Patient credits Ridgeview specialist with early detection Attention to and treatment of cyst heads off threat of pancreatic cancer

Transcription

1 Summer HealthViews News Classes Community Events Patient credits Ridgeview specialist with early detection Attention to and treatment of cyst heads off threat of pancreatic cancer Thirty-five-year-old Stephanie Orcutt of Chanhassen has been health conscious for years. Diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 1997, she controls the disease by eating healthy and exercising regularly. She works with her ob/ gyn to manage her endometriosis. And, she has screenings for diseases that run in her family, including pancreatic disease and colon cancer. None of that prepared her for a visit with one of Ridgeview Clinics gastroenterologists in October Orcutt had experienced ongoing stomach upset and intestinal discomfort for most of Her gallbladder had been removed earlier in the year, but Orcutt s pain persisted. It finally got to the point that it was bothersome, limiting what I could eat and drink, said Orcutt. She followed the recommendation of two doctors and made an appointment with Sabina Khan, MD, Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Gastroenterology. Given Orcutt s medical situation, Dr. Khan performed a colonoscopy and endoscopy. She found that Orcutt had stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and H.pylori a common stomach infection, though a condition that can be linked to stomach cancer. Dr. Khan recommended a change in diet and a prescription medication. But after a few weeks, I still wasn t feeling better, said Orcutt, and she returned to Dr. Khan. Having ruled out other potential causes for Orcutt s condition, Dr. Khan recommended a CT scan at Ridgeview Imaging Services. The meeting that followed was somewhat surreal, recalled Orcutt, Like you re somebody looking in. You re in a recovery room. The drapes are pulled. You re sitting, the doctor s sitting, and there s the realization that this might really be something, said Orcutt. I still remember Dr. Khan took a breath and said, This is concerning. The CT scan showed a cyst on Orcutt s pancreas. Pancreatic cysts are common and are usually found incidentally, said Dr. Khan. Early detection, continued on page 2 Thank you for being so observant and playing an important role in the path of my life and road to recovery, wrote Stephanie Orcutt of Chanhassen, in a letter to Dr. Sabina Khan. 3 Ask a Ridgeview Physician: David Gross, MD, Chief of Radiology at Ridgeview Ridgeview ENT specialists offer unique, 4 surgical hearing solution 7 Classes, Events & Ways to Get Involved at Ridgeview

2 Early detection, continued from page 1 About Pancreatic Cancer Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Pancreatic cancer has the highest mortality rate of all major cancers. Ninety-four percent of pancreatic cancer patients will die within five years of diagnosis only 6 percent will survive more than five years. Seventy-five percent of patients die within the first year of diagnosis. The average life expectancy after diagnosis with metastatic disease is just three to six months. Ridgeview gastroentologist Sabina Khan, MD, reviews patient Stephanie Orcutt s CT scan, showing a cyst on her pancreas. Results from the scan, taken at Ridgeview Imaging Services in Waconia, were shared with Orcutt on the day of the CT. In Stephanie s case we were looking for the cause of her abdominal pain. Orcutt s situation and symptoms warranted further investigation. The size and structure of this cyst was worrisome, said Dr. Khan. Pancreatic cysts can be cancerous or precancerous and need further investigation; Orcutt was referred to another hospital for an endoscopic ultrasound. Performed by specially trained gastroenterologists, an endoscopic ultrasound is typically a same-day procedure in which a tube is inserted through the throat and into the stomach, guided by ultrasound images. In Orcutt s case, the endoscopic ultrasound was used to sample tissue from her pancreas. The procedure caused an inflammation of her pancreas, and Orcutt was hospitalized for six days. She was home for Christmas, but then spent another week at Abbott Northwestern Hospital s Virginia Piper Cancer Institute, which has a specialized pancreatic cancer program. Orcutt was diagnosed with mucinous cystadenoma. It s a cystic lesion in the pancreas, explained liver and pancreas surgeon Shawn MacKenzie, MD, FACS, Abbott. Surgery is necessary because without it, the accumulation of mucin from the lesion may obstruct the pancreas duct, Dr. MacKenzie said. Often, these 2 cysts are precancerous lesions, he said, and therefore, We recommend having the cyst removed, preventing the conversion to cancer. Without Dr. Khan Who knows where I d be Over the next three months, Orcutt awaited