Between checking off school supply lists, hunting down lunchboxes, and wondering how your kid’s shoes shrank two sizes over the summer, it’s easy to forget about health checkups, especially the kind that go beyond the standard physical.
But if your child has been dealing with things like chronic ear infections, snoring, or nonstop sinus trouble, the start of a new school year is the perfect time to take a closer look. These issues might seem minor on the surface, but they can impact your child’s sleep, focus, hearing, and even behavior in the classroom.
If this sounds familiar, a quick consultation and outpatient procedure might be all your child needs to feel better. At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we work closely with the experts at St. Cloud Ear, Nose, and Throat to provide top-tier ENT care for Central Minnesota families. Our practices are so close, they even share a parking lot — how’s that for teamwork?
So, if you’re ready to tackle your child’s ENT concerns before summer wraps and sick season begins, here’s what you need to know.
The Red Flags: When Your Child Might Need an ENT Referral
One of the hardest things as a parent is knowing when your child needs medical attention. It’s a constant balancing act between worrying too much and worrying too little. But the truth is, your gut instinct is usually right. If something feels off, it’s probably worth digging into.
That doesn’t mean you need to hit the panic button, but it might be time to ask your child’s primary care provider about an ENT referral. To arm you for that ask, here are some warning signs that may tell you a more specialized ENT evaluation is in order.
Frequent or Chronic Ear Infections – If your kiddo has had more ear infections than birthday parties lately, you’re not alone. Chronic ear infections, especially those that stick around for more than three months or just keep coming back, can mess with hearing, sleep, and day-to-day comfort.
Trouble Hearing or Delayed Speech –Does your child seem not to be quite catching what you’re saying? Are they behind on speech milestones? ENT-related hearing issues can show up as slow responses, trouble following directions, limited vocabulary, or simply acting a little “tuned out.” Yes, sometimes, it’s not a behavioral issue.
Snoring, Restless Sleep, or Mouth Breathing – Loud snoring or restless nights might just seem like quirky sleep habits, but they can also point to issues like enlarged tonsils or adenoids, nasal polyps, or chronic allergies. If your child always breathes through their mouth or wakes up crankier than they went to bed, it’s worth a closer look.
Recurring Sore Throats or Swollen Tonsils –If your child constantly battles sore throats or their tonsils always look red and inflamed, it might not just be another virus. When sore throats show up more than seven times in a single year, or consistently year after year, a tonsillectomy might be the long-term fix.
Persistent Sinus Infections or Nasal Congestion –No one wants to see their kid struggle to breathe clearly. Chronic congestion or sinus infections that just won’t quit can also lead to issues like blocked eustachian tubes (which affect balance and hearing). If tissues and allergy meds aren’t cutting it, something deeper may be going on.
While some of these issues clear up with time or medication, others become repeat offenders, and that’s when surgical treatment may be the better, more permanent solution.Lucky for you and your sweet kiddos, we have a team of expert physicians to find relief and long-term peace of mind. We know making decisions about your child’s health can feel heavy, but we’re here to guide you with expertise and empathy.
Three Common ENT Surgeries That Help Kids Thrive
1. Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy
Let’s talk tonsils and adenoids, those sneaky little tissues at the back of the throat and nose that can cause big problems.
While the number of tonsillectomies has decreased since the 1970s, they are still very prominent, with over 500,000 tonsillectomies being performed on children under 15 annually.
Why it’s done: If your child has frequent bouts of tonsillitis, strep throat, or trouble sleeping due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, this procedure might be recommended. It’s especially helpful for kids with obstructive sleep apnea or chronic mouth breathing.
How it helps: Removing the tonsils and/or adenoids can drastically reduce throat infections and improve airflow, meaning your child breathes easier, sleeps better, and wakes up ready to tackle their spelling test.
2. Ear Tube Insertion (Myringotomy)
If your child has had more ear infections than snow days, ear tubes might be the answer. And that’s saying something in Minnesota.
