PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – April 7^th, 2026 – Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center is redefining recovery in colorectal surgery, offering patients the ability to return home the same day after colon resection procedures. This innovative approach reflects the hospital’s continued commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care and investment in advanced surgical technology.

Over the past two years, 221 patients treated by Dr. Hayder Al-Azzawi have been discharged within 24 hours following colon resection surgery, representing nearly half of his patients. These outcomes highlight the success of enhanced recovery protocols, minimally invasive techniques, and careful patient selection.

“Seeing so many patients able to return home within a day of colon surgery is a meaningful step forward in how we deliver care,” said Erik Cazares, CEO of Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center. “Our teams are focused on combining clinical expertise with thoughtful care coordination to help patients heal more quickly, reduce time in the hospital, and get back to their normal lives sooner.”

“By using advanced surgical techniques and a carefully coordinated recovery plan, we’re able to help many patients safely return home within 24 hours, reducing complications, lowering costs, and allowing them to heal in the comfort of their own environment,” Dr. Al-Azzawi said. “It’s all about delivering high-quality care in a way that puts the patient’s recovery and overall experience first.”

Colon cancer remains one of the most common and preventable forms of cancer in the United States. Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center encourages the community to take proactive steps to reduce risk, including:

• Getting regular screenings beginning at age 45, or earlier for those with risk factors
• Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption
• Discussing family history and symptoms with a healthcare provider

With continued investments in advanced technology and innovative care models, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center remains at the forefront of surgical excellence, delivering better outcomes and helping patients get back to what matters most, faster.

Take our Colorectal Cancer Quiz: www.palmbeachhealthnetwork.com/health-assessments/colorectal-cancer-quiz

About Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center

Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center (PBGMC), part of the Palm Beach Health Network, the largest health care network in Palm Beach County, is a 199-bed acute care hospital.  It has served the Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast communities for over 50 years. The hospital was the first in Palm Beach County to perform open-heart surgery and has remained on the forefront as one of the area’s leaders in cardiac care. PBGMC also offers award winning stroke care, neurosurgery, urology, orthopedics, robot assisted and minimally invasive surgical techniques, bloodless medicine and a 24-hour emergency room. For more information, visit: www.palmbeachhealthnetwork.com.