surgery, allowing her acute pancreas inflammation to resolve, which provided an opportunity to attempt a minimally invasive pancreas surgery. She had additional CT scans as doctors watched the cyst for changes and signs that the pancreas inflammation had resolved. In addition, in preparation for the possible removal of her spleen during surgery due to physiological placement Orcutt had to have current immunizations to prevent infections. Finally, in March 2010, Orcutt underwent four-hour surgery in which the 35-millimeter cyst made up of pre-malignant cells was removed, along with 40 percent of Orcutt s pancreas. Orcutt was hospitalized for a week after the surgery. Unfortunately, after a few days at home, she experienced a pancreatic enzyme leak. A drain was surgically implanted through her rib cage; she needed to check the fluid level daily and drain it for three weeks. Over the year that followed, Orcutt gradually reintroduced foods into her diet that previously would have upset her stomach. She does not need pancreatic enzyme replacement or insulin injections, as might be needed with the removal Pancreatic cancer may cause only vague symptoms that could indicate many different conditions within the abdomen or gastrointestinal tract. If you have questions, consult your primary care provider, or call Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Gastroenterology at (952) Source: Hirschberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research of part of her pancreas, and continues visiting her primary care doctor and Dr. Khan, when necessary, to monitor any changes. On the anniversary of Orcutt s surgery, she reflected on all of the doctors and nurses who had cared for her during her 18-month journey to overcome her illness. Despite various setbacks and a long recovery, Orcutt is certain the alternative could ve been far worse. Thank you for being so observant and playing an important role in the path of my life and road to recovery, wrote Orcut, in a letter to Dr. Khan. I feel very fortunate that I was among a small percentage of cases where something was found early enough to prevent a bad outcome. If it had not been for Dr. Khan s care and concern for me, who knows where I d be, said Orcutt. For more information about Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Gastroenterology, visit or call (952) About Pancreatic Cancer

3 David Gross, MD, Consulting Radiologists, Ltd., chief of Radiology at Ridgeview and named to Mpls.St.Paul magazine s annual listing of Top Doctors in 2011, says, I d readily put Ridgeview s capabilities and image quality head-to-head with any other facility in the state, from the imaging giants in the Twin Cities to Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Our leading-edge technology simply offers the best-quality imaging the market has to offer. David Gross, MD, Radiologist When technologist Tiffany Thulin prepares an infant or child for an X-ray at Ridgeview s new Imaging Center at Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska, she explains, I never know what to expect. It s hard for a young child to hold still; I ll likely be dealing with wiggling, sudden movements and sometimes crying everything that makes it difficult to get a clear, precise image. But I am always amazed just when I expect to have to retake an image, it turns out great. That s because the system purchased for the new Imaging Center is extremely fast. An X-ray will come up in a few seconds, which is perfect for the high volume of pediatric patients we see in Chaska, said Thulin. And this state-of-the-art equipment is testament to Ridgeview s commitment to quality. Q A How many imaging procedures are performed at Ridgeview annually? More than 47,000 imaging procedures were performed in While X-rays account for nearly half of the procedures at Ridgeview, CT scans claim the next 25 percent. Ask a Ridgeview Physician Q A Q A What is an MRI and when is it used? An MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is commonly ordered for orthopaedic patients as it provides great contrast imaging between different soft tissues of the body. An MRI is judged by the size of the magnet, and Ridgeview s equipment has the strongest magnet possible to manage the breadth of physician requests. Magnet quality equates into faster scan times and more detailed images. For example, scans that may take 40 minutes elsewhere take only 20 minutes at Ridgeview. The new equipment purchased for Chaska also has a wide bore, or opening ideal for claustrophobic patients. How can I be assured that Ridgeview has qualified imaging staff? Though not required by Medicare until 2012, 100 percent of Ridgeview s imaging technologists are specialty certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. In addition, board-certified radiologists from Consulting