UAB Med Cast: Recent Episodes
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Neurofibromatosis (NF) and Schwannomatosis can involve skin changes, hearing loss, vision issues, and nerve tumors, but may go unrecognized for years. Neuro-oncologists Katie Metrock, M.D., and Rebecca Brown, M.D., discuss how these two distinct genetic conditions are classified, how they typically present, and how newly approved MEK inhibitors are shaping treatment.
Tracheostomy complications can be dramatically reduced with structured follow-up care. Harishanker Jeyarajan, M.D., explains how a pandemic-era surge in tracheostomies prompted UAB to launch a quality improvement initiative to systematize post-placement care — leading to the only dedicated tracheostomy management clinic in Alabama. Learn from Maddie Golden, CRNP, and Jennifer Faulkner, PA-C, how their protocols and education efforts helped reduce tracheostomy-related visits by 43%.
Thyroid nodules are common and usually benign, but deciding when and how to intervene is complex. Endocrine surgeons Andrea Gillis, M.D., and Sophie Dream, M.D., along with CRNP Kelly Lovell, explain how they distinguish low-risk cases from those needing treatment. Learn how they help patients choose between monitoring, thermal ablation, and surgery.
Primary care sports medicine has more tools than ever to keep athletes out of the operating room. Steven Brown, M.D., explains how this evolving field treats injuries, supports recovery, and helps prevent sport-specific injuries through whole-person care. Learn how ultrasound, orthobiologics, and training strategies are shaping nonsurgical treatment.
Learn more about Steven Brown, MD
UAB’s adult ECMO program, which offers advanced heart and lung support, continues to expand in both reach and capability. Keith Wille, M.D., medical director of the ECMO and Advanced Lung Diseases Program, discusses technology that improves patient mobility, new referral partnerships, and the multidisciplinary care model behind each case. Learn how ECMO is used as a bridge to recovery, transplant, or decision.
Learn more about Keith Wille, MD, MSPH
Explore the collaborative efforts at UAB Medicine that make National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) accreditation successful. Robert Hollis, M.D., MSPH, and Ridley Brown, BSN, RN, explain how teamwork among surgeons, oncologists, and nurses streamlines patient navigation and care, ensuring that every aspect of a patient’s journey is coordinated and efficient.
Managing pancreatitis often involves complex decisions about drainage, best made by a multidisciplinary team. Sushant Reddy, M.D., a pancreatic surgeon, joins Andrew Gunn, M.D., an interventional radiologist, and Ali Ahmed, M.D., an interventional gastroenterologist, to explain how their unified protocol helps avoid surgical drainage in most cases. They discuss acute vs. chronic cases, pseudocyst management, and evolving strategies for pain control and follow-up care.
Male infertility contributes to nearly half of all infertility cases. Peter Kolettis, M.D., a urologist, explains how detailed evaluations such as semen analysis and hormone testing help identify treatable causes. He discusses the latest procedures for sperm retrieval and vasectomy reversal, and how lifestyle choices can impact fertility.
Partial breast radiation has become even safer and more precise for select patients with early-stage breast cancer. Hunter Boggs, M.D., a radiation oncologist, explains how modern partial breast radiation techniques reduce side effects without compromising outcomes. He also shares updated eligibility criteria for treatment.
When uveal melanoma spreads to the liver, it’s difficult to treat with systemic therapies, but percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) offers an alternative. In this panel discussion, Venkatesh Krishnasamy, M.D., kristy Broman, M.D., and John Dubay, M.D., explain how PHP delivers high-dose chemotherapy directly to the liver while minimizing toxicity. They walk through candidacy, recovery, and how this approach compares to surgery or immunotherapy. Learn how coordination across specialties makes this liver-directed therapy possible.
Not every patient is a candidate for traditional dental implants. Michael Case, D.M.D., and Jay Ponto, D.M.D., explain how today’s subperiosteal implants offer a custom alternative for patients with reduced bone volume, past tumor resection, or congenital conditions. Learn about the new subperiosteal implant approach, which uses a custom titanium framework that is preplanned, fixed in place, and can be fitted with teeth immediately after surgery.
Neuroendocrine tumors are rare and can present with a confusing range of symptoms, which leads to frequent misattribution. Jay Bart Rose, M.D., explains how they’re also complex to treat, often requiring multiple modalities based on tumor location and hormone activity. He discusses surgery, systemic therapies, and PRRT, a targeted treatment that uses the same receptor pathway as specialized imaging. Learn how UAB’s multidisciplinary neuroendocrine tumor clinic brings specialists together for long-term management.
Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer is common, recurrent, and often misunderstood. Urologist Jed Ferguson, M.D., and urologic oncologist Chas Peyton, M.D., explain how it differs from muscle invasive disease, why recurrence increases the risk of progression, and the complex factors that determine treatment sequencing. Learn about UAB’s clinical trials and emerging therapies that aim to preserve the bladder without compromising care.
Radiation therapy for oral cancer requires both precise targeting and multidisciplinary coordination. Christopher Willey, M.D., and Michael Case, D.M.D., explain how close collaboration between radiation oncology and dental care helps prevent complications such as osteoradionecrosis and also minimizes treatment delays. They describe how pretreatment dental evaluations, oral hygiene protocols, and coordinated planning improve outcomes.
ACL tears are on the rise as more people remain active throughout their lives. Amit Momaya, M.D., chief of sports medicine, explains how today’s treatment approaches balance repair and reconstruction, with an emphasis on prehab, rehab, and psychological readiness. Learn about prevention strategies, retear risk factors, and surgical innovations being studied at UAB.
Are airbag vests protecting young equestrians or putting them at risk? Sports medicine physician Sarah Gould, M.D., and engineering research scientist Kevin Schrum discuss unexpected injuries linked to equestrian air vests. They explain how the vests function, why pediatric riders may be especially vulnerable to related injuries, and why stronger data is needed to determine whether these devices should be used.
Kidney stones are often more than a one-time painful event: they’re a chronic disease linked to other health issues. Kyle Wood, M.D., discusses how stone disease often coexists with conditions like hypertension, dietary imbalance, and primary hyperparathyroidism. He explains that reviewing patient history, taking bloodwork, and ordering urine testing can help providers understand a patient’s overall risk for stone recurrence and related chronic conditions. Learn how UAB uses genetic testing to identify heritable causes of stone disease in patients with early onset, recurrence, or other red flags.
Sasha Still, M.D., explains how delayed diagnosis of aortic disease among women — who often present later and experience atypical symptoms — contributes to more complications and a higher mortality rate. She also discusses what clinicians can do to improve diagnosis, monitoring, and surgical decision-making.
For many patients, it takes time to regain full consciousness after a brain injury, and some develop a disorder of consciousness (DOC). Rachel Teranishi, M.D., a brain injury specialist, explains why up to 40% of DOC cases are misdiagnosed and outlines what providers need to know about assessment, treatment, and long-term recovery. Learn which therapies are showing promise and how to support families through uncertain outcomes.
Spinal cord injuries can have life-changing effects, from neurogenic bowel and bladder dysfunction to paralysis. Radhika Sharma, M.D., discusses the causes, complications, and rehabilitation approaches to spinal cord injury. She explains how a multidisciplinary approach helps patients recover function and rejoin communities.
Limb salvage can prevent amputation in patients with complex lower extremity conditions, including diabetes and peripheral arterial disease. Kyle Mauk, DPM, discusses how UAB’s limb salvage program integrates podiatry with vascular surgery to improve coordination of care. He also explains podiatry’s evolving role in surgical treatment.
Advances in imaging and molecular testing are changing how thyroid diseases are diagnosed and treated. Otolaryngologists and head and neck endocrine surgeons Andrew R. Fuson, M.D., and Daniel J. Rocke, M.D., discuss the latest approaches to managing thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer. They explain how better risk stratification allows them to be more selective about recommending surgery. Learn how this has led to a broader shift toward less aggressive, more individualized treatment.
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) occurs when blood vessels and nerves in the upper chest become compressed, leading to pain, numbness, swelling, or circulation problems in the arms. Jarrad Rowse, M.D., a vascular surgeon, explains the three types of TOS — neurogenic, venous, and arterial — why they develop, and how they are diagnosed. He discusses multidisciplinary treatment approaches, including physical therapy, pain management, and surgery when needed.
Non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease is a chronic lung infection that’s becoming more common, yet diagnosis and treatment remain challenging. Infectious disease specialist German Henostroza, M.D., and pulmonologist Bryan Garcia, M.D., discuss what’s known about NTM’s rise; the latest in diagnostic tools; and the complexities of treatment. Learn why effective management requires a team-based approach that goes beyond antibiotics.
Rehabilitation psychologists help patients with disabilities and chronic health conditions maximize their health and holistic well-being. Casey Azuero, Ph.D., explains these psychologists’ unique qualifications and how they function on interdisciplinary teams to address the full context of a patient’s recovery. This work includes helping patients navigate emotional challenges, improve coping strategies, and stay engaged in their social lives.
