dry for a number of days, depending on the procedure that was performed. Patients will only be able to shower after a few days, and scrubbing the wound should be avoided as much as possible. Patients might receive a post-operative compression bandage to wear over their wound. This bandage helps to reduce the swelling and helps the body to heal. Patients may be instructed to remove their wound dressing at home and replace it with an adhesive bandage. This should only be done as instructed by a surgeon, and any uncertainty should be discussed with your doctor. 

Pain Management

You will be prescribed medication to mitigate the majority of the pain that you might experience. It is important to avoid alcohol during your recovery as this can lead to certain complications, especially when used in conjunction with pain medication. Ice packs can be applied to a wound to help reduce pain and inflammation. Heat pads can also be used to the same effect, but only when your doctor has approved it. Ice packs and heat pads can be used regularly, but patients should be cautious of using either of these for extended periods of time.

There’s no reason to be nervous when you come for surgery at Centurion Day Hospital! Our team of professional surgeons will discuss these post-operative instructions with you in more detail to put your mind at rest. We will answer all of your questions and ensure that your worries are put to rest. Book a consultation today to speak to one of our dedicated staff members, or browse our website for more information on any of the procedures performed at our facility.