Almost everyone knows someone who’s had surgery, and that person’s experience can influence how others choose a surgical solution to a medical problem.

If the surgery was years ago, it’s likely the individual experienced a large, painful incision and long recovery. If the surgery was more recent, however, the individual likely spent relatively little time in the hospital and was back to his or her usual routine in a matter of days.

A panel of surgeons on the medical staff at Tanner Health System hope to allay fears and provide insight into the most recent advancements in care during a special Advancing Your Health Education Series discussion, “Small Incisions, Big Differences.” The free discussion will be held Thursday, May 24, at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 2 at Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton, 705 Dixie Street. Registration is required and refreshments will be served.

The multidisciplinary team of panelists for the event include: board-certified general surgeons José Espinel, MD, David Griffin, MD, and Jon Stanford, MD, with Carrollton Surgical Group; and Megan Grilliot, MD, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with West Georgia OB/GYN. The event will feature a close-up demonstration of Tanner’s latest minimally invasive surgical innovation, the da Vinci X surgical robotic system.

The surgeons will discuss advanced minimally invasive and robotic-assisted approaches to colorectal surgery, hernia care, varicose vein treatments and more; Tanner’s unique, specialized approach to women’s care, from uterine issues to hysterectomy; and the ways minimally invasive surgical techniques can speed healing, lead to less blood loss, reduce the risk of complications and help people get back to their work, their families and their lives faster than ever.

Those interested may register themselves and a guest online at www.tanner.org/minimal or by calling 770.214.CARE. Complimentary valet service is available at the Dixie Street entrance to the hospital.

Tanner’s Advancing Your Health Education Series provides residents with access to free health information from the region’s leading health experts, covering a wide range of topics, including heart disease, orthopedics, women’s care and more. Other upcoming opportunities can be found in the Classes and Events calendar at www.tanner.org/calendar.

More information on the surgical services available at Tanner can be found online at www.SurgeryAtTanner.org.