Surgical
Services

At Bay Area Hospital (BAH), we understand that undergoing surgery can be a significant decision, and we are committed to providing you with the highest quality care throughout your surgical journey. Our state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technologies, and experienced surgical teams ensure you receive the best treatment tailored to your unique needs. Whether you require a routine procedure or complex surgery, our service lines cover a wide range of specialties. With a focus on excellence, safety, and patient-centered care, we strive to exceed your expectations and achieve the best possible outcomes for you and your loved ones.

On this webpage, you’ll find information about our various surgical specialties, our commitment to pre-and post-operative care, and resources to help you prepare for surgery and recovery. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and support every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.

Thank you for choosing Bay Area Hospital for your surgical needs. We look forward to being your trusted partner in health and wellness.

Service History

Bay Area Hospital Surgical Services has a rich history rooted in a commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassionate care. Since its inception, our surgical teams have been dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services to our community.

Bay Area Hospital opened on May 19th, 1974, with a mission to provide comprehensive healthcare services to community members living in and around the southern Oregon coast. Since its founding, Bay Area Hospital has been guided by core values of kindness, excellence, teamwork, ownership, and innovation. These values have been integral to shaping the hospital’s culture and driving its commitment to exceptional patient care. BAH is proud to be a Joint Replacement Center of Excellence and, in 2017, acquired the da Vinci® Xi Robotic Surgery System, giving our local surgeons access to state-of-the-art technology right here on the coast. This innovative equipment decreases pain, results in shorter hospital stays, and improves recovery time.

Specialty Care Right Here at Home

We are proud to offer a comprehensive range of specialty services designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of our community. Listed below are some of the services our talented providers and staff deliver every day.

General Surgery

Our skilled general surgeons perform a wide range of procedures, including appendectomies, hernia repairs, and gallbladder removals, with precision and expertise.

Orthopedic Surgery

From joint replacements to sports injuries and fractures, our orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, helping patients regain mobility and quality of life.

Gynecologic Surgery

Women’s health is a priority at Bay Area Hospital. Our gynecologic surgeons offer minimally invasive procedures for conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic organ prolapse, prioritizing patient comfort and satisfaction.

Urologic Surgery

Our urology team specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system. Whether you require a prostatectomy, kidney stone removal, or treatment for urinary incontinence, we provide compassionate care tailored to your needs.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Comprehensive Pre- and Post-operative Care

At Bay Area Hospital, we’re committed to providing thorough pre-operative evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive post-operative follow-up to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgery

ENT surgery is known for its wide range of procedures focused on diagnosing and treating disorders affecting the head and neck region.

Preparing for your Surgery

Preparing for surgery involves several steps to ensure your safety, comfort, and optimal outcome.
Here’s an overview of what to expect, including preparations at the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic and on the day of surgery:

Pre-Anesthesia Clinic Preparation

Scheduling and Assessment

After your surgery is scheduled, you may be referred to the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic for an assessment. During this appointment, a nurse or anesthesiologist will review your medical history, medications, and allergies to ensure a safe anesthesia plan.

Pre-operative Testing

Depending on your health status and the type of surgery, you may undergo pre-operative tests such as blood work, electrocardiogram (ECG), or imaging studies. These tests help evaluate your overall health and identify potential risks before surgery.

Education and Counseling

The PreAnesthesia Clinic team will provide information about the anesthesia process, including what to expect before, during, and after surgery. They will address any concerns or questions you may have and ensure you are well-informed and prepared for the procedure.

Medication Instructions

You’ll receive instructions regarding which medications to take or avoid before surgery, including any adjustments to your regular medications. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to minimize the risk of complications during surgery.

Fasting Guidelines

You will be given specific instructions about fasting before surgery, typically including restrictions on eating and drinking for a certain period before the procedure. Following these guidelines helps reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.

Same Day Preparation

Check-In

Upon arrival at the hospital or surgical center, you will check in at the registration desk. The staff will verify your identity, review your paperwork, and ensure that all necessary pre-operative tasks have been completed.

Pre-operative Assessment

A nurse will escort you to the pre-operative area, where vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature will be checked. You may also change into a hospital gown and have an intravenous (IV) line placed for fluids and medications.

Anesthesia Consultation

An anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will meet with you to review your medical history, discuss the anesthesia plan, and address any concerns or questions you may have. They will also explain the process of anesthesia induction and post-operative pain management.

Surgical Site Preparation

Depending on the type of surgery, the surgical team may perform additional preparations, such as shaving or cleaning the surgical site, to reduce the risk of infection.

Final Preparations

Before being taken to the operating room, you will have the opportunity to speak with your surgeon and any other members of the surgical team. This is a good time to ask any last-minute questions and receive reassurance about the procedure.

Preparing for surgery involves collaboration between you, your healthcare providers, and the surgical team to ensure a safe and successful outcome. By following pre-operative instructions, staying informed, and addressing any concerns, you can feel confident and ready for your surgical experience.

