Community Hospital South on the Far Southside today opened six new operating suites, marking completion of the first phase of a $130 million expansion project.

Surgical care at the hospital, 1402 E. County Line Road, will be transitioned to the new operating rooms by Oct. 19, according to a news release from the hospital.

“We’re bringing surgery to the next level on the Southside of Indianapolis,” Anthony Lennen, president of the hospital, said in the release.

“It’s a monumental first step toward the completion of our Next Evolution project, combining the latest technologies with the finest surgical care in the area.”

Marketed as “next-generation” operating suites, each room is equipped with high-definition video screens for detailed viewing of radiographic images.

Green light technology — the same technology used in Air Force jet cockpits — is available for use during laparoscopic procedures to reduce eyestrain on surgeons, the release said.

Each room features an identical layout so that clinicians can navigate the rooms with ease and quickly access the supplies they need, the release stated.

Also, the rooms were designed with the environment in mind, including low-energy lighting and automatic thermostats to regulate temperatures.

Other updates to the surgical wing project include private pre-operative and recovery rooms, a patent and family waiting area, a pre-operative clinic and endoscopy suites. Those features should be completed by mid-2010.