Dr. Lorelei Bourla has joined Saratoga Hospital to lead the latest addition to its multidisciplinary medical group: Saratoga Hospital Medical Group-Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
The hospital also announced it is one of the first in the Capital Region to offer robotic arm-assisted surgery for hip and knee replacements. The cutting-edge robotic technology, known as the Stryker Mako System, enhances patient care by ensuring a higher level of precision and accuracy during surgery, officials said.
The new Allergy and Clinical Immunology practice provides care for patients of all ages who have asthma, allergies and other conditions caused by problems with the body’s immune system. These types of disorders are on the rise, hospital officials said. Although most cannot be cured, treatments can help relieve and manage symptoms.
“These conditions can take a toll on individual and community health,” said Dr. Richard Falivena, vice president and chief medical and physician integration officer at Saratoga Hospital. “Our new practice will increase access to care for these patients and help them improve and enjoy day-to-day life.
“Dr. Lorelei Bourla is an excellent choice to launch this effort,” he said. “She has the clinical expertise and takes the time to get to know and understand the ‘whole patient,’ not just his or her condition.”
Bourla earned her medical degree at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. After an internship and residency at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, she completed a fellowship in adult allergy and clinical immunology at National Jewish Health in Denver. She is board certified in allergy and immunology and in internal medicine.
The practice is located on Saratoga Hospital’s Wilton campus at 3044 Route 50 in Saratoga Springs. For an appointment, call 518-886-5814. To learn more, go to www.saratogahospital.org.
Six hospital orthopedic surgeons are trained in using the Mako system for total hip replacement and partial and total knee replacement surgeries. As the population ages, demand for the robotic arm-assisted surgeries continues to increase, officials said.
“With the Mako System, our patients have access to some of the most advanced and effective surgical technology,” said Dr. Joseph Bell, vice president and medical director of perioperative services at Saratoga Hospital. “That can improve their surgical outcomes and have a positive, long-term impact on their health and quality of life.”
Saratoga Hospital consistently earns high marks for hip and knee replacements, according to officials. The hospital is rated as “high performing” by U.S. News & World Report for both procedures. Blue Shield of Northeastern New York has named Saratoga Hospital a Blue Distinction Center for knee and hip replacement.
The Mako System uses CT-based 3D modeling software that allows surgeons to create a personalized joint replacement plan based on each patient’s unique anatomy, the size of their implant and its orientation and alignment. During the procedure, the surgeon uses the robotic arm to place the implant as precisely as possible, in a position that reflects the patient’s natural movement patterns.
Officials said studies show that the Mako System can increase surgical precision and help protect soft tissue and ligaments. In addition, six months after surgery, patients who had surgery performed with the Mako System have reported less pain and greater satisfaction than those who had conventional joint replacement surgery.
