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Surgical Services

Summa Health surgeons use the latest techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures, to help improve outcomes and get patients back to what matters most.

Surgical Care

When surgery becomes part of your journey, having the right team matters. At Summa Health, you'll find experienced surgeons, compassionate support and personalized care to help you feel informed, comfortable and confident every step of the way.

From your first consultation through recovery, our surgical team is here to answer questions, ease concerns and guide you throughout the process. Whether you need a routine procedure or a complex operation, you'll benefit from coordinated care backed by advanced technology and expertise across a wide range of surgical specialties.

In fact, Summa Health has been recognized by Healthgrades as one of the top five hospitals in Ohio for surgical care, reflecting our commitment to exceptional outcomes, patient safety and an outstanding patient experience.

Top 5 in State Surgical Care

Our Surgical Services

Summa Health surgeons provide advanced surgical care across a wide range of specialties, with expertise in treating both common conditions and complex medical needs.

Your Surgical Journey

At Summa Health, our physicians, nurses and clinical specialists provide personalized, high-quality care at every stage – from consultation and diagnosis to surgery and recovery.

Throughout your journey, our team will:

  • Clearly explain your treatment options so you can make informed decisions about your care.
  • Take the time to get to know you – not just your health condition.
  • Provide compassionate, personalized support before, during and after surgery.
  • Help manage pain and discomfort throughout your recovery.

It's all part of our commitment to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.

Pre-Admission Testing

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Day of Surgery Tour

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Registration

Surgery at Summa Health System Akron Campus:

Option 1:
Contact registration at 330.375.3915, weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Option 2:
Wait for a Summa Representative to call to complete a phone registration.

Surgery at Summa Health System Barberton Campus:

Option 1:
Contact registration at 330.996.8796, weekdays 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Option 2:
Wait for a Summa Representative to call to complete a phone registration.

Surgery at Summa Health Wadsworth-Rittman Medical Center:

Option 1:
Contact registration at 330.996.8796, weekdays 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Option 2:
Wait for a Summa Representative to call to complete a phone registration.

Advanced Beneficiary Notice

Medicare insurance carriers may be asked to be financially responsible for tests that are ordered by your surgeon but may not be covered by Medicare. Your registrar will explain if this applies to your testing.

Pre-Admission Testing Department

330.375.7783

Summa Health System Akron Campus

  • 141 N. Forge St, Akron OH (Main Entrance)
  • Patients can park in valet or the main parking garage (validation is available). Proceed to central registration in the Dr. Gary B. and Pamela S. Williams Tower, main lobby. 

Summa Health System Barberton Campus

Why Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) is Necessary Before Surgery

At Summa Health, your safety is our primary concern. PAT consists of a medical history, physical exam and tests to ensure that you are medically cleared for your planned surgery. PAT makes the patient, surgeon and anesthesia team aware of any medical conditions that can affect surgery.

What You Can Expect During Your Visit

  • Your PAT appointment takes approximately one hour, depending on the complexity of your medical history and the tests you need.
  • A nurse will take your vital signs and weight.
  • A nurse and a medical provider (nurse practitioner or physician) will perform a medical history and a physical exam. 
  • If necessary, you will have an electrocardiogram (EKG), blood work and/or X-rays.
  • The medical provider will determine if further evaluation is necessary, such as a stress test, echocardiogram or a referral to a specialist.
  • The consent form will be reviewed and signed.

What You Must Bring to Your PAT Appointment

  1. Photo identification and insurance card
  2. List of current medications (including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements) with doses and frequency
  3. Living will and advance directive (if you have one)
  4. Legal guardianship or durable power of attorney (DOA-HC) documents (if required)

Special Preparations for the Day Before

If your doctor or pre-admission testing has given you specific instructions regarding medications, bathing or bowel preparation in addition to those below, it is important to follow them carefully.

  1. Get a good night’s sleep
  2. Do not drink alcohol or smoke 24 hours before surgery
  3. Use of recreational drugs may result in your surgery being cancelled
  4. Have a family member or friend available to drive you home after surgery

If you become ill or display other medical problems before your procedure, please let your surgeon know right away.

Anesthesia Instructions for Eating and Drinking

We encourage you to drink the following fluids up until two hours before your scheduled surgery time:

  1. Water
  2. Electrolyte sports drink - diabetic patients, please opt for zero sugar option
  3. Black coffee
  4. Clear tea
  5. Apple juice
  6. Cranberry juice
  7. Carbonated beverages

NO FOOD (including candy, mints or gum), milk, milk products, protein or energy drinks the day of your surgery.

Checklist of Items to Bring with You

  1. Valid picture ID
  2. Insurance or medicare card
  3. Any co-pay required to be paid
  4. Portable oxygen (if used at home)
  5. Your machine for sleep apnea
  6. Plan for transportation and care
  7. Person to contact and phone number
  8. Cases for eyeglasses, contact lenses, dentures and/or hearing aids
  9. Living Will and Advance Directive (if you have one)
  10. Legal guardianship or Durable Power of Attorney (DOA-HC) documents (if required)
  11. A book, magazine or music (digital music player or headphones); Wi-Fi available
  12. Do not bring valuables to the hospital.

After Your Procedure

Immediately after your procedure you will be monitored until the sedation begins to wear off. You may experience some discomfort.

  • Your nurse will assist you with pain control to keep you comfortable and work with you towards a quick surgical recovery and a great surgical outcome.
  • We want you to be able to move in bed, cough and breathe deeply.