Radiologist, Ltd., a physician-owned practice that has been serving patients and providers throughout the Upper Midwest for over 80 years, are on site at Ridgeview Medical Center. Q A What is a CT scan and when is it used? CT stands for computed tomography. These scanners bring highly advanced three-dimensional images of body organs and major blood vessels and are most commonly used in cardiac diagnoses and other anatomy scans such as the spine, brain, abdomen and pelvis. By simultaneously scanning several sections of the body, Ridgeview s 128-slice CT scanner has unprecedented image quality and reduced scan time. Ridgeview purchased its first 128-slice CT scanner in 2009 and was the first medical facility in the state to offer this leading-edge technology. Today, Ridgeview s scanners are also among only 15 in the state equipped with Iterative Reconstruction in Image Space (IRIS) providing the lowest-possible radiation dose. Q A How has technology enhanced imaging services? The detail provided with digital imaging brings extraordinary quality to images that was never available just a few years ago, but beyond that, digital technology makes it possible for physicians to easily share records, said Dr. Gross. When a patient is transferred to another facility, it s not uncommon for their records to be sent ahead and reviewed by a physician even before the patient arrives. The next time you need imaging services, ask your primary care physician for a referral to Ridgeview. For more information, visit 3

4 Ridgeview ENT physician, audiologist offer patient unique, surgical hearing solution Jackie Alsleben, right, can hear better now with the help of a Baha. She met with Carrie Hathaway, AuD, in May for an adjustment to the sound processor. While visiting with friends at a birthday party in the winter of 2008, Jackie Alsleben noticed that all of their words were becoming jumbled together. By the end of the evening, it just hit me, she said. I have a hearing problem. Ridgeview ENT doctors offer support The Arlington resident sought care at Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Otolaryngology, where an audiologist discovered a suspicious asymmetric hearing loss. This finding led to an MRI which indicated an acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwanoma) a tumor on the acoustic nerve that connects the ear to the brain which needed to be treated. With specialized radiation therapy at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, a neurosurgeon shrunk and prevented further growth of Alsleben s tumor in July Once the procedure was complete, Alsleben began exploring options for improving her hearing. That led Alsleben back to Ridgeview. Working with one of Ridgeview s audiologists, Alsleben first trialed a traditional hearing aid. Not satisfied with the fitting, Alsleben was referred to two Ridgeview providers who could offer a unique, surgical option. Audiologist Carrie Hathaway, AuD, and ENT physician Michael Hopfenspirger, MD, recommended the Baha, or bone-anchored hearing aid, which includes a small titanium implant that is surgically placed in the skull behind the ear. The Baha device routes sound from the deaf side of the head over to the functional ear via subtle vibrations, Dr. Hopfenspirger explained. Other hearing aids rely at least partially upon functional ear mechanics such as the ear drum, ear canal and hearing bones. The Baha completely bypasses these parts of the ear. A good candidate for this procedure would have either single-sided deafness or problems with conventional hearing aids. For patients like Jackie, this is really an unrivaled solution, said Dr. Hopfenspirger. Baha: The best solution The Baha involves first the surgery for placement of the implant, then the fitting of a hearing device (or sound processor) to an abutment attached to the implant. Dr. Hopfenspirger performed surgery to implant the titanium post, or abutment, in October The surgery, in which the post is anchored to the skull, was complete in about an hour and a half, and Alsleben had minimal recovery. Once the abutment and skull became fused, she had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Hathaway. We waited 90 days for full osseointegration to allow bone to grow around the post, said Dr. Hathaway. Dr. Hathaway then fit the sound processor, a digital hearing aid that drives or vibrates an oscillator that attaches to the abutment, she explained. Alsleben noticed the changes in her hearing especially the little things right away. On the day she received the device, she turned the radio volume down on her drive home from the clinic. Alsleben can now watch movies without having to turn the volume way up, and she doesn t need to ask people to repeat themselves quite as often. To care for her Baha, Alsleben removes the sound processor to shower or wash her hair, and stores it nightly, to eliminate any moisture that could cause the unit, like any electronic component, to fail. She meets with Dr. Hathaway every four months for routine cleaning on her Baha device. Alsleben also has regularly scheduled MRIs to ensure there are no repercussions from her tumor. If it weren t for that pivotal party back in 2008, Alsleben might not have her Baha today a solution that helps her enjoy, among other things, The Baha includes a sound processor, left, which snaps onto an abutment that is affixed to a titanium implant. 4

