Physician Interviews | Penn Medicine

M. Sean Grady, MD: Exploring Pituitary Tumors

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 May 2015 12:43:00 +0000

In this interview, M. Sean Grady, MD, Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery at Penn Medicine, discusses pituitary tumors. Dr. Grady's discussion includes the pituitary disorders (including acromegaly and Cushing's Syndrome), their symptoms and incidental findings, as well as the diagnosis and medical, surgical and radiosurgical management of pituitary tumors.

Dr. Grady is the Charles Harrison Frazier Professor of Neurosurgery at Penn Medicine. In addition to pituitary tumors, Dr. Grady specializes in the treatment of cranial base tumors, meningiomas, schwannomas, malignant skull base tumors and cerebrovascular disorders.

Dr. Grady's host is Lee Freedman, MD. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine. | Aired: May 5, 2015.

Steven Cannady, MD, and Oren Friedman, MD, on Facial Reanimation and Reconstructive Surgery

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Mar 2015 14:40:00 +0000

In this interview, Steven Cannady, MD (left) and Oren Friedman, MD (right) of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Penn Medicine review surgery to restore the appearance and function of facial structures after trauma or cancer. Their discussion features an overview of the complex reconstructive and facial reanimation surgeries that Drs. Friedman and Cannady perform, including free flap tissue transfer, facial nerve interpositional–jump graft surgery, temporalis muscle transposition and gracilis free tissue transfers, as well as other topics of interest.

Dr. Cannady is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and Dr. Friedman is Director of Facial Plastic Surgery and Associate Professor of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Penn Medicine. They were interviewed by Lee Friedman, MD. Source: ReachMD | Aired: March 5, 2015.

Neurosurgeon Gordon Baltuch, MD: The Future of Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Patients and Beyond

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 14:36:00 +0000

In this interview, Gordon Baltuch, MD, examines the future of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease and other debilitating brain health issues. DBS uses an implanted device to deliver electrical stimulation to the regions of the brain responsible for motor function, thereby blocking the aberrant signals that cause Parkinson's.

Dr. Baltuch's discussion involves the indications for DBS, the right time for its application and new technologies in the field.

Dr. Baltuch is a Professor of Neurosurgery and the Director of the Center for Functional and Restorative Neurosurgery at Penn Medicine.
Hosted by Lee Freedman, MD. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine. | Aired: November 17, 2014.

Kristy Weber, MD, Discusses Musculoskeletal Tumors

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 14:34:00 +0000

In this discussion, Kristy Weber, MD, provides an an oncologist's perspective on a common presentation in primary care--the patient with a lump arising subcutaneously or from the surface of a bone. Dr. Weber explains the distinction between potentially dangerous tumors and lesions less likely to be of concern, and provides insight into the critical value of biopsy for every suspicious lesion in orthopaedics.
Dr. Weber is the Abramson Family Professor in Sarcoma Care Excellence as well as Professor, Vice-Chair of Faculty Affairs, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery; Director of the Sarcoma Program, Abramson Cancer Center; and Chief of Orthopaedic Oncology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Hosted by Lee Freedman, MD. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: December 8, 2014.

Steven Brem, MD: Surgical and Medical Advances from the Penn Brain Tumor Center

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 14:31:00 +0000

In this update, Steven Brem, MD, discusses the latest diagnostic technologies and surgical and medical treatments for malignant brain tumors and reviews the potential of these advances to improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Brem is Director of Neurosurgical Oncology, and Co-Director of the Penn Brain Tumor Center and Professor of Neurosurgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. His host is Lee Freedman, MD. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine. | Aired: November 10, 2014.

Neurosurgeon William C. Welch, MD, FACS, FICS, Examines the Causes and Treatments of Lower Back Pain

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 Feb 2015 14:30:00 +0000

As a neurosurgeon, William C. Welch, MD, FACS, FICS, brings a wealth of experience and insight to this discussion of the surgical treatment options for lumbar spinal stenosis and cervical stenosis, with an exploration of the causes and treatment options for lower back pain.

