Central Maine Healthcare

Where You are the Center

Arthroscopic and Endoscopic Surgery

Types of Surgery We Offer

Whether your procedure is routine or complex, rest assured you’re in good hands at Central Maine Healthcare.

Many of our board-certified surgeons practice in highly specialized areas, with advanced training in everything from tumor removal to trauma, hernia repair to heart care. We perform many of these procedures using the latest minimally invasive techniques, often allowing you to go home the same day and enjoy an easier, faster recovery.

It’s all part of our commitment to bring leading surgical care right to the central and western Maine surrounding communities we serve. So you can focus less on traveling, and more on healing.

Full Range of Surgical Services

Just some of our specialties include:

General surgery

Our surgeons treat all types of health problems affecting the esophagus, stomach, colon, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix and bile ducts. We take a minimally invasive approach whenever possible, including appendectomies and gallbladder removal, as well as complex hernia repair. These laparoscopic procedures require just a few small incisions, which often means significantly less pain and quicker return to your life.

Cancer surgery

For many types of cancer, surgery is often the best first treatment, especially for early stage cancers or those that are contained to one area. Our board-certified surgeons are skilled in removing even the most complex tumors, while helping minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue. We also work closely with specialists in radiation and medical oncology to ensure the best possible care.

Gynecologic surgery

Our women’s health experts perform a wide range of gynecologic procedures to address concerns at any age and stage of life. That includes treatment for endometriosis, removing fibroids and ovarian cysts, and minimally invasive techniques for incontinence and hysterectomy. Many of these procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to leave the hospital the same day and recover comfortably at home.

Heart and vascular surgery

At the nationally recognized Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI), our cardiovascular surgeons perform both traditional open heart surgery as well as some of the most advanced, minimally invasive options available. Specialties include implantable devices and ablation to help restore irregular heart rhythms; angioplasty and other interventional procedures in our state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab; heart valve repair and replacement, including the revolutionary TAVR procedure for severe aortic stenosis; and pediatric procedures to address congenital heart concerns and other conditions affecting young hearts.

Orthopedic surgery

The board-certified surgeons at Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) and Central Maine Healthcare Orthopedics (CMHO) are here to help get your body, and life, back in motion. We’ve earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for providing the highest standards of care in hip, knee and shoulder replacement, as well as hip fracture care. We also specialize in minimally invasive spine surgery and the latest arthroscopic techniques to help you return faster to what you love.

Plastic and reconstructive surgery

Central Maine Healthcare offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures to help you look and feel your best. Elective cosmetic options include face lifts, breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction and more from our board-certified plastic surgeons. Our reconstructive procedures can help restore appearance and self-confidence after an injury or illness, including breast reconstruction following mastectomy.

Trauma surgery

As a Level III Trauma Center, we provide 24-hour surgical coverage for all types of serious and life-threatening injuries. We also orthopedic surgeons and other critical care specialists always on-call.

Weight loss (bariatric) surgery

Transform your health and life with help from our board-certified bariatric surgeons. We perform a variety of safe and proven weight loss procedures, including gastric bypass, gastric sleeve and adjustable gastric banding (LAP-BAND). Using the latest laparoscopic options, we’ll help give you the best possible start on your journey, and provide the ongoing education and support you need to achieve your goals.

Other common surgeries we offer include:

  • Breast surgery
  • Colon surgery
  • Ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery
  • Esophageal surgery
  • Gastrointestinal surgery
  • Liver and biliary tract surgery
  • Lung surgery
  • Pediatric surgery
  • Podiatry procedures
  • Urologic surgery

Gastroenterology

At Central Maine Healthcare, our board-certified gastroenterologists are up to the task. We provide expert care for all types of gastric problems, from everyday stomach ailments to complex intestinal, swallowing and inflammatory conditions. Working closely with you, we’ll create a tailor-made treatment plan to relieve your specific symptoms, so you can get back to your life.