Myringotomies are the most common surgery performed on children in the United States, with an estimated nearly half a million kids in the US receiving ear tubes each year.
Why it’s done: Children with repeated ear infections or fluid buildup behind the eardrum (called otitis media with effusion) can experience pain, hearing loss, and speech delays.
How it helps: Small tubes inserted into the eardrum allow air in and fluid out, reducing infections and restoring normal hearing. Most parents say their kids are totally different humans after this: more engaged, more vocal, and less cranky. It is a true game changer for many children and their families.
3. Sinus Surgery (Endoscopic Sinus Surgery)
Did you know kids can need sinus surgery? It’s true, especially those with chronic sinusitis that don’t respond to antibiotics or allergy medications. While the numbers are certainly smaller than in adults, we have performed many cases on children 15 and under at the center.
Why it’s done: If your child’s been congested for months or constantly fights sinus infections, blocked nasal passages might be to blame.
How it helps: Using a tiny camera and tools, surgeons gently open up the sinus pathways to help everything drain properly. The result: fewer infections, less pressure, and a major improvement in breathing and quality of life.
Why Summer Break (and Back-to-School Season) is Prime Time
Every seasoned parent knows that schedules pick up once the school year begins, and sickness does too. Why wait until the next school year for an infection? We never recommend waiting, and late summer and early fall (think August and September) are perfect for ENT procedures. Here’s a closer look.
More recovery time: Kids can heal without missing critical class time.
Fewer absences later: Solving ENT issues now helps avoid sick days during the year.
Flexible schedules: Families often have a bit more leeway before fall routines fully lock in.
ENT problems don’t just disrupt sleep or cause a few sniffles. They can impact your child’s ability to focus, learn, and enjoy school.
If your child shows signs of chronic ENT trouble, it might be time to take action. A simple, safe outpatient procedure could be the difference between another year of missed school days and one filled with confidence and healthy memories.
Schedule a Pediatric ENT Consultation Today
We know surgery can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s your child heading into the OR instead of you. That’s why we’ve created a pediatric-friendly environment designed to make the process as calm, smooth, and stress-free as possible.
With over 50 years of care in Central Minnesota, we’ve built an efficient outpatient experience that often gets patients in and out the same day, sometimes before the sun even comes up! And if you’ve been a patient here yourself, you already know that our team is as kind and compassionate as they are skilled. From pre-op to post-op, your child will be in the best hands imaginable.
If you’re looking to start the school year with fewer sick days and more peace of mind, contact St. Cloud Surgical Center to learn more or book a consultation with one of our experienced ENT specialists at St. Cloud Ear, Nose, and Throat.
Thank you for voting for us in the Minnesota’s Best Readers’ Choice competition! We are honored to be the Gold Winner in Orthopedic Surgeon and Urgent Injury Care Clinic, and the Silver Winner in Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine.
We are committed to serving Minnesota with expert non-operative and surgical care. When you need the BEST orthopedic treatment at fair cost, choose St. Cloud Orthopedics.
In the current digital world, our habits and daily work routines profoundly impact our health. Hand discomfort has become increasingly common, but how do you distinguish if it’s just temporary strain or a more serious injury, like carpal tunnel syndrome?
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, board-certified orthopedic specialist Dr. Andrew Staiger provides excellent care for his patients. He is an expert in hand and upper extremity surgery and prioritizes exploring non-operative strategies with patients before resorting to surgical procedures. Dr. Staiger is committed to helping patients understand their diagnosis and get back to doing the things they love, without pain.
First things first, what exactly is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed within the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist made of tendons, ligaments, and bones. While the exact cause is often idiopathic (meaning it arises spontaneously, without a known cause), it typically happens due to thickening along the tendons that share this finite space. As these tendons thicken, the nerve gets trapped or pinched, leading to characteristic symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain.
