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In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with Dr. Nicole Sakla, a breast radiologist and published researcher in artificial intelligence, to explore how AI is changing the way mammograms are read and how it can help radiologists detect disease earlier, sometimes by years.

Learn how AI tools flag subtle patterns invisible to the human eye, act as a double-check system for radiologists, and may reduce unnecessary callbacks and missed cancers—all without replacing the human expertise behind every diagnosis.

Dr. Sakla also clears up misconceptions about AI in medicine, explains how it’s trained to be accurate across diverse patients, and shares what excites her most about the next generation of AI technology in breast imaging.

Listen now for a fascinating, accessible look into how human expertise and machine learning are working together to advance early detection and patient care.

For more information about breast imaging and screening at MedStar Health, medstarhealth.org/breasthealth or call the breast center at MedStar Washington Hospital Center: 202-877-2800 .

If you would like to comment on this podcast, or recommend a topic for another episode of DocTalk, send an email:  [email protected]

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

In this episode of our podcast DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with MedStar Health interventional cardiologist Dr. John Wang, director of the Cardiac Catheterization Labs at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital and MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center in Baltimore, to explore how cardiac catheterizations have evolved, and why the transradial approach (through the wrist) is transforming catheterization procedures.

Traditionally performed through the femoral artery in the groin, cardiac caths are increasingly going in through the wrist, offering: 

·       Faster recovery
 Fewer complications
 Greater patient comfort
 Same-day discharge for many patients

Dr. Wang explains:

• What symptoms may lead to a cardiac cath
• When the procedure is performed in emergencies (like heart attacks) vs. scheduled care
• Why national cardiology guidelines recommend the transradial approach
• What patients should ask their doctors before undergoing the procedure

If you or a loved one may need a heart cath, this episode will help you understand your options, and why the accessing the heart through the wrist is a better approach.

Learn more about interventional cardiology at MedStarHealth.org/MHVI 

To comment on this podcast, or suggest a topic for another episode send us an email: [email protected]

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

The shoulder is the most mobile and most complex joint in the human body, which also makes it vulnerable to injury and arthritis. Each year, nearly 60,000 Americans undergo shoulder replacement surgery, also known as total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA).

In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ryan Hoffman, a shoulder and elbow specialist at MedStar Health, to explore:

·       What shoulder arthroplasty is and when it’s needed

·       The difference between total vs. reverse shoulder replacements

·       How advances like robotic planning, 3D templating, and stemless implants are changing outcomes

·       What recovery looks like and how patients regain mobility

·       What to ask when choosing a shoulder surgeon

If you’ve ever wondered about shoulder pain, rotator cuff tears, or when it’s time to consider replacement surgery, this conversation breaks it all down.

Watch and learn how modern shoulder surgery is helping patients get back to the life they love.

For an appointment with Dr. Hoffman call 410-554-2272. If you would like to share feedback on this podcast or suggest a topic for another episode of MedStar Health Doc talk, send an email: [email protected].

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital is proud to be the first and most experienced facility in the Washington, D.C. region to offer proton therapy with HYPERSCAN™. Our team of physicians at MedStar Georgetown is made up of the D.C. area’s leading experts, who have specialized knowledge in numerous cancer types and are at the forefront of the latest advances in treatment. We are committed to seeing patients within 48 hours, providing you and your loved ones care as quickly as possible. Dr. Matthew Witek, director of Proton Therapy at MedStar Georgetown, and a leading expert in radiation oncology, specializes in treating patients with cancers of the central nervous systems, base of skull, head and neck, and skin. He has a special interest in advanced radiation technologies and treatment approaches that minimize treatment side effects and improve patient outcomes. For an interview with Dr. Matthew Witek, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected]. Learn more about Dr. Witek.

 To learn more or to make an appointment call (202) 444-4255, or visit: MedStarHealth/ProtonTherapy.

