L.M. Salmen Surgical Center

The L.M. Salmen Surgical Center at Unity Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility where nearly 100 surgeons perform a complete range of inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures in 13 specialty areas. Completely refurbished in 2000, the Surgical Center includes 12 Operating Room Suites.

Patient Information

Before Your Surgery. Approximately three to four weeks before surgery, you will be asked to come to the Surgical Department's Surgical Pre-Testing Unit for an assessment that includes a review of your medical history and a physical exam. Further testing may be done to ensure your surgery goes smoothly. You will also receive specific information about your surgical procedure.

The Surgical Pre-Testing Unit is staffed by physician assistants, nurse practitioners, registered nurses and patient care technicians. All are dedicated to making the pre-operative visit a pleasant and efficient experience. Your questions are always welcome.

The Day of Your Surgery

When you arrive at Unity Hospital on the day your surgery is scheduled, you will be prepared for your procedure in the Pre-Anesthesia Unit. A registered nurse, again reviews the details of the procedure, and you will meet with the anesthesiologist. Our team of registered nurses, technical, and volunteer support staff are there to assure your comfort and provide the very best pre-operative care experience.

Your surgical team includes the surgeon, anesthesiologist, registered nurse, and surgical technologists. If you are having a minor surgical procedure, it will be performed in the Minor Procedures Room.

Following surgery, you will be brought to one of 27 rooms in the Post-Anesthesia Recovery Unit. These are fully equipped to care for critically ill patients with special needs, as well as patients who have undergone ambulatory surgery and require a shorter recuperation period. These areas are staffed by registered nurses and technicians who are highly qualified, and will meet your every need with clinical competence, caring, and compassion.

A spacious and comfortable Family Waiting Room is furnished with televisions, coffee, pay telephones, reading materials, and plenty of seating space for family comfort and convenience. Our Surgical Center team will keep family members informed of your location and condition. Family members are invited to visit the Hospital cafeteria, Park Place Gift Shop, and interfaith Chapel while they wait for you.

Free Parking is available to Surgical Center patients and their family members at all times.

Private Consultation Rooms are available for surgeon and family discussions.

Returning Home After Surgery

You will receive instructions before you leave the hospital to help you continue your recovery. Some people will return home shortly after a procedure, while others may spend time in our Transitional Care Unit for physical therapy. If you need help once you return home, our Social Services Department will make arrangements for assistance, including home health aides, physical therapy, transportation, meals and more.