Author: St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Robotic surgery is one of the world’s most exciting, high-impact surgical advancements. The technology offers surgeons more precision, control and range of motion than traditional open or laparoscopic surgeries. For patients, that means less blood loss, infection risk and pain, and shorter recovery times. “Robotic surgery allows us to offer our patients a level of precision that was unimaginable just a few decades ago,” says Ryan Moon, MD, a General Surgeon practicing at St. Elizabeth Healthcare. “It’s transforming how we approach surgeries, leading to better outcomes and faster recoveries.” St. Elizabeth Healthcare began offering robotic surgery in 2009. Since then, our surgeons…

Spring brings longer days, warm sunshine and fresh air — a perfect time for new beginnings. The extra daylight and rising temperatures can boost your mood and energy. But seasonal changes can also bring allergies, changing routines and new health concerns. These five tips can help you enjoy the season while keeping your health on track. Five Key Tips 1. Manage allergies before they start Spring allergies can cause sneezing, congestion and itchy, watery eyes. There are a few things you can do to prepare, before they become too severe. “Managing allergies starts with prevention,” says Dr. Kassie Johnson, MD,…

When Angelica arrived at her last prenatal appointment, she expected a routine checkup. Instead, doctors detected pre-eclampsia — a pregnancy-related condition that causes high blood pressure. Angelica’s plan changed in an instant. Following recommendations from every mom she knew, Angelica chose St. Elizabeth Family Birth Place in Edgewood, Ky. The birthing center features 33 private labor and delivery suites designed for comfort. Doctors induced her labor, and within a few hours, Angelica’s son Parker was born. Angelica anticipated the overwhelming joy of holding her baby boy for the first time. “I am a first-time mom — I had never experienced…

Personalized Nurse Midwife Labor and Delivery Care As a mom, there was little mystery or newness surrounding Markie’s second pregnancy. But because it would be her last, Markie wanted to cherish every moment and was looking for a personalized labor and delivery experience. That’s why she followed the advice of several friends who delivered their babies at St. Elizabeth Family Birth Place, a birthing center with 33 private labor and delivery suites in Edgewood, Ky. She wanted a team that valued her individualized birth plan. It was also important that her delivery was safe and unforgettable — one where she…

Osteoporosis is common — two in 10 women over age 50 have it. Osteoporosis happens when your body loses more bone tissue than it produces. Bones become weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures. Unfortunately, the first sign of osteoporosis is often a broken bone. Aloiya Kremer, MD, a Sports Medicine Physician and the Medical Director for St. Elizabeth Sports Medicine, is passionate about helping men and women understand their osteoporosis risk. She also provides treatment options to help them rebuild bone. These treatments include two injectable drugs for people at high risk for fractures. We sat down with…

Whether you’re having a hernia repair, gallbladder removal or another common procedure performed by a surgeon, it’s important to feel informed and confident about your care. Kevin Schuler, MD a Gynecologic Oncologist and Assistant Vice President of Medical Affairs at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, says “Asking the right questions can empower you and lead to better outcomes.” And when patients come prepared with questions, it helps build trust and ensures they feel confident about their care plan. “At St. Elizabeth, we encourage open communication to deliver the best outcomes possible,” says Dr. Schuler. Below are 10 key questions to ask your surgeon…

Heart valve disease can lead to serious complications if not properly treated, but with early detection and advanced treatment options, many patients can successfully manage their condition. The Structural Heart & Valve Center offers the latest treatments for heart valve disease, including minimally invasive options. Dive deeper with Dr. Michael Kasten, MD, a Cardiothoracic Surgeon at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, as he shares his insights into the causes, types and treatment options for heart valve disease. Q: What is Heart Valve Disease? “Heart valve disease is a condition where valves either become tighter or leaky, which is stenosis or insufficiency,” Dr.…

Every woman’s health journey is unique, but there’s one thing we all share — a need to prioritize preventive care. If you feel too busy and keep pushing your health to the back burner, now is the time to make it a priority. Taking charge of your health starts with staying on top of recommended screenings. These can help catch potential health concerns early and give you the best chance for successful treatment. Yet, many women may not know when to start certain screenings or assume they’re unnecessary as they age. Whether it’s mammograms, Pap smears or bone density testing, staying…

Staying on top of your health means making time for an annual gynecologist visit. Abby Loftus-Smith, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist with St. Elizabeth Healthcare, says, “It’s not just about Pap smears — it’s a full spectrum of care.” Many women wonder if a yearly appointment is necessary if they’re healthy. And guidelines for certain screenings, like Pap smears and mammograms, may seem unclear. Dr. Loftus-Smith clarifies, “A gynecologist can walk you through the pros and cons of screenings. We help you make decisions based on your family history or risk factors. It’s about catching things early when treatment is most effective.”…

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections, affecting millions of people every year. In fact, nearly 50–60% of women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime, according to the National Institutes of Health. Cara Elmer-Lyon, MD, a urogynecologist at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, explains the science behind these symptoms. “Bacteria make their way up into the bladder and cause symptoms like burning when you pee, pressure and feeling like nothing’s coming out. You constantly feel like you have to pee.” Despite being so common, UTIs are often misunderstood or left untreated. This can lead to recurrent infections…