Specialized Care for Digestive Disorders

Our GI doctors combine years of experience with compassionate care to diagnose and treat any gastric issue. Specialties include:

  • Bowel disorders
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Esophageal disorders
  • Hepatitis
  • Ulcerative colitis

Each condition calls for a different path to find the best diagnosis. Some can be identified by blood tests alone; for others we might use X-rays, a CT or MRI, colonoscopy or endoscopy—a painless procedure in which your doctor inserts a thin tube, with a camera attached at the end, into your digestive tract to see what’s happening. No matter how complex, we can help manage the problem successfully, and, in many instances, completely cure it. Depending on your symptoms, treatment options may include medication, lifestyle support, minimally invasive procedures or other therapies to meet your needs.

Helping You Take Control: Some digestive disorders will be with you long-term, and you may need a program of self-management to keep symptoms at bay. Our team, including registered dietitians, is here to show you the skills and tools to support your healthiest life.

Gastroenterology Treatments & Specialties

At Central Maine Healthcare, we’re committed to helping people throughout western and central Maine take charge of their digestive health. Our board-certified gastroenterologists provide specialized care for a full range of gastric conditions, whether your symptoms are mild or significantly impacting your health and daily life. We provide the latest diagnostic tests to understand exactly what’s ailing you, as all as the latest treatments to help you manage your condition more easily and effectively.

Endoscopic Ultrasound: Ultrasounds offer a minimally invasive way to evaluate disorders in all parts of the body, including digestive disorders. These exams use an endoscope—a long, fiber-optic tube that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of the lining and walls of the digestive tract and chest. It can also examine nearby organs, including the pancreas, liver and lymph nodes, for other potential problems.

ECRP is a kind of endoscope exam, designed to examine your pancreatic and bile ducts highlighted with dye. Most of the time, your doctor will pair an ECRP with X-rays to get the complete picture.

Laparoscopic Surgery: Should you require surgery to help treat a digestive problem, rest assured you’re in skilled hands. Our surgeons specialize in laparoscopic techniques, which often offer significantly less pain and scarring, fewer complications and a faster recovery compared to traditional “open” procedures.

Prokinetics are a type of medication that reduces some of the discomforts of gastro disorders caused by “delayed emptying.”

Integrative Medicine: For gastric disorders, as well as ailments in other parts of the body, integrative medicine at Central Maine offers therapies that can play a vital role in healing. Acupuncture can help relieve symptoms by stimulating the body’s own natural painkillers. Other approaches include probiotics (beneficial bacteria already found in the digestive tract), fish oil (now widely recognized as an anti-inflammatory), aloe vera gel, as well as nutritional and herbal supplements. Our GI doctors and integrative medicine experts will work together and with you to help create a custom and comprehensive treatment plan.

Gastrointestinal Disorders We Treat

Dealing with any kind of gastrointestinal problem can be painful, not to mention undue stress or embarrassment that keeps you from the life you love. At Central Maine Healthcare, we can help put your body – and mind – at ease. Our dedicated team of gastroenterologists and support staff, including registered dietitians, are skilled in treating all types of digestive problems. Whether your problem is a short-lived “stomach bug” or a chronic condition, count on our experts to help you find the right solution to help get back to feeling and living your best. Click to learn more about Gastrointestinal Disorders We Treat.

Contact Us

Central Maine Gastroenterology
77 Bates Street, Lewiston, ME
(207) 784-5784

Resources:

General Welcome to the Endoscopy Department Form
New Bravo EGD Instructions
New CN Miralax Instructions
New CN Peg 3350 Instructions
New CN SuPrep Instructions
New EGD and CN Miralax Instructions
New EGD and CN Peg 3350 Instructions
New EGD and CN SuPrep Instructions
New EGD Instructions
New ERCP Instructions
New EUS and ERCP Instructions
New EUS Instructions
New Sigmoidoscopy Instructions
New VCE EGD Instructions

Advanced Technology

The thought of surgery can feel daunting. But with new innovative surgical options at Central Maine Healthcare, it doesn’t have to mean a lengthy hospital stay or recovery. Compared to traditional open surgery, these techniques may offer you a variety of benefits, such as:

  • Significantly less pain
  • Less blood loss
  • Less scarring
  • Fewer complications
  • Shorter recovery time
  • Shorter (or no) hospital stay
  • Faster return to the life you love

Full Range of Options

Common minimally invasive procedures we perform include:

  • Appendix removal
  • Colon surgery
  • Complex bowel and colon resections
  • Ear, nose and throat (ENT) procedures
  • Hernia repair
  • Hysterectomy and other gynecological procedures
  • Gallbladder removal
  • Tumor removal
  • Orthopedic procedures for the knees, hips, ankles and shoulders
  • Urologic procedures
  • Weight loss (bariatric) procedures

Healing in the Comfort of Home

With our minimally invasive approach, many of our patients can avoid an overnight hospitalization. In fact, each of our main locations throughout central and western Maine includes a fully accredited same-day surgery unit. Depending on the type of surgery and your unique needs, we may have you home within hours of your procedure.

