Surgery

Our Surgical Specialties

The surgical team at Mountainside Medical Center includes board-certified surgeons and doctors, dedicated nurses with certifications in various subspecialties, as well as technicians, physicians, and surgical assistants. Each of these providers plays a vital role in your care and overall wellness.

With more than 200 surgeons on staff, we pride ourselves on having the expertise and talent to meet every patient’s surgical needs. Our surgical team has experience in the following fields of medicine:

Whenever possible, our surgeons will use minimally invasive techniques to reduce scarring and speed up recovery times. All patients will be thoroughly educated about their surgery prior to the procedure by a registered nurse. Our nurses are also responsible for admitting and discharging you from the hospital. This one-on-one support affords our patient’s peace of mind throughout their journey to better health.

Robotic Surgery

It is a common misconception that robotic surgery, or minimally invasive surgery, means that a robot replaces the surgeon or diminishes the surgeon’s role. In reality, highly regarded surgeons who pride themselves on taking advantage of the most current technology to achieve the best patient outcomes choose to perform procedures using robotic technology.

We provide advanced surgical options in a comfortable, and safe, community setting. Our robotic surgery program offers:

• A personalized pre-surgery and post-surgery program, including comprehensive rehabilitative care for those who need it
• Experienced and highly skilled operating surgeons with special robotic surgery qualifications
• Less discomfort and scarring than other surgical techniques
• Reduced recovery times and a more rapid return to day-to-day activities

The latest surgical robotic technology enables surgeons at Mountainside Medical Center to provide personalized surgical experience in the areas of orthopedics, gynecology, bariatric surgery and general surgery. Please call us to learn more.

Surgical procedures we provide

We utilize leading-edge robotic technology to provide a wide range of procedures. Our robotic surgery services include:

Colorectal Surgery

Our dedicated team of colorectal surgeons are committed to delivering comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of colorectal conditions. We offer advanced treatments and minimally invasive techniques, including robotic surgery, to minimize discomfort, promote faster healing, and enhance your overall well-being.

Our colorectal surgery treatments include:

• Anal Fistula and abscesses treatment
• Anal fissure surgery
• Anal tightening
• Anal wart removal
• Colon and rectal cancer management
• Colonoscopy
• Constipation management
• Crohn’s disease management
• Diverticulitis care
• Hemorrhoid treatment
• Pilonidal disease management
• Rectal prolapse repair
• Ulcerative colitis treatment

Our surgeons are dedicated to delivering high-quality care and helping you regain your health and well-being. Trust our experienced team at Mountainside Medical Center to provide the personalized attention you deserve for your colorectal condition.

Anal Dysplasia Screening and Anal Cancer Prevention 

At Mountainside Medical Center, we offer screening for anal dysplasia, a condition that describes changes in the body that could lead to anal cancer. We offer anal Pap smear, or anal cytology testing, to detect abnormal or precancerous cells in the anal canal. This preventive test can detect abnormal cells in the anal canal before they become cancerous. Whether you’re seeking an anal cancer screening or have already been diagnosed with anal cancer, our specialists are here to provide exceptional care tailored to your needs.

What is Anal Dysplasia?

Anal dysplasia is a condition in which abnormal cells develop in the lining of the anal canal. These changes are often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) and can increase the risk of anal cancer if left untreated. People can reduce their risk of developing anal dysplasia by being vaccinated against HPV.

Early identification of abnormal cellular changes through screenings can also help prevent anal cancer and improve long-term outcomes. That’s why our specialists provide comprehensive testing to screen for precancerous cells.

Signs and Symptoms of Anal Dysplasia 

Anal dysplasia often causes no symptoms. However, there are a few signs that may point to your need for an anal dysplasia screening:

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your primary care provider about obtaining a referral for anal dysplasia screening.

Who is at Higher Risk for Anal Dysplasia? 

Anal cancer can happen to anyone. However, the following groups are at an increased rate of developing anal cancer:

If you think you may be at risk of developing anal cancer, speak to your physician about your eligibility for an anal Pap smear.

What is an Anal Pap Smear?

An anal Pap smear, or anal cytology test, is used to detect abnormal or precancerous cells in the anus. During the procedure, a healthcare provider gently inserts a small, soft swab into the anus and rotates it to collect a sample of cells. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for evaluation to identify any abnormal or precancerous changes.

The test is quick and typically takes only a few minutes. While some patients may feel mild discomfort or awkwardness, the procedure is generally not painful.

Next Steps After Abnormal Results

If abnormal cells are detected, your provider may recommend additional evaluation, such as:

Early detection through screening can play an important role in identifying changes before they become cancerous. If you have questions about whether this test is right for you, call 973-798-4777.

What is High-Resolution Anoscopy (HRA)? 

High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) is a specialized procedure used to closely examine the anal canal for abnormal or precancerous cells following an abnormal anal Pap smear or other concerning findings. 

During the procedure, the doctor uses a high-resolution microscope device called a colposcope to closely examine the anal canal. HRA is especially helpful in identifying whether suspicious anal lesions are cancerous, as well as monitoring the health of patients who have already had anal cancer and anal cancer treatment.

Specialized Colorectal Care at Mountainside Medical Center 

We provide welcoming, respectful and inclusive care for all patients, including LGBTQIA+ community members and other high-risk populations. Our patients have unique access to advanced screening technologies and colorectal specialists experienced in diagnosing and managing anal dysplasia. 

Thoracic Surgery

We are proud to offer comprehensive thoracic surgical services to diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases within the chest. Our multidisciplinary team works closely with specialists in pulmonary medicine, oncology, gastroenterology, and other support services to ensure you receive a full spectrum of high quality care tailored to your needs.

Our thoracic surgeons treat a variety of chest diseases and conditions, including:

• Chest wall growths
• Congenital abnormalities
• Esophageal cancer
• Esophageal motility issues
• Interstitial lung disease
• Lung cancer
• Mediastinal tumors
• Mesothelioma
• Metastatic tumors in the chest region

Using the most advanced instrumentation and innovative approaches, we provide exceptional thoracic surgery procedures to patients who would elsewhere be considered untreatable or inoperable. With our commitment to excellence and patient-centered care, we strive to deliver the best possible outcomes for those facing complex thoracic conditions, ensuring every patient receives personalized, compassionate treatment.

Aquablation therapy

We offer Aquablation, a minimally-invasive treatment for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. An enlarged prostate may constrict the urethra, making it difficult to urinate and/or apply pressure on the bladder, causing it to weaken and have difficulty emptying.

Without timely treatment, BPH can lead to severe health issues such as permanent bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones and incontinence.

Aquablation is an advanced therapy option using imaging, robotics and a heat-free waterjet to provide long-lasting relief. It is ideal for men experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of BPH that interfere with daily life. Patients may be a good fit if they:

• Have difficultly urinating, weak stream or frequent nighttime urination
• Have tried medications but continue to experience bothersome symptoms
• Have been told their prostate is too large for other minimally invasive procedures

If you’re unsure about whether Aquablation therapy or BPH surgery is right for you, schedule a consultation with one of our urologists to discuss your options.