Dr. Welch is the Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Pennsylvania Hospital and holds a professorship in Neurosurgery at Penn Medicine.

Hosted by Lee Freedman, M.D. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine. | Aired: December 15, 2014.

Oncologist Giorgos Karakousis, M.D., on the Application of Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 14:22:00 +0000

In this interview, Giorgos Karakousis, MD, of Penn Medicine, offers an overview of Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC), for the treatment of complex abdominal cancers. Dr. Karakousis' discussion involves an overview of HIPEC, which is typically combined with debulking surgery, as well as the indications, benefits and expected outcomes for patients receiving the therapy.

Dr. Karakousis is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

His host is Lee Friedman, M.D. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: November 28, 2014

Electrophysiologist Francis Marchlinski, M.D., on the Management of Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 12:07:00 +0000

In this interview, renowned electrophysiologist Francis Marchlinski, M.D., examines premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), the use of ablative therapies to control them, and the patient populations who stand to benefit most from these and other novel procedures, including epicardial ablation.

Dr. Marchlinski is the Director of Electrophysiology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. His host is Lee Freedman, M.D. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: December 29, 2014.

A Specialist's Perspective: Michelle Smith, MD, Discusses Cerebrovascular Neurosurgery

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 12:02:00 +0000

In this interview, neurosurgeon Michelle Smith, MD, reviews the treatment options available at Penn Neurosurgery for stroke, carotid stenosis, aneurysms, arterial vascular malformations and other cerebrovascular events and disorders. Surgical approaches discussed include open microvascular and endovascular neurosurgery, with a focus on microcatheter endovascular stent retrieval for embolectomy, Pipeline^(TM) embolization, endocoiling and open approaches to aneurysm repair, as well as follow-up procedures.
Dr. Smith is an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
Her host is Lee Freedman, MD. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: January 27, 2015

Colon and Rectal Surgeon Najiia Mahmoud, M.D., Discusses Curative Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 17:20:00 +0000

In this compelling interview, Najiia Mahmoud, M.D., offers the perspective of a practicing colon and rectal surgeon on the risks and benefits of curative surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC). At Penn Medicine, colorectal surgeons are performing a pioneering surgical approach, the laparoscopic J-pouch procedure, shown to cure patients with UC and greatly diminish the risk of colorectal cancer that attends the disease. Improvement in quality of life, however, is perhaps the greatest immediate benefit of the surgery, as individuals who have often spent years enduring debility and the aggravating side effects of medication for UC are able to return to normal daily life.

Dr. Mahmoud is Chief of the Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery and an associate professor of Surgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Her host is Lee Freedman, M.D. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: December 22, 2014

Nazanin Moghbeli, M.D., M.P.H., Pregnancy and Heart Disease: Minimizing Risks

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 16:47:00 +0000

In this presentation, Nazanin Moghbeli, M.D., M.P.H., discusses approaches to optimize outcomes for pregnant women with structural heart disease and ways to minimize the risk of complications that can arise during pregnancy. Dr. Moghbeli's discussion focuses specifically on recommendations for women with peripartum cardiomyopathy, pulmonary hypertension, preeclampsia and congenital heart disease.

A graduate of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Dr. Moghbeli is the founder and director of the Women's Cardiovascular Center at Penn Medicine.

Hosted by Lee Freedman, M.D. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: October 13, 2014

Atul Kamath, M.D., Hip Preservation for Younger Patients

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 16:45:00 +0000

In this interview, Atul Kamath, M.D., Director of the Center for Hip Preservation at Penn Medicine, examines the benefits of hip preservation surgery for adolescent and young adult patients, and the diagnostic and surgical options available to these patients at Penn Medicine.

Younger patients who experience chronic pain and debility from hip trauma or disease are typically precluded from curative total hip arthroplasty, by age and activity level. Dr. Kamath discusses the surgical techniques and approaches the multidisciplinary team at the Center have developed in order to preserve the native hip, alleviate pain and improve function in this unique population.

