What does “minimally invasive” really mean? When people hear the term “minimally invasive,” they expect less pain and faster recovery. But not all surgical techniques deliver that promise. Some still involve cutting through the breastbone or significant trauma to the ribs. Totally Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery (TECS) is different. A single 2 to 2.5 cm incision […]
Tag: surgery
Why You Should Think About Surgery Before Year-End and How St. Elizabeth Makes It Easier
The St. Elizabeth Healthcare Surgery team offers insight into the advantages of scheduling procedures before the year ends. The team includes Gynecologic Cancer Surgeon and Vice President of Medical Services Kevin Schuler, MD, who shares why timing surgery before January can benefit patients both medically and financially. Q: What Surgeries Do Patients Often Schedule at Year-End? […]
Q&A with Dr. Peter Jernigan: Dr. Jernigan’s Approach to Surgery at St. Elizabeth
Dr. Peter Jernigan recently joined the general surgery team at St. Elizabeth, bringing a passion for hands-on care and a commitment to helping patients heal. With expertise in robotic and minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Jernigan is focused on delivering personalized, high-quality care to the Northern Kentucky community. What inspired you to pursue general surgery? Dr. […]
Heart Surgery, Reimagined at St. Elizabeth
Facing heart surgery brings fear, anxiety and countless questions. For patients at St. Elizabeth, these feelings are met with compassion, proficiency and the reassurance that world-class cardiac care is available right here in Northern Kentucky. Expertise with Heart Every patient’s journey begins with uncertainty. Whether it’s an unexpected diagnosis or a condition that’s gone unnoticed […]
What to Look for in a Surgery Location: Q&A with Dr. Jai Bikhchandani
Does it really matter where you have surgery? Jai Bikhchandani, MD, a Colon and Rectal Surgeon with St. Elizabeth Physicians, thinks so. Here, he shares what makes St. Elizabeth Healthcare a standout choice for surgical care. How does St. Elizabeth ensure patient safety and quality of care in its surgical programs? Dr. Bikhchandani: St. Elizabeth […]
Elective Surgery: Q&A With Dr. Audrey Ertel, General Surgeon at St. Elizabeth Healthcare
An elective surgery isn’t something you can put off indefinitely, like cleaning out your hall closet or learning to speak Italian. We talked to Audrey Ertel, MD, a General Surgeon with St. Elizabeth Physicians, about what factors to consider when scheduling your surgery. She also provided some bonus tips on preparing for your procedure. What […]
Q&A with Dr. Teena Nerwal: Advancing Colorectal Surgery at St. Elizabeth Healthcare
Teena Nerwal, MD, specializes in colorectal surgery at St. Elizabeth Healthcare. She uses advanced robotic technology to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Nerwal shares insights about her specialized field, patient-focused approach, surgical innovations and treatments for colon and rectal conditions. How does robotic surgery enhance colorectal care? Robotic technology significantly improves outcomes for patients undergoing colorectal […]
Leading the Way in Surgical Excellence: Q&A with Dr. Kevin Schuler
Kevin Schuler, MD, Assistant Vice President for Medical Affairs at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, dedicates his career to improving surgical care and outcomes through leadership and innovation. Dr. Schuler’s strong background in gynecologic oncology and commitment to patient-centered care help St. Elizabeth lead in advanced surgery technologies and practices. What inspired you to pursue a career […]
Advancing Robotic Surgery with the Da Vinci 5 Surgical System at St. Elizabeth Healthcare
St. Elizabeth Healthcare is leading the way in surgical innovation with the da Vinci 5 System. At the forefront of this advancement is our dedicated team of surgeons, including M. Ryan Moon, MD, FACS. The expertise and commitment to patient care by Dr. Moon and our other surgical team members are driving new possibilities in […]