Functional neurological disorder (FND) results in fluctuating control of voluntary activities. Victor Mark, M.D., explains why FND has only recently begun to be acknowledged as a neurological rather than purely psychological disorder. He discusses conditions related to FND and effective rehabilitation coordinated between neurologists, psychologists, physical therapists, and others to moderate symptoms. Learn more about the persistent misunderstandings regarding FND within the medical community, which have often created a stigma for those living with it.
What is the best approach to treating substance use disorders? In part two of their discussion on substance use disorders within the health care provider population, Christopher Godlewski, M.D., and Sudheer Potru, D.O., explore the often-complementary effects of medication-assisted therapy and psychotherapeutic approaches. They urge education and empathy among providers to break down the stigma around seeking help.
Just as many health care providers face substance use disorder (SUD) as the general population, yet they are more likely to conceal it due to a professional stigma. Christopher Godlewski, M.D., and Sudheer Potru, D.O., discuss how burnout and demanding work environments contribute to SUD, and how colleagues’ reluctance to intervene can delay help. Learn how peer support, resilience training, and tailored recovery plans help providers save their lives and careers.
For patients with AFib, left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion should now be part of any non-emergency cardiac operation, and surgical ablation should also be considered. Panayotis Vardas, M.D., discusses how he and colleagues from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons arrived at stronger recommendations for these procedures in their 2023 guidelines. Learn more about related surgical procedures for AFib and the directions of future research.
Interventional endoscopic ultrasound, once a purely diagnostic tool, has given GI specialists a minimally invasive approach to a wide range of procedures. Ramzi Mulki, M.D., guides us through the evolution of the endoscope since the 1980s; various current uses of interventional endoscopy such as pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, and bariatric procedures; and how AI may soon expand what multidisciplinary teams can do with endoscopic ultrasound.
A new type of catheter ablation called pulsed field ablation (PA) allows for a more precise and non-heated way to treat many cases of atrial fibrillation (A-fib). Tom McElderry, M.D., discusses the advantages of PA ablation as an alternative to radio frequency and cryotherapy ablation, the most common types. Dr. McElderry was involved with clinical trials which demonstrated that PA was faster and eliminated the risk of both phrenic nerve injury and esophageal fistula. Learn more about what this technique means for the future of A-fib treatment.
Almost everyone with spinal stenosis will see decreased pain and other symptoms following treatment, no matter their age. Thomas Staner, M.D., a neurosurgeon, discusses how improved imaging and a multidisciplinary approach has enhanced care for those with pain and other symptoms caused by spinal stenosis. Learn how treatments can progress from physical therapy and NSAIDs (for mild pain) to nerve blocks and lumbar laminectomy (for more severe pain).
Telehealth coupled with patient-collected data is allowing doctors to manage diabetes more effectively. Anish Patel, M.D., an endocrinologist, discusses how telehealth reduces hospitalizations and readmissions, and allows doctors to personalize treatment plans based on a stream of real-time data. Learn more about how easy it can be for patients to collect their own data, which doctors are able to access remotely. Dr. Patel shares advice for physicians looking to start a telehealth practice.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a new, more precise name for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Fernando Bril, M.D., an endocrinologist, explains how this name precisely describes the way in which fatty acids build up in the liver of patients who have insulin resistance. Learn more about the close relationship of MASLD, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Dr. Bril reviews current screening recommendations, effective interventions, and the first approved drug for the condition.
How is care improving for the three percent of U.S. children who have type 1 diabetes? Jessica Schmitt, M.D., a pediatric endocrinologist, shares encouraging developments in medical diabetes management as well as insights about accurate diagnosis and helpful lifestyle habits. Learn about new treatments on the horizon, including one medication that may delay the onset of type 1 diabetes.
The prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is surging due to cases related to diabetes. Benjamin Pearce, M.D., a vascular surgeon, discusses management of PAD by highlighting three non-operative advancements, including exercise therapy. Learn how PAD can be diagnosed using an ankle-brachial index. Dr. Pierce explains how a multi-disciplinary team manages this condition and how they intervene early to prevent chronic limb-threatening ischemia.
85% of all non-melanoma skin cancers occur in the head and neck, which includes high-risk sub-units. Skin cancer is especially prevalent in the South. Harishanker Jayarajan, M.D., a head and neck surgeon, discusses the types and locations of skin lesions which warrant referral to an expert. He explains the general approach to treating head-and-neck skin cancers, as well as the modern usage of immunotherapy to shrink those lesions too dangerous to remove right away.
Patients who have surgery where there is an enhanced recovery program (ERP) recover faster and more effectively. Daniel Chu, M.D., a GI surgeon, discusses the many steps included in an ERP protocol and what it takes to establish the program. He explains how a multidisciplinary team of champions progresses through four phases of implementation. Learn how an ERP also helps patients rely less on opioids during recovery.
Pediatric and adolescent gynecology spans the gap between general pediatric care and adult gynecologic care. Janeen Arbuckle, M.D., speaks on her specialty in pediatric and adolescent gynecology, describing first the common conditions that warrant a visit for young women before and during adolescence. She highlights differences between the care grown women and adolescents receive, with special focus on the HPV vaccine and brith control (for managing special conditions). Dr. Arbuckle explains why creating a safe, confidential space for her young patients is so important.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a deadly disease that can affect anyone — even doctors. But certain social determinants of health and psychological trauma make some more vulnerable than others. In part 2 of their discussion on SUD treatment and recovery,Christopher Godlewski, M.D., and Sudheer Potru, D.O., discuss how doctors can account for the particular challenges in a patient’s life. Find out why telehealth may be a game changer for those lacking access to addiction recovery specialists.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a deadly disease that can affect anyone — even doctors. Christopher Godlewski, M.D., an anesthesiologist, and Sudheer Potru, D.O., an addiction medicine specialist, discuss the barriers to effective treatment of SUDs, both inside and outside of health care. They review the standard pharmacologic and behavioral therapy treatments as well as cutting edge medicines and neurosurgical approaches being used in the field.
Behavioral and mental health is part of every serious medical condition. According to Christina Pierpaoli Parker, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist, behavioral medicine belongs closer to patients in primary and specialty care clinics. She explains why many patients are not getting the mental health care they need and how integrated care models can help. Learn about UAB’s integrated care model normalizes mental health as part of routine care.
Bone disorders such as osteoporosis are silent diseases that most often affect women. Basma Abdulhadi, M.D., explains the importance of screening women over 65 (as well as those with other risk factors) to identify bone density loss and take steps to prevent dangerous fractures. Learn more about the DEXA scan, which helps doctors establish a patient’s degree of bone loss and determine the best interventions. Dr. Abdulhadi details the multiple approaches an interdisciplinary team uses to keep patients safe and mobile.
Maria Helena Lima, M.D., discusses the latest breast reconstruction options, including implants, autologous tissue flaps, and oncoplastic reconstruction. She also addresses patient safety concerns and the efficacy of silicone implants compared their saline counterparts.
Severe orthostatic headaches could indicate a serious condition called spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Neurologist Will Meador, M.D., and interventional neuroradiologist Jesse Jones, M.D., discuss how they interpret a combination of symptoms and imaging to make diagnoses and the common first-line treatments for cases that do not resolve with conservative lifestyle interventions. Learn details about a complex surgery to address severe cases.
Learn why robotic-assisted CABG is a groundbreaking technique for many with coronary artery disease. Sasha Still, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon, describes the advantages of performing robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass — a minimally invasive version of the traditional CABG procedure that can further be performed on a beating heart. She discusses the complexity level and characteristics of patients who are most likely to benefit. Discover why Dr. Still and her colleagues felt it was important to offer this highly technical procedure at UAB.
Two devices for preventing blood clots are allowing many patients to stop taking blood thinners completely. The Amulet and the Watchman are both devices that allow doctors to perform left atrial appendage occlusion more safely than ever before. Tom McElderry, M.D., co-director of the Heart & Vascular Center, explains what has made these devices easier and faster to install, with complication rates well below 1%. He also discusses imaging technology that makes same-day procedures possible. Learn more about clinical trials related to these devices underway at UAB.
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary liver cancer. It is a complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary team — for patients, that can mean a drawn-out array of appointments. Robert Cannon, M.D., surgical director of the UAB Liver Transplant Program, discusses the new Hepatocellular Carcinoma Clinic (HCC), which brings together relevant specialists for the benefit of patients. As he explains, patients can now leave one appointment with a diagnosis and a care plan built by the entire team. Learn more about exciting clinic trails offered through the HCC.
Head and neck cancers have always been some of the most difficult to treat, but advancements in robotic surgery, advanced imaging, and multidisciplinary recovery approaches are improving the outlook for many patients. Benjamin Greene, M.D.; Harishanker Jeyarajan, M.D.; and Carissa Thomas, M.D., share new insights and techniques in the field.
