Benefits for patients who undergo minimally invasive heart operations include faster recovery times, less post-operative pain and fewer complications. According to David Casal, Ph.D., vice-president of Clinical, Regulatory and Quality affairs for Intuitive Surgical, Carilion's cardiac surgery program, research department and experienced staff were all major factors that led to development of the collaborative effort between Carilion and Intuitive Surgical. We are confident that our clinical evaluations of the da VinciTM Surgical System will be successfully conducted at Carilion. We all know the important role that exercise plays in staying healthy. That's why Carilion Health System challenges local residents 50 and over to make fitness a priority throughout the new year with the Viva Fitness Challenge 2001.
Regular exercise is a staple for good health because it can strengthen the heart, lungs and bones.
Routine exercise can lower blood pressure, improve mental health, decrease cholesterol levels, assist in weight loss and aid sleeping. That's why we developed the Fitness Challenge 2001 as an easy way to get started and stay motivated. You can choose the way you want to exercise, whether it's walking in the neighborhood, raking leaves or doing water aerobics. We'll reward you for your efforts. Viva, Carilion's wellness club for people 50 and over, is providing the fitness program to ensure residents have access to a tool that will encourage fitness progression.