The Dasher Heart Center at South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta has unveiled a state-of-the-art operating room that takes the treatment of vascular and endovascular patients to the next level.

According to SGMC Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon Dr. Maurice Solis, this is the only hybrid operating room in South Georgia.

"Hybrid operating rooms combine the most advanced operating room and medical imaging technology,” Dr. Solis explains.  “The room will be especially helpful in treating patients with complex aneurysms, circulatory issues in the lower extremities and carotid artery disease—situations where expert imaging is beneficial.”

Dr. Solis explains that the need for the hybrid room is to be prepared for the unknown. When a surgeon is doing an endovascular procedure, such as treating a circulatory blockage by inserting a stent in a patient’s leg, there is always a small possibility an emergency will occur.  

“A fairly-routine case can become life threatening if a blood clot breaks loose during the stenting procedure,” Dr. Solis stated.  “SGMC’s hybrid room makes it possible to transition from an endovascular case, using wires, stents, needles and contrast (something similar to a procedure performed in a Cath Lab) to an open case with anesthesia and full surgical intervention in a matter of moments.”

The new OR has a regular surgical table complete with a C-arm robot image intensifier. When endovascular imaging is needed, the robot drives itself over to the procedure table.  When it is no longer needed, it drives itself back to its docking location.  The hybrid OR is also equipped with advanced video transmission equipment that allows live-case presentations as learning opportunities for physicians, nurses and students.

According to SGMC System Project Director Bill Forbes, the hybrid OR was designed by Gresham Smith Architects of Jacksonville and constructed by local contractor, Cauthan Construction.

Forbes concluded by saying, ”The Hospital Authority of Valdosta and Lowndes County, GA and SGMC’s Leadership continue to bring the best available technology and services to the citizens of Valdosta, Lowndes County and surrounding areas.”