General Surgery

Discover a revolutionary approach to surgery with our laparoscopic procedures at Riverwood. Our skilled surgical team utilizes advanced techniques to perform minimally invasive surgeries, resulting in faster recovery times, reduced discomfort, and smaller incisions. Our surgeons use tiny incisions and a camera-equipped laparoscope to navigate with precision, ensuring accurate procedures with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.

Embrace a quicker return to your routine with laparoscopic surgery. Smaller incisions mean less trauma to the body, resulting in faster healing and reduced postoperative discomfort. Laparoscopic procedures leave minimal scarring, promoting a cosmetically appealing outcome while maintaining the effectiveness of the surgery.

These surgeries often allow for shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgeries. Experience the benefits of a streamlined recovery process with our minimally invasive approach and undergo necessary procedures with confidence and minimal disruption to your daily life.

Robotic-assisted surgery is a modern technique that allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision, flexibility, and control. Using robotic systems, the surgeon operates through small incisions, maneuvering robotic arms equipped with surgical instruments. These systems offer a high-definition 3D view of the surgical area and allow for greater accuracy, often resulting in less pain, faster recovery times, and smaller scars for patients. While the surgeon is in complete control, the robot enhances their movements, making the procedure safer and more efficient in many cases.

Board certified surgeon Evan Kelly, M.D., employs Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) to diagnose and treat conditions such as jaundice, duct stones, leaks, cancers, complex pancreatitis, and various gastrointestinal tract pathologies.

ERCP involves passing an endoscope through the mouth, esophagus, and stomach to the duodenum, where a catheter injects dye into the ducts for detailed X-rays. This provides more information than standard X-rays, helping detect organ abnormalities and diseases. Therapeutic ERCP techniques can address blocked bile ducts, extract stones, and improve drainage with stents.

Patients under general anesthesia for ERCP experience no incisions, often going home the same day without post-procedural restrictions.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) resembles a standard upper endoscopy where a slender, illuminated tube (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to observe the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel. However, EUS distinguishes itself by featuring an ultrasound probe at the instrument’s tip. EUS empowers Dr. Kelly to scrutinize pathology beyond the reach of standard endoscopy, allowing for thorough examination of deeper tissues and precise biopsy procedures.

Patients undergoing EUS are under general anesthesia, ensuring complete comfort with no incisions. Often, patients can return home on the same day of the procedure, and there are typically no post-procedural restrictions.

Within the field of Pancreaticobiliary Surgery, Dr. Kelly employs advanced techniques to address intricate diseases affecting the pancreas and bile ducts. Collaborating with a diverse team of physicians, including diagnostic and interventional radiologists, medical oncologists, nutrition experts, and more, Dr. Kelly demonstrates expertise in utilizing minimally invasive endoscopic procedures like endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Additionally, he is proficient in performing minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery.

As the Hernia Specialists of Minnesota at Riverwood Healthcare Center, we recognize that there is one thing many patients with hernias are not offered, choice. For decades we have prided ourselves in working together with our patients through a shared decision making process to develop a treatment plan. We offer a wide range of repair and reinforcement options allowing us to do what is right for you. Connect with us to schedule an appointment at (218) 927-6904. decision making process to develop a treatment plan. We offer a wide range of repair and reinforcement options allowing us do to what is right for you.

The Minnesota Reflux & Heartburn Center is a comprehensive, patient-centered initiative focused on providing a solution of testing and therapies for any and all patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, and esophageal symptoms. Center specialists are available for patient appointments at Riverwood Healthcare Center Specialty Clinic.

With the latest training and equipment, specialists are also able to diagnose esophageal cancer which can develop from recurrent GERD and treat the cancer in early stages.

To schedule an appointment or refer a patient, contact Dawn Harcey, GI Nurse Coordinator, at 218-429-3930.

At Riverwood, we prioritize the well-being of every woman with our specialized breast procedures. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care, ensuring you have the support you need for optimal breast health.

Our state-of-the-art facilities feature cutting-edge technology for comprehensive breast diagnostics. From mammograms to advanced imaging, we provide accurate assessments for early detection and prevention.

Recognizing that every woman’s health journey is unique, our specialists create personalized care plans tailored to your individual needs. Your concerns and preferences guide our approach to ensure the best possible outcome.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers—but only if it’s found early. A colonoscopy is the most effective way to detect changes in the colon before they turn into cancer, or to catch cancer when it’s highly treatable.

Current guidelines recommend that most adults begin colorectal screening at age 45. You may need to start earlier or be screened more often if you:

Appendicitis can be a sudden and uncomfortable experience. Our skilled surgical team is here to provide quick and effective relief through expert appendectomy procedures. When it comes to appendicitis, timing is crucial. Our team is committed to prompt assessments and surgical interventions, ensuring you receive the care you need when you need it the most.

Embrace a smoother recovery with our state-of-the-art laparoscopic appendectomy procedures. Benefit from smaller incisions, reduced postoperative discomfort, and a quicker return to your routine.

Discover relief and renewed vitality through our expert gallbladder surgery at Riverwood. Led by skilled surgeons, our minimally invasive procedures ensure a smoother experience and faster recovery. From pre-surgery consultations to postoperative care, our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring you feel informed and supported.

Every patient is different. Our surgeons craft personalized treatment plans, taking into account your health history and individual circumstances. With our advanced techniques, you can look forward to a smoother recovery process. Get back to your routine faster, and regain control of your life with our streamlined postoperative care.