Anesthesia

Anesthesia is a medical intervention used to induce a reversible loss of sensation and consciousness, allowing patients to undergo surgical procedures without experiencing pain or discomfort. It is administered by specially trained healthcare professionals called anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, who carefully monitor and manage the patient’s vital functions throughout the surgical process. Anesthesia can be classified into several types, each serving specific purposes and tailored to the individual patient’s needs:

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is the most common type of anesthesia used for surgical procedures. It involves administering medications that induce a state of unconsciousness, rendering the patient completely unaware and unresponsive to pain and external stimuli. During general anesthesia, the patient’s vital functions, including breathing and heart rate, are closely monitored, and controlled by the anesthesia team. General anesthesia is typically administered through inhalation (inhaled anesthetics) or intravenous (IV) medications.

Regional Anesthesia

Regional anesthesia involves numbing a specific region of the body, such as an arm, leg, or the lower half of the body, to block sensation and pain during surgery. Common types of regional anesthesia include epidural anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, and peripheral nerve blocks. Unlike general anesthesia, regional anesthesia allows patients to remain conscious and aware during the procedure while providing effective pain relief. It is often used for procedures involving the lower abdomen, pelvis, or extremities.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia involves injecting medication directly into the tissue surrounding the surgical site to numb a small area and block pain sensation. Local anesthesia is commonly used for minor surgical procedures, such as skin biopsies, mole removals, or dental procedures. Unlike general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, local anesthesia does not affect consciousness or awareness and is typically administered by the surgeon or a local anesthesia specialist

Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)

Monitored anesthesia care (MAC), also known as sedation anesthesia, involves administering medications to induce a state of relaxation and drowsiness while providing pain relief during certain procedures. Patients under MAC anesthesia remain conscious and responsive but are typically in a semi-conscious or “twilight” state. MAC anesthesia is often used for minor surgical procedures, diagnostic tests, or procedures performed outside the operating room.

Anesthesia is a critical component of modern surgical care, ensuring patient comfort, safety, and optimal surgical conditions. The type and administration of anesthesia are carefully selected based on the patient’s medical history, the nature of the surgical procedure, and individual preferences. Before undergoing anesthesia, patients receive thorough preoperative evaluations and consultations with the anesthesia team to discuss their options, address any concerns, and ensure a safe and successful surgical experience. Throughout the surgical process, the anesthesia team remains vigilant, continuously monitoring the patient’s condition and adjusting anesthesia levels as needed to maintain stability and provide optimal care.

Recovery

Recovery and discharge are crucial stages of the surgical process that focus on ensuring your comfort, safety, and successful transition back to your everyday life. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery and discharge process:

Immediate Postoperative Recovery:

Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

After surgery, you will be transferred to the PACU, where specialized nurses closely monitor your vital signs, pain levels, and recovery from anesthesia. You may feel groggy or disoriented initially, but the nursing staff will provide attentive care to help you wake up comfortably.

Pain Management

The PACU team will assess your pain levels and administer appropriate pain medications to keep you comfortable. They will closely monitor your response to pain relief measures and adjust medications as needed to ensure optimal pain control.

Monitoring and Assessment

Throughout your time in the PACU, nurses will continuously monitor your vital signs, oxygen levels, and surgical site to detect any signs of complications or adverse reactions. They will also assess your ability to breathe, move, and swallow safely before transitioning you to the next phase of recovery.

Recovery on the Surgical Unit:

Transfer to the Surgical Unit

Once you are stable and awake, you will be transferred to a surgical unit or recovery area where you will continue your recovery under the care of nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Mobility and Activity

Encouraging early mobility and activity is essential for preventing complications such as blood clots and promoting faster recovery. Nurses and physical therapists will assist you with getting out of bed, walking, and performing gentle exercises as tolerated.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures

The nursing staff will continue to monitor your pain levels and administer medications as needed to keep you comfortable. They will also provide support with positioning, relaxation techniques, and other comfort measures to promote healing and well-being.

Discharge Planning and Education:

Care Instructions

Before discharge, you will receive detailed instructions on wound care, medication management, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. It’s essential to understand and follow these instructions to optimize your recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Home Care and Support

If necessary, arrangements for home care services, medical equipment, or additional support will be made to facilitate a smooth transition home. This may include assistance with activities of daily living, transportation, and follow-up care from healthcare providers.

Follow-Up Appointments

You will be provided with information about your postoperative follow-up appointments with your surgeon or primary care physician. These appointments are important for monitoring your progress, addressing any concerns, and ensuring that you are on track for a full recovery.

Contact Information

You will receive contact information for healthcare providers and resources to reach out to in case of any questions, concerns, or emergencies after discharge. It’s essential to have access to support and guidance throughout your recovery process.

Recovery and discharge mark the beginning of your journey back to health and well-being after surgery. By following your care plan, staying connected with your healthcare team, and prioritizing self-care, you can navigate this process with confidence and achieve a successful outcome.

Thank you for choosing Bay Area Hospital Surgical Services for your healthcare needs.