Prior to your surgery date, you’ll have meet with one of our pre-admission nurses to walk through all instructions and arrange any necessary tests.

After surgery, you’ll rest in the unit under the observation of one of our dedicated nurses and/or your provider. We ensure you have recovered from anesthesia and are prepared for self-care at home. Usually within a few hours, you will be able to leave with a family member or other caregiver.

Same-day surgery is not right for everyone. Your surgeon, anesthesiologist and care team will work together and with you to help determine the best solution for your health.

Learn about da Vinci Robotic Surgery

Expert Surgical Care, Close to Home

Diagnosis: Cancer Care

How is Cancer Diagnosed?

Sometimes an infection can be the cause of many of the same symptoms cancer produces. That’s why your provider will need to conduct multiple tests to accurately diagnose your condition. Diagnosis starts with your provider giving you a physical exam and finding out about your family history. Based on what they find, they will discuss next steps with you and explain the tests they think are needed. These may include any of the following:

Imaging Tests

Imaging procedures are painless and are often the first step in determining a patient’s condition. Central Maine Healthcare’s partnership with Shields Health Care allows us to offer a variety of imaging services including x-rays, PET scans, CT scans, and MRI. We feature some of the best MRI technology in the region, with the open-bore MRI scanner at Central Maine Medical Center providing extra space for maximum patient comfort and sharp clarity for more accurate diagnoses. Our mobile open bore MRI allows us to provide this same comfort and accuracy at our critical access hospitals, Rumford Hospital and Bridgton Hospital.

Lab Tests

Cancer often produces what providers call markers. These chemicals found in the blood give clues about whether cancer is present and what type it may be. Your provider may take a sample of tissue from the area they are concerned about (called a biopsy) and send it to the Cancer Care Center’s pathology lab. There, specially trained providers called pathologists will study the sample and look for cancer markers.

Endoscopic Exams

With this exam, a scope (a camera attached to a flexible tube) is inserted into an opening in your body. It allows your provider to see your organs and look for evidence of cancer. They may use the scope to also take a sample of the tissue (called a biopsy) for examination under a microscope in the pathology laboratory. 

Genetic Tests

Your provider may want to learn more about the genes in your DNA. Some of these genes may provide further clues to the type of cancer you may have and how best to treat it. At the Cancer Care Center at Central Maine Healthcare, we offer genetic testing and counseling to help you understand the test and what its results may mean for you.

Orthopedic Conditions We Treat

Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury or chronic condition, you don’t have to live with pain.

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) offers nationally recognized care for all types of problems affecting the joints, bones, muscles and tendons. Our multi-skilled team – including board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons, specially trained nurses, physical therapists and more – work closely together and with you to create a custom treatment plan.

Here, you’ll find a full continuum of care, from advanced diagnostic imaging to rehabilitation and other nonsurgical options. If surgery is your best solution, we offer some of the most minimally invasive techniques available, including the latest in total and partial joint replacement for less pain and faster recovery.

So whether you want to run a marathon or just enjoy a pain-free routine, know that world-class care is right here in the heart of Maine.

Joint Replacement

If you’re suffering with stiff and painful joints, even small tasks can feel like monumental challenges. And while medication or physical therapy may help ease your pain, sometimes surgery may be your best solution for long-term relief.

At Central Maine Healthcare, our board-certified, fellowship trained surgeons specialize in joint replacement of the hips, knees and shoulders – all common, highly successful treatments for people living with severe pain caused by arthritis, injury or other joint-related conditions.

