Houston Medical News

At Townsen Memorial Health System, our pledge to deliver individualized care for all patients is the cornerstone of everything we do. With a steadfast commitment to accessible, high-quality, patient-centered healthcare, we continuously seek to innovate and enhance our medical services. It is with great pride that we introduce the latest advancement in our surgical offerings – Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment for an enlarged prostate, otherwise known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a testament to our dedication to excellence, innovation, and compassion in patient care.

What is Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment?

Aquablation therapy represents a groundbreaking approach in the treatment of BPH, an enlarged prostate condition that affects a significant number of men worldwide. Unlike traditional treatments, Aquablation therapy employs the precision of robotically controlled waterjets to remove prostate tissue efficiently, guided by real-time ultrasound imaging. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to target and treat the symptoms of BPH with unmatched precision, reducing the risk of side effects commonly associated with conventional methods.

Advantages Over Traditional Treatments

The introduction of Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment at Townsen Memorial Hospital brings forth a multitude of advantages over traditional BPH treatments. Key benefits include:

Precision and Safety

With real-time imaging and robotic control, Aquablation therapy offers a level of precision that significantly reduces the risk of complications and preserves sexual function, a common concern among men undergoing prostate surgery.

Faster Recovery Times

Patients can expect a quicker return to their daily activities, thanks to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure.

Effectiveness Across Various Prostate Sizes

Aquablation therapy is effective for a wide range of prostate sizes, offering a versatile solution for many patients.

Reduced Hospital Stay

The efficiency and safety of the procedure often result in shorter hospital stays, emphasizing our value of accommodating your healthcare needs swiftly and responsively.

No More Compromises: A Closer Look at Aquablation Therapy Benefits

We are thrilled to offer Aquablation therapy at Townsen Memorial Hospital because we recognize the profound impact BPH can have on a man's life. Many men find themselves having to compromise between inadequate symptom relief and the risk of significant side effects from traditional treatments. Aquablation therapy emerges as a pioneering solution, aiming to minimize these compromises, enabling men to regain their quality of life without sacrificing sexual function, which is a significant concern for many.

• 83% of men with BPH are unwilling to compromise sexual function for symptom relief.
• 75% believe surgery requires a trade-off between symptom relief and side effects.
• 50% did not realize the importance of maintaining sexual function until faced with surgery options.

Addressing Concerns Over Side Effects

The decision to delay surgery often stems from concerns over potential side effects. Surveys indicate that 85% of men worry about surgery leading to incontinence, and 80% fear a permanent impact on sexual function. However, Aquablation therapy has demonstrated a significantly lower rate of irreversible complications in clinical studies:

• Zero impact on erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, or overall sexual satisfaction.
• Approximately 90% of men preserve ejaculatory function post-Aquablation therapy.
• 99% of men did not experience incontinence following the procedure.

Our Commitment to You

The introduction of Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment at Townsen Memorial Health System is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation, while maintaining the integrity and excellence that our patients deserve. We believe that everyone should have access to the latest treatments and technologies in their journey toward optimal health.

In line with our core values, we continue to embrace cutting-edge medical advancements to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for our patients. Aquablation therapy is more than just a new treatment option; it's a symbol of our dedication to providing compassionate, quality, and patient-centered care.

For those seeking more information about Aquablation Therapy Surgical Treatment for BPH or to schedule a consultation, we invite you to contact Townsen Memorial Hospital. Let us help you navigate your health journey with the care, excellence, and innovation that you deserve.

At Townsen Memorial Health System, we're committed to delivering compassionate, individualized care to all patients. Our focus on accessibility and innovation drives us to continuously enhance healthcare outcomes using the latest technologies and treatments. With this ethos in mind, we're thrilled to introduce our brand-new Surgery Center and Imaging Center in Katy, Texas. These state-of-the-art facilities are poised to bring high-quality medical services closer to the community, ensuring that individuals in the Greater Houston Area have access to the care they need when they need it most.

Welcome to Townsen Memorial Surgery Center - Katy

Our newest surgery center is outfitted with four advanced operating rooms, ensuring that we can cater to your specialized healthcare needs with precision and efficiency. Led by a team of highly trained doctors, surgeons, and support staff, we offer a comprehensive range of outpatient procedures designed to prioritize your comfort and well-being. From bariatric surgery to urology procedures, our services cover a diverse spectrum of healthcare needs. Whether you're seeking treatment for orthopedic issues or interventional pain management, you can trust Townsen Memorial Surgery Center - Katy to provide personalized care tailored to your unique requirements. Experience excellence in healthcare at our state-of-the-art facility, where your health and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Experience Advanced Imaging Excellence at Townsen Memorial Imaging - Katy

Right next door to our Katy Surgery Center is our imaging facility, equipped with the most advanced technology, including MRI, CT scan, X-ray, ultrasound, EMG, and ECHO machines. With these state-of-the-art tools, we ensure that you receive the highest quality and most accurate diagnostic imaging services available. You can read all about what our cutting-edge imaging machines can do for you in this series of blog posts. Our skilled clinical staff and imaging technicians are dedicated to providing you with expert care in a convenient and comfortable environment. Whether you're in need of a routine scan or more specialized imaging, you can trust Townsen Memorial Imaging - Katy to deliver personalized and precise care tailored to your individual needs. Experience the difference that true individualized care can make for your health and well-being at our exceptional imaging center.

