New Jersey’s First ‘Smart Surgical Tower’ Opens

The new Helena Theurer Pavilion at Hackensack University Medical Center combines state-of-the-art technology with Hackensack Meridian Health’s personalized compassionate care. The nine-story, 530,000-square-foot facility is located in Hackensack, New Jersey.

The pavilion offers single-patient rooms designed to provide a superior healing environment — from the paint color to the floor to ceiling windows — with incredible views. Patient rooms are equipped with the latest technology, including an in-room tablet at the bedside that allows patients to control the lights, shades, TV, room temperature, order food and video chat with loved ones.

The New York metropolitan area was among the hardest-hit areas in the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the Helena Theurer Pavilion’s design was modified, in real-time, during construction, so that with just the flip of a switch, the entire pavilion can be converted to a negative-pressure facility.

High-tech highlights include:

• Livestream capability in all 24 operating rooms
• Operating room integration systems allow OR teams to remotely collaborate with peers through videoconferencing during surgical procedures
• Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging system
• Integrated systems enable real-time data sharing and connectivity between the hospital and other players — like surgeons and their patients — on 69-inch-screen monitors in patient rooms

Other technological gamechangers include the use of artificial intelligence like the GI Genius as part of colon cancer screening, electronic medical records system and an automated pharmacy system.

RSC Architects served as lead architect, partnered with EYP, a Page company. Stantec Consulting provided project management/owner’s representative services. The Wm. Blanchard Co. and Turner Construction Company joint venture provided construction management.