While many people associate CTS with activities like keyboarding or repetitive hand movements, studies have shown that overuse doesn’t necessarily cause the condition directly. Instead, it often occurs in the general population, with some individuals being more predisposed to developing it than others. Swelling, inflammation, underlying medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, or acute injuries can also contribute to the compression and development of CTS.
Affecting an estimated 1 to 5 percent of adults, CTS is notably more prevalent in females than males, with a 3:1 ratio.
But what happens if you aren’t part of that group and debilitating hand pain’s got you down?
Well, it could be a phenomenon known as scroll fatigue brought on by excessive smartphone use. Research indicates that prolonged smartphone use forces wrists into bent positions, stressing thumb and finger tendons. This sustained strain can, over time, lead to discomfort in the muscles, tendons, and joints of the hand, wrists, and arms.
Aching or soreness in the wrist, thumb, or fingers
Tingling or slight numbness following extended phone use
Cramping or stiffness in the hands
Mild wrist or hand discomfort that improves with rest
Tightness in the forearm or base of the thumb
Studies have correlated increased phone usage with pain in the wrist, causing inflammation. However, it doesn’t directly cause carpal tunnel syndrome. While scroll fatigue may not initially cause CTS, it’s a risk factor worth paying attention to before it progresses.
How To Tell The Difference Between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Scroll Fatigue
Recognizing the difference between everyday irritation and CTS starts with understanding the warning signs.
Common indicators of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Tingling or numbness in your fingers (especially fingertips)
Pins-and-needles sensation
Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip items or make a fist
Swelling and stiffness in the wrist and palm
Symptoms worsening at night or when hands are held in a flexed position for long periods
While anyone can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, research suggests certain professions face a higher likelihood due to the repetitive hand and wrist movements inherent in their daily tasks. CTS is most commonly observed in individuals working in:
Office and tech jobs
Construction and trades
Factory and assembly lines
Healthcare professionals
Artists and musicians
Ultimately, if your pain becomes too severe to manage on your own, you should see your local hand specialist to determine the best course of action.
Carpal Tunnel Procedures at St. Cloud Surgical Center
If you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome by a hand specialist, surgery may be a necessary step, especially if conservative methods prove insufficient. While surgery may feel daunting, if left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage to the median nerve.
In severe cases where surgery is necessary, Dr. Staiger and the hand surgeons at St. Cloud Surgical Center will perform a procedure known as carpal tunnel release. This is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States and has an impressive success rate of 98% or better.
The surgical procedure involves severing a ligament pressing on the median nerve to reduce pressure. The procedure takes 15-30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia, requiring no overnight stay.
Recovery following carpal tunnel release is generally a smooth process. Most patients can use their fingers almost immediately and can resume light activities within a week or two. Over several weeks, grip strength returns and the complete healing process is finished after a few months. Physical therapy and rest can help speed up the healing process as well. While recurrence is possible, it is not common, affecting only about 5% of patients, usually 10 or 15 years later.
Whether it’s carpal tunnel syndrome or just too much scrolling, it’s important to listen to your body. Early symptoms may seem like no big deal, but if left untreated they can lead to something more serious over time. Fortunately, with simple habit changes and early treatment, most people find relief. When needed, surgery often provides beneficial and lasting results.
If numbness, tingling, or pain is consistently interfering with your daily life, it may be time to see a specialist. Our team at St. Cloud Surgical Center is dedicated to finding the right solution for you. With expert care and a strong desire to see patients improve, your hands are in good hands.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we pride ourselves on being leaders in innovation. Everything we do is state-of-the-art, from our services to the technology we use. And no one exemplifies that better than Dr. Eric Green, a veteran orthopedic surgeon whose commitment to forward-thinking care has helped shape the future of joint replacement surgery. With over three decades of experience and a reputation for precision, Dr. Green has played a critical role in developing our orthopedic surgery offerings at the center, particularly with his advocacy of the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution, a game-changing technology for total and partial knee replacements.
We sat down with Dr. Green to get the inside scoop on how robotic technology is transforming orthopedic surgery, why accuracy matters more than ever, and what it means for patients entering the operating room today.
