Subarachnoid Hemorrhage and Treatment Approaches to Intracranial Aneurysms

Dr. Michelle Smith, assistant professor of neurosurgery at Penn Medicine, discusses with host Dr. Lee Freedman her patients' fears about aneurysms. Dr. Smith talks about the studies she uses that typically show changes of the aneurysms over time in order to enable her to follow these aneurysms. They discuss aneurysm structure and the relationship to risk, along with new treatments for aneurysms.

Source: ReachMD | Originally Aired:October 17, 2011

Endoscopic Brain Surgery, In 3-D

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

Advantages of Bloodless Medicine

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

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