MedStar Health DocTalk (series)

Send us Fan MailCould focused ultrasound help people with essential tremor regain control of their hands, without brain surgery? For the millions of Americans living with essential tremor, everyday activities like holding a cup of coffee, signing their name, buttoning a shirt or enjoying a meal can become frustrating challenges. When medications no longer provide relief, MRI-guided focused ultrasound may offer another treatment option. In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Justin Martello, a MedStar Health neurologist and movement disorders specialist, about how this innovative technology works and how it may help patients with essential tremor and certain symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Dr. Martello explains how highly concentrated ultrasound waves target a precise area of the brain responsible for tremors, without an incision, implanted device or traditional brain surgery. Patients remain awake during the outpatient procedure, allowing physicians to monitor their symptoms and assess the results in real time. The conversation explores: The difference between essential tremor and Parkinson's-related tremor. When medications may no longer be effective. How MRI-guided focused ultrasound works. Who may be a candidate for the procedure. How focused ultrasound compares with deep brain stimulation (DBS). Potential benefits, risks and recovery. How treatment can help patients reclaim everyday activities and independence.As Dr. Martello explains, some of the most rewarding moments happen when patients realize they can once again do something they haven't been able to do comfortably in years, like holding a cup of coffee. Learn more about focused ultrasound treatment at MedStar Health:Visit medstarhealth.org and search "focused ultrasound." To consult with Dr. Martello in the Maryland area, call 1-866-8-STEADY (783-2391). MedStar Health DocTalk brings you comprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine with physician experts from across the largest healthcare system in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. region. Subscribe for more conversations with the experts at MedStar Health.  For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailLymphedema can develop months or even years after breast cancer treatment, but it doesn't have to be something survivors simply learn to live with.On this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Meghan Milburn, a breast surgeon with MedStar Health, about the causes, warning signs, prevention and treatment of lymphedema. Learn how breast cancer surgery and radiation can affect the lymphatic system, why early detection matters, and how treatments ranging from compression sleeves and specialized therapy to advanced microsurgery can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.Dr. Milburn also explains common misconceptions about lymphedema risk and shares important questions patients should ask their breast cancer care team.The takeaway: Know your risk, recognize the signs and seek help early. There are options to help you thrive, not just survive, after breast cancer treatment.For more information or to schedule an appointment at the Breast Center at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, call 443-777-6500.For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailMenopause and perimenopause can affect much more than your physical health. Mood changes, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and brain fog can leave women feeling unlike themselves—but they don’t have to suffer in silence.On this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, psychiatrist Dr. Madhumathi (Madhu) Rao discusses the connection between menopause and mental health, common symptoms women may experience, and treatment options that may help. She also addresses misconceptions about hormone therapy and offers advice on talking with your health care provider about symptoms and finding the right approach for you.If you’ve been struggling with changes in your mood, sleep, or memory during midlife, this conversation can help you better understand what may be happening and what steps you can take.If you're experiencing significant changes in your mood, anxiety, sleep, concentration or overall ability to function, talk with a health-care professional about what you're experiencing.If you're experiencing significant changes in your mood or anxiety, sleep, concentration, or overall ability to function, your sexual health, talk with a healthcare professional about what you're experiencing. If you would like more information on the impact of menopause on mental health, call the MedStar Health Department of Psychiatry at 202-944-5400 to make an in-person or virtual appointment. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailOn this DocTalk episode, we chat with Dr. Lucy De La Cruz, chief of the Breast Surgery program, who recently performed a first-of-its kind robotic mastectomy paired with nerve reconstruction to help preserve sensation, all performed through a single, hidden incision. For an interview with Dr. De La Cruz, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager MediaRelations, [email protected]. Learn more about Dr. De La Cruz. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailCould a new treatment help people whose high blood pressure remains difficult to control?High blood pressure affects nearly half of U.S. adults and can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and heart failure. But for some people, even multiple medications and lifestyle changes aren't enough to bring their blood pressure under control.In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Brian Case, MedStar Health interventional cardiologist and hypertension specialist, about renal denervation (RDN), an FDA-approved treatment option for certain patients with uncontrolled or resistant hypertension.Dr. Case explains:• What high blood pressure does to the heart, kidneys and body• How doctors determine whether hypertension is truly uncontrolled• Who may be a candidate for renal denervation• How the procedure works and why the kidneys are involved• The difference between ultrasound and radiofrequency renal denervation• What patients can expect before, during and after the procedure• How long it takes to see a reduction in blood pressure• Potential risks and who may not qualify• Why renal denervation is not a cure for hypertension but can be used alongside medications and healthy lifestyle changes• What researchers have learned since the earlier studies of renal denervation• How this emerging treatment could change the future of hypertension careDr. Case also shares what he and his colleagues are seeing in patients treated through the MedStar Health hypertension program.Learn more about renal denervation at MedStar Health:MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center: 301-877-5677MedStar Washington Hospital Center: 202-877-5975This podcast is for informational and educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual condition and treatment options.