Learn more about the connection between HPV and oropharyngeal cancer; new tools allowing more accurate diagnoses and monitoring for recurrence; and the surgical precision made possible by robotic surgery alongside intraoperative fluorescence imaging.
Degenerative mitral valve disease is the most common heart valve abnormality. Panayotis Vardas, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon, reviews the distinctions between primary and secondary mitral regurgitation. He describes categories of patients who would be candidates for mitral valve repair, which is the standard-of-care treatment, versus those who might undergo mitral valve replacement. Learn more about the dramatic success rates of mitral valve repair and clinical trials underway that explore new techniques for complex cases.
Some people struggle with symptoms for years and never receive a clear answer on what condition they have. UAB Medicine is part of the National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Disease Network (UDN), which means they are committed to applying the latest technology to make diagnoses for their regional community. Bruce Korf, M.D., associate dean for Genomic Medicine, explains the various tools the undiagnosed disease team uses, including radiologic imaging, neurological testing, and genomic sequencing. Learn how patients from all demographics may gain access and be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team. He also explains how new diagnoses can help doctors understand the less common ways diseases present.
Mechanical thrombectomy is an effective new procedure for ischemic stroke management that lowers the possibility of damage to brain tissue. Select hospitals designated as thrombectomy-capable stroke centers, such as UAB, are equipped to perform this time-sensitive procedure 24/7. Michael Lyerly, M.D., a vascular neurologist, and Elizabeth Liptrap, M.D., a vascular neurosurgeon, explain how improved coordination with first responders and other hospitals using telemedicine and triage allows UAB to treat more regional patients who might benefit. They describe their multidisciplinary approach to choosing a specific combination of other tools and techniques alongside mechanical thrombectomy
Around 80% of adults experience low back pain, and most are not candidates for surgery. Prentiss Lawson, Jr., M.D., and Christopher Paul, M.D., both anesthesiologists who specialize in pain medicine, discuss a promising new durable therapy for low back pain called restorative neurostimulation. Unlike existing low back pain management options, neurostimulation addresses a root cause, a weak or inactive multifidus muscle. The doctors explain the minimally invasive procedure, which involves sending electric pulses to the multifidus nerves. Learn how this treatment uniquely restores patents’ spinal stability and thereby reduces chronic pain.
Telehealth is impacting nearly every aspect of health care. Zain Hashmi, M.D., a trauma surgeon, discusses the potential of telehealth for improving access to comprehensive trauma care among rural patients. He explains how finding ways for EMS teams to consult trauma experts virtually and closer to emergencies could reduce transfer rates and improve patient care. Dr. Hashmi outlines the challenges of implementing telehealth for trauma care, emphasizing the need for 360-degree stakeholder engagement.
Carotid stenosis, caused by a buildup of plaque in the carotid artery, accounts for around 20% of all ischemic strokes. Mark Harrigan, M.D., and Elizabeth Liptrap, M.D., both neurosurgeons, discuss key aspects of medical management and interventions for carotid stenosis. Learn about two new alternatives to the (still-effective) endarterectomy procedure. The doctors explain how their approach to management and intervention varies by patient.
The Birmingham region grew around heavy industry, including coal mining and steel production. These industries, which still employ thousands today, can pose hazards to workers’ health and others in the community. The UAB Environmental Lung Disease Clinic provides comprehensive evaluations for patients with respiratory conditions related to work exposure or environmental hazards. Kevin Dsouza, M.D., and Crystal Stephens, CRNP, helped found and lead the clinic. They discuss the scope of their work, when providers should refer patients, and how patients can also self-refer.
Over one million people in the U.S. grapple with HIV. Although life expectancy has increased, end-stage organ diseases have a relatively high mortality rate for these patients. Learn about HIV-to-HIV kidney transplants from Shikha Mehta, M.D., director of the UAB HIV and Hepatitis C Transplant Program. She explains how her interdisciplinary team has made successful kidney transplants for over decade despite numerous challenges and comorbidities of those with HIV.
While nonpulsatile tinnitus (constant buzzing sound) is a common condition many people learn to live with, pulsatile tinnitus (sound that occurs with each heartbeat) may indicate dangerous otological or vascular conditions. Erika McCarty Walsh, M.D., a neurotologist, and Jesse Jones, M.D., a neuroradiologist, discuss the complex process of determining whether patients have pulsatile tinnitus, what the causes are, and which treatments might be considered necessary. Drs. Walsh and Jones describe their collaborative approach to making sure that patients address any dangerous conditions and otherwise learn to manage their pulsatile tinnitus.
Around 15% of people in the U.S. have a form of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is often related to diabetes and hypertension. Claretha Lyas, M.D., a nephrologist, discusses the interdisciplinary approach to treating CKD alongside its root causes. Learn about two new classes of medicine that are slowing the progression of CKD. Find out the best time to refer a patient to a nephrologist, who can manage disease progression and provide a seamless transition to transplant evaluation services if needed.
Many women who have typical symptoms of coronary artery disease actually have coronary microvascular disease (MVD). Gretchen Wells, M.D., a cardiologist, explains why it is important for physicians to proceed with tests for MVD when cardiac catheterization does not indicate coronary artery disease. She explores the common symptoms, proven and potential interventions, and the serious risks posed by MVD. Dr. Wells recommends patients explore multidisciplinary cardiac rehabilitation programs if they are diagnosed with MVD.
Only 60% of age-eligible adults are up to date on their colorectal cancer screenings. Drew Gunnells, Jr., M.D., and Shajan Peter, M.D., discuss why the colonoscopy is still their preferred first-line screening and polyp removal method, while newer at-home screening methods are useful in regions with limited access to care. The doctors discuss advancements in A.I. that they use to improve the detection of polyps during a colonoscopy. Learn more about a local partnership to provide free colonoscopies to residents despite insurance status or other barriers.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can occur in women who have neither obesity nor insulin resistance – two conditions that are often used as clues. William Hurd, M.D., a specialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, explains the three signs that help determine if a patient has PCOS. He also discusses working with patients to meet their reproductive planning goals while managing symptoms. Learn how a multidisciplinary team can manage the comorbidities often related to PCOS.
As the prevalence of diabetes increases, so does the variety of treatment and management tools available to endocrinologists. Alexandra Dodd, M.D., an endocrinologist, discusses advancements including continuous glucose monitoring, new types of long-acting insulin, and medicines that help patients control both blood sugar and weight. She describes the common health conditions that result from advanced diabetes and the corresponding specialists she works with to treat those.
Although strokes are complex events involving both the brain and heart, diagnosis and treatment of potential strokes is not always managed by brain and heart doctors working together. Because of this, patients may be having unnecessary procedures and risking future health events. Ekaterina Bakradze, M.D., a stroke neurologist, and Mustafa Ahmed, M.D., an interventional cardiologist, discuss the complexity of stroke diagnoses and management, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary team. The doctors explain how one common cause of stroke called PFO – a hole in the heart – is not always the culprit of a patient’s neurological health condition. Learn more about their work at the UAB Heart Brain Clinic.
Brain health can be maintained with many of the same lifestyle behaviors doctors recommend as being heart-healthy. Ronald Lazar, M.D., a neuropsychologist, explains that brain health has a pathological and a pragmatic component, and it is ultimately individualized. He discusses the impact that primary care physicians can have on patients by helping them connect healthy lifestyle choices (e.g., exercising, quitting smoking, sleeping, maintaining a balanced diet) with preventing cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. Dr. Lazar emphasizes that optimizing brain health requires an interdisciplinary effort from physicians and patient awareness from an early age.
Diabetes care is changing rapidly with technological advancements such as continuous glucose monitoring, patch insulin pumps, and doctors’ ability to monitor patient data remotely. Ananda Basu, MD, endocrinologist and director of the UAB Diabetes Technology Program, discusses the developments that will make diabetes care more individualized and responsive in the future. Learn more about the educational and socioeconomic hurdles that will need to be cleared along the way.
Molecular diagnostics teams help physicians implement precision medicine that results in better outcomes for patients with a variety of conditions. Craig Mackinnon, M.D., director of the Division of Genomics Diagnostics and Bioinformatics, discusses how molecular pathologists work hand-in-hand with oncologists and pathologists to develop treatment strategies from patients’ molecular profiles (i.e., identifying meaningful mutations). Learn how in-house molecular diagnostics labs allow institutions to deliver care more efficiently.
Prognoses for oropharyngeal cancers have improved dramatically over the past 20 years, reflecting physicians’ better understanding of the role of HPV in driving most of these cancers. Andrew Fuson, M.D., and Hari Jeyarajan, M.D, explain their shift to using surgery as the standard-of-care treatment for oropharyngeal cancers caused by HPV, which has resulted in survival rates of 85-90%. They discuss how robotic surgery and advanced screening methods have improved patient quality of life. Learn about an international clinical trial being conducted at UAB that explores a process for making cancer cells glow so that surgeons can more precisely define tumor removal boundaries.
