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According to the CDC, an estimated 58.5 million US adults have been diagnosed with some type of arthritis. Arthritis Awareness Month is observed every May, and it's a time to inform people about this complex group of debilitating diseases. The goal of this episode is to educate listeners about the impact of arthritis, how to promote lifestyle changes for prevention, and highlight the importance of research and support for those living with the condition. 

To do that, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Kessler, Chief - Division of Hand & Elbow Surgery in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

For an interview with Dr. Michael Kessler, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected].

Learn more about Dr. Kessler. 

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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Bumps and lumps of the hand can be any number of things...  all are classified as a hand tumor, but do they all require treatment, and which are a cause for concern? Host Debra Schindler explores the various types of hand tumors from the benign to malignant, with hand surgeon and Chief of the Curtis National Hand Center, Dr. James Higgins, and orthopedic oncologist, Dr. Mohammed Karim. Learn about the variety of hand tumors, treatment options, and the importance of early diagnosis. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back— peace of mind is everything.   

If you have concerns about a hand tumor and would like to see a specialist call 877-34-ORTHO  or 877-346-7846.  If you’re from outside the Maryland area, ask for a video consult appointment. 

If you would like to provide feedback on this podcast, or get more information on hand tumors, send Debra an email:  [email protected].   

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Yet this cancer can be prevented with screening and is highly treatable when detected early. On this episode of our DocTalk podcast, we’re discussing colon cancer with Dr. Walid Chalhoub, the Division Chief of Gastroenterology at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, and the Co-Director of Advanced Endoscopy at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. 

Dr. Chalhoub discusses the difference between gastroenterology and advanced gastroenterology, and how getting a colonoscopy can save your life.

For an interview with Dr. Walid Chalhoub, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected].

Learn more about Dr. Chalhoub. 

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with gastroenterologist Dr. Jose Parungao to delve into celiac disease, a chronic immune disorder affecting approximately 1 in 100 people in the U.S. As they explore the intricacies of this condition, Dr. Parungao explains how gluten—a protein found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley—triggers an immune response that can lead to a host of health issues, including malabsorption of essential nutrients.

Listeners will learn about the varied symptoms of celiac disease, from gastrointestinal distress to neuropsychiatric manifestations, and the challenges of diagnosis that often lead to misinterpretation of symptoms. Dr. Parungao discusses the importance of screening, the diagnostic process involving blood tests and biopsies, and the critical role of a gluten-free diet in managing the disease. With insights into potential genetic links and the importance of family testing, this episode provides a comprehensive overview for anyone curious about celiac disease or seeking to understand its long-term implications.

For more information on this podcast, or to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist in the Baltimore, Annapolis, Bel Air area, email [email protected].

If you would like to provide feedback on this podcast, or get more information on hand tumors, send Debra an email:  [email protected].   
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For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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Are you one of the many who experience heartburn or acid reflux? In our latest episode, host Debra Schindler separates fact from fiction about gastroesophageal reflux disease -or GERD- with MedStar Health gastroenterologist Vinshi Khan, MD. Learn why long term complications from GERD make treatment so important. 

If you would like to provide feedback on this podcast, or get more information on hand tumors, send Debra an email:  [email protected].   

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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In the latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, orthopedic surgeon Zan Nasser, MD, who specializes in spine surgery, discusses the facts and fiction of scoliosis. From understanding the basics of curvature of the spine, to treatment options, patients, parents, and healthcare professionals alike, this podcast has something for everyone.

Contrary to popular belief, scoliosis isn't solely a teenage affliction nor is it caused by poor posture. In fact, scoliosis can develop in individuals of any age, and its severity varies significantly from person to person. 

Bracing is often the first line of defense for children with mild to moderate curves, and it plays a crucial role in preventing the curvature from worsening. But when does bracing start, and what happens if treatment isn’t pursued. Dr. Naseer has details the issues surrounding bracing for pediatric patients and for adults… with practical advice for parents on how to manage bracing routines.

Dr. Naseer delves into the more complex aspects of scoliosis management, including surgery. 

Listeners will also learn about the importance of early diagnosis and regular monitoring. 

With expert insights from Dr. Zan Naseer, listeners are empowered to understand scoliosis better and to navigate its challenges with confidence. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of scoliosis, its management, and how to support those living with it. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that could change lives!

For more information on Dr. Naseer, go to medstarhealth.org/naseer, or to make an appointment, call 410-248-8054. 