5 the social gatherings she attends. Especially in a crowd, when you have all that noise coming at you, and you can t sort it out, the Baha helps sort it out, Alsleben said. About Ridgeview s otolaryngology practice Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Otolaryngology provides comprehensive ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialty services to the west metro and beyond. Specialists treat adults and children with disorders of the head and neck, including the ears, nose, throat and sinuses. From diagnosis to treatment, Ridgeview s collaborative team of specialists and audiologists deliver the most upto-date ENT services, including surgeries. Since 1979, the practice has worked extensively with pediatric tonsil and adult vocal-cord procedures. Ridgeview s otolaryngologists provide a full range of treatments for conditions such as chronic and/or acute tonsillitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, snoring, sleep apnea, dizziness and/or balance disorders, vocal cord hoarseness, and benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck. Ridgeview s ENT services include medical and surgical procedures such as: Tonsillectomy & Adenoidectomy Surgical removal of tonsils and/or adenoids Uvula-Palatal Repair (laser and nonlaser) The uvula is a small set of muscles near the back of the throat that hang down from the soft palate, which assists in performing many sounds of speech. Laryngostomy Surgery to create a permanent opening in the larynx Bilateral Tympanostomy with Tubes This procedure is more commonly known as ear tube surgery to drain fluid from the middle ears. Usually, this is a pediatric procedure. Bilateral Endonasal Surgery With this procedure, an endoscope is inserted into the nostrils to conduct the surgery. Septoplasty A Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated or abnormal septum, where the ridge of cartilage in the nose separating the nasal cavity into two nostrils leans to one side and obstructs the affected nasal passage. Lesion Excision Removal of ear, facial and/or tongue lesions With specialty clinic locations in Waconia and Excelsior, Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Otolaryngology offers patients appointments close to home at those sites as well as through appointments at clinics in Arlington, Crosby, Minnetonka and New Prague. For more information, call Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Otolaryngology at (952) or visit Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Otolaryngology (952) Providers Featured in This Story Michael Hopfenspirger, MD Carrie Hathaway, AuD Also at Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Otolaryngology Marlene Johnson, MA, CCC-A Amy Kloke, MS, CCC-A John Larsen, MD John Meccia, MD Celesta Myland, MS, CCC-A Gina Peschel, PA-C V. Terry Rhodes, MD Find Out How a Mound Resident s Life Was Saved Mound resident Mark Lynch admits he was in denial about the chest pains he was experiencing on April 24. But, realizing he needed medical attention, he asked his wife to drive him to Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. Basically they saved my life, Lynch says of the Emergency Department staff at Two Twelve, who stabilized him before he was transferred to Abbott Northwestern Hospital for treatment of his heart attack. All the nurses and doctors there [at Two Twelve] do not get the recognition they deserve, believe me, he says. Watch as Lynch tells his story on the and Clinics Facebook page, Two Twelve Medical Center 5

6 Ridgeview ranked among the top 5 percent in the nation for patient experience again! was recently identified as a recipient of the HealthGrades 2011 Outstanding Patient Experience Award. This distinctive award, issued by the leading independent health care ratings organization, places Ridgeview among the top 5 percent of hospitals nationwide based on analysis of patient satisfaction data for 3,797 U.S. hospitals. Ridgeview is one of 15 OPEA recipients in Minnesota and one of only six that made the top 5 percent. Ridgeview is proud to once again be nationally recognized for providing the highest quality of personalized care to every patient, said Robert Stevens, president and CEO of Ridgeview Medical Center. The Ridgeview patient experience is decidedly different than at other health care facilities. What sets Ridgeview apart from other good hospitals and makes us great is how we deliver that care with kindness, compassion and by using our intuition. Achieving excellence The surveys are standardized and issued to patients within 48 hours of leaving the hospital as part of the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) initiative from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The HCAHPS survey questions assessed patients experience in the following 10 categories: 1. Overall rating: How do patients rate the hospital overall? 