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common life-threatening blood clot that may be encountered across many specialties, and especially in emergency departments, making standardized response and treatment a challenge. Sam McElwee, M.D., a cardiologist, discusses his work helping to lead PERT, the Pulmonary Embolism Response Team. He discusses advances in PE treatment that make quick referrals to PERT imperative. Learn about system-wide standards PERT has established (and shared through education) which determine when a patient will be referred to them. Dr. McElwee makes a case for other providers to give their patients with PE the clear benefit of a team approach.
Sarcoidosis is a rare autoimmune disease that can cause different symptoms in different people, including joint pain, coughing, skin rashes, and shortness of breath. Joseph Barney, M.D., a pulmonologist, explains the individualized path that diagnosis and treatments may take for those with sarcoidosis. He discusses the range of effective medications that may be used and the importance of having a multidisciplinary team to guide care.
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) diagnoses are increasing along with the number food allergy cases in general. Amy CaJacob, M.D., and James Callaway, M.D., discuss recent advances in treating this complex, chronic condition. Learn about management strategies including food elimination, topical steroid medications, proton pump inhibitors, and a new monoclonal antibody that can reduce chronic inflammation at the receptor level. The doctors stress the importance of actively managing EoE to avoid persistent dysphagia that requires endoscopic interventions.
Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis, but it is often seen as a nuisance rather than a serious condition. Angleo Gaffo, M.D., a rheumatologist, discusses the progression of unmanaged gout and the path to better treatment. Learn about how Dr. Gaffo and international colleagues created a research definition of gout flares that will help researchers judge the effectiveness of new treatments. He emphasizes the importance of involving rheumatologists in patient care to manage the root causes of gout.
Around 30 million people suffer from low back pain, which can have complex causes. Interventional radiologists Jesse Jones, M.D., and Junjian Huang, M.D., discuss basivertebral nerve (BVN) ablation, a minimally invasive procedure to alleviate axial low back pain. Learn how this procedure is effective for a wide variety of patients, even those with comorbidities. BVN ablation has shown a 75% success rate in studies, but the doctors explain why it requires pinpoint accuracy on the part of experienced interventional radiologists.
The CPAP machine is a reliable standard of care solution for obstructive sleep apnea, but around half of patients are not able to use the device successfully. Brian Kinard, M.D., an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and Kirk Withrow, M.D., director of saliva and sleep surgery, discuss the wide range of soft tissue and structural facial procedures that can either solve sleep apnea or make the CPAP feasible for patients. They explain their patient-anatomy-specific approach for selecting the appropriate procedure, be it nerve stimulation, a fabricated mandibular advancement device, or nasal surgery. Learn how their complex work is further enhanced by collaboration UAB Sleep Medicine colleagues to generate and interpret data guiding treatment and success.
Equestrian sports may not be thought of as high-contact in the same way that football is, but they result in around 40% of sport-related head injuries. Sara Gould, M.D., a sports medicine physician, and Kevin Schrum, Ph.D., a research engineer, discuss their research on equestrian helmets. They explain the importance of helmets in mitigating devastating injuries such as traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Their ongoing research investigating how to limit the rotational acceleration of the brain during impact via helmets has suggested that most helmets (even less-expensive ones) do protect the wearer well from many of the worst injuries in the sport.
The outlook for patients with melanoma, even advanced cases, has dramatically improved over the past 10-15 years. Oncologists Kristy Broman, M.D., and John Dubay, M.D., discuss the ideal approach for treating melanoma and their application of the newest techniques available at academic medical centers such as UAB: immunotherapies, oral medications, intralesional therapy, and adjuvant therapies in conjunction with surgery. Learn how an interdisciplinary team collaborates to improve outcomes for patients with melanoma in all stages.
Achalasia is an esophageal condition that makes eating miserable for patients. It is often misdiagnosed as GERD. Kristen Wong, M.D., a gastrointestinal surgeon, and Sergio Sanchez-Luna, M.D., a gastroenterologist, discuss POEM, a new minimally invasive technique of treating achalasia without incisions. Learn about how this technique results in comparable outcomes to the traditional surgical procedure for achalasia with distinct advantages in patient quality of life. The doctors discuss the importance of surgeon experience, patient selection, and transparency about side effects when offering this procedure.
Treating laryngeal cancer early and precisely can preserve patients’ ability to speak and swallow. Bharat Panuganti, M.D., discusses the innovations in transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) that have made it an alternative to radiotherapy for treating early-staged laryngeal cancer. He discusses his use of the potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser in this procedure, which targets hemoglobin in the cancerous tissue and limits damage to non-cancerous tissue. Learn more about the current importance of surgeon experience in performing TLM successfully, as well as the research Dr. Panuganti is conducting to possibly use robotics to close that experience gap.
Fibrotic lung disease is a group of around 200 entities that have inflammation and/or fibrosis in common. The “progressive” phenotype of pulmonary fibrosis has recently become more well-defined. Tejaswini Kulkarni, M.D., explains the characteristics of progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF). She discusses the importance of recognizing when interstitial lung disease is indeed PPF and addressing it with a combination of immunosuppressive and antifibrotic therapies. Learn about the advantages of interdisciplinary care for patients with PPF, including early recognition and management of worsening lung function; use of pulmonary rehabilitation and supplemental oxygen for better quality of life; and walking patients through the lung transplant process when necessary.
Jeffrey Nix MD and Soroush Rais-Bahrami, MD highlight focal therapy concepts and options for prostate cancer. With regard to functional preservation, as focal therapy may preserve functionality for some well-selected patients at the cost of a higher risk of progression before definitive treatment can be performed, they speak about how for many intermediate-risk patients for whom the risk of progression with active surveillance is unacceptably high, but for whom quality of life with whole-gland treatment would be too low, focal therapy offers a possible solution. Lastly, they share novel focal therapy modalities that are being investigated at UAB Medicine.
Conley Carr MD discusses early rehabilitation management of lower extremity amputees. He shares how pain is handled in the acute and chronic amputee and the timeline of how long amputees stay in the hospital initially and how long until they can obtain a prosthesis. Additionally, he highlights the therapy they need during the acute and chronic phase and some of the most common issues that amputees face when they start using prosthetics.
For patients with end-stage arthritis who are also highly active, hip resurfacing may be the preferred alternative to a total hip replacement. Scott Mabry, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon, discusses the aspects of hip resurfacing that preserve a patient’s ability to continue performing at their highest level. He notes the importance of consulting a surgeon who is actually certified to perform hip resurfacing when determining if it is appropriate for a given patient: those who are motivated and passionate athletes will benefit most.
Neurosurgeons are using robotics to make some spine surgeries more precise and efficient. Jakub Godzik, MD, explains how robotics are being used in minimally invasive spinal fusion surgeries to deliver screws more precisely based on CT scans, resulting in smaller incisions and less tissue damage. He discusses which patients benefit most from this method. Learn more about the future of robotics and AI for spine surgeries.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an interstitial lung disease caused by an allergic reaction to organic environmental antigens, such as mold or bird feathers. Kevin Dsouza, MD, a pulmonologist, discusses the complex diagnosis and management of HP: how specialists distinguish HP from other diseases by analyzing acute symptoms, patient histories, and CT scans; how cases of fibrotic and nonfibrotic HP are treated differently; and how physicians can help patients to identify and prevent exposure to the culprit antigen.
For patients experiencing knee pain from osteoarthritis on just one side of the knee, a partial knee replacement may be the best option. Scott Mabry, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon, explains how a partial knee replacement has advantages over a total knee replacement for the right patient. Dr. Mabry discusses computer-assisted navigation, which allows him to customize how implants are fitted, aligning the new components mechanically in real time. Learn more about how a specialist can guide your patients through this outpatient procedure.
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections are ten times more prevalent than tuberculosis infections, affecting primarily the elderly and immunocompromised. Bryan Garcia, MD, a pulmonologist, discusses the likely origins of NTM, who is most at risk to be infected by these ubiquitous bacteria, and the criteria for diagnosis. Learn why NTM needs to be better accounted for at both the epidemiological and clinical levels in the future.
Hepatitis C (HCV) affects around 40,000 people in Alabama, and possibly many more who do not know they have it. Although the disease is largely curable, it affects vulnerable populations that may not get tested or pursue treatment. Ricardo Franco, MD, and David Fettig, MD, discuss their work to eradicate HCV as part of the interdisciplinary ABC Clinic. The doctors discuss the causes for the stubborn prevalence of HCV; their outreach and education to health centers in areas with vulnerable populations; and the unique ability of the ABC Clinic’s team of hepatologists and infectious disease experts to treat a range of related viral diseases and liver conditions.
