Oncology & Solid Tumors

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 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.

Video-assisted lobectomy is less invasive than traditional thoracotomy. During VATS lobectomy, three 1-inch incisions and one 3- to 4-inch incision is made in the chest to provide access to the chest cavity without spreading the ribs. A thorascope (small video camera) and surgical instruments are inserted into the incisions. Images transmitted by the thorascope and projected onto a computer monitor guide the thoracic surgeon while performing the lobectomy. While the outcomes are comparable to traditional lobectomy, this technique reduces a patient’s hospital stay to about 3 to 4 days and the patient experiences a more rapid recovery with less pain. Cleveland Clinic is one of the few centers in the nation with significant experience in video-assisted thorascopic surgery.

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 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.

Radiation oncology services are provided in concert with Christopher Chen, MD. 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.

Interventional Bronchosocpy is the only service of its kind offered in Broward County. The group is lead by Eduardo Oliveira, MD, 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.

Diagnostic Imaging Services

• Digital mammogram, breast MRI, ultrasound, stereotactic and MRI guided biopsies)
• Double balloon small bowel enteroscopy
• 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

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.