2. Recommendation to family/friends: Would patients recommend the hospital to friends and family? 3. Communication with doctors: How often did doctors communicate well with patients? 4. Communication with nurses: How often did nurses communicate well with patients? 5. Responsiveness of hospital staff: How often did patients receive help quickly from hospital staff? 6. Pain management: How often was patients pain well controlled? 7. Communication about medicines: How often did staff explain medicines before giving them to patients? 8. Discharge information: Were patients given information about what to do during their recovery at home? 9. Cleanliness: How often were the patients rooms and bathrooms kept clean? 10. Quietness: How often was the area around patients rooms kept quiet at night? It s clear that patients are driving higher quality in our nation s hospitals, said Dr. Rick May, HealthGrades vice president of clinical quality programs. Hospitals like take HCAHPS survey results very seriously and invest time and resources to ensure each patient s experience is the best possible. This is yet another example of how transparency in health care drives quality. Information about award recipients and the ratings methodology is available, free to the public, at Look for Ridgeview s Annual Report at www. ridgeviewmedical.org Ridgeview patient care highlights in 2010 In partnership with over 300 physicians in more than 40 areas of specialization, Ridgeview delivers award-winning patient care to a population of approximately 300,000 people in the west- and southwest-metro area. Its award-winning network includes the Waconia-based acute care hospital, a multitude of primary and specialty care clinics, emergency service and specialty programs. To learn more and to view Ridgeview s annual report, visit Licensed beds 154 Active physicians with admitting privileges 1,251 Employees 7,166 Inpatient discharges (including newborns) 162,857 Outpatient visits 1,313 Births 167 Neonatal Care Unit patients 20,568 Emergency Department visits 6,874 Surgical cases 2.9 Average length of stay (days) 27,620 Home Health Services visits 269 Patients/Families receiving hospice services 8,340 Ambulance calls 94,647 Ridgeview Clinics visits 6

7 Classes, Events & Ways to Get Involved Through Bariatric Information Sessions Interested in weight loss surgery? Attend a free seminar to learn more about surgery and get answers to your questions without any cost or obligation. Bring a family member or friend. Seminars will cover current surgical options, benefits and limitations of weight loss surgery, lifestyle and behavior changes associated with the surgery, and the insurance approval process. You may attend one of the following sessions: Wednesday, July 13, 6:30 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 6:30 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:30 8 p.m. Ridgeview Community Auditorium Thursday, July 21, 2 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18, 2 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, 2 3:30 p.m. Two Twelve Medical Center 111 Hundertmark Road, Chaska Registration is not required. Questions? Call (952) Babysitting Class offers the newly revised American Red Cross Babysitter s Training Course. This updated course gives 11- to 15-year-olds the skills and confidence to be great babysitters in a fun, fast-paced, interactive format. Hands-on activities, an exciting video, role play and lively discussions are incorporated into the session. In addition, students receive engaging program materials to help them be prepared and professional. This class is taught by educators who are trained by the American Red Cross. Monday, Aug. 8, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Fee: $58. Includes reference guide, handbook, interactive CD, activity booklet and more. Register at or call (952) Note: Lunch and snacks are not included. Please bring a sack lunch and beverage. Cafeteria and vending machines available for other purchases. [After gastric bypass surgery] I have lost 131 pounds and am maintaining this loss but I have gained so much more than I ever thought possible. Sally S. Read Sally s story, and other testimonials, at SAVE THE