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) can occur secondary to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Pilar Acosta, MD, a pulmonologist, explains the unique treatment approach for patients who have ILD as a secondary condition. She discusses combination therapies that address both inflammation and fibrosis, as well as the importance of managing common comorbidities. Learn more about the advantages of a Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Care Network site for early identification and management of ILD.
Around 40% of adults will experience acid reflux at some point in their lives, and half of them will take medication to control consistent recurrences, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It is important to diagnose patients with GERD to help them avoid esophageal damage and even cancer. James Callaway, MD, a gastroenterologist, and Kristen Wong, MD, a surgeon, discuss the progressive steps they take in diagnosing, managing, and treating GERD. Dr. Calloway emphasizes that controlling weight and diet are always top priorities for anyone with recurring acid reflux, while proton pump inhibitors remain effective prescription medications. Dr. Wong discusses surgical gastric modifications and devices for patients who do not respond to medication.
Healthy eating is a powerful way to prevent and control type 2 diabetes. New medications allow those with diabetes to focus on diet to improve their quality of life, not simply to manage blood sugar. Amy Warriner, MD, explains the individualized approach required to help patients eat healthier, as many are challenged by a lack of knowledge and access to healthy foods. She discusses the common elements of some popular diets that patients may implement, noting that there is no one best diet. Learn more about how her interdisciplinary team helps patients learn from data generated by mobile apps to make progress toward their goals.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare lung disease that leads to progressive lung scaring and eventual respiratory failure; it most often affects the elderly. The American Thoracic Society and other international bodies updated clinical practice guidelines for this disease in 2022. Tracy Luckhardt, MD, a pulmonologist, summarizes the most important changes to diagnosis, pharmacological treatments, and non-pharmacological treatments. Learn more about the advantages of an interdisciplinary team in managing symptoms and comorbidities of IPF, including determining when a patient is a good candidate for clinical trials or a lung transplant.
Exercise is a medicine that many people neglect, even more so if they have a physical disability: 50% of those with a physical disability do not exercise regularly. Johan Latorre, MD, a specialist in sports medicine and former collegiate wheelchair tennis coach, shares the myriad benefits of adaptive sports – those sports made accessible to people with physical disabilities. He discusses some common inherited and acquired disabilities and the pathways for helping patients with those conditions find their sport.
Digital technology is making the concept of continuous care possible – along with its more familiar benefits to telemedicine. Jeff Curtis, MD, a rheumatologist, discusses new applications of digital technology to healthcare that are becoming standard of care: virtual reality (VR) to help with pain management and teach wellness techniques; biosensors that allow doctors to gather data from patients between visits; and artificial intelligence (AI) to sort large amounts of data for rapid answers about widespread health conditions. Dr. Curtis shares how digital technology will allow caregivers to work across boundaries for the benefit of all.
Urinary diversion is needed for a variety of patients whose bladders are not functioning properly. In cases of organ removal, cancer, or loss of mobility, complex and permanent surgical procedures may be required. Chas Peyton, MD, and Jeffrey Nix, MD, both urologic oncologists, discuss the role of specialists in creating patient-driven solutions for urinary diversion using different of routes, materials, and means of bladder emptying. Learn more about the relative advantages of the major surgery types and how the doctors use a team approach to anticipate and manage complications.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is one of the common forms of interstitial lung disease (those that affect the tissues between airways); it results in scarring and fibroblasts. Early diagnosis is critical to the management of this dangerous condition. Carla Copeland, MD, explains the challenge of diagnosing IPF due to its generic symptoms, which usually indicate more common breathing issues. She discusses recent innovations in how CT scans are categorized to better diagnose IPF and to help recommend patients for biopsies. Learn why Dr. Copeland works with a multidisciplinary discussion team (MDT) to diagnose this condition accurately and to begin treatment as soon as possible.
Oscar Julian Booker, MD and Efstathia Andrikopoulou MD discuss how using third-party vendor, Mpirik Cardiac Intelligence, helped to develop a software algorithm that provides clinical decision support to help identify patients at risk for heart valve disease who otherwise might be overlooked. They share what factors are behind the most significant disparities, as they connect the potential of machine learning and artificial intelligence with the need for clinicians to expand their toolkit. They offer their top recommendations for physicians to consider when they are treating underserved and minority patients.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disease that results in severe sinus and pulmonary infections and is particularly difficult to treat; however, as George Solomon, MD, explains, researchers have recently made important steps in understanding and treating PCD. He explains the critical link they have established between genotype and phenotype of observed PCD cases, which will lead to genetic-based therapies in the future. Equally important, he says, are the strides made in treating symptoms PCD that can help patients right now: UAB is currently conducting clinical trials exploring treatments that help patients clear mucus from their lungs in order to limit damage throughout the body.
Even for those diagnosed with a seizure disorder (e.g., epilepsy), seizure events are unpredictable and dangerous; worse still, they often occur in clusters. Adeel Ilyas, MD, discusses his new research paper that demonstrates how seizure clusters may be predicted based on brain activity. He describes the methods his team used to refine a definition for seizure clusters and to develop an algorithm for predicting them in the pilot study. Learn more about the promising implications of this groundbreaking work for treatment and patient quality of life.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained heart arrhythmia, and it dramatically increases stroke risk. William Maddox, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist, discusses the most recent approaches to treating patients’ symptoms of AF and reducing their stroke risk. He covers some of the most important developments that affect how specialists manage AF: smartwatch monitoring, catheter ablation improvements, and new implantation devices that occlude the left atrial appendage for stroke prevention.
In some central Alabama counties, roughly one in five adults has type 2 diabetes. Fernando Ovalle, MD, discusses trends in diabetes care. He notes the general complications that often accompany type 2 diabetes, including kidney disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy. In Dr. Ovalle’s experience, continuous glucose monitoring devices empower patients to achieve tangible goals related to their condition. Learn more about new drugs that now target hormones beyond insulin, which also have a significant effect on glucose metabolism.
Diabetes and related comorbidities have been devastating in the South. Anath Shalev, MD, explains how the UAB Comprehensive Diabetes Center (UCDC) opens new avenues for collaborative research and effective new treatments. She discusses two recent examples of multidisciplinary research bringing new therapies from bench to bedside.
The most recent medical research on opioid addiction makes one thing clear: medication saves lives. Leah Leisch, MD, a psychiatrist, explains how CDC guidelines regarding prescribing and tapering opioids have responded to new insights about the risks of addiction and withdrawal. She notes that patients who develop a substance use disorder face a mortality ratio three times higher if they are not prescribed a medication approved to treat opioid addiction. Dr. Leisch discusses each medication and the means of prescribing them.
Hematologic cancer patients have the benefit of many new oral medications to manage their conditions; however, those medications may create or worsen cardiovascular comorbidities. Nurse Practitioners Courtney Estes (Cardio-Oncology Program) and Ellen Lazarre (Hematology Oncology Division) discuss the balancing act of managing risks while attacking cancer, which is only possible with an interdisciplinary team. They discuss the most common cardiovascular comorbidities (e.g., AFib, hypertension) and alternative treatments that may address them without interfering with effective cancer treatments.
Justin Kirk, PT, highlights identifying and reducing risk factors for ACL injuries. He shares who is most likely to sustain an ACL injury, the movements or position that increases an athlete’s risk for injury and the importance of limb symmetry and single leg training for preventing ACL injuries. Additionally, he offers recommendations for providers, when working with athletes at high risk, on how to reduce their risk for an ACL injury and the changes he has seen in management of ACL tears over the past 5 years.
Around 3 million Americans suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Daniel Chu, MD, a colorectal surgeon, and Kirk Russ, MD, a gastroenterologist, discuss the trends in occurrence, diagnosis, and treatment of IBD (including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis). Dr. Russ emphasizes that biologic and small molecule medicinal options have changed the approach of specialists. Meanwhile, Dr. Chu explains that surgeons have begun to focus on patient recovery and using minimally invasive techniques. As their understanding of the complex disease has increased and the treatment options available have expanded, the doctors agree that psychologists and nutritionists are an important part of their interdisciplinary colorectal team.
Any injury or illness that affects the spinal cord can cause spasticity, an increase in muscle stiffness that can lead to immobility. Bobby Brunner, MD, a physiatrist, discusses some common disorders that result in spasticity and the wide spectrum of its severity. He walks us through the considerations a physiatrist would make in determining how to address spasticity. Dr. Brunner discusses a progression of treatment options for spasticity: physical therapy, injection therapies, pump system implantation, and surgery.
Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) is a severe form of peripheral arterial disease that results in constant pain, usually in the extremities. Danielle Sutzko, MD, program director for the Vascular Surgery Residency at UAB, discusses the importance of classifying claudication (arterial pain) along a spectrum and treating it appropriately.