Hosted by Lee Freedman, M.D. Source: Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine | Aired: October 6, 2014.

M. Sean Grady, M.D., Exploring Pituitary Tumors: Diagnostic Considerations and Advanced Therapies

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 16:42:00 +0000

M. Sean Grady, M.D., discusses the pathophysiology of pituitary tumors and the disorders they cause, including acromegaly and Cushing's disease; as well as multidisciplinary approaches to diagnostics and medical and surgical treatment for these lesions.
A neurosurgeon, Dr. Grady provides insights into endonasal endoscopic surgery for pituitary tumors, and reviews the advantages, risks and benefits of this innovative--and often curative--technique.

Dr. Grady is the Charles Harrison Frazier Professor of Neurosurgery and Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.

Hosted by Lee Freedman, M.D. Source | Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine. Aired: October 27, 2014.

See a video here of Dr. Grady discussing transphenoidal approaches to pituitary surgery.

Personalized Diagnostics & Targeted Therapies

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 18:22:00 +0000

David B. Roth, MD, PhD, discusses the Center for Personalized Diagnostics (CPD), a joint initiative of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine. Building on the legacy of innovation in genetic research at Penn, the CPD integrates molecular genetics, pathology informatics and genomic pathology to empower physicians and patients to truly customize their treatment options accordingly. Dr Roth offers an overview of the Center and its unique offerings for patients with cancer.

Dr. Roth is the Simon Flexner Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Penn Medicine, and the Chair of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. Dr Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Aired: August 18, 2014. Length: 13 min.

New Advances in Head & Neck Cancers at Penn Medicine

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 18:21:00 +0000

Alexander Lin, MD, discusses multidisciplinary approaches to head and neck cancers at Penn Medicine in the context of optimizing therapy and quality of life while minimizing morbidity. Dr. Lin's overview includes considerations of the distinction in treatment approaches between patients with and without human papilloma virus infection, and the potential for proton therapy versus intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Dr. Lin is the Assistant Chief, Head and Neck Service, University of Pennsylvania Department of Radiation Oncology and Director of Clinical Proton Operation at the Roberts Proton Therapy Center in Philadelphia. Dr. Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Aired: August 25, 2014. Length: 16 min.

Options in Breast Reconstructive Microsurgery

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:37:00 +0000

How are the latest advances in autogenous breast reconstruction changing the landscape of options available to women after mastectomy? Joseph Serletti, MD, FACS, the Henry Royster - William Maul Measey professor of surgery and chief of the division of plastic surgery at Penn Medicine, discusses the history and evolution of breast reconstruction surgery, as well as the various types of free flap breast reconstruction that offer better cosmetic results for patients. How can the risk of thrombosis be minimized for patients undergoing these procedures? Dr. Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: May 31, 2010 | Length: 13 min

Current Research on Preterm Birth

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 14:20:00 +0000

The preterm birth rate in the United States is increasing, despite efforts to expand research and studies in this area. What are some of the risk factors for preterm birth, and are there any ways we can prevent preterm birth?

Michal Elovitz, MD, associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology, and director of the Maternal and Child Health Research Program, in the department of obstetrics and gynecology, at Penn Medicine, examines results of completed and ongoing trials aimed at preventing premature delivery among high-risk women with a history of prior preterm birth. What are future directions for research in this area? Tune in to hear host Dr. Lee Freedman explore these questions and more about preterm birth.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: June 21, 2010 | Length: 13 min

Endoscopic Brain Surgery, In 3-D

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:20:00 +0000

3-D technology is making its way from the movies, into the operating room. How is this technology enhancing brain surgeries? Dr. John Y.K. Lee, medical director of the Penn Gamma Knife Center and assistant professor of neurosurgery at Penn Medicine, describes the advantages of using 3-D technology for removing various types of ventral skull-based tumors, and says the stereoscopic views provided by a 3-D endoscope help neurosurgeons preserve critical areas of the brain. Will 3-D endoscopes replace their 2-D predecessors? Dr. Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: May 16, 2011

