23-Hour Observation for Behavioral Health

This level of service is sometimes referred to as "Crisis Stabilization." It is for individuals who are temporarily unable to function and require immediate emergency intervention. A 23-Hour Observation Program works with the individual and the individual's support system to transition them back into the community. This level of care may be beneficial when the individual's social network is unavailable or unsafe.

24-Hour ACCESS Line for Behavioral Health

Behavioral health assistance is available 24-hours a day via the 24-Hour ACCESS Line. Call 704-384-4255 in Charlotte, or toll-free 1-800-786-1585.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Surgical repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which involves a widening, stretching or ballooning of the aorta in the heart. The exact cause is unknown, but risks include hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure.

Adrenalectomy

An adrenalectomy is the removal of one adrenal gland, the removal of both adrenal glands or partial removal of one or both adrenal glands. This is often performed when an adrenal tumor or malignancy is present.

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy uses a thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope, which is inserted through a small incision in the skin. The laparoscope is connected to a tiny video camera which projects a view of the operative site onto video monitors located in the operating room.

Aneurysm Coiling

Aneurysm coiling is a less invasive alternative to surgical clipping. It is similar to the cerebral angiogram but instead of simply taking pictures as the contrast medium (dye) is injected into the artery, the aneurysm is treated from the catheter inside the blood vessel by the insertion of coils into the aneurysm’s sac. The coils are packed into the aneurysm. They promote blood clotting within the aneurysm. Both coils and clotting fill the aneurysm closing it off and preventing blood from entering.

Aneurysm Evaluation

Treatment of aneurysm, a balloon-like sac in the wall of an artery, vein, or heart caused by a weakening of the wall by injury, disease, or abnormality present at birth.

Angiogram (Heart Catheterization)

Also called an "arteriogram" or "heart catheterization," an angiogram is an x-ray of the arteries and veins to detect blockage or narrowing of the vessels.

Angioplasty (PCTA)

Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is performed to open blocked coronary arteries caused by coronary artery disease (CAD) and to restore arterial blood flow to the heart tissue without open-heart surgery. A special catheter (long hollow tube) is inserted into the coronary artery to be treated. This catheter has a tiny balloon at its tip. The balloon is inflated once the catheter has been placed into the narrowed area of the coronary artery. The inflation of the balloon compresses the fatty tissue in the artery and makes a larger opening inside the artery for improved blood flow.

Ankle Brachial Index

This test is done by measuring blood pressure at the ankle and in the arm while a person is at rest. Measurements are usually repeated at both sites after five minutes of walking on a treadmill. The ankle brachial index (ABI) result is used to predict the severity of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Repair

Repair of the ligament, located in the center of the knee, that controls rotation and forward movement of the tibia (shin bone).

Antrectomy

This is the removal of the last 1/3 of the stomach. It is the part of the stomach that produces gastrin (a hormone that helps produce stomach acid). When this procedure is done to cure ulcer disease, it is usually combined with a vagotomy.

Apligraf Skin Equivalent

Similar to human skin, Apligraf® consists of living cells, proteins and skin-healing substances. Apligraf® is not an ointment or dressing. It is designed as a "living" skin patch that replicates the healing function of healthy human skin. Apligraf® helps the skin naturally regenerate itself.

Appendectomy

The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch of intestinal tissue located between the small intestine and large intestine. If the appendix becomes infected, it must be surgically removed before a hole develops in the appendix and spreads the infection to the entire abdominal space. An appendectomy is the surgical removal of an infected appendix.

Arteriovenous Malformations Treatment

Treatment of arteriovenous malformation (AVM). In the majority of cases, AVM is a congenital disorder consisting of a connection between veins and arteries, this pathology is universally known because of its occurrence in the central nervous system, but can appear in any location.

Arthroscopy

A surgical examination of the internal structures of a joint by means for viewing through an arthroscope. An arthroscopic procedure can be used to remove or repair damaged tissue or as a diagnostic procedure in order to inspect the extent of any damage or confirm a diagnosis

ATM

Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) services are available on-site.