DATE for these upcoming Fall Classes: Women s Health Seminar Oct. 27 Relationships Matter More Than You Know! BayView Event Center, Excelsior Learn how strong relationships including those with family and friends and good social connections benefit your health. Research shows that positive social interactions have a profound impact on your physical and psychological health, by reducing stress, improving immune function and more. Men s Night Out Nov. 7 Island View Golf Club, Waconia Bring your spouse or significant other to a special event to learn more about the top men s health issues. This is a unique opportunity to hear from a panel of physician experts and ask questions to improve your health and well-being from a man s point of view. A light buffet dinner will be served. Parenting Program Nov. 17 Ridgeview Community Auditorium A special parent education program will be presented by Tim Culbert, MD, FAAP, Ridgeview Specialty Clinic Pediatric Integrative Medicine, a board-certified developmental-behavioral pediatrician. This program is sponsored by Ridgeview s medical staff and District 110 ECFE. Visit for more information. 7

8 Fitness, Wellness & Sports Performance Pilates Mat Fundamentals Class Learn basic Pilates fundamentals needed to properly perform Pilates mat exercises and benefit from the instructors knowledge of muscle development, movement and injury prevention. These classes are geared toward strengthening the core body, which can prevent/ relieve back and neck pain or headaches. The classes require precision and practice. Our instructors are Pilates trained and either certified athletic trainers or licensed physical therapists, so be assured they have the best training and knowledge to instruct the beginner. Bring a mat or towel to each session. Mondays, July 11 Aug. 15, 7:45 8:30 p.m. Ridgeview Excelsior Clinic (enter through Season s Medical Spa) 675 Water Street, Excelsior Fee: $75 Wednesdays, July 13 Aug. 17, 6:45 7:30 a.m. Two Twelve Medical Center (Third Floor Conference Room, Suite 300) 111 Hundertmark Road, Chaska Fee: $75 Mondays, Sept. 19 Oct. 24, 8:15 9 p.m. Safari Island Community Center 1600 Community Drive, Waconia Fee: $75 for Safari Island members, $90 for nonmembers. To register, visit or register at Safari Island front desk. No mat or towel needed at Safari Island. Pilates Mat Continuation Class This class builds on the fundamentals class by progressive instruction in advancing Pilates mat work exercises and will introduce participants to more advanced core strengthening exercises. Class size is limited to ensure proper instructor/ participant ratio. Prerequisite: Pilates Mat Fundamentals Class. Tuesdays, Aug. 23 Sept. 27, 7:15 8 p.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Westonka 4695 Shoreline Drive, Spring Park Fee: $75. To register, visit Boot Camp Want to get back to basics and learn how you can get a great workout at home? Join us for our boot camp lead by certified athletic trainers who will push you to tone. We will do sit-ups, push-ups, running in place and more. Come in comfortable clothes and be prepared to sweat. Prerequisite: Currently exercising and able to do moderateintensity exercise for 30 minutes at the time the class begins. Choose from one of the following dates and locations. Tuesdays, July 19 Aug. 23, 6 6:40 a.m. Ridgeview Rehab Specialties Ridgeview Professional Building, Suite S. Maple Street, Waconia Thursdays, July 21 Aug. 25, 4:20 5 p.m. 500 S. Maple Stree, Waconia Fee: $75. To register, visit Questions? Contact Nichole Gross, Ridgeview Rehab Specialties, at (952) Athletic Trainer Jessica Hess reviews ImPACT scores with a high school athlete. All Ridgeview sports medicine consultants are certified athletic trainers (ATCs) and/or physical therapists (PTs) who are trained as First Responders. Concussions and ImPACT Assessment In the United States, the annual incidence of sports-related concussion is estimated at 300,000. Coaches, parents, student-athletes and health care professionals are invited to learn about head injuries, how to prevent them, how Ridgeview Sports Medicine staff can help manage them, and the advantages of baseline and follow-up ImPACT assessment. Learn how Ridgeview s new program can help to objectively evaluate the concussed athlete s post-injury condition and track recovery for safe return to play thus preventing the cumulative effects of concussion. Although the presentation is free, baseline testing is available before and after the seminar for just $5. To register for this event, visit If you would like to schedule baseline testing or have questions, call Jessica Hess, Ridgeview Rehab Specialties, at (952) or jessica.hess@ridgeviewmedical.org. Tuesday, Aug. 30, 6:30 7:30 p.m. Ridgeview Community Auditorium 8

