Common Surgical Procedures

Surgeon Larry Hrdlicka began a medical career in Claremore in 1970

Surgeon Larry Hrdlicka began a medical career in Claremore in 1970. Today, his son Dr. Kyle Hrdlicka is the head of Vascular & Vein Laser Center and Claremore Surgeons, Inc. Dr. Hrdlicka is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease and offers the newest laser and surgical procedures available. He also performs a wide variety of general surgical procedures. Dr. Lawrence Brotherton joined the practice one year ago.

It would be impossible to list and explain the many surgeries performed by Drs. Hrdlicka and Brotherton, but the following is a glimpse of the general surgery side of their practice. A word of advice from Dr. Hrdlicka: “For a complete evaluation of any medical problem you’re experiencing, promptly call your doctor. Most conditions, when diagnosed and treated promptly, are easier to treat and even cure.”  

A vasectomy is probably the safest, simplest and most effective method of birth control. It involves a quick, uncomplicated surgical procedure that is nearly 100 percent effective and takes only about 15 to 20 minutes.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, referred to as EGD, is generally performed to diagnose the cause of problems within the esophagus, stomach or duodenum. It is a tool that can evaluate symptoms including upper abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, difficulty in swallowing, anemia, and more. It can also detect inflammation and small lesions such as ulcers or tumors more accurately than X-rays.

In addition, EGD has the ability to obtain small pieces of tissue or cells in order to perform biopsies. The tissue is examined microscopically to determine its nature and to see whether the lesion is benign or malignant. The endoscope also permits the examiner to treat many conditions by stretching narrowing portions (strictures), removing benign growths such as polyps, and treating upper gastrointestinal bleeding as a result of ulcers or lining tears. Some of these procedures could even reduce the need for transfusions or surgery.

A colonoscopy is a routine procedure that is quick, affords very little discomfort, and provides the physician an unobstructed view of the colon. Colonoscopies are generally performed as an outpatient procedure. The procedure is generally recommended when bowel habits change, there is a presence of blood in the stool, there is persistent abdominal pain, or the patient is age 50 or older. This is one of the best tools for early detection of colon cancer as well as diagnosing other gastrointestinal problems. “Anyone over the age of 50 should have a colonoscopy performed every 10 years. If you have a high risk of colon cancer in your family, it may be recommended that you have the procedure more frequently,” says Dr. Hrdlicka.

According to Dr. Brotherton, “Over 90 percent of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are over the age of 50. If you have a close relative that has had colorectal cancer before the age of 60, or two or more close relatives who had the disease at any age, you’re at a higher risk.”

Breast lumps are defined as any swelling, knot, bump, bulge or protuberance in the breast. They appear in both men and women and may occur at any age. No breast lump should be dismissed as benign until evaluated by a qualified physician.

Drs. Hrdlicka and Brotherton also provide treatment for hernias, hemorrhoids, and other conditions needing treatment or surgery. Be smart. If you suspect that you have a medical problem or condition, call your doctor today.

For more information, contact

Claremore Surgeons, Inc.

Vascular & Vein Laser Center

www.vascularcenterneo.com

About Author Duane Blankenship

Blankenship graduated from the University of Oklahoma and has enjoyed a lifetime career in advertising. He started his own advertising business in 1993 and enjoys creating graphic art and writing. Hobbies include hunting, fishing and pencil drawings. Duane and his wife, Janice, have been married over 50 years and are active in their church and community. He has been a contributing writer for Value News/Values Magazine since 2005.