Atrial Septal Defect Repair

The wall that separates the right and left sides of the heart is known as the septum. When a hole, or septal defect, forms in the wall of the upper chambers of the heart, it is known as an atrial septal defect. This defect causes a disruption in the normal flow of blood through the heart and can cause major complications later in life. Most people with this condition have few, if any, symptoms.

Using advanced surgical technology, physicians can perform this repair procedure using less invasive techniques versus using traditional methods. Most heart operations are performed with an incision made through the sternum or breastbone. However, surgeons are able to treat some patients by using small incisions on the side of the chest to reach the heart between the patient's ribs.

Barium Enema

A barium enema (also called lower GI, or gastrointestinal, series) is  a procedure that examines the rectum, the large intestine and the lower part of the small intestine. A fluid called barium (a metallic, chemical, chalky, liquid used to coat the inside of organs so that they will show up on an x-ray) is given into the rectum as an enema. An x-ray of the abdomen shows strictures (narrowed areas), obstructions (blockages) and other problems.

Bedrest Basket Program

This is a program for pregnant women who need to spend the rest of their pregnancy on bedrest. A bedrest mandate may cause feelings of confusion, anxiety and loneliness, so this basket of literature and videos on labor and your new baby will help you pass the time and prepare for your new arrival.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Treatment

A noncancerous condition related to aging in men whereby the prostate gland swells, usually to a size that reduces the urine flow and prevents the bladder from emptying completely, causing frequent and difficult urination. Treatment may include behavior changes and medications to help with mild symptoms. For moderate cases of BPH, microwave thermal therapy, laser therapies, transurethral needle ablation and other minimally invasive therapies can be used to destroy overgrown tissue.

Bile Duct Bypass

This procedure is done if the pancreas has blocked the main bile duct. A new connector to the bowel may need to be created to avoid jaundice.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch

This procedure is a variation of Biliopancreatic Diversion (BPD) in which stomach removal is restricted to the outer margin, leaving a sleeve of stomach with the pylorus and the beginning of the duodenum at its end. The duodenum, the first portion of the small intestine, is divided so that pancreatic and bile drainage is bypassed. The near end of the "alimentary limb" is then attached to the beginning of the duodenum, while the "common limb" is created in the same way as in BPD.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the body for examination under a microscope; to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present.

Biplane Angiography

Used for diagnostic and interventional procedures primarily in the brain and neck, biplane angiography allows physicians to view complex vessel structures, make them transparent and visualize what lies behind them.

Bladder Repair

Surgery to repair  bladder prolapse (cystocele), or other bladder-related conditions. 

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)

A functional or cosmetic surgical procedure intended to reshape the upper eyelid or lower eyelid by the removal and/or repositioning of excess tissue as well as by reinforcement of surrounding muscles and tendons.

Blood Donation Services

Donating blood to help patients who need transfusions. You can donate blood every eight weeks.

Brachytherapy

During brachytherapy (also known as internal radiation or implant radiation),  radiation is given inside the body as close to the cancer as possible. Substances that produce radiation, called radioisotopes, may be swallowed, injected or implanted directly into the tumor. Some of the radioactive implants are called "seeds" or "capsules."

Brain Aneurysm Treatment

Treatment of brain (cerebral) aneurysm, which is a bulging, weak area in the wall of an artery that supplies blood to the brain. In most cases, a brain aneurysm causes no symptoms and goes unnoticed. In rare cases, the brain aneurysm ruptures, releasing blood into the skull and causing a stroke.

Breast Reconstruction Surgery

A type of surgery for women who have had a breast removed (mastectomy). The surgery rebuilds the breast so that it is about the same size and shape as it was before. The nipple and areola (the darker area around the nipple) can also be added. Most women who have had a mastectomy can have reconstruction. Women who have had a lumpectomy may not need reconstruction. Breast reconstruction is done by a plastic surgeon.

Breast Reduction and Augmentation

Surgeons offer a variety of breast surgery options to patients who are unhappy with the shape, size or appearance of their breasts.

Breast Ultrasound (Breast Sonogram)

Breast ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the breasts and look for tumors. Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the breast tissue. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to areas inside the breasts. The examination is often used along with mammography.

