UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko: When Diverticulitis Surgery May Be Necessary

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko is a minimally-invasive surgeon who specializes in the treatment of diseases affecting the bowel, pancreas, colon, bile ducts, esophagus and stomach.

One of the procedures Dr. Michael Latzko commonly performs is diverticulitis surgery—a procedure designed to treat the inflammation and irritation often resulting from the colon condition known as diverticulitis.

When Surgery May Be the Best Option

Most patients who experience the symptoms of diverticulitis (a condition that can cause anything from painful infections and stomach pain to stomach cramps, constipation and diarrhea) can be successfully treated with fiber, probiotics and antibiotics—though surgery is often recommended in such circumstances as:

• A ruptured colon, which can cause abdominal leakage and lead to serious inflammation.
• An undrainable infected abscess.
• When symptoms become severe, and other treatments are not working.
• A weakened immune system, possibly the result of a recent organ transplant or chemotherapy.
• More complicated forms of diverticulitis, such as those that create bleeding in the abdomen.

A laparoscopic surgery specialist, Dr. Michael Latzko works with patients to determine the treatment options that are best for their unique condition, health and situation.

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko: Common Disorders of the Esophagus

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko utilizes minimally-invasive surgeries to treat any number of conditions affecting the foregut—including diseases that commonly impact the esophagus.

And as a minimally-invasive surgery specialist, Dr. Michael Latzko has treated many of the disorders that most commonly affect the esophagus, including:

Hiatal Hernias

Hernias, much like a gastroesophageal disease (GERD), can cause considerable pain or discomfort in the esophagus—and can lead to acid reflux.

GERD

Also known as Gastroesophageal Disease, GERD can lead to more severe health issues and concerns if left untreated.

Achalasia

Achalasia typically results from a weak lower esophageal sphincter, which can make swallowing difficult and cause vomiting, weight loss and other issues down the road.

Esophageal Diverticulum

Esophageal diverticulum involves a pouch that can protrude outward anywhere in the esophageal lining. This condition can manifest itself in such symptoms as difficulty swallowing, food regurgitation, pain, cough, swelling and more.

Esophageal Cancer

If left untreated, esophageal cancer can pose a serious risk to one’s health and life for years down the road.

To learn more about Dr. Latzko and his team, or to schedule an appointment, call him today at (863) 402-3161.

 

 

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko: Preparing for Adrenal Gland Surgery

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko practices minimally-invasive surgery at Surgical Specialists—a practice located in Sebring, Florida. A minimally-invasive surgery specialist, Dr. Latzko treats diseases affecting their stomach, colon, esophagus, bowel, pancreas and bile ducts.

In addition, Dr. Michael Latzko occasionally performs adrenal gland surgery—a procedure involving the removal of one or both of the adrenal glands located just above the patient’s kidneys.

Adrenal Surgery Preparations

• For those getting ready to undergo an adrenal gland procedure, it’s important to know how best to prepare for the operation.
• Typically, a patient must undergo a medical evaluation, blood work, an EKG and a chest x-ray prior to the operation.
• Those on blood thinners, large doses of Vitamin E or anti-inflammatory medications may need to stop temporarily prior to surgery.
• It’s generally best to avoid eating or drinking anything the night before the operation.
• Patients with a pheochromocytoma will most likely need to start on special medications several days before the procedure.
• Patients with a tumor that produces aldosterone might need to have their serum potassium levels checked beforehand.

To learn more, call Dr. Latzko today at (863) 402-3161.

Dr. Michael Latzko: “Extremely Intelligent”

Dr. Michael Latzko is a general surgeon who works with Surgical Specialists in Sebring, Florida. He specializes in minimally-invasive surgical treatment diseases of the colon, stomach, bile ducts, pancreas, and bowel, and in laparoscopic hernia repair. He’s passionate about his field and is always looking to improve. He holds a DaVinci Robotic Surgery certification and a Fundamentals in Endoscopic Surgery (FES) certification, and he completed a fellowship in minimally-invasive and advanced GI surgery at the University of Florida.

Two of the many positive reviews that Dr. Michael Latzko are highlighted below:

• “Obviously extremely intelligent. I have absolute confidence in him. I’m an RN and I was very impressed with his breadth of knowledge.”
• “TOP NOTCH DR. Fast healing with steadying hands.”

Many of Dr. Michael Latzko’s patients place their trust in his personability, care for patient wellbeing and skill as a surgeon, and he isn’t stopping any time soon. He is currently accepting new patients at Surgical Specialists. If you would like to make an appointment, call Dr. Latzko and his team at (863) 402-3161.

Must read: https://michaellatzkousa.wixsite.com/michaellatzko/post/dr-michael-latzko-kind-and-considerate

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko: The Many Symptoms of Colorectal (Colon) Cancer

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko has significant experience and years of training in minimally-invasive surgery – particularly when it comes to treating diseases affecting the stomach, esophagus, intestines, bile ducts, pancreas and colon.

A laparoscopic surgery specialist in Sebring, Florida, Dr. Michael Latzko performs minimally-invasive surgery not only in the treatment of such conditions as hernia, achalasia and gastrointestinal reflux (GERD) but also as an effective way to treat certain types of cancer – including Colorectal (colon) cancer.

Some of the more common signs of colon cancer include:

• Weakness and fatigue
• Rectal bleeding
• An unexpected change in bowel habits (such as constipation or diarrhea)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexpected weight loss
• Blood in the stool

It’s important to note that the above symptoms are more often than not the result of a condition other than colon cancer. If you are experiencing such symptoms, please consult with your physician or a GI specialist.

Visit here https://www.adventhealth.com/find-doctor/doctor/michael-latzko-md-1093940710 to know more about Michael Latzko

 

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko: Common Signs of Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko is an experienced minimally-invasive surgeon who specializes in the treatment of conditions affecting the GI tract. A surgeon at the Sebring, Florida, Surgical Specialists, Dr. Latzko uses minimally-invasive surgical methods to treat anything from achalasia, diverticulitis and hernia to certain types of cancer affecting the stomach, esophagus and bowel.

One form of cancer treated by Dr. Michael Latzko and his team is Gastric Cancer – a condition that primarily affects the stomach. Though stomach cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, common signs and symptoms to look out for include:

• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Significant, unexpected weight loss
• Abdominal discomfort
• Regular indigestion or heartburn
• Nausea
• Abdominal swelling or fluid build-up
• Vomiting
• Blood in the stool

Most of the signs listed above are more likely to result from conditions other than cancer, such as an ulcer or a stomach virus. It’s best to consult with a physician before beginning treatment.

Must read: Florida Hospital Health Partners Welcomes Surgeon Dr. Michael P. Latzko

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko: A Brief Examination of Achalasia

UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko specializes in minimally-invasive surgeries that not only treat a variety of stomach, pancreas, colon and bowel ailments, but that also lead to shorter hospital stays, faster healing and shorter recovery times than traditional surgical methods.

And one condition UF Health Surgeon Michael Latzko utilizes minimally-invasive surgery to treat is achalasia – an often-serious esophageal condition that can create significant discomfort and pain while affecting the patient’s ability to consume solid foods.

Achalasia, says Dr. Latzko, can become a more serious condition over time – in some cases leading to considerable weight loss, malnutrition and an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. Generally diagnosed with such tests as endoscopy, a barium swallow or manometry, achalasia is believed by many to be caused by a virus – though the exact cause continues to be unknown.

Today, the minimally-invasive surgical technique known as laparoscopic esophagomyotomy, or the Heller Myotomy, is commonly used to treat achalasia.