Joint replacement procedures involve removing damaged bone and cartilage and implanting a state-of-the-art mechanical joint, which can restore your freedom and quality of life. Our team of experts will guide you through every step of your journey, from prehab to recovery – ensuring you recover quickly.

Relief Starts with Central Maine Healthcare’s Joint Replacement Specialists

Our joint replacement program has brought life-changing relief to hundreds of men and women throughout our Lewiston, Bridgton and Rumford communities. We’re here to do the same for you through:

Full Range of Options

Your surgeon will work closely with you to find the right procedure, depending on the severity of your condition and your unique needs and preferences. In addition to total joint replacement, we also partial joint replacement and joint repair and reconstruction, along with nonsurgical treatments like injections.

Better Precision, Less Incision

Orthopedic surgeons at Central Maine Healthcare are trained in some of the most sophisticated techniques and technology available in joint replacement. We offer the latest, most minimally invasive options like anterior hip replacement, a muscle-sparing alternative to traditional hip replacement. For you, this may mean often significantly less pain and blood loss, fewer complications, a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.

Total Support for the Journey

We know joint replacement surgery can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve thoughtfully designed our Core Connect Care™ program, which keeps you with the same surgeon, providers and nurses through every appointment. Every step of your journey is highly coordinated, starting with pre-surgery educational class so you know just what to expect before, during and after your procedure. We’ll then guide you seamlessly through surgery, physical therapy and life with your new joint.

Along the way, you’ll also have the support of your own multi-skilled team, including a personal nurse navigator to coordinate all your care, answer questions and provide extra support whenever you need it.

Faster Rehab and Recovery

With our specially designed program, plus the latest implant technology and surgical techniques, our patients spend less time in the hospital and in postoperative rehabilitation. Working one-on-one with a physical therapist, you may be up and walking the same day as surgery and back home in as little as 24 hours.

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

A to Z Search for Services

Central Maine Healthcare covers all of your physical and mental health needs.
Click on a service below to learn more about what we offer and where to find care near you.

  • Addiction Services

    We are committed to understanding and serving people who are living with addiction. We provide compassionate trauma-informed care based on best practi… Learn More >

  • Bariatric Surgery

    Central Maine Bariatric Surgery understands how important weight loss is for patients. We have been established since 2007 and have a team ready to su… Learn More >

  • Breast Health

    When it comes to caring for your breast health, Central Maine Healthcare offers a spectrum of services to help screen, diagnose, and treat. From the m… Learn More >

  • Cancer care

    The Cancer Care Center at Central Maine Medical Center is an integrated, multi-disciplinary program that combines a full spectrum of services and med… Learn More >

  • Cardiovascular services

    Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) brings skilled medical specialists and innovative treatments to the people of central Maine and bey… Learn More >

  • Diabetes and Endocrinology

    Diabetes and other endocrine-system conditions are complex, and when you’ve been diagnosed with one, it’s hard to know what to do next. Learn More >

  • Ear, Nose and Throat

    At Central Maine Healthcare, our board-certified ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists understand how this connected system works and can identify th… Learn More >

  • Emergency Care

    If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 9-1-1 immediately or go to your nearest ER. Emergencies happen when you least expect them,… Learn More >

  • Gastroenterology

    Your digestive system involves so many parts of the body – your throat, stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder and liver. So, whe… Learn More >

  • Imaging Services

    Welcome to Central Maine Medical Center Imaging Services. We take pride in providing our community with technologically advanced, up-to-date imaging s… Learn More >

  • Integrative Medicine

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we’re focused on the whole you — mind, body and spirit. That’s why we specialize in integrative medicine, with a va… Learn More >

  • Laboratory Services

    Central Maine Healthcare offers lab services at convenient locations for tests as part of your routine appointment or for screening of specific condit… Learn More >

  • Long-Term Care

    At Central Maine Healthcare, our long-term care feels exactly like home. We believe in taking complete care of you or your loved one’s physical, med… Learn More >

  • Neurology

    Central Maine Healthcare's neurologists and other doctors are specialists in epilepsy, movement disorders and other neurological disorders. Learn More >

  • Nutrition Services

    Clinical Nutrition A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a “food and nutrition expert” who has completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree ... <a class… Learn More >