Breastfeeding and Pumping Beyond the First 3 Months Class

This class is taught by a board-certified lactation consultant. It provides information on the benefits of breast milk after the first three months of life, pumping for return to work, school or everyday life, breast milk collection and storage.

Breastfeeding Class

This class will teach you everything you need to know about getting a good start with breastfeeding. Learn how to read your baby's cues, determine if breastfeeding is going well, how to tell if your baby is getting enough milk and how to identify and manage breastfeeding challenges. Expectant mothers are urged to bring their partner, support person or family member. Classes are taught by a board-certified lactation consultant.

Breastfeeding Services (Lactation Consults)

For those mothers who choose to breastfeed, a board-certified lactation consultant makes rounds to rooms, consults with you on positioning and provides any other breastfeeding assistance that you may need. They are also available after you leave the hospital.

Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows the physician to directly visualize the interior passageways of the lower respiratory tract through a bronchoscope (a long, narrow, fiberoptic, lighted tube inserted through the nose or mouth). With the bronchoscope, the physician can see the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), bronchi (large airways to the lungs), and bronchioles (smaller branches of the bronchi).

Brow Lifts

Also known as a forehead lift, a brow lift minimizes the creases that develop across the forehead, or those that occur high on the bridge of the nose; improves what are commonly referred to as frown lines; and repositions a low or sagging brow.

Business Center

The Business Center offers many office services including: computer with Internet access, printers, copiers and fax machine.

Cardiac and Vascular Clinical Research Trials

We participate in numerous cardiac and vascular research trials. The list is constantly rotating because national trials open and close due to a number of reasons such as having enrolled enough participants.

Cardiac and Vascular Support Programs

We offer educational and support programs for patients overcoming the emotional and physical effects of cardiovascular disease and stroke, their friends and families. This often begins with gaining a better understanding of the conditions and sharing your experience with others through support groups.

Cardiac MRI

Cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses special magnets and a computer to create images of the heart as it is beating, producing both still and moving pictures of the heart and major blood vessels. Doctors use cardiac MRI to get images of the beating heart and to look at the structure and function of the heart. These images can help them decide how best to treat patients with heart problems.

Cardiac Scoring (Coronary CT)

Cardiac scoring is a simple test that determines your risk for developing coronary artery disease long before any signs or symptoms are visible. Using a high-speed CT scanner, physicians can detect calcium deposits in the coronary artery and then assess your chances of developing heart disease.

The high-tech scanning equipment makes the test quick, easy and completely noninvasive. The entire exam takes about 10 minutes.

Cardiolyte Stress Testing

A cardiolyte stress test helps your doctor determine if areas of the heart are not receiving enough blood. The test is done in two parts, allowing the doctor to compare how much blood flows throughout the heart muscle during stress (exercise performed on the treadmill) and at rest.

Cardiovascular Research

Clinical research in the field of cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology.

Cardioverter Defibrillator Implantation

An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) insertion is the implantation of an electronic device (just below the collarbone) used to help regulate electrical problems with the heart. An ICD monitors the heart's electrical activity and responds with either anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) or shock therapy to prevent sudden cardiac arrest. An ICD can also record and store information about your heart rhythm and therapies delivered by the ICD for your physician to review.

Carotid Artery Disease Treatment

Treatment of carotid artery disease, which occurs when the major arteries in your neck become narrowed or blocked. These arteries, called the carotid arteries, supply your brain with blood. Your carotid arteries extend from your aorta in your chest to the brain inside your skull.

Carotid Doppler

The Carotid Doppler exam uses sound frequency in a range that is higher than human beings are able to hear to produce images of the carotid arteries in the neck on a viewing screen. The blood flow through these arteries is evaluated with Doppler.

Carotid Endarterectomy

This surgical procedure removes plaque and clots from the carotid arteries located in the neck. These arteries supply the brain with blood from the heart. Endarterectomy may help prevent a stroke from occurring.

Carotid Stent Placement

Carotid artery stenting is a procedure in which a vascular surgeon inserts a slender, metal-mesh tube, called a stent, which expands inside your carotid artery to increase blood flow in areas blocked by plaque.

