Setting the Standard for Orthopaedic Excellence

At Mississippi Valley Surgery Center (MVSC), every joint replaced and spine repaired comes with a promise of safety, quality and confidence. This dedication was recently recognized with reaccreditation from the AAAHC Advanced Orthopaedic Certification for Total Joint Replacement and Complex Spine. Achieving this distinction for the third consecutive cycle highlights MVSC’s commitment to continuous improvement, patient safety and the highest standards of care. Today, MVSC proudly stands as Iowa’s only AAAHC Advanced Orthopaedic and Spine Certified surgery center, setting a benchmark for the region.

Since opening in 1996, MVSC has provided outpatient procedures that prioritize patient needs while delivering safe and effective care. Over nearly three decades, the center has grown into a trusted resource for the Quad Cities community, combining clinical expertise with a focus on comfort and patient experience. Being among the first surgery centers in Iowa to earn AAAHC Advanced Orthopaedic Certification reflects MVSC’s proactive approach to excellence in orthopaedic and spine care.

A RIGORUS PROCESS FOR LASTING QUALITY

Earning advanced certification requires dedication, consistency and meticulous attention to detail. AAAHC’s accreditation and advanced certification programs operate on a three-year cycle, known as the “1095 Strong” philosophy. During these 1,095 days, MVSC engages in quality improvement initiatives, stays up to date with evolving standards and ensures the entire team is prepared for ongoing evaluation.

The recent on-site survey included a thorough review of MVSC’s total joint replacement and complex spine programs. Surveyors observed care from preoperative planning through discharge, reviewing policies, clinical practices and quality improvement initiatives. They spoke with patients and their support persons, leadership, clinical staff and orthopaedic nurse navigators to ensure all care aligned with evidence-based standards.

“Every day, our team embraces a culture of excellence that ensures our patients receive the highest level of care,” Missy Soliz, BSN RN, said. As MVSC’s Director of Human Resources and Quality, Missy works closely with the AAAHC throughout the survey and reaccreditation process.

WHAT THIS CERTIFICATION MEANS FOR PATIENTS

AAAHC Advanced Orthopaedic Certification represents a promise to patients that MVSC consistently delivers high-quality, evidence-based care.

“Our patients can feel confident knowing that every part of their surgical journey is guided by best practices and a highly skilled, dedicated team,” Missy said. “This not only includes the surgical team, but every individual our patients interact with throughout their time at the surgery center.”

Patients benefit from standardized protocols that enhance outcomes and support smooth recovery. Preoperative education ensures patients understand their procedures, recovery expectations and pain management strategies. Each interaction emphasizes clear communication, personalized attention and proactive planning to provide reassurance and confidence.

Certification also reflects MVSC’s culture of continuous improvement. Patients can trust that the center actively evaluates and refines processes to enhance care and optimize experiences. Choosing an AAAHC Advanced Orthopaedic Certified surgery center means selecting a team committed to excellence, safety and superior results every day.

INNOVATION AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

MVSC continually advances care with innovative strategies and evidence-based improvements. Since the previous reaccreditation in 2022, postoperative care pathways have been refined, allowing same-day discharge for all total joint and spine patients through enhanced recovery protocols and advanced anesthetic techniques.

Preoperative education has been strengthened with updated website content, digital tools and resources designed to prepare patients for surgery and recovery. The clinical team pursues ongoing education, updates policies to reflect evolving best practices and tracks patient outcomes, including patient-reported measures.

“Continuous improvement is embedded in everything we do,” Missy said. “From care planning to recovery, we look for ways to make every step better for our patients.”

LOOKING AHEAD

Receiving advanced certification for a third consecutive cycle demonstrates MVSC’s long-term commitment to excellence.

Looking ahead, MVSC plans to maintain 1,095-day readiness for future surveys through internal audits and ongoing staff training. Clinical and operational protocols will continue to evolve, incorporating new evidence-based practices. Quality improvement efforts will expand to include benchmarking against national data sources, including the American Joint Replacement Registry, alongside the ASCA Clinical and Operational Benchmarking survey. Staff development and continuing education will remain a priority to ensure the team remains skilled, knowledgeable and capable of delivering outstanding care.

A COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINED EXCELLENCE

Through rigorous standards, continuous innovation and a culture of excellence, MVSC provides care that exceeds expectations. Whether undergoing total joint replacement or complex spine surgery, patients experience guidance, reassurance and exceptional clinical expertise through the entire surgical journey.

“Our goal is to deliver care that inspires confidence and peace of mind for every patient and their family,” Missy said. “Patients can feel assured knowing they’re supported by an experienced team in a surgery center built around quality and compassion.”