A NEW ERA OF KNEE REPLACEMENT
St. Cloud Surgical Center has been a leader in orthopedic surgery since the early 2000s. Over the years, we’ve invested heavily in technology, training, and talent to make our Knee Replacement Program a benchmark for others to follow. Part of that commitment means staying ahead of the curve, and sometimes, helping shape the curve entirely.
A little over five years ago, Dr. Green approached our leadership team with an idea to bring in a new robotic device called the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution for total knee replacements. At the time, this technology was still in development, but Dr. Green had a unique advantage. He was one of only six orthopedic surgeons selected by Johnson & Johnson to help develop the VELYS™ system from the ground up. With his vision and drive, St. Cloud Surgical Center became one of the first facilities in the world to adopt the platform in 2022.
“The idea is to take the guesswork out of surgery,” Dr. Green explains. “We wanted a system that could consistently hit the surgical plan with unbelievable accuracy. And that’s exactly what VELYS™ does.”
So, what makes VELYS™ different?
At its core, VELYS™ uses an advanced optical camera that captures 300 images per second. This high-speed system tracks every tiny movement—from the patient’s smallest muscle twitch to their breathing and heartbeat—in real time.
“The system adapts in real time,” says Dr. Green. “It’s seamless. It allows us to operate with a level of precision we couldn’t achieve manually. With VELYS, we’re talking about 0.1 millimeters, 0.1 degrees.”
And let’s be clear: VELYS™ doesn’t replace surgeons like Dr. Green. It enhances their ability to execute an already solid plan with unmatched accuracy, offering real-time data and micro-adjustments to keep everything on track. For partial knee replacements, where preserving as much of the natural joint as possible is key, that precision matters more than ever.
In Dr. Green’s words, “It allows me to be more precise, more consistent. It helps me do what I already do well, just better.”
VELYS™ AND THE FUTURE OF PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT
As our experience with the VELYS™ Robotic-Assist Solution grew, so did its potential. After proving itself in total knee replacements, it was a natural next step to introduce VELYS™ to the world of partial knee replacements.
The partial knee replacement surgical procedure allows your surgeon to access, remove, and accurately replace only the damaged surface of your knee, leaving your healthy bone intact.
The procedure typically follows these steps:
An incision is made to expose the joint.
The damaged area is reshaped to fit the implant components.
Trial components are temporarily placed to ensure proper alignment.
Once alignment is confirmed, the final implants are secured.
The incision is closed, and the recovery process begins.
What makes this procedure even more effective with VELYS™ is its ability to deliver robotic precision without needing a preoperative CT scan to map the surgical plan. That’s a big deal. Skipping the scan means less radiation, fewer appointments, and significant cost savings, all without compromising precision. The surgical plan is created in real time in the operating room using the system’s built-in camera and data tracking.
By removing the CT scan requirement, VELYS™ makes robotic-assisted surgery more accessible. While Minnesota requires insurance to cover pre-op scans, many states don’t, meaning patients elsewhere could be stuck with an unexpected bill. With VELYS™, more patients—regardless of insurance or geography—can access advanced, robotic-assisted surgery in a cost-effective outpatient setting.
VELYS™ is helping us bring smarter, more affordable partial knee replacements to more patients, and that’s a win all around.
LOOKING AHEAD: ROBOTICS AS THE NEW STANDARD
While Robotic-assisted surgery may make you feel a bit uneasy, it’s happening and it’s here. And if you ask Dr. Eric Green, it won’t be long before it’s standard practice everywhere because it’s just a better way of doing things.
“The accuracy, the efficiency, the outcomes. It all points to this becoming the norm,” says Dr. Green.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we’re choosing to set the standard so as not to be left behind. As one of the first outpatient centers in the country, we’ve always prided ourselves on our ability to provide cutting-edge, accessible care to our patients. Using robotics like VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution is just one way we do that.
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