Once you are more awake, you will either be taken to a hospital room or to the outpatient area until you are ready to go home. At this time, you will be able to see your family member or friend. If you are going home the same day, you will get dressed and receive instructions for your care at home.

Going Home the Same Day

For your safety and protection, do not drive, operate any machinery or make important decisions the day of surgery. You must have an adult available to stay with you during the first 24 hours you are at home.

If you are taking a taxi home, you must have an adult accompanying you. 

You and your family member or friend will be given written instructions from your discharge nurse prior to going home. To ensure a safe recovery, please follow your discharge instructions.

Patient Experience

Summa Health is committed to quality, compassionate care and a positive patient experience. We randomly survey our patients to receive feedback on how we did and what we can do better. Your comments are very important to us. You are encouraged to recognize any members of your care team who provided exceptional care. We hope that you will take a few moments to complete and return the survey in the envelope provided.

UpToDate® Patient Engagement

Summa Health has partnered with UpToDate® Patient Engagement to offer the most current evidence-based content to our patients, as well as their families and caregivers. A web-based program, UpToDate provides easy-to-understand medical information that can be accessed from any computer, tablet or smart phone 24 hours day. Prior to your procedure, you will receive program instructions via email or phone call notification.

Patient Stories

Patients share their experience and journey through diagnosis, operation and post-operative care at Summa Health.

Video 1

Ethan Adams-King, Trauma, Orthopedic Surgery, Vascular Surgery and Plastic Surgery Patient

After a devastating motorcycle accident a dedicated team of surgeons saved Ethan's leg.

Video 2

Betsey Enberg, Urogynecology Patient

Betsey suffered from pelvic pain and bloating for several years until she was referred to Summa Health. After a successful hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair surgery, she's back to doing what she loves.  

Video 3

Annabelle Blankenship, Bariatric Surgery Patient

Living proof that there is hope – and help.

Video 4

Dave Pence, Orthopedic Surgery Patient

Being back in the game with his grandkids is his best win.

Video 5
Video 6
Video 7
Video 8
Video 9

Meet Our Team

Breast Surgery Specialists

Breast Surgery Specialists

We offer patients coordinated access to high-quality, personalized care for any breast concern – from benign conditions to abnormal mammograms to diagnosis, treatment and survivorship of breast cancer.

Summa Health Fellowship Programs

Cardiothoracic Surgeons

Our cardiothoracic surgeons are members of Summa Health Heart and Vascular Institute – the largest cardiovascular team in the region.

Colorectal Cancer Care

Colorectal Surgery Specialists

Our colorectal surgery specialists are physicians specially trained in surgery of the colon and rectum. The only board-certified colorectal surgeons in Summit County practice exclusively at Summa Health.

Hearing exam ENT

ENT Specialists

Our ENT specialists utilize both medical and surgical approaches to treat diseases and conditions of the ear, nose and throat.

Critical Care Fellowship

General Surgery

General surgeons diagnose and treat a diverse range of conditions and disorders. Our physicians use minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgical interventions for help in treatment. 

Female Gynecologist speaking with patient

Gynecologic Oncology Specialists

Our team of gynecologic oncologists specializes in treating cancers of the female reproductive organs.

Lung Cancer Specialists

Lung/Pulmonology Specialists

Pulmonologists are key members of the multidisciplinary team that can perform tests and biopsies, and treat patients who have respiratory issues related to lung cancer.

Dr. Hartzfeld

Neurosurgery

From an aneurysm and brain tumor to stroke and traumatic injury, our award-winning neurosurgery team provides care for patients with a full range of neurological disorders and conditions affecting the brain, spine and nervous system.

Ophthalmology Services

Ophthalmology Specialists

We offer high-quality vision and surgical care for all your needs, such as cataract removal, glaucoma treatment, eyelid lesion excision surgery and macular degeneration evaluation.

Bones and Joint Medicine

Orthopedic Surgeons

Our orthopedic surgeons treat your condition with modern, less invasive techniques which provide better results for our patients. Our care team focuses on your recovery to help you return to the activities you enjoy.

Summa Health Plastic Surgery Fellows

Plastic Surgery Specialists

Our plastic surgery team performs both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including lymphatic surgery; breast reconstruction; face, head and neck reconstruction; and facial paralysis and reanimation.

Urology Residency Surgery

Urology Specialists

These compassionate, fellowship-trained specialists offer comprehensive urologic and pelvic care – from innovative therapies and treatments to minimally invasive surgeries – for men and women.

Vascular Surgeons at Summa Health

Vascular Surgeons

Summa Health’s board-certified vascular specialists treat vascular conditions like heart attacks, strokes and peripheral arterial disease with a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to care.

Bariatric Surgeons

Weight Management Specialists

The Summa Health Weight Management Institute has a dedicated interdisciplinary team ready to support your journey toward the best possible weight loss outcome.

Woman and Gynecologist

Women's Health

At Summa Health, our team of experts is committed to providing comprehensive women's health services for our community. We recognize that women experience unique health issues and conditions, from pregnancy and menopause to gynecological conditions, such as uterine fibroids and pelvic floor disorders. 

Locations

Summa Health System – Akron Campus
141 N. Forge St
Akron, OH 44304
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Summa Health System – Barberton Campus
155 5th St NE
Barberton, OH 44203
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Summa Health Wadsworth-Rittman Medical Center
195 Wadsworth Rd
Wadsworth, OH 44281
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Summa Health Medina Surgery Center
3780 Medina Rd, Suite 120
Medina, OH 44256
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Options to Request an Appointment

If your situation is an emergency, call 911.