Dr. Erik Castle, a renowned robotic specialist at NRMC Urology Associates, and Dr. Kenneth Perego are revolutionizing urological care through groundbreaking, minimally invasive surgical techniques. By incorporating state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Perego and Dr. Castle are advancing the treatment of complex urologic conditions and cancers – providing patients with faster recovery times, reduced complications, and improved long-term outcomes.
As one of the first urologists in the nation to perform a robot-assisted radical cystectomy, a surgical removal of the bladder, Dr. Castle’s advanced training and expertise in robotic technology, coupled with Dr. Perego’s accomplished background in the treatment of advanced urinary tract conditions brings a higher level of precision and innovation to surgical capabilities being offered at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center.
These surgical techniques include robot-assisted laparoscopic procedures for kidney conditions, including kidney stone and tumor removal and kidney reconstruction; prostate disorders including enlarged prostate and prostate cancer; bladder conditions and cancers including tumor and lymph node removal, bladder reconstruction and neobladder construction; as well as multidisciplinary procedures for pelvic organ prolapse and urethra reconstruction. They also perform a vascular procedure for Nutcracker syndrome, a rare condition caused by compression of the left kidney vein. This procedure is offered at only a few centers nationwide.
“I spent the early part of my career at Mayo Clinic where I had access to every technology you can think of. With the commitment to innovation here at NRMC, we have all the tools, technology and support we need to perform cutting edge surgeries,” explained Dr. Castle. “There is nothing here I can’t do that I did at Mayo Clinic.”
These advanced surgical approaches balance cutting-edge medical science with an empathetic understanding of each patient’s personal and family journey. “Knowing first-hand what it means to carry a familial gene for cancer, I understand how a diagnosis impacts not only the patient but their entire family,” stated Dr. Perego. “That’s why I’m passionate about exploring all possible treatment options and care plans, so we can achieve the best possible outcome using the least invasive approach.”
NRMC continues to demonstrate its dedication to advanced care by investing in state-of-art technologies and specialists who are experts in their field. “At NRMC our goal is to provide the most effective, least invasive care available, and these advanced tools allow us to treat even the most complex cases with greater accuracy and less discomfort for the patient,” stated Kirk Soileau, NRMC Chief Executive Officer. “We now have patients traveling from all over the United States for procedures right here at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. We are incredibly fortunate to have surgical expertise in urology oncology with our highly skilled surgeons Dr. Castle and Dr. Perego.”
NRMC Urology Associates is currently accepting new patients and offering consultations to evaluate eligibility for these innovative procedures. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit nrmchospital.org/clinic/nrmc-urology-clinic/ or call 318.214.5810.