Join Us at Our Open House & Explore Career Opportunities at Townsen Memorial Health System

Eager to see our newest facilities up close? We are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to Townsen Memorial Health System's highly anticipated Open House event: Katy Surgery & Imaging Center, taking place on Thursday, March 21, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM CDT. Step into our cutting-edge facility located at 20823 Park Row, Katy, TX 77449, and immerse yourself in the innovative world of modern healthcare.

Calling all doctors, healthcare professionals, technicians, and technologists: this is your chance to explore rewarding career opportunities with us. At Townsen Memorial, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and compassion in healthcare. Join our dynamic team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients in our community.

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and discover the endless possibilities that await you at Townsen Memorial Health System. Reach out to us today to learn more about how you can become a part of our passionate and dedicated team. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms!

Welcome to the final installment of our blog series about the advanced medical imaging technologies that are available across the Townsen Memorial Health System. If you like, you can read Part 1 and Part 2 first. In this concluding entry, we shift our focus to three essential imaging technologies: ultrasound, EMG (Electromyography), and ECHO (Echocardiography). These cutting-edge diagnostic tools are integral components of our comprehensive healthcare offerings at Townsen Memorial Health System.

Ultrasound Machines

Ultrasound machines use sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. They are good for a variety of diagnostic procedures, including:

Pregnancy Monitoring: Ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy to monitor the growth and development of the fetus, assess fetal anatomy, and detect any abnormalities.

Abdominal Imaging: Ultrasound can visualize organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, and bladder. It is used to diagnose conditions such as gallstones, kidney stones, liver tumors, and abdominal masses.

Pelvic Imaging: Ultrasound can assess the reproductive organs in both men and women, including the uterus, ovaries, and prostate gland. It is used to diagnose conditions such as ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and prostate enlargement.

Vascular Imaging: Ultrasound can visualize blood flow in the arteries and veins, helping to diagnose conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, arterial blockages, and aneurysms.

Musculoskeletal Imaging: Ultrasound can assess soft tissues, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. It is used to diagnose conditions such as tendonitis, bursitis, muscle tears, and joint inflammation.

Overall, ultrasound machines are versatile diagnostic tools that provide real-time imaging of the body's internal structures without the use of ionizing radiation. They are safe, non-invasive, and widely used in medical practice for a variety of diagnostic purposes.

Ultrasound Machines are available at all Townsen Imaging Centers.

EMG Machines

EMG (Electromyography) machines are used to measure the electrical activity of muscles and the nerves that control them. These machines are used for several diagnostic procedures, such as:

Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): In addition to EMG, many EMG machines also perform nerve conduction studies. NCS measure the speed and strength of electrical signals as they travel along the nerves. They are used to diagnose conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, and nerve injuries.

Muscle Disorders: EMG can diagnose various muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, and myopathies. It can assess muscle function, detect abnormalities in muscle activation patterns, and differentiate between primary muscle disorders and nerve-related conditions.

Peripheral Neuropathy: EMG can evaluate the function of peripheral nerves and diagnose peripheral neuropathies, which are conditions that affect the peripheral nervous system. It can help determine the location and severity of nerve damage and guide treatment decisions.

Spinal Cord Disorders: EMG can assess the function of nerves in the spinal cord and diagnose conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and radiculopathy (nerve root compression). It can localize the site of nerve compression or injury and differentiate between spinal cord disorders and peripheral nerve disorders.

Overall, EMG machines are valuable diagnostic tools for evaluating neuromuscular function and diagnosing a wide range of conditions affecting the muscles and nerves. They provide valuable information that helps healthcare providers develop treatment plans and monitor the progression of neuromuscular disorders.

EMG Machines are available at all Townsen Imaging Centers.

Echocardiography Machines

Echocardiography (ECHO) machines use ultrasound technology to create images of the heart and its surrounding structures. ECHO machines are a for several diagnostic procedures, including:

Assessment of Cardiac Function: Echocardiography is used to assess the overall function of the heart, including its pumping ability (ejection fraction), chamber sizes, wall thickness, and overall cardiac performance. It helps diagnose conditions such as heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Valvular Heart Disease: Echocardiography can evaluate the structure and function of the heart valves, including the mitral valve, aortic valve, tricuspid valve, and pulmonary valve. It helps diagnose conditions such as valve regurgitation (leakage) or stenosis (narrowing) and assess the severity of valve disease.