9 Childbirth-Related Classes Childbirth Preparation Led by certified instructors, this series helps expectant parents prepare for the last months of pregnancy, labor and delivery by addressing the stages of labor and delivery, breathing and relaxation techniques, and a birthing room and nursery tour. Please bring two pillows and a blanket to each session. To accommodate your schedule, we offer two childbirth class options. 4-Week Series: 6 9 p.m. Tuesdays, July 12 Aug. 2 Mondays, Aug Wednesdays, Sept. 14 Oct. 5 1-Day Express: 8:30 a.m. 5 p.m. (This is a condensed, fast-paced version of the Childbirth Preparation Class for those who want to take one, all-day class.) Sunday, July 24 Saturday, Aug. 6 Saturday, Aug. 27 Saturday, Sept. 10 Saturday, Sept. 24 Ridgeview Community Auditorium Fee: $95 per couple (mother-to-be and labor partner). Includes childbirth education guidebook. Note: Meals and snacks are not provided during these classes. You can bring your own food and beverages or can make purchases in our cafeteria or from vending machines. E-learning Childbirth Preparation offers an e-learning childbirth preparation class. The interactive, Webbased program includes animated illustrations, videos, voice-overs and games, allowing expectant mothers and their labor partners to participate in an independent, self-paced class from the convenience of their homes. Participants will be given an access code, which is valid for three months, and are encouraged to complete the class four weeks prior to their due dates. Please note: This online course does not include interaction with an instructor or a tour of Ridgeview s birthing rooms. Fee: $35. Childbirth Refresher The refresher class provides parents with a review and update of birthing procedures. Please call (952) if you are interested in a childbirth refresher class. The instructor will work with you to schedule a time to meet. Fee: $45 per couple Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is a unique experience for each mother. This class is beneficial whether you choose to breast feed for many months or just a few weeks. It can also be helpful if you are unsure about whether to breast feed or bottle feed. Subjects include advantages of breastfeeding, preparation for breastfeeding, nutrition, problem solving and returning to work. Bring your spouse or special support person. Upcoming breastfeeding classes, from 6 9 p.m., are: Monday, July 11 Wednesday, July 27 Thursday, Aug. 18 Thursday, Sept. 8 Tuesday, Sept. 27 Ridgeview Chaska Medical Plaza 3000 Hundertmark Road, Suite 4, Chaska Fee: $40 per couple (mother and support person). Includes a copy of Breastfeeding: A Great Start. Note: You are encouraged to bring your own snacks and beverages to have during the class. Sibling Preparation The birth of a baby brother or sister is an exciting event. This class helps your child(ren), ages 3 8 years, prepare for the baby s arrival in a positive, nurturing environment. Activities include learning about newborns and a tour of a birthing suite and the nursery. Saturday, Aug. 20, 10 11:30 a.m. Fee: $20 per family. Register for prenatal classes at or call (952)

10 Free Support Groups Angels of Hope Support Group Angels of Hope is a support group for kids who have lost a loved one, and who would like to share, listen and learn about their loss. Topics include Telling a Story, Talking About Death, Change, Memories, Feelings and Good-bye. Two age group sessions will be offered grades 3 6 and grades 7 12 and will meet 6 7:30 p.m. Faith Lutheran Church 800 Waconia Parkway N., Waconia Please call (952) , ext. 6305, for dates of upcoming sessions. Bariatric Support Group The Bariatric Support Group meets every other week at the Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. Anyone who has had or is considering bariatric surgery is welcome to attend; you do not need to have had your surgery at Ridgeview Medical Center or Abbott Northwestern Hospital. The support group is led by a psychologist and is facilitated by the Ridgeview Bariatric & Weight Loss Center coordinator. We will offer education, support and guidance to help you achieve and maintain a successful and healthy weight loss. Sessions will alternate educational topics and open forum for general discussions. This group meets the first Tuesday and the third Monday of the month from 6 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 18 Tuesday, Aug. 2 Monday, Aug. 15 Tuesday, Sept. 6 Monday, Sept. 19 Two Twelve Medical Center, Suite Hundertmark Road, Chaska For more information, call (952) Breast Cancer Support Group This is a group for women to share questions and concerns about their experiences with breast cancer. During each support group session an educational topic, such as music therapy, plastic surgery or breast cancer statistics, is discussed. These group sessions meet from 6 7:30 p.m.: July: No meeting August: No meeting Tuesday, Sept. 20: Overview of Complementary Therapies at Ridgeview Medical Center For more information, call (952) , ext This group also meets at local restaurants at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month. Call Rachel at (952) for details. Grief Support Group The Grief Support Group is for those experiencing grief or anticipating a loss of someone they care about. Sessions are held from 7 8:30 p.m.: Monday, July 11 Monday, July 25 Monday, Aug. 8 Monday, Aug. 22 Monday, Sept. 12 Monday, Sept. 26 For more information, call (952) , ext Look Good... Feel Better This free service teaches cancer patients beauty techniques to help enhance appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Participants will receive a free makeup kit. This support group is co-sponsored by and the American Cancer Society. Registration is required. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 4 6 p.m. Please call (800) Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group This group is for parents who have experienced a loss due to miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth or newborn death. These group sessions meet from 6:30 8 p.m. Thursday, July 21 Thursday, Aug. 18 Thursday, Sept. 15 For more information, call (952) , ext Sleep Disorders Education This group is designed to give people more knowledge about sleep apnea and methods of treatment. Sleep disorder education seminars are held from 7 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, Common Sleep Disorders Ridgeview Community Auditorium For more information, call (952)

11 Ridgeview Research You may seldom think about it, but clinical research touches your life almost every day. All medicines that are consumed by the public, new devices and new lab tests have all gone through clinical testing with volunteers just like you. Ridgeview Research, a division of Ridgeview Medical Center, is a local organization that conducts such clinical tests for pharmaceutical companies. You can volunteer for these clinical research trials and play a vital role in improving health care. Participating in a clinical trial provides participants with access to new research treatments and medical care, and allows them to help others by contributing to medical research and treatment advances. When you volunteer, specialized nurses, physicians and staff will work with you to coordinate care and follow-up. You may also be compensated for your time and travel. For more information or to learn about our current enrolling studies, contact Ridgeview Research or visit our Web site at Now located at the Two Twelve Medical Center 111 Hundertmark Road, Suite 410, Chaska (952) Volunteer Opportunities Ridgeview Volunteer Services is looking for volunteers 13 years and older to assist in more than 20 different areas of the hospital, our clinics and the new Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. We are looking for personable, reliable, energetic individuals to help us provide excellent customer service for our patients, visitors and staff members. Volunteers serve in a wide range of areas including the Information Desk, Emergency Department, Nursing Stations, two Gift Shops, Clerical Support, the Birthing Center and Customer Service positions. To learn more about our volunteer program, please attend one of the following information sessions to be held at in Conference Room B: Wednesday, July 20, 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, Noon Call Volunteer Services at (952) , ext. 5570, or volunteers@ridgeviewmedical.org to learn more. Southshore Center Classes The following presentations are co-sponsored by. Mark these upcoming classes on your calendar Thursday, Oct. 6, Intro to Acupuncture Thursday, Nov. 3, Be a Savvy Food Shopper: Tips on Reading Labels These events are free and open to the public and will be held at Southshore Center, 5735 Country Club Road, Shorewood. To register, please call (952) Visit us at the fair Stop by the Ridgeview tent during the Carver County Fair, Aug Learn what s new at and participate in blood pressure testing (free) and cholesterol screening ($5). Ridgeview tent hours Wednesday, Aug. 10 Noon 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug a.m. 8 p.m. SENIOR DAY Friday, Aug a.m. 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug a.m. 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug a.m. 6 p.m. Information published in this newsletter is general in nature and not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment

12 Ridgeview Ridgeview Medical Medical Center Center 500 S. 500 Maple S. Maple Street Street Waconia, Waconia, MN MN NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO TWIN CITIES, MN Summer 2011 See page 7 for Classes, Events & Ways to Get Involved HealthViews News, Classes & Community Events From (952)