#MedStarHealth #DocTalk #HighBloodPressure #Hypertension #RenalDenervation #HeartHealth #BloodPressure #CardiologyFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailThumb Arthritis: The Game Changing Joint ReplacementThumb arthritis is extremely common, and when pain at the base of the thumb makes it difficult to open a jar, turn a key, grip a golf club, or hold everyday objects, it can have a major impact on daily life.In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Avi Giladi, hand and upper-extremity surgeon and research director at the Curtis National Hand Center, about the latest advances in treating thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis.For decades, surgery has typically involved removing the trapezium bone, sometimes combined with tendon reconstruction or suspension. While these procedures can provide pain relief, recovery can be lengthy, and some patients experience lasting limitations in grip strength and function.Dr. Giladi discusses a newer option: the Touch Prosthesis, a thumb joint replacement designed to preserve joint height and motion while providing stability. He explains how the implant works, who may be a candidate, how it compares with traditional surgery, and what patients can expect during recovery.The conversation covers:• Why thumb arthritis is so common• Early symptoms and risk factors• Non-surgical treatment options, including splints, therapy and injections• Traditional thumb arthritis surgery and its recovery• How the Touch prosthesis works• Potential benefits, risks and limitations of thumb joint replacement• Who may—and may not—be a candidate• What recovery can look like after surgery• What researchers and surgeons still need to learn about the implant long termDr. Giladi emphasizes that not everyone with thumb arthritis needs surgery, and that treatment should be individualized. But for appropriately selected patients whose symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatments, newer joint-replacement technology may offer another path toward restoring motion, strength and function.Learn More or Schedule an Appointment: For more information about MedStar Health’s Curtis National Hand Center, visit MedStarHealth.org and search “Curtis.” To schedule an appointment with Dr. Avi Giladi or one of the center’s 14 hand surgeons, call 410-235-5405. If you’re closer to Washington, DC, call 202-444-3668 to schedule an appointment with hand surgeon Dr. Michael Kessler at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.Watch the full episode to learn what patients considering thumb arthritis surgery should know.For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailMedical breakthroughs don't always make headlines. Sometimes they're the innovations that quietly transform lives.In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler talks with colorectal surgeon Dr. Sherief Shawki to discuss the K-pouch (Kock pouch), a highly specialized surgical procedure that offers a life-changing alternative for some patients living with an ileostomy or experiencing complications from a J-pouch.Dr. Shawki explains:What a K-pouch is and how it worksThe difference between a J-pouch and a K-pouchWho may be a candidate for this specialized surgeryWhy so few surgeons perform K-pouch proceduresWhat patients can expect during recoveryHow the procedure can restore independence and quality of lifeYou'll also hear how advances in surgical expertise are helping patients from across the country, including those who have exhausted other treatment options; find hope through one of the nation's few dedicated K-pouch programs.If you or someone you know is living with an ileostomy, has experienced J-pouch complications, or is exploring reconstructive colorectal surgery options, this conversation provides valuable insight from one of the country's experienced K-pouch surgeons.To schedule a consultation with Dr. Sherief Shawki, call 443-777-2475.Learn more about colorectal surgery at MedStar Health: MedStarHealth.orgSubscribe to MedStar Health DocTalk for conversations with physician experts covering the latest advances in medicine, surgery, and patient care. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of DocTalk, we talk with Dr. Talal Al-Qaoud, transplant surgeon and urologist at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, who explains how robotic-assisted transplant surgeries are improving patient outcomes, and what makes someone an ideal candidate.For an interview with Dr. Al-Qaoud, or for more information about this podcast, contact Medstar Georgetown University Hospital manager of Media Relations, [email protected] more about Dr. Al-Qaoud For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us Fan Mail Cardio Obstetrics: What is it?  | MedStar Health DocTalkPregnancy is often described as a natural stress test for the body, and especially for the heart. In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with cardiologist and cardio-obstetrics specialist Dr. Minhal Makshood to explore the growing field of cardio obstetrics and why pregnancy can reveal important clues about a woman’s long-term cardiovascular health.Dr. Makshood explains how conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, and peripartum cardiomyopathy can affect both mother and baby, and why these pregnancy-related complications may increase a woman’s risk of future heart disease, heart failure, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.The conversation also highlights the importance of prenatal counseling for women with existing heart conditions, the role of multidisciplinary care teams, and why the postpartum period—sometimes called the “fourth trimester”—is a critical time for monitoring heart health.In this episode, you'll learn:• What cardio obstetrics is and why the specialty is rapidly growing• How pregnancy can uncover previously undiagnosed heart conditions• The warning signs of heart complications during and after pregnancy• Why preeclampsia and gestational diabetes are more than temporary pregnancy complications• How pregnancy history can help predict future cardiovascular risk• The importance of coordinated care between cardiologists, obstetricians, and maternal-fetal medicine specialists• What every woman should know about protecting her heart before, during, and after pregnancyWhether you're planning a pregnancy, currently expecting, recently delivered a baby, or simply interested in women's heart health, this episode provides valuable insights that could have lifelong implications.If you have a heart condition, experienced complications during pregnancy, or want to learn more about protecting your cardiovascular health before, during, or after pregnancy, schedule an appointment with the Women's Health and Cardio Obstetrics Clinic at MedStar Health. Call 301-570-7404 to learn more or make an appointment.Guest: Dr. Minhal Makshood, Cardiologist and Cardio-Obstetrics SpecialistHost: Debra SchindlerFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.