Many patients with mild peripheral arterial disease may simply manage their condition with cholesterol agents, smoking cessation, and exercise programs – if the condition is identified early and monitored accurately. She explains the factors that determine the type of interventions for those with CLTI. She also discusses how new research works to include vulnerable populations in broad treatment guidelines for peripheral arterial disease.
Aortic aneurysms are complex and often asymptomatic, making swift monitoring and mitigation crucial. Kyle Eudailey, MD, an expert in aortic surgery, discusses the guidelines that he considers when weighing the patient-specific risks of surgery vs. surveillance. He emphasizes the importance of consistent imaging and measurement over time by specialists to improve physician recommendations and patient outcomes. Learn about behavioral interventions that may reduce the risk of aortic aneurysm rupture and need for surgery in some patients.
Pulmonologists have noted an exciting “baby boom” among women with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) in the last several years. As Gretchen Winter, MD, explains, CFTR modulators have led to increased fertility and the prospect of family planning for those with CF. She discusses the unique concerns those with CF may have when making reproductive decisions, such as effective contraception; safety of CFTR modulator use during both pregnancy and breastfeeding; and the risk of passing on the genetic disease. She also presents the different pathways to parenthood available for women and men with CF.
Patients present with facial pain for a whole host of reasons. One of the most widely known facial pain diagnosis is trigeminal neuralgia, but a whole host of other diagnosis must be considered as treatment is driven by diagnosis. In this podcast, Marshall Holland MD talks about the approach to a facial pain patient, neurosurgical options for different facial pain syndromes, the importance of listening to the patient’s story fully, and the need for good relationships with other providers that may be called upon for the treatment of the patient
With no quick fix in sight, only vigilance and testing can help prevent death from sepsis—the dysregulated immune response that is responsible for 270,000 deaths per year. Justin Glasgow, MD, the physician advisor for sepsis at UAB Medicine, discusses best practices for identifying and classifying sepsis, as well as those for treating its root infections. He discusses the importance of following the CMS reporting requirements protocol for sepsis, which includes checking lactic acid, taking blood a blood culture, and administering antibiotics or fluids depending on severity. Glasgow notes the importance of de-escalating treatment as a patient’s status improves to limit risk.
Vascular malformations in the face are lesions with potential psychosocial and functional consequences to the patient. Jesse Jones, MD—an interventional neuroradiologist—and Anthony Morlandt, MD, DDS, FACS—an oral and maxillofacial surgeon—discuss their interdisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating these complex lesions. They highlight the importance of accounting for and controlling blood flow in a vascular malformation during surgery to preserve facial function and appearance.
The areas of the country with the highest need for liver and kidney transplants have the lowest rates. Why? Robert Cannon, MD, surgical director of the UAB Liver Transplant Program, explains that researchers have often focused on the number of patients on waitlists rather than the overall need for transplants in an area; that has resulted in more transplants in some areas that are among the best-performing already. He discusses related health-care challenges of those who live in regions with relatively low transplant rates and long-term solutions for improving transplant disparities.
Three in 10 teens will become pregnant before they are 20 years old. Amy Boone, MD, a specialist in pediatric and adolescent gynecology, discusses the multifaceted topics of teen sexual health, including pregnancies and STI infections, digital influences on teens, access to contraceptives, and public policy on sex education. She discusses statistical trends and how those trends relate to what we now know about effective sex education. Boone shares expertise in navigating the provider-patient relationship with teens and gives advice for balancing assurances of confidentiality while encouraging open communication between teens and their parents when practical.
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a life-threatening arrhythmia that requires a comprehensive treatment approach unique to a patient’s comorbidities and heart condition. As electrophysiologist William Maddox, MD, explains, patients with a structurally normal heart can often manage VT with various medications, while those with myopathies also require defibrillator (ICD) implantation and catheter ablation. He explains the advances in catheter ablation technology that have resulted in success rates as high as 90%, depending on the patient’s substrate metabolism. Research has shown that early referral for catheter ablation reduces a patient’s number of ICD shocks and improves outcomes.
Women who exercise during pregnancy have better outcomes for prenatal and neonatal health, but ACOG exercise guidelines can be confusing for patients who either have not previously exercised or have high-risk conditions. Sara Gould, MD, and Chase Cawyer, MD, discuss the UAB Exercise in Pregnancy Clinic, which guides women through healthy exercise regimens with appropriate intensities informed by ultrasound technology. Learn more about how the multidisciplinary clinic, as well as the doctors own research, reduces women’s hesitancy to stay active or become active, safely, during pregnancy.
Surgery has often been known as the ‘neglected stepchild of global health,’” says Lily Gutnik, MD, during this primer on the emergence of academic global surgery. The field of global academic surgery has only begun to cohere over the past 6-to 7 years in order to address the diverse needs that stand in the way of access to surgical care across the world. She explains the challenges of collecting meaningful data in such a cross-cutting field. Because the organization of health care varies greatly by region, Gutnik recommends a collaborative approach that begins with listening and understanding the needs of local administrators and providers.
Gynecologic care evolves with patients throughout their lives and depending on risk factors. Ashley Wright, MD, provides an overview of the turning points in routine care by age range. She discusses the major changes in recommendations over the past decade for cervical and breast cancer screening—which depends more on genetic testing than before. Learn more about why the provider-patient relationship in gynecology is uniquely personalized.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and the second most common malignancy in both men and women. Aline Zouk, MD, explains that many of these deaths are preventable via early low-dose CT scan screening among smokers and early-stage treatment. Because survival rates increase dramatically with earlier detection, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has updated its guidelines for screening—now, around 14 million Americans are recommended to receive yearly screenings. Dr. Zouk explains how the guidelines account for pack-years and age. The challenge for physicians, notes Zouk, is to encourage screening for patients before they exhibit any symptoms.
Women living in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) diagnosed with breast cancer are more than four times as likely to die from the disease (48% mortality rate) as women from wealthier countries. Lily Gutnik, MD, explains the interrelated factors—biological, social, and systemic—that lead to later diagnoses and worse outcomes for breast cancer in SSA. She shares her own research experiences in Malawi that explored ways to make screening and detection more likely, such as training laypersons in low-resource areas to conduct clinical breast exams.
Exercise can improve lung function and have a range of other benefits for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, but each patient has a unique tolerance for exercise depending on age, condition, and lifestyle. Stefanie Krick, MD, discusses how the complications specific to CF require popular exercises to be modified. She also emphasizes that patients must be monitored closely for changing abilities in each phase of their lives. Multidisciplinary teams that include physical therapists are best suited to help patients with special challenges due to CF make exercise part of their lives safely.
Ambulatory care transition RNs manage the crossroads of the patient experience. Alyse Hicks, RN, and Jennifer Rosales, RN, explain the dynamic work of triaging patients from an online portal and via telephone, as well as following up with those patients to prevent readmissions. They use critical thinking to make judgments based on a deep knowledge of physicians’ preferences from various specialties. Learn more about the growth of their profession’s scope, the challenges of maintaining their own well-being during COVID-19 peaks, and how experience and education continue to make them more effective.
Spinal vascular lesions are rare yet treatable. Good patient outcomes depend on quick recognition of stepwise symptoms and referral to specialists who can use advanced imaging and other tests. That is where Jesse Jones, MD, and Will Meador, MD, come in, with the most advanced diagnostic, treatment, and recovery techniques in neurosurgery. They discuss the pathologies of vascular lesions and closely related disorders, as well as the relative severity of these diagnoses. After explaining diagnostic methods, from simplest to most complex (i.e., spinal angiogram) methods, they describe surgical and endovascular approaches to treatment. Learn more about the urgency of treating these often-complex diagnoses and the recovery outlooks for patients who receive them.
STI infection rates are generally increasing in the U.S., and this is especially concerning for pregnant women; for instance, in just the last five years, congenital syphilis cases have jumped 200%. Jodie Dionne-Odom, MD, MSPH, FIDSA, defines the categories of STIs and explains possible reasons behind the increase. She emphasizes the need for early testing and treatment of pregnant women and discusses some of the advances in testing that may lead to convenient, at-home sample collection options. Learn about the clinical trials in progress at UAB exploring vaccines and antibiotics for common STIs.
Immunotherapy is the most promising avenue of research for treating deadly brain tumors. M. R. Chambers, DVM, MD, and James Markert, MD, MPH, are leading clinical trial research on therapies using oncolytic viruses and checkpoint inhibitors as part of an ongoing NIH-awarded UAB Specialized Program of Research. They discuss the promising immune system responses they have seen in humans and dogs via RNA-seq and NanoString analyses, as well as how results may translate from one species to the other in the form of expanded clinical trials.