Cataract Removal

Cataract removal is a procedure that removes the lens of the eye that has become clouded. Naturally eyes allow light rays to clearly focus on the back of the eye. When a cataract is present the light rays become blocked and the vision becomes cloudy. Cataract removal is performed by making a small incision at the edge of the outer lining of the eye. A special microscope is used. An artificial lens may be placed inside the eye to correct vision without glasses or contact lenses. The incision is closed with fine stitches.

Chest Pain Center

For individuals who experience chest pain and other warning signs of a heart attack, the chest pain center  is ready to provide immediate cardiac care. Patients are triaged quickly and then evaluated by a board-certified cardiologist. If the patient is experiencing a heart attack, the cardiologist may recommend immediate treatment in the cardiac cath lab. This rapid treatment response has proven to increase survival rates for heart attack patients.

Child Life Services

Child Life Specialists are members of the healthcare team who are sensitive to, and focus on, the needs of hospitalized children. The Child Life Specialist team works to ensure pediatric patients experience a sense of normalcy whenever possible while at the hospital. They use toys and games to help patients find a positive distraction during procedures, in bed, or when a sibling comes to visit.

Childbirth Preparation Classes

This class helps the expectant mom and support person learn what to expect during labor and delivery, signs of early labor, Lamaze relaxation and breathing techniques, Ceasarean birth and pain management choices. Important information is given on infant care, safety and adjusting to parenthood.

Childbirth Refresher Classes

A class for those who have had a previous childbirth preparation or Lamaze class in the past.

Children's Emergency Department

The Children's Emergency Department encompasses a "child-friendly" environment staffed by physicians board-certified in pediatric emergency medicine and nurses specially trained in pediatric care. The department provides evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents, up to age 18. Because children have unique needs, the Children's Emergency Department is designed and equipped exclusively for them.

Choledocojejunostomy

This procedure creates a new "joint" or connection between the common bile duct and a portion of the small bowel to provide drainage for the bile duct due to obstruction from a stone, tumor or other disorder.

Chordee Treatment

Chordee is a condition in which the head of the penis curves downward (that is, in a ventral direction) or upward, at the junction of the head and shaft of the penis. The principal treatment of chordee is surgery in infancy.

Clinical Feeding Evaluations

A clinical feeding evaluation involves observing a patient while feeding or eating a meal to assess current feeding skill level and any areas of difficulty.

Cognitive Retraining

Cognitive retraining is a therapeutic strategy that seeks to improve or restore a person's skills in the areas of paying attention, remembering, organizing, reasoning and understanding, problem-solving, decision making, and higher level cognitive abilities. Cognitive retraining is one aspect of cognitive rehabilitation, a comprehensive approach to restoring such skills after brain injury or other disability.

Colon Resections (Colectomy)

Laparoscopic intestinal resection surgery (colectomy) uses a thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope, which is inserted through a small incision at the belly button. The laparoscope is connected to a tiny video camera which projects a view of the operative site onto video monitors in the operating room. Anyone with a condition that requires removal of a large part of the intestine, including diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, some colorectal cancers, and rectal prolapse may be a candidate for laparoscopic intestinal surgery.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is  a procedure that allows the physician to view the entire length of the large intestine and can often help identify abnormal growths, inflamed tissue, ulcers and bleeding. It involves inserting a colonoscope, a long, flexible, lighted tube, in through the rectum, up into the colon. The colonoscope allows the physician to see the lining of the colon, remove tissue for further examination and possibly treat some problems that are detected.

Colostomy/Ilestomy

A colostomy or ilestomy is performed when the large intestine, rectum, or anus is unable to function normally or needs rest from normal functions. This procedure can be performed using laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery uses a thin, telescope-like instrument called a laparoscope, which is inserted through a small incision at the belly button. The laparoscope is connected to a tiny video camera which projects a view of the operative site onto video monitors located in the operating room.

Colposcopy

An examination of the vagina and cervix using a magnifying instrument called a colposcope or an endoscope, primarily to identify areas of cervical dysplasia in women with abnormal Pap smears.

Common Bile Duct Exploration

A common bile duct exploration is sometimes performed when a stone is found blocking the common bile duct. Tubes, catheters and x-ray guidance are used in this procedure.