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Doctor Matthew Witek, DocTalk, Proton Therapy, Cancer  ---

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

 | MedStar Georgetown University Hospital was the first hospital on the East Coast to offer CyberKnife technology. Our team is among the world’s most experienced CyberKnife sites having treated more than 2,400 patients with prostate cancer and performed more than 35,000 treatments in total. Unlike traditional radiation that’s given in 40 sessions over eight to nine weeks, CyberKnife can treat prostate cancer in just five visits. Dr. Jonathan Lischalk, a radiation oncologist at MedStar Georgetown, discusses CyberKnife radiation therapy for treating prostate, and the advantages of CyberKnife over conventional radiation. For an interview with Dr. Jonathan Lischalk, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected]. Learn more about Dr. Lischalk.
| Learn more at MedStarHealth.org/CyberKnifeNow, or call 202-444-4255.

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

Understanding Aortic Aneurysms with Dr. Raghuveer Vallabhaneni

Host: Debra Schindler
Guest: Dr. Raghuveer Vallabhaneni, Director of Vascular Surgery, MedStar Health Baltimore Region

The aorta, your body’s largest blood vessel, acts like a fire hose — forcefully pumping blood from your heart to every part of your body. Over time, parts of the aortic wall can weaken and stretch, forming a bulge known as an aneurysm — a silent and potentially deadly condition. In this episode, Dr. Vallabhaneni explains the difference between aneurysms and aortic dissections, discusses risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, and genetic predisposition, and emphasizes the critical importance of screening and early detection, especially for men over 65 who have smoked.

In this episode of DocTalk, Debra and Dr. Vallabhaneni discuss:

·       Types of aneurysms (abdominal and thoracic)

·       Who should be screened

·       Warning signs and when to act

·       How aneurysms are monitored

·       Treatment options, from lifestyle changes to minimally invasive stent procedures (EVAR)

·       Why lifelong follow-up care is vital after a repair

Dr. Vallabhaneni also shares remarkable cases, including treating a 13 cm aneurysm and how imaging advancements have revolutionized care.

Key Message: Most aneurysms grow slowly and can be safely monitored, but they become dangerous when undetected. If you or someone you love is at risk, screening can be lifesaving.

Baltimore-area listeners: To schedule an appointment with Dr. Vallabhaneni, call 410-554-2950.

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler speaks with Dr. Othman Abdul-Malak, MD, MSC, a vascular expert, to break down the what carotid artery disease is, and how it can lead to stroke, mini-strokes (TIAs), and sudden vision loss. Learn how to recognize early warning signs—like facial droop, arm weakness, or sudden speech problems—and why acting fast can save brain function. Dr. Abdul-Malak also explains:

·       The difference between ischemic and embolic strokes

·       What amaurosis fugax means 

·       Why age, heart disease, and cholesterol put you at greater risk

·       When NOT to take aspirin

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in stroke prevention, vascular health, or caring for aging loved ones. Time is brain. Know the signs. Act fast.

Subscribe for more expert-led episodes.

To make an appointment with Dr. Abdul Malak, call 443-777-1900. If you would like to provide feedback on this podcast or get more information when carotid artery disease or treatment options, send me an to [email protected] 

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler tackles a topic that many women face but few discuss: urinary incontinence. With an estimated 25 million American women affected, it's time to break the silence. Joined by MedStar Health urogynecologist Dr. Abigail Davenport, they delve into the myths surrounding incontinence, the different types, and the various treatment options available. From urgency incontinence to stress urinary incontinence, Dr. Davenport provides invaluable insights into how lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and advanced therapies can help women regain control over their lives. Tune in to learn why this common issue shouldn't be a source of shame and how empowering conversations can lead to effective solutions.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Davenport at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, call 443-777-7608.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.  Send comments to [email protected]

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

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

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.

Would like like to share feedback on this podcast? Or suggest another topic for us to explore? Click here, or email us at [email protected]

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.