AHN Med Talks

This episode explores modern advances in hand surgery — from WALANT (wide awake local anesthesia, no tourniquet) to nerve transfers and emerging thumb replacement options — and why early referral matters for better outcomes. Guest Dr. Peter Tang, MD, Professor at Drexel University College of Medicine, Chief of the Hand Division and Program Director of Hand, Upper Extremity & Microvascular Surgery Fellowship at AHN, shares practical guidance for referring physicians. Learn about WALANT, nerve repair timing, thumb CMC arthritis management, and when to consider referral for complex hand trauma.

To refer a patient call 844 MD REFER or visit findcare.ahn.org. 

This episode breaks down the entire care pathway from an abnormal CT or screening-detected nodule through staging and resection, highlighting minimally invasive techniques and the role of nurse navigators. Guest Mathew Van Deusen, MD explains step-by-step nodule evaluation, staging strategies, and treatment decision-making to help referring clinicians optimize patient flow and outcomes. Keywords: lung cancer screening, thoracic surgery referral, nodule evaluation, staging and resection, minimally invasive thoracic surgery, multidisciplinary lung cancer care.

To refer a patient or learn more, call 844-MD-REFER or visit findcare.ahn.org. 

Learn more about Mathew Van Deusen, MD  

This episode walks referring clinicians through early signs of multiple sclerosis, why timely referral matters, and practical steps for evaluation and collaboration. Featuring Troy Desai, MD, co‑director of the Allegheny Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Center, the discussion covers MS diagnosis, when to order imaging, and considerations for disease‑modifying therapy and vaccination. Keywords: multiple sclerosis, MS diagnosis, referring clinicians, disease‑modifying therapy, primary care, MS referral. Call to action: To refer a patient or learn more, call 844‑MD‑REFERRER or visit findcare.ahn.org 

Learn more about Troy Desai, MD 

How AHN moved advanced therapies out of the city and into community infusion sites — increasing access to CAR T, bispecific antibodies, and clinical trials for patients who can’t travel. 

Learn more about Prerna Mewawalla, MD 

An expert overview for clinicians on modern breast cancer screening practices at Allegheny Health Network, including workflow, access, and how AHN supports patients through screening and diagnostics. 

Learn more about Dr. Matthew Miller 

In this episode, Dr. Deanna Huffman unveils the latest trends in melanoma screening and treatments. Discover how the Vectra 3D body imaging technology is transforming the way we detect skin cancer early, allowing for timely interventions. Get insider information on innovative therapies and clinical trials at West Penn Hospital. Be sure to click the link for more details! 

Learn more about Deanna Huffman, DO 

In this episode, Dr. Christopher Morse, a respected gynecologic oncologist with the AHN Cancer Institute, joins host Melanie Cole to dissect the complexities of vulvar dysplasia. Learn about its risk factors, clinical signs, and the latest treatment options to prevent progression to cancer. This knowledge is crucial for effective patient care in your practice.

This episode explores the innovative use of low dose radiation therapy in treating osteoarthritis, led by Dr. Chirag Shah, a renowned radiation oncologist. Discover the historical context, patient benefits, and how this non-invasive treatment is changing the landscape of osteoarthritis management. Don't miss your chance to learn about this exciting development—tune in for insights that could benefit your patients today! 

Learn more about Chirag Shah, MD 

This episode uncovers the prevalence of growth plate injuries in children, particularly in young athletes. Join Dr. Anthony Silverio, Director of the AHN Pediatric Orthopedic Institute, as he discusses the risks associated with these injuries and how to effectively manage them. Whether from playground falls or sports-related accidents, understanding growth plate health is essential for parents and coaches alike. Tune in to learn how to help children recover safely and strengthen their bones. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights! 

Learn more about Anthony Silverio, DO