NSMC News Releases
In North Shore Medical Center’s new hybrid vascular operating room, state-of-the-art imaging technology captures real-time, three-dimensional images that enable surgeons to perform complex life-saving procedures.
The facility is the centerpiece of NSMC’s expanded Vascular Center. Bringing together experts in vascular surgery, interventional radiology, hyperbaric therapy and wound care, the Center offers treatments for a wide range of circulatory problems to help patients resume physical activities, slow or stop the progression of vascular disease and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
The new hybrid operating room puts NSMC at the leading edge of endovascular intervention and vascular surgery. “Our talented endovascular physicians have access to some of the most advanced imaging technology in the nation,” says Miriam Neuman, M.D., vascular and interventional radiologist and Chief of Interventional Radiology at NSMC. “It is a powerful tool to provide world-class care.”
Comprehensive Approach
The Center treats a full range of conditions involving the vascular (or circulatory) system—the arteries and veins that supply blood, oxygen and nutrients to every part of the body. Complications arise when the flow of blood is restricted due to a blockage or narrowing in the arteries, leading to stroke, limb deterioration, pain or discomfort.
NSMC vascular specialists use the latest methods to treat blockages and restore healthy blood flow. Treatments include clot-dissolving medication and angioplasty, which involves inserting a thin balloon-tipped tube (or catheter) into the blocked artery, and placing a stent (a wire mesh tube) to keep the artery open so blood can flow properly. For certain conditions, surgeons may create a vascular bypass using a vessel from another part of the body or a tube made of synthetic fabric. This enables blood to flow around a blocked or narrowed artery and can save lives and limbs.
Many patients can alleviate symptoms with simple lifestyle changes such as exercise and improved diet. To help patients suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)—a narrowing of the peripheral arteries, most commonly in the legs, but also in the stomach, arms, or head—NSMC recently launched a comprehensive, physician-supervised program. This service gives patients practical guidance and treatment options, including exercise therapy, to reduce the cramping and muscle pain caused by PAD and improve their quality of life.
“Over the past few years, NSMC has been implementing an ambitious expansion and development plan to provide high-quality, integrated, accessible care to North Shore families, and our Vascular Center is emblematic of this effort,” says James Balcom, M.D., vascular surgeon and Medical Director of NSMC’s Advanced Wound Center. We’re excited about the many ways our expanded service will benefit our patients.”
NSMC (North Shore Medical Center) is a multi-site health system headquartered in Salem, Mass., which includes NSMC Salem Hospital, NSMC Union Hospital in Lynn, MassGeneral for Children at North Shore Medical Center, NSMC Heart Center, NSMC Women’s Center and the physician network known as North Shore Physicians Group. NSMC and Massachusetts General Hospital together provide care at the Mass General/North Shore Center for Outpatient Care and the Mass General/North Shore Cancer Center in Danvers. NSMC is a member of Partners HealthCare, which was founded by Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. #northshoremed