March 5, 2024
Your Surgery, Your Story
Your health journey is unique, and so is your story. Discover the difference that compassionate, personalized and comprehensive surgical care can make in your life.
Should you or a family member be in need of surgery, our team of fellowship trained surgeons provide a full range of general surgery care specializing in minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgery, heartburn evaluation and management, and complex hernia surgery. They are dedicated to providing personalized care, from the initial examinations through recovery and post-operative care.
Riverwood takes extra precautions so that you can safely receive the surgical care you need to avoid future complications, alleviate pain, regain mobility, and maintain your quality of life.
For more information regarding our general surgery department, call (218) 927-5566.
Our Surgical Expertise
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.
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 do to what is right for you
Learn more about our Hernia Specialists here.
GERD occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus due to a weak lower esophageal sphincter, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. GERD can also lead to nausea, respiratory issues, and poor sleep.
Rediscover the joy of eating and sleeping without discomfort. Our fellowship-trained reflux specialists provide personalized care for GERD and heartburn with quick appointments, no referral needed.
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.
Our experienced general surgeons specialize in colonoscopies, bringing a wealth of knowledge and skill to ensure a comprehensive examination. Colonoscopies are a powerful tool for early detection of colorectal conditions. By identifying potential issues in their early stages, we empower you to take proactive steps toward better health outcomes.
Equipped with the latest technology, our facilities enable our medical professionals to perform precise and thorough examinations, ensuring the most accurate results.
Our specialists tailor the colonoscopy procedure to your individual requirements, ensuring a personalized and effective examination. Regular colonoscopies offer peace of mind, knowing that potential issues are identified and addressed early. Take control of your health and reduce the risk of colorectal conditions through proactive preventive measures.
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.
Fellowship Trained Surgeons
Meet our dedicated team of experts
From evaluation and diagnosis, to treatment and recovery, our team of experts work with you to provide specialized care for your unique surgical needs getting you back to living your best life.
Andrew Loveitt, DO
Shawn Roberts, MD, FACS
Meet the General Surgery Physician Assistant
General Surgery Blog
Real Patients. Real Stories.
The care at Riverwood was outstanding
A chronic cough was Dan Waxlax’s only symptom of GERD. “I didn’t have any heartburn or acid reflux in my throat, but I was coughing five to six times every half hour,” Dan explained. “My daughter-in-law, who is a doctor, was the one who identified my cough as a GERD symptom that should be checked out.” On his daughter-in-law’s recommendation, Dan sought an evaluation at Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin. The diagnostic test results revealed that Dan has Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition that can lead to esophageal cancer. Dr. Andrew Loveitt, MRHC reflux specialist and general surgeon, performed a Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF), which involves reconstructing the anti-reflux valve between the esophagus and the stomach to restore the body’s natural protection against refluxing stomach contents. There are no scars for the patient and frequently a quicker recovery than other more invasive procedures. Dan also had a robotic-assisted hiatal hernia repair using the da Vinci System. The da Vinci is powered by robotic technology that allows the surgeon’s hand movements to be translated into smaller, precise movements of tiny instruments inside the patient’s body. “I chose to get my GERD treated as a preventative step to avoid getting cancer,” Dan said. “There was no pain or discomfort with the TIF procedure I had done at Riverwood. Dr. Loveitt did a wonderful job!” The TIF procedure is typically done as an outpatient procedure but given Dan’s three-hour drive from his home on Minnesota’s North Shore, Dan was hospitalized for overnight monitoring. “I had excellent nursing care during my hospital stay,” Dan added. “Everyone was very friendly, including the cleaning staff. The care at Riverwood was outstanding, and I’ve had medical care at the Mayo Clinic.”
My reflux specialist put me at ease right away
Tim Maalis, age 67, struggled with heartburn and gastroesophageal disease (GERD) for more than 40 years. “I tried all kinds of medications,” Tim explained. “It got so that I was taking four pills twice a day to get relief. I couldn’t eat half the foods I wanted to.” Tim’s brother-in-law from the Twin Cities sought GERD care from the Minnesota Reflux and Heartburn Center (MRHC) at Riverwood Healthcare Center in Aitkin and highly recommended it based on his successful outcome. After comprehensive evaluation and testing, the MRHC reflux specialist diagnosed GERD, as well as a hiatal hernia and Barrett’s esophagus, and advised that the LINX procedure was the best course of treatment for Tim. The LINX System is a small flexible bracelet of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores. It is implanted with a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure around the weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The magnetic attraction between the beads helps the LES resist opening to gastric pressures, preventing reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. Swallowing food temporarily opens the magnetic bond, allowing food and liquid to pass normally into the stomach. “I had an amazing outcome,” Tim said. “After my procedure two years ago, I don’t have any heartburn! Now I can eat and drink anything I want.” Tim added: “The personal caring by the Riverwood staff is remarkable. My reflux specialist put me at ease right away; he explained what was going to happen every step of the way before, during and after my procedure. Dawn Harcey, the nurse coordinator, explained things so well and was very helpful in setting up my appointments.”
Enjoying my wife's southern cooking again
Acid reflux symptoms were not a problem for Barry Anderson until a few years ago. Barry explains: “When I would bend over, I would get a burning feeling in my throat that would last two to three days. I also felt nauseous. I got referred to a reflux specialist by my primary care provider, Nurse Practitioner Lisa Gerhart, who really listens to her patients and cares about getting the best care for you.” Barry’s care with the Minnesota Reflux and Heartburn Center (MRHC) at Riverwood in Aitkin included coordination and scheduling of several diagnostic tests with Dawn Harcey, clinical nurse coordinator; pre-op and post-op care from Thomas (TJ) Hirsch, general surgery physician assistant; and surgery with Dr. Andrew Loveitt, reflux specialist and general surgeon. Dr. Loveitt performed a robotic-assisted paraesophageal hiatal hernia repair with Toupet Fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease. For this minimally invasive procedure, patients can generally go home within 24 hours. Barry shares comments on his successful treatment outcome: “TJ was wonderful; he explained everything so well and helped me choose the type of surgical procedure to fix my acid reflux. Everyone on the clinic staff was amazing; they are very good at what they do. Dr. Loveitt spent a good deal of time with me before and after my surgical procedure, explaining everything in great detail. I appreciated his expertise and dedication to guiding patients to the best outcomes. I’m not taking any acid reflux medications now, and I’m so happy with how my treatment turned out. Best of all, I can enjoy my wife’s Southern cooking with a lot of spices again. I’m so impressed with Riverwood’s hospital; it’s so clean and well kept with the newest equipment. It’s amazing all they can do for patients in our small, rural community.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Highly skilled in laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgery, the Minnesota Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIMIS) was formed in 2003. Riverwood Healthcare Center features a state-of-the-art surgical and endoscopy suites. Our surgeons are leaders in the areas of laparoendoscopic, ophthalmic, gynecologic, orthopaedic, and laparoscopic surgery. They bring a high level of surgical skill combined with personalized care that draws patients from a wide geographic area in Minnesota and nearby states.
Our surgery staff provides pre-operative care and education, evaluation, anesthesia, and post-operative care to the highest level of standards and safety. Procedures requiring anesthesia are provided by our team of certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). Our CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses with specialized graduate level education in anesthesiology. They safely provide anesthesia, which may include general, regional (nerve blocks) and sedation techniques.