  • Orthopedic care

    The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) serves the people of Central, Western and Midcoast Maine. OICM works collaboratively with our outpati… Learn More >

  • Palliative Care

    Central Maine Healthcare's palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing reli… Learn More >

  • Pediatrics

    CMH’s kid-friendly team members and ambience — as well as our kid-sized examination tables and tools — instantly put children at ease. And we fi… Learn More >

  • Pharmacy

    The CMMC Pharmacy is open to the public and accepts all major insurance plans. As part of your healthcare team, let our pharmacy assist you with manag… Learn More >

  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

    Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a personal choice, and a personal journey. At Central Maine Healthcare, our double-board certified physician a… Learn More >

  • Primary Care

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we make primary care easy and accessible to community members like you. We believe in providing compassionate, quality ca… Learn More >

  • Pulmonary

    At Central Maine Healthcare we provide diagnosis and treatment to our patients as well as education to both the patient and family. Learn More >

  • Rehabilitation and Therapy

    Whether you have suffered an injury at work or on the field, are recovering from surgery or just want to better manage pain, the Orthopedic Institute… Learn More >

  • Rheumatology

    Rheumatology is the study and treatment of rheumatic disorders, a wide range of conditions affecting the joints and connective tissue and typically ca… Learn More >

  • Sleep Medicine

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we know what a peaceful night’s sleep means for your health and life. Our board-certified sleep medicine specialist and… Learn More >

  • Surgical services

    Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) brings skilled medical specialists and innovative treatments to the people of central Maine and bey… Learn More >

  • Telehealth Services

    Central Maine Healthcare now offers telehealth services, bringing you the care you need when you’re unable to leave home. Online and telephone visit… Learn More >

  • Trauma Center

    We offer three ERs right in the communities we serve – each staffed 24/7 with board-certified emergency providers and specialty trained team members… Learn More >

  • Urology

    Using the latest and most advanced screening technology allows our medical team to scan with amazing detail. This allows us to more accurately detect… Learn More >

  • Women’s and children’s health

    Women of all ages have unique health and medical needs, which is why Central Maine Healthcare has spent decades building services, treatment, educatio… Learn More >

  • Wound Care

    Central Maine Medical Center’s Comprehensive Wound Center is a centralized location for all aspects of wound care. Our team of specialists provides… Learn More >

Rumford Hospital

Rumford Hospital is a 25-bed, not-for-profit critical access hospital (CAH), offering inpatient and outpatient services to the River Valley community. Rumford Hospital provides patients with local access to 24-hour emergency care and an array of healthcare services, including primary care, diagnostic and medical-surgical nursing services, women’s health and ambulatory surgery. The hospital’s swing bed program provides care for patients who need skilled nursing services.

420 Franklin Street
Rumford, ME 04276
Main: (207) 369-1000
Emergency: (207) 369-1051
Directory >

You might be interested in…

 Central Maine Medical Center
Bridgton Hospital
A to Z Search for Services

Central Maine Medical Center

Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston is the flagship facility of Central Maine Healthcare. CMMC is a 250-bed, not-for-profit, Level III Trauma Center, offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services to the people of central Maine. CMMC provides 24-hour emergency care, a state-of-the-art Cancer Care Center, an award-winning stroke center and extensive specialized care. CMMC is also the southern Maine base for LifeFlight of Maine, the state’s only medical helicopter service.

300 Main Street
Lewiston, ME 04240
Main: (207) 795-0111
Emergency: (207) 795-2200
Directory >

You might be interested in…

 A to Z Search for Services
Bridgton Hospital
Rumford Hospital

Bridgton Hospital

Bridgton Hospital is a 25-bed, not-for-profit critical access hospital (CAH) that serves the people of western Maine. Founded in 1917, Bridgton Hospital provides 24-hour emergency services and features medical and surgical services, intensive care and a variety of other services including oncology, hematology, podiatry, orthopedics, cardiology and diabetes education. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic services with a full-service lab and a radiology department boasting 3D mammography, ultrasound, CT scan and MRI.

10 Hospital Drive
Bridgton, ME 04009
Main: (207) 647-6000
Emergency: (207) 647-6070
Directory >

You might be interested in…

 Central Maine Medical Center
Rumford Hospital
A to Z Search for Services