Congenital Heart Defects: Echocardiography is used to diagnose and assess congenital heart defects, which are structural abnormalities present at birth. It helps evaluate the anatomy and function of the heart and guides treatment decisions for conditions such as atrial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

Cardiac Masses and Tumors: Echocardiography can detect the presence of abnormal masses or tumors in the heart, such as atrial myxomas or cardiac tumors. It helps assess the size, location, and characteristics of these masses and guides treatment planning.

Overall, echocardiography is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating cardiac structure and function, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring the progression of heart disease. It is safe, non-invasive, and widely used in medical practice for patients of all ages.

ECHO machines are available at all Townsen Imaging Centers.

Find The Latest Medical Technology at Townsen Memorial Imaging Centers

Thank you for joining us as we explored the capabilities, applications, and significance of medical imaging in providing accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. As new medical imaging technologies emerge in the future, you can be sure that Townsen Memorial Health System will be among the first to use them to empower our healthcare providers to deliver exceptional care. Be sure to keep an eye out for our new locations as Townsen Memorial Health System expands to put excellent individualized care within reach of even more people. For any questions or inquiries, contact us here.

Welcome back to the second installment of this series about the advanced medical imaging technologies employed at Townsen Memorial Health System. You can find Part 1 here. In this edition, we delve deeper into the world of medical imaging, focusing on three more diagnostic tools. These technologies play a crucial role in providing comprehensive healthcare services across the Townsen Memorial Health System.

3D Mammogram Machines

3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), is an advanced imaging technique used for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. 3D mammography is particularly useful for:

Breast Cancer Screening: 3D mammography is more effective than traditional mammography at detecting breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue. It can detect smaller cancers that may not be visible on 2D images and reduce the need for additional imaging or follow-up tests.

Diagnostic Imaging: 3D mammography can be used to evaluate breast abnormalities detected on screening mammograms or clinical exams. It helps differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, guiding further diagnostic procedures, such as biopsies or ultrasound examinations.

High-Risk Screening: Women at high risk for breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease or a genetic predisposition, may benefit from 3D mammography as part of their screening regimen. It provides more comprehensive and accurate imaging, improving the early detection of breast cancer in high-risk populations.

Overall, 3D mammography offers significant advantages over traditional mammography, including improved cancer detection rates, reduced false positives, and enhanced diagnostic accuracy. It is a valuable tool in the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer, ultimately improving patient outcomes and survival rates.

3D Mammogram Machines are available at Townsen Memorial Imaging Centers in Humble and Southwest.

DEXA Scan Machines

DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan machines are used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and assess a person's risk of osteoporosis and fractures. DEXA scans are good for:

Diagnosing Osteoporosis: DEXA scans are the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing bone health. They can detect even small changes in bone density, allowing healthcare providers to identify osteoporosis early and initiate appropriate treatment to prevent fractures.

Monitoring Treatment Response: DEXA scans can be used to monitor the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment over time. By comparing bone density measurements from follow-up scans to baseline measurements, healthcare providers can determine whether treatment is slowing the rate of bone loss or increasing bone density.

Fracture Risk Assessment: DEXA scans provide valuable information about a person's risk of fracture based on their bone density measurements. Healthcare providers use this information, along with other risk factors such as age, sex, and medical history, to assess fracture risk and develop personalized treatment plans to reduce the risk of fractures.

Overall, DEXA scans play a crucial role in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of osteoporosis and fractures. They provide accurate and reliable measurements of bone mineral density, helping healthcare providers assess bone health and make informed decisions about treatment and fracture prevention strategies.

The DEXA Scan Machine is available at the Townsen Memorial Imaging Center in Humble.

X-ray Machines

Despite being the first medical imaging technology, X-ray machines are still used for a variety of diagnostic procedures, including:

Bone Fractures: X-rays are commonly used to diagnose and assess bone fractures. They can reveal the location, extent, and alignment of fractures, helping healthcare providers determine the appropriate treatment.

Pulmonary Conditions: Chest X-rays are used to evaluate the lungs and diagnose conditions such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and collapsed lung (pneumothorax).

Digestive System: X-rays of the abdomen can detect abnormalities in the digestive organs, such as bowel obstructions, kidney stones, and gastrointestinal perforations.

Orthopedic Conditions: X-rays can assess joint conditions such as arthritis, detect dislocations, and evaluate orthopedic implants.

More than a century since they were first used, X-ray machines are still valuable diagnostic tools that provide detailed images of the inside of the body, helping healthcare providers diagnose a wide range of medical conditions and injuries.

X-ray Machines are available at all Townsen Imaging Centers.

Advanced Diagnostic Services at Townsen Memorial Health System

We hope you enjoyed learning about the versatility, effectiveness, and importance of these various imaging technologies in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. These advanced diagnostic services enhance patient care and contribute to improved health outcomes throughout Townsen Memorial Health System’s network of convenient and accessible locations. Next time, we close out this series by discussing Ultrasound, EMG, and ECHO imaging technologies and what they bring to the table. You can click here to check out which of our Imaging Centers is closest to you and what kind of services they have available. For other questions and inquiries, you can give us a call now!