TORS for Sleep Apnea

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 12:27:00 +0000

Sleep Apnea can be prevalent in various segments of society, and there are many treatment options. On Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine this week, Dr. Erica Thaler discusses some of these treatment options with host Dr. Lee Freedman. Among these options is TORS - Trans-Oral Robotic Surgery (TORS). The discussion includes how to evaluate potential candidates, effectiveness, and when the procedure is contraindicated.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: May 23, 2011

Advantages of Bloodless Medicine

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 12:31:00 +0000

Patients may choose bloodless medicine for either medical or ethical reasons. How safe and effective are bloodless procedures, compared to more traditional approaches?

Dr. Patricia Ford, clinical associate professor of medicine, medical director of the Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery and director of the peripheral stem cell program at Penn Medicine, says that while bloodless medicine began as a way to meet the medical needs of Jehovah's Witnesses patients, the science also has broader implications. As many as 30% of blood transfusions may be unnecessary. What alternatives and strategies can healthcare providers use to ensure best patient blood management, and perhaps reduce the need for blood transfusions? Furthermore, what are the specific implications of bloodless medicine for stem cell transplants in particular? Dr. Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: May 9, 2011

Adolescent Reproductive Health Conditions and Fertility Preservation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:37:00 +0000

Primary and secondary amenorrhea can have various underlying causes among adolescents, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (or PCOS), thyroid disease, and atypical body weight. What types of behavior and lifestyle modifications should be the first steps for adolescent patients with irregular menstruation? Dr. Suleena Kalra, assistant professor in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Penn Medicine, discusses ways to regulate periods among adolescent patients and protect their future fertility. How significant a role might stress play in amenorrhea among these patients? Dr. Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: August 23, 2010

An Update on Common Esophageal Disorders

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Millions of Americans have esophageal disorders, ranging in severity from gastroesophogeal reflux (or GERD) to eosinophilic esophagitis to esophageal cancer. A diet rich in acidic or fatty foods can be to blame, but there are a number of other factors that may contribute to the development of GI disorders. When can physicians rely on empirical use of proton pump inhibitors, and when is endoscopy warranted? Dr. Gary Falk, professor of medicine in the division of gastroenterology at Penn Medicine, discusses some of the reasons for the increasing incidence of esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus in the U.S. What latest developments can help physicians optimally manage patients with these GI disorders? Dr. Falk also discusses the role of motility in acid reflux, and reviews current medication options for the condition. Dr. Lee Freedman hosts.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: August 16, 2010

Hearing Restoration Surgery & Cochlear Implants

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 12:30:00 +0000

In this week's Medical Breakthroughs from Penn Medicine, Dr. Michael Ruckenstein's discussion with host, Dr. Lee Freedman centers around the only human sense that can be restored - hearing. The discussion centers on which patients with hearing loss would benefit from Cochlear Implants instead of hearing aids. Additionally, the discussion touches on the role of personal music devices in hearing loss.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: June 6, 2011

Recent Advances In The Identification And Treatment Of Aortic Disease

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 12:43:00 +0000

Dr. Grace Wang, a vascular surgeon in the division of vascular and endovascular surgery at Penn Medicine, discusses Aortic Disease from a surgeon's perspective, with host Lee Freedman. Among the topics discussed are the importance of history and physical exams, imaging modalities, genetic components, management of anneurisms, surveillance, outpatient and inpatient care.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: June 20, 2011

Neurosurgical Quality Improvement Measures & Patients With Degenerative Disc Disease

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 12:30:00 +0000

How much do quality improvement efforts improve quality of life for neurosurgical patients? Host Dr. Lee Freedman talks to Dr. Neil Malhotra, assistant professor of neurosurgery at the University of Pennsylvania and the Penn Neurological Institute of the Pennsylvania Hospital, about new efforts to improve outcomes in this area. They also look at latest treatments and techniques in Dr. Malhotra's area of surgical expertise, the treatment of degenerative disc disease.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired: September 12, 2011