If you would like to share feedback on this podcast, or suggest a topic for another episode of DocTalk, email Debra Schindler at [email protected].

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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A groundbreaking innovation is making waves for the approximate six million Americans who suffer with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It’s called pulsed field ablation. In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Sunjeet Sidhu, a renowned cardiac electrophysiologist at MedStar Health, to explore the intricacies and benefits of this safer, faster, cutting-edge treatment.

 The number of those suffering with AFib, may even be an underestimate, but statistics show they are steadily increasing due to factors such as an aging population and the obesity epidemic. Traditionally, AFIB treatment involved thermal ablation methods, which, although effective, posed risks of collateral damage to surrounding tissues. Enter pulsed field ablation, a technique that uses ultra-short electrical pulses to target and destroy abnormal heart tissue without harming nearby structures. This method is not only safer but also more efficient, reducing procedure times significantly.

 Dr. Sidhu explains how pulsed field ablation works by creating a scar tissue barrier, effectively isolating the problematic areas of the heart that trigger AFIB. Unlike thermal ablation, which relies on heating or freezing tissues, pulsed field ablation uses electroporation to disrupt cell membranes, leading to cell death and scar formation. The heart cells are particularly sensitive to this type of injury, allowing for precise targeting without affecting surrounding tissues.

 The benefits of pulsed field ablation are manifold. Patients experience shorter procedure times, reduced anesthesia exposure, and fewer complications. Dr. Sidhu shares his firsthand experiences, noting a significant improvement in patient outcomes and satisfaction. He recounts a heartwarming story of a young mother who, after undergoing the procedure, was able to regain her quality of life and engage in activities with her children without the debilitating effects of AFIB.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy Program is the only adult, FACT-accredited program in the Washington, D.C., area. We give patients with cancers affecting the blood or immune system and other disorders access to life-saving treatment options not otherwise available in our region. These include:

·       Allogeneic stem cell transplant

·       Autologous stem cell transplant

·       CAR T-cell therapy

Alaa Ali, MD, MSC, is a clinician, instructor, and investigator in clinical and translational research at MedStar Georgetown’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy program. Concurrrently, he holds the position of Assistant Professor at Georgetown University School of Medicine.

For an interview with Dr. Ali, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected]. 

Learn more about Dr. Ali. 

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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In our latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, Debra Schindler talks with MedStar Health breast surgeon, Maen Farha, MD, medical director of the Breast Center at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore, about the most common breast cancer diagnosis: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). 

Learn more about the contained, early-stage disease, the intricacies of diagnosis, and the personalized treatment options available. Dr. Farha shares valuable experience and a wealth of knowledge with hope for outstanding results, possible with proper care.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

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Stomach cancer, often referred to as gastric cancer, is a sneaky cancer.  Its symptoms can be easily mistaken for more benign conditions like indigestion or acid reflux, making early detection a challenge. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into this complex disease with the help of two esteemed experts: gastroenterologist Dr. Walid Chaloub, and Dr. Reetu Mukherji, a medical oncologist from MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute in D.C. 

Host Debra Schindler explores the biology of stomach cancer with her physician guests to understand how mutations in the DNA of stomach cells can lead to uncontrolled growth and tumor formation. This formidable disease often goes unnoticed until it has advanced significantly, highlighting the critical need for awareness and early detection. 

Dr. Mukherji shares the various risk factors associated with stomach cancer, including smoking, diet, and certain bacterial infections like H. Pylori. She emphasizes the importance of molecular testing in diagnosing and treating this disease, as it can reveal specific mutations that may be targeted with personalized therapies. The episode also explores the different diagnostic tools available, such as endoscopy and CT scans, and the role of tumor markers in assessing the presence of cancer. While these tools are invaluable, Dr. Mukherji stresses that they are not foolproof, underscoring the importance of comprehensive testing and expert analysis. 

One of the most enlightening parts of the discussion is the potential for treatment and even cure. While surgery is a common approach, not all patients are candidates. The podcast highlights the evolving role of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies, offering hope to those battling this disease. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the symptoms to watch for, the importance of genetic predispositions, and the latest advancements in treatment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in learning more about stomach cancer, whether for personal knowledge or to support a loved one. Tune in to this informative episode to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to recognize the signs of stomach cancer early and explore the treatment options available. Your Health, or that of someone you care about, could depend on it.

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For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.