Laparoscopic Robotic Prostatectomy
Minimally invasive, robotic prostatectomy is a technically challenging operative procedure offered only at highly specialized centers. The procedure has changed how urologists treat prostate cancer. The robot permits the performance of the prostatectomy with precision greater than that possible with the human hand or eye alone. The procedure is performed laparoscopically through small incisions resulting in less patient discomfort, more rapid convalescence and functional recovery. Patients undergoing robotic prostatectomy had an average length of stay (ALOS) of 1.21 days while those undergoing conventional open prostatectomy had an ALOS of 3 days
Laparoscopic Hemicolectomy
Laparoscopic Hemicolectomy is a new surgical procedure that reduces recovery time and can give better outcomes than traditional colectomy. Compared with the open procedure, laparoscopically assisted colectomy results in smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, less postoperative narcotic use, slightly shorter hospital stays, and similar complication rates and oncologic outcomes.
Plastic and Reconstructive surgery including breast DIEP flaps
Our plastic surgeons’ were the first in the world to incorporate laser technology in breast reconstruction. Cleveland Clinic is also well known for work in DIEP reconstruction where a person’s own tissue is used in breast reconstruction.
MOHs micrographic surgery
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is the most advanced and effective treatment procedure for skin cancer available today. The procedure is performed by specially trained surgeons who have completed at least one additional year of fellowship training under the tutelage of a Mohs College member.
State of the art radiation treatments
Radiation oncology services are provided in concert with Dr. Christopher Chen who works with 21st Century Radiation Oncology. Our new developments in external beam radiation therapy include the use of the Varian Trilogy image-guided radiation therapy system. This machine allows for treatment to be delivered with real-time image guidance for the most accurate radiation delivery. This technology allows us to maximize doses to the target of interest and minimize the critical normal structures. It also allows for us to perform image-guided stereotactic CNS and body radiosurgery on previously radiated sites.
The versatile Trilogy system combines imaging and treatment technologies, and can be used to deliver the widest range of external beam radiotherapies: 3D conformal radiotherapy, IMRT, stereotactic radiosurgery, fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy and intensity-modulated radiosurgery for cancer and neurosurgical treatments.
Advanced imaging capabilities built into the system allow therapists to position patients for treatment with submillimeter accuracy. A respiratory gating system compensates for any tumor movement that occurs as a patient breathes.
The Trilogy system can deliver radiotherapy doses at least 60 percent faster than conventional accelerators. This shortens the length of time patients need to spend undergoing treatment. In addition, the radiation beam is highly precise, allowing clinicians to deliver treatments with unprecedented accuracy.
Another new treatment technology includes the Calypso 4D target localization system, also known as “GPS for the Body®.”
The implanted Beacon® electromagnetic transponders work with the Calypso® 4D Localization System™ to provide guidance to the clinician on the position and movement of the target during radiation therapy. Clinicians use the motion data provided by the Calypso System to guide radiation therapy setup and monitor the tumor position during treatment delivery.
The implanted Beacon® transponders and the Calypso System provide the clinician with continuous, real-time monitoring of the tumor and alerts the clinician when the target is outside of acceptable boundaries due to organ motion, thereby enabling corrections during treatment delivery. The implanted Beacon® transponders and the Calypso System provide objective guidance through accurate sub-millimeter1 electromagnetic localization accuracy and additional non-ionizing radiation doses are not needed.
Interventional Bronchoscopy Service
Interventional Bronchosocpy is the only service of its kind offered in Broward County. The group is lead by Dr. Oliveria, one of the foremost experts in the field.
The following services are offered:
• Laser Bronchoscopy/ Tumor ablation
• Brachytherapy catheter placement
• Stent placement
• Thorcacoscopic evaluation of pleura for biopsy and pleurodesis
• Endo-Bronchial ultrasound needle biopsy for much improved yields in lymph node biopsies.
Ancillary Services
- Diagnostic Imaging Services
- Digital mammogram, breast MRI, ultrasound, stereotactic and MRI guided biopsies)
- Double balloon small bowel eneteroscopy
- Endoscopic Ultrasound, gastrointestinal and trachea-bronchial
- Enterostomal Therapy
- Invasive Radiology Services
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Chemoembolization of liver tumors
- Genetic testing for hereditary breast
ovarian and colorectal cancer
- Comprehensive imaging including CT scan, MRI and PET/CT imaging
Oncology support services
Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Cancer Program is dedicated to bringing patients the best cancer care available. Our priority is to provide multidisciplinary, integrated and comprehensive oncology services.
To facilitate patient and family adjustment to a cancer diagnosis, its treatment, and rehabilitation, the Oncology social worker is available to provide support with a variety of issues including psychological, financial or emotional concerns. Based on your specific needs, your social worker will help identify appropriate resources.
Services are also available to assist people who are under insured, have prescription drug coverage concerns or patients with home health needs including but not limited to meals, nursing and medical equipment.
Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Cancer Program offers a variety of support groups including a Breast Cancer Book Club, “Reel to Real” Blood Cancer Support Group, “Look Good Feel Better” and Prostate “Man to Man” Support Group. We will also be initiating a patient and family support group that allow people facing cancer and their families to share experiences and concerns with others facing the disease. The support groups also offer education about cancer, treatment options and alternative services such as yoga classes and networking opportunities.
The Oncology social worker can serve as a link between you and the health care system, and the community. Our goal is to provide a variety of services to aide in the long-term adjustment to a cancer diagnosis.
Cara S. Kondaki, LCSW, ACSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Oncology
Research
The cancer program at Cleveland Clinic in Florida is dedicated to bring patients the best cancer care available. Our program includes clinical trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as well as Pharmaceutical sponsored clinical trials.
Cleveland Clinic Florida is part of a community-based cancer research program established by the NCI. The aim of the program is to provide cancer patients with access to NCI-sponsored cancer treatment trials and up-to-date cancer management. Through this comprehensive organized clinical trial mechanism we can bring the latest cancer prevention and treatment research findings to our community.
Our pharmaceutical sponsored studies as well as the NCI studies are chosen carefully in order to offer expanded treatment options to patients in our community and also to those who have not access to clinical trails in their communities.
Smoking Cessation Clinic
Staffed by trained respiratory therapists, this comprehensive clinic provides multiple visits, support, medication and guidance to patients- under the supervision of a pulmonary physician.
State-of-the art techniques and latest medications are used to end nicotine addiction. The services are billed to insurance companies.
Psychotherapy and Acupuncture treatments are also available, some on a fee basis.
Cancer Support Groups
Breast Cancer Book Club
Prostate “Man to Man” Support Group with the American Cancer Society
Look Good Feel Better with the American Cancer Society
“Reel to Real” Blood Cancer Support Group with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society