Procedures for brain tumors, epilepsy, and movement disorders require a precise and conservative approach so as not to damage functioning brain tissue. UAB Hospital neurosurgeons can now check their work as they operate in a new intraoperative MRI suite—the first in Alabama. James Markert, MD, MPH, chair of the Department of Neurosurgery in the Heersink School of Medicine, discusses how surgeons respond to real-time MRIs at crucial moments. Because of this technology, UAB surgeons can now target the margins of glioma tumors; confirm proper placement of deep brain stimulators for Parkinson’s disease; and use laser interstitial thermal therapy more precisely to eliminate seizures. Dr. Markert discusses the logistics of using an MRI in the operating suite and the vast potential of this suite for other surgical units.
Head and neck cancer patients face not only health challenges, but identity challenges—altered appearance and speech and difficulty eating and swallowing. As a result, oral oncologists, such as Anthony Morlandt, MD, are uniquely focused on quality-of-life outcomes for patients. Dr. Morlandt explains the recent leaps forward in radiation treatment (proton therapy), jaw reconstruction (custom fabrication), and cost reduction that have dramatically improved the quality of life for UAB patients. Learn more about the new horizons of head and neck cancer care, including screening with the help of bacteria and the possible role of immunotherapy in treatment.
Although most cystic fibrosis (CF) patients respond to new drug combinations which activate the proteins commonly affected by the disease, around 15% of patients are still without a treatment option. George Solomon, MD, discusses how UAB’s participation in the international “Path to a Cure” initiative will expand treatment options for all CF patients. He summarizes the three prongs of the path: developing a wider range of protein modulators, finding safe and ethical ways to administer genetic therapies, and ultimately finding a universal cure for CF. But what can we do now for CF patients with less common mutations? Learn more about how the UAB Medicine Cystic Fibrosis Program gives patients with tough-to-treat protein mutations access to emerging therapies through clinical trials.
Telehealth is making it possible for those with rare diseases to receive expert care more efficiently. Bryan Garcia, MD, explains that although many specialties simply had to use telehealth during the pandemic, the benefits are here to stay for many of his cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Thanks to recent Cystic Fibrosis Foundation investments in home-monitoring spirometers and newly approved medicines that allow CF patients to maintain more routine lifestyles, telehealth is not only possible, but is often preferred. Dr. Garcia explains how CF treatment lends itself to the early adoption of telehealth, but he also emphasizes that the general trend towards it is inevitable across the industry—noting that some clinical trials are already enabling greater participation by requiring fewer in-person visits.
Kirk Withrow, MD, director of Salivary and Sleep Surgery in the UAB Department of Otolaryngology, discusses a new solution for patients who do not tolerate CPAP therapy: hypoglossal nerve stimulator implantation. A CPAP machine is the first-line treatment for obstructive sleep apnea because it works when patients use it consistently—and many either cannot or do not. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation represents a new approach, adding muscle tone to the upper airway to ensure airflow. Dr. Withrow was the first surgeon in Alabama to implant a hypoglossal nerve stimulator in 2016, and he discusses the positive outcomes of the 300 implants he has placed since. As he explains in detail, the device simplifies patient adherence after being placed in a low-morbidity outpatient procedure. Find out what makes a patient a good candidate.
Even amid dropping infection numbers and generally lower disease severity, COVID-19 is still a special concern for pregnant women, those planning to become pregnant, and new mothers. Akila Subramaniam, MD—the only doctor in Alabama board-certified in both maternal-fetal medicine and genetics—summarizes why these women should get vaccinated. As she explains, two full years of data indicate that vaccination protects mother and child against severe illness from the disease (for which they are at heightened risk). Dr. Subramanian addresses the concerns her patients often have about vaccines in general. She also emphasizes the extra care pregnant women should take in masking and social distancing even as the general population may continue to follow more relaxed standards.
COVID-19 has shone a light on the dynamic, challenging, and rewarding field of nursing. Antoinette Shedlarski, RN; Jennifer Rosales, RN; and Alyse Hicks, RN, discuss the ongoing impact of COVID-19 in ambulatory care settings. The panel explains the role that good communication patterns; accurate triage; reliance on telehealth; and learning from evolving infectious disease research allowed them to give their patients the best care despite unprecedented demand. These nurses take pride in being the cool heads who bridge the gap between patient and provider during tough times, pandemics and otherwise.
Hip arthroscopy is a relatively new and expanding field to treat hip impingement and groin pain in young active individuals. The hip labrum can tear, causing significant pinching pain with deep flexion, prolonged running, or prolonged sitting. Aaron Casp, MD discusses the goal to intervene before degenerative changes and hip arthritis begin set in, and prolong the health of the joint.
Rotator cuff tears are painful and limiting for patients; larger tears have had poor outcomes in general and have often been deemed irreparable. But a new procedure using a subacromial balloon spacer offers hope to patients with large tears, a way of relieving their pain and restoring range of motion—and without the tissue grafts of capsular reconstruction. Amit Momaya, MD; Aaron Casp, MD; and Eugene W. Brabston, III, MD, of the UAB Medicine Sports Medicine program, have led research and early implementation of this procedure. They discuss the function of a biocompatible, saline-filled balloon in keeping the humeral head centered during shoulder movements, explore possible explanations for why this procedure is so effective, and explain its advantages for recovery. Find out which of your patients may now have an option for restoring shoulder mobility.
Did you know the same type of dentist who places a full mouth of dental implants for a cancer patient can also repair congenital anomalies in the mouth; place an inter-oral barrier to preserve eating ability; and even create a prosthetic nose or ear? In Alabama, there is only one such dentist who subspecializes in maxillofacial prosthodontics and dental oncology—Michael Kase, DMD. Learn more from Dr. Kase about his dynamic UAB Medicine practice, his training, and the wide range of fascinating procedures he has performed—referring physicians often call on Dr. Kase when there seem to be no more options for a patient. Find out how he coordinates care with a multi-disciplinary team including medical and radiation oncologists, ENT specialists, and speech-language pathologists to solve complex issues.
For certain severe COPD patients who are not responding to bronchodilators and rehabilitation, a new minimally invasive procedure is available that can yield a 15-20% improvement in lung function. As Surya Bhatt, MD, explains, the Zephyr endobronchial valve addresses emphysema via lung volume reduction; the one-way valve is placed through a bronchoscope, without even a stitch. The procedure, performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia, can dramatically improve patients’ quality of life if they meet certain criteria. Learn more from Dr. Bhatt about the importance of intact fissures, the ideal differences in respective lung lobe performance, and the critical tests he uses to determine if this procedure is right for your patient.
Precision coordination among specialists is critical to successfully treating oral cancer. Michael Kase, DMD; James Snider, III, MD; and Christopher Willey, MD, discuss advances in both radiation therapy and overall treatment timelines for oral cancer. Though proton therapy is an exciting new form of radiation that limits damage to surrounding tissues, there are still serious side effects to the treatment and serious consequences to delays. The doctors emphasize the role of a prosthodontist in avoiding common long-term issues with the jaw and mouth. Learn more about the “well-orchestrated dance” between medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons, and prosthodontists needed to treat this delicate area.
Anthony Morlandt, MD, DDS, FACS, Michael Kase DMD and Christina Cyriac PA-C discuss The UAB Oral Oncology Multidisciplinary Clinic. They tell us about oral cancer and why the care management model is challenging. They share the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for these patients and the most important issues to patients and families as they navigate cancer care. They talk about whether medical insurance covers the dental aspects of multi-specialty oral cancer care and how the oral oncology clinic at UAB Medicine makes oral cancer care unique
Dental implants (or their absence) change an oral cancer patient’s quality of life forever—socially, psychologically, and nutritionally. Michael Kase, DMD, and Anthony Morlandt, MD, DDS, FACS, discuss the complexity of modern titanium implants and the special coordination that goes into successful implants for an oral cancer patient. Learn how the comprehensive care model has changed the perception of dental implants, from an afterthought to now being considered a standard of the oral cancer treatment plan.
Thyroid disease is one of the most common found in general practice, though many people never know they have it. For primary care physicians, keeping your patient’s condition manageable is often as simple as doing the right blood work, that is, a TSH level test, and knowing when to make a referral. Endocrinologist Richard Rosenthal, MD, discusses the steps of diagnosing and treating both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Join him to learn more about identifying nodules, the proper use of different imaging techniques, common medications, surgical options, and special considerations for pregnant women with thyroid disease.
Bicuspid valve disease one of the most common congenital heart defects, affecting 1-2% of the entire population. Because it is asymptotic for many who have it, or for much of their lives, detection and treatment can be complex. Kyle Eudailey, MD, discusses the three common ways that symptoms of bicuspid valve disease complications present themselves, as well as the ages at which these symptoms usually occur. He describes the multidisciplinary approach needed for successful treatment at various ages and the importance of screening relatives of those diagnosed with the disease.
