Navigation System Can Lead to Safer,
More-Effective Procedures
Timothy Jones, MD, board-certified otolaryngologist at St. Mary's Medical
Center, has been using the Stealth Station Surgical Navigation System for
sinus surgery since its inception eight years ago.
December 15, 2020
A new tool has given surgeons at St. Mary's Medical Center an unprecedented view of the sinus cavities during surgery. That enhancement, says Timothy Jones, MD, board-certified otolaryngologist, can provide patients a safer and more-effective treatment.
Stealth Station Surgical Navigation System
The Stealth Station Surgical Navigation system has been used for sinus surgery at St. Mary’s Medical Center since the beginning of the year. The tool features "virtual endoscopy," offering a view of the sinus cavities that was previously impossible.
During endoscopic sinus surgery, a thin, lighted tool called an endoscope is inserted in the nose to remove obstructions, such as polyps, that cause pain and pressure and can keep the sinuses from properly draining.
"Your sinuses are extremely small air pockets in the bone of the nose. This navigation tool allows us to know exactly where our instruments are in real time, during surgery, providing another degree of precision and safety," says Dr. Jones, who joined St. Mary's at the start of the year. "A displayed screen also allows us to see where we are in relation to the skull and precisely where the diseased tissue is to be removed, allowing for a more thorough surgery."
Importantly, due to the more thorough nature of the surgery, patients may experience a shorter recovery and less chance of recurrence with the new technology, according to Dr. Jones.
"In addition to sinus surgery, the navigation system is especially helpful for any surgery of the skull," he adds, such as neurosurgery, which is also performed with the navigation system at St. Mary’s. "It all comes down to a safer surgery for our patients."
As a board-certified otolaryngologist, Dr. Jones provides comprehensive care for conditions of the ear, nose and throat, including head and neck surgery.