Spotlight on surgical excellence: Kane County Hospital’s dedicated team of surgeons

In the heart of southern Utah’s stunning red rock landscapes, Kane County Hospital stands as a beacon of compassionate care for the tight-knit community of Kanab and beyond. With a commitment to accessible, high quality surgical services, the hospital’s team of visiting surgeons brings specialized expertise right to residents’ doorsteps - often without the need for long drives to larger cities. From routine procedures to complex reconstructions, these skilled professionals ensure that southern Utahns receive top-tier treatment close to home.

As the hospital continues to expand its specialty services, we take a closer look at the surgeons who form the backbone of its surgical department. Each brings years of experience and a patient-centered approach, focusing on minimally invasive techniques and personalized recovery plans.

Below is a brief overview of the team and their key areas of practice:

Dr. Robert C. Ripley, MD, FACS (General Surgery): A seasoned general surgeon, Dr. Rip- ley performs a wide range of procedures, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, mass excisions, upper and lower endoscopies and biopsies, with visits on the first and third Thursdays and Fridays.

Dr. Michael S. Hewitt, MD (Orthopedic Surgery): Specializing in sports medicine and arthroscopic procedures, such as arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, biceps tendon repairs, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, arthroscopic knee surgery and joint injections for pain. Dr. Hewitt helps patients regain mobility after injuries or arthritis, available on the second and fourth Thursdays.

Dr. Kade Shumway Lyman, MD (Orthopedic Surgery): Focusing on total joint replacements, hand and elbow issues, sports-related injuries, minimally invasive arthroscopy for knees and shoulders and joint injections for pain. Dr. Lyman supports active lifestyles for Kanab’s outdoor enthusiasts.

Dr. Joshua Holyoak, MD (Urology): Board-certified in treating kidney stones, prostate and bladder issues, urine and fecal incontinence, urinary tract infections and erectile dysfunction, Dr. Holyoak provides consultations every other Friday.

Dr. Brent Clark, DPM (Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery): A podiatry specialist in foot and ankle surgeries, sports medicine and reconstructive procedures, Dr. Clark visits every Monday and Tuesday, two time monthly, to tackle everything from acute to chronic pain.

Dr. Jeffrey Stewart, DPM (Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery): Emphasizing conservative and surgical treatments for heel pain, sports injuries, flatfoot reconstruction, wound care and injections for pain. Dr. Stewart prioritizes non-invasive options before operating, available the first Monday and Tuesday of each month.

Kane County Hospital’s surgical team exemplifies the spirit of rural healthcare: efficient, empathetic and embedded in the community. For appointments or referrals, call KCH Specialty Group clinic at 435-644-4115. As Kanab grows, so does the hospital’s capacity to heal - one precise incision at a time.