Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Richard Harrison.
Hi Dr. Harrison, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common, often life-altering condition. More than 8 million people are affected by carpal tunnel syndrome each year. Surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is the second most common type of musculoskeletal surgery, (back surgery is #1). (National Institute on Occupational Safety and Health and Bureau of Labor Statistics).
We wanted to offer a better solution for a problem that affects so many: the Ovation Technique is an advanced surgical solution for carpal tunnel release that is far less invasive, speeds recovery, and allows people to return to their normal lives much faster. The Ovation Technique is ultra-minimally invasive and doesn’t require stitches. The technique is incisionless, takes about 15-20 minutes and the patient is in and out of the clinic in about one hour. If a patient has office-type work or light-duty work, it’s common for them to be back at work in 24 hours. If someone has a heavy labor job, it may take a few weeks to return to full work duties, but they still typically return much quicker than they would with the traditional technique. This procedure is designed to cut the ligament without damaging any adjacent tissue. Because of this approach, there is less trauma which makes recovery time much quicker. Also, no physical therapy is required after the Ovation Technique, unlike with the traditional surgery where it is commonly required.
We also wanted to improve the typical healthcare experience, so everything is designed to optimize the patient experience. Ovation Hand Institute has thoughtfully designed every aspect of our facilities to provide a comfortable and calming patient experience. Ovation Hand Institute is another example of redefining the Healthcare experience. Not only is it moving surgery out of a standard hospital environment, but it is also reshaping the patient experience. Since many people travel for this procedure, our waiting rooms are designed for comfort and relaxation.
We want this technique to be as accessible as possible – we started with one location in Milwaukee and have since expanded and are now in 3 states. We opened our first location in Milwaukee in 2018, and later expanded our Wisconsin presence to Green Bay. We also opened a location in Chicago, which is especially convenient for our patients that fly in for the procedure. Finally, we opened in Eden Prairie, MN, and are so excited to be able to serve those in the greater Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
We know we have a successful procedure that changes lives, but our biggest struggle has been getting the word out. The traditional method of carpal tunnel release has been the main option for so long, that it is difficult to drive broader awareness that there is another option. The good news is that our patients are extremely happy with the procedure, and they help us spread the word. Many of our patients hear about us from previous patients.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
During COVID-19 we moved to virtual consultations and phone-based informational meetings. We learned that this is a great first step for many patients and continue to do both today. As a healthcare facility, we always have taken the highest precautions to keep people safe and healthy.
Contact Info:
- Website: ovationhand.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/ovationhand
- Facebook: facebook.com/ovationhand