Due to its two-dimensional (2D) nature and the high radiation exposure associated with its use, fluoroscopy is an imperfect solution to endovascular surgery’s need for intraoperative imaging. Adam Beck, MD discusses non-fluoroscopic imaging for endovascular surgery
Pancreatic cancer is among the most difficult types to treat, but clinical researchers and oncologists have finally moved the needle on patient survival rates. J. Bart Rose, III, MD; Rojymon Jacob, MD; and Moh'd Khushman, MD, discuss new approaches to pancreatic cancer. Join them to learn more about how targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and other novel agents are improving patient journeys and outcomes.
Multidisciplinary colorectal oncology clinics bring together radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and surgery teams to develop treatment programs that are more effective and efficient for patients. Drew Gunnells, Jr., MD; Rogeemon Jacob, MD; and Moh’d Khushman, MD, discuss the major breakthroughs informing multidisciplinary colorectal cancer care. More accurate staging, molecular profiling, and use of circulating tumor DNA to assess disease response are among the most significant advancements discussed. Meanwhile, the doctors note that COVID-19 protocols have highlighted the efficiency of using telehealth and exploring fewer radiation treatments when possible
Multidisciplinary colorectal oncology clinics bring together radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and surgery teams to develop treatment programs that are more effective and efficient for patients. Drew Gunnells, Jr., MD; Rogeemon Jacob, MD; and Moh’d Khushman, MD, discuss the major breakthroughs informing multidisciplinary colorectal cancer care. More accurate staging, molecular profiling, and use of circulating tumor DNA to assess disease response are among the most significant advancements discussed. Meanwhile, the doctors note that COVID-19 protocols have highlighted the efficiency of using telehealth and exploring fewer radiation treatments when possible
Hitesh Batra, MD, discusses how UAB Medicine is the first in the state to use the Intuitive robotic bronchoscopy system. Batra shares the limitations of traditional bronchoscopy and how robotic bronchoscopy has changed the landscape for detection of lung nodules.
David Kimberlin, MD, discusses COVID-19 vaccination in pediatric patients. As the COVID-19 vaccine is now available to pediatric patients between the ages of 5-11, he examines the benefits of why children should receive the vaccine, how providers should discuss the vaccine with parents and any side effects that may be different in children.
Ksenia Blinnikova, MD, discusses the basic tenets of lifestyle medicine, what types of practitioners follow this approach, and its vital role in disease and wellness today.
Douglas Anderson MD discusses how UAB is expanding the pancreas transplant program so more type 2 diabetes patients have access to this option. He shares how results have been very good in a select group of candidates and how it will improve the patient journey and patient outcomes.
Erica Stringer-Reasor MD, Ahmed Elkhanany MD and Gabrielle Rocque MD discuss the future of breast cancer treatment. They share information on the era of targeted therapies in triple negative and HER2+ breast cancer, how genomic assays help to guide treatment options and how the specialists at UAB Medicine are using PROs to guide patient care.
James Davies, Jr MD, Mustafa Ahmed and Riem Hawi MD discuss the evaluation and management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy at UAB. In this round table podcast they include medical management, catheter based therapies and surgical strategies.
Michael Wiederman, PhD discusses the psychology of vaccine hesitancy and how to beat compassion fatigue. He shares some reasons for vaccine refusal or hesitancy, from a psychological perspective, some biases we hold and how these biases play into hesitancy.
He offers his advice and specific tips for these difficult conversations for providers who want to talk with vaccine-hesitant patients or who are fighting compassion fatigue.
Jessica Fazendin MD, Brenessa Lindeman, MD and John Porterfield, MD give us an update on hyperthyroidism and the latest treatment options available at UAB Medicine
Henry Zelada MD discusses how diabetes treatment has changed over the last decade and patient selection criteria for starting CGM. He shares when it is important to consider starting an insulin pump and offers his recommendations to primary care physicians about using diabetes technology in their primary care practices.
In part 2 of this series on skull-based surgery, Kristen Riley MD, and Brad Woodworth MD, lead a discussion of the complexity of skull base surgery with a focus on anterior skull base care and the benefit of a team approach. Including a discussion of disease processes treated, types of preoperative evaluations, surgical techniques, and referral process.
Thomas Staner Jr., MD, gives an update on spinal stenosis and the impact it has on a patient's quality of life. He shares protocols and research that help patients with chronic back pain receive faster treatment.
Claire McDonald MS, MPH, CGC discusses the main types of genetic testing in oncology. She shares somatic/tumor testing for treatment versus germline testing for hereditary cancer risk. She examines the question of whether people should consider direct-to-consumer testing if they are concerned about hereditary cancer risk and how the field of cancer genetics and genetic counseling is evolving.
Jesse Jones MD and Theresa Caridi MD discuss hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. In this physician round table, they explore diagnosis and treatment of this genetic disease that can result in nosebleeds, breathing difficulties, and stroke.
In this panel, Adam Beck M.D.and Kyle Eudailey M.D discuss ascending aortic arch repair & endovascular treatments at UAB Medicine. They share details of complex aortic surgery, endovascular and interventional techniques, and the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach for managing these challenging patients.
Amber Clark, MD discusses the role of PM&R in stroke rehabilitation and how PM&R assists patients and medical care teams in acute care while they are awaiting the next phase of their recovery process. She shares how this can help physicians continue to advocate for and improve the wellbeing of the stroke population.
Kathryn Lalor M.D. discuss the inequalities and disparities in pediatric epilepsy. She shares the factors contributing to health care disparities in children with epilepsy and the things that we can do on a systems level to try to rectify these disparities.
As myopia cases are on the rise, researchers are trying to find ways to prevent and slow the progression of myopia through cutting-edge technology,
Elise Agostinelli OD discusses myopia control and the current treatments available.
In part 1 of this series on skull based surgery, Winfield Fisher MD and Erika Walsh MD lead a discussion of the complexity of lateral skull base surgery and the benefit of a team approach. Including discussion of disease processes treated, types of preoperative evaluations, surgical techniques and referral process
Monisha Goyal MD discusses pediatric epilepsy syndromes. She examines the difference between benign & catastrophic epilepsy syndromes and she shares the role of genetic testing in for these conditions. She offers the latest treatment options available and when it is important to refer to the experts at UAB Medicine.
Keith Wille MD, MSPH gives us an update on the adult ECMO Program at UAB Medicine. He discusses some of the new and exciting devices. He shares why it is so important to have an experienced team initiating and monitoring the course of ecmo and he reiterates why UAB Medicine is so unique in that regard.
Heart disease is the nation's leading cause of death and a major cause of disability. Heart disease can be inherited (congenital) or acquired during a lifetime of factors such as a damaging diet, lack of exercise, and the presence of stress. In women, heart disease symptoms can be dramatically different than they are in men. Dr. Pamboukian will discuss the different aspects of heart disease in women and when it is important to refer to a specialist.
Nathaniel Robin MD, FACMG discusses the indications for a genetics referral and what type of patients can be seen by the specialists at UAB Medicine. He shares the benefits of a genetic evaluation, the different types of genetics testing and some of the exciting future directions for genetics.
Sukhkamal Campbell M.D. shares hope for the future as she discusses fertility preservation or life after cancer and the importance of fertility preservation discussions for patients going through cancer treatments.
Lung transplantation for patients with interstitial lung disease including Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Connective Tissue Disease.
Victoria Rusanov MD discusses lung transplantation for patients with interstitial lung disease including Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Connective Tissue Disease. She shares the importance of objectively assessing clinical decline and early referrals to transplant center. She offers information on the management of the patient during a flare and advanced life support like ECLS as bridge to transplant.
Mark Hadley MD highlights a comprehensive and compassionate approach to patient evaluation and assessment of patients with spinal disorders. He offers his thoughts on aggressive medical management as many won't need surgery and what that might include with an emphasis on follow-up with a variety of imaging.
Monica McChesney MS, RDN, LD, Ismail Mohamed MD and Polly Borasino MSN, CRNP discuss the ketogenic diet and pediatric epilepsy. They share how diet affects epilepsy, how it’s been used to treat and control seizures and why it works. They offer perceived barriers of initiation of this dietary therapy, why patients think self-management is difficult, and how UAB addresses those concerns in the Epilepsy clinic.
Chronic pain is relatively common after groin hernia surgery, and can affect up to 10% of patients following repair. Abhisek Parmar MD discusses how physicians manage chronic pain following surgery, the multimodal treatment options available at UAB Medicine and why it is so important for physicians to pay special attention to the amount of opioid medications they are prescribing patients.
Thomas Kaleekal MD discusses referral criteria for lung transplant at UAB. He shares the current ISHLT guidelines on the timing of referral and listing of candidates for lung transplantation with a focus on referral criteria for obstructive and restrictive lung disease. He covers the lung transplant evaluation process and why UAB is a preferred destination for lung transplant.
William Carroll, MD, and Harishanker Jeyarajan, MD, provide updates on demographics and rates of skin cancer in 2021. They discuss predictors of high risk lesions, imaging techniques, the importance of salivary glands and lymph nodes management