Page 7 - NRMC Today-Summer-Fall 2025

PATIENT STORY: JOSEPH HARMON
ROBOTIC RADICAL NEPHRECTOMY
When Joseph Harmon was
diagnosed in April with a massive
and aggressive kidney tumor,
he was advised by his surgeon
in Fairhope, AL, that it would
require a very large incision for a
complete removal of the kidney.
This was con rmed by a second
more experienced surgeon. A
tentative surgery date of May 5th
was scheduled, and Joseph had
one week to decide whether to proceed. Determined to nd a better solution, he began researching his options.
Joseph learned about Dr. Erik Castle, a renowned urologic oncologist recognized for his pioneering robotic surgery expertise at the Mayo Clinic and now a member of NRMC Urology Associates. However, the number connected him to NRMC Urologist Dr. Kenneth Perego, Dr Castle’s partner, in Alexandria. A consultation appointment was scheduled. After reviewing the case, Dr. Perego believed the tumor could be removed robotically. Joseph recalled, “I felt an immediate rapport with Dr. Perego...He was con dent the procedure could be done robotically, and I trusted him.”
“I had surgery performed by two of the top robotic surgeons in the United States, if not the world...There’s no sidekick with these two—both are superheroes in my book. I was blessed that God put us all in the right place at the right time.”
On Saturday, May 3rd while in Natchitoches for preoperative testing, Joseph began experiencing severe pain and bleeding. His wife, Ronda, called Dr. Perego, who met them at NRMC Emergency Department. A blood clot was removed, and Joseph was admitted for observation. On Monday, he met Dr. Castle and immediately felt a connection. Dr. Castle explained he would be assisting Dr. Perego with the robotic surgery the next day.
The robotic surgery was a remarkable success. Pathology con rmed the tumor was clear cell renal cell carcinoma. The right kidney, tumor, adrenal gland, and lymph nodes were removed robotically. Additionally, an unexpected umbilical hernia was discovered and repaired. After just 8 weeks of recovery, Joseph returned to work on July 1st and rejoined his church where he serves as a deacon.
Joseph praised the outstanding care he received from the nurses and sta at NRMC Surgery, Med-Surg, ED departments, and NRMC Urology Associates. “Everyone was so attentive and professional,” he said. “They truly went above and beyond to care for me.”
Read Joseph’s Complete Story
Advanced Imaging Technology:
NRMC First in Louisiana
Committed to providing high quality healthcare services, NRMC is the rst facility in Louisiana to have the SIGNATM Artist Evo MR system. This magnetic resonance system provides cutting edge technology and imaging capabilities bene ting both patients and providers. It is the most advanced 1.5T MRI system with
the fastest scan capabilities and the highest image quality. Its imaging capabilities includes vascular, musculoskeletal, prostate, chest wall, brain, neck, breast, abdominal and run-o studies
– serving the needs of all referring physicians. The system’s advanced software allows for multiple contrasts for better detection of pathology enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
SIGNA Artist Evo coupled with NRMC’s state-of-the-art imaging system, allows for MRI and ultrasound fusion biopsy planning. High resolution MRI images
can be imported into
the ultrasound machine
for precision in targeted biopsies. This enhances prostate cancer detection, localization and treatment planning, reducing unnecessary biopsies.
Fastest Scan Capabilities Reducing Scan Time by 50%
Highest Image Quality Allows Detection of Smallest Abnormalities
In-bore Lighting Decreases Patient Anxiety
Feet- rst Scanning & Larger Bore Reduces Patient Risk of Claustrophobia
Blanket Coils + Comfort Tilt Head & Neck Positioning Increases Patient Comfort
Precision in targeted biopsies
The SIGNA Artist Evo
is also kinder for our environment as it uses the same magnet from the prior MR system – reducing the hospitals carbon footprint by eliminating waste
and reducing helium consumption.
For more information, please visit
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