Computer Assisted Diagnosis for Mammograms

Computer-assisted diagnosis of digitized mammograms uses computers to analyze mammogram images, and may improve detection and interpretation of microcalcifications and other structural changes within breast tissue.

Core Needle Biopsy

During a core needle biopsy,  a large needle is guided into a lump or suspicious area to remove a small cylinder of tissue (also called a core). No incision is necessary.

Corneal Implants

Corneal implants are small acrylic disks or rings that are inserted just under the surface of the cornea to reshape the curvature and correct refraction. The implant is similar to a contact lens but eliminates the need for daily care.

Corneal Transplant

Corneal transplantation is recommended for patients with severe infection, injury, damage, scarring or eyes that no longer allow light to pass through. Surgery will replace the clear covering of the eye that is damaged and no longer transparent. Corneal transplant is a painless procedure performed while the patient is awake. The damaged cornea is removed and the corneal graft is stitched in place.

Coronary Artery Screening Exam

Blood pressure measurements determine if you have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Blood tests are often done to measure cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is also a risk factor for developing coronary artery disease. If coronary artery disease is suspected, you may have tests to determine the diagnosis. The most common initial tests are electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), chest X-ray, routine blood tests, and exercise electrocardiogram, also called a "stress test."

Coronary Artery Stent Placement

A therapeutic procedure similar to PTCA; however, instead of a balloon being solely used to compress the plaque into the artery wall, a thin metal expandable cylinder is inserted with the balloon. The balloon is inflated, causing the stent to expand so that the struts embed themselves in the artery wall, thereby allowing the vessels to remain open and provide optimal blood flow to the rest of the heart. This procedure often results in better long-term results than PTCA alone.

Coronary CT Angiography

Coronary CT Angiography uses a 64-slice CT scanner to produce detailed pictures of the heart in a few seconds and provide sharp, clear, three-dimensional images.

The 64-slice scanner allows doctors to evaluate the most common causes of acute chest pain with a single scan. It may also permit some patients to avoid surgical procedures, such as cardiac catheterization.

Cosmetic Procedures

Procedures or treatments intended to result in cosmetic (non-medicinal) improvements.

Craniotomy

A craniotomy is a type of surgery available for critically ill stroke patients. It is performed in the brain itself to remove blood clots and treat brain swelling related to strokes.

Cryoablation (Cryosurgery)

Also called cryotherapy, cryosurgery or targeted cryoablation therapy, this is a minimally invasive treatment that uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy diseased tissue, including cancer cells. Liquid nitrogen or argon gas is applied to diseased cells located outside or inside the body. Physicians use image-guidance techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) to help guide these freezing substances to treatment sites located inside the body.

CT Scan

A computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.

Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy (also called cystourethroscopy) is an examination in which a scope, a flexible tube and viewing device, is inserted through the urethra to examine the bladder and urinary tract for structural abnormalities or obstructions, such as tumors or stones. Samples of the bladder tissue (called a biopsy) may be removed through the cystoscope for examination under a microscope in the laboratory.

da Vinci Robotic Gynecologic Surgery

With the da Vinci system, surgeons can perform gynecologic surgery by manipulating long hand-held surgical instruments inserted into the abdomen through small incisions. This procedure is less invasive and often results in a shorter recovery time.

da Vinci Robotic Prostate Surgery

This procedure incorporates a state-of-the-art robotic surgical system that helps your surgeon see vital anatomical structures more clearly and to perform a more precise surgical procedure through small incisions. For most patients this procedure offers substantially less pain and a much shorter recovery period.

The surgeon performs the operation by manipulating long hand-held surgical instruments inserted into the abdomen through small incisions.

Dads 411 Class

A class designed specfically for dads-to-be.

Diagnostic Ultrasound (Sonogram)

Diagnostic ultrasound (sonography) is a non-invasive medical imaging technology that uses high frequency sound waves to form an image of body tissues. Information obtained from these images can be utilized along with other patient data in order to arrive at a medical diagnosis.

Dilation and Curettage

Dilation and curettage (also called D & C) is  a minor operation in which the cervix is dilated (expanded) so that the cervical canal and uterine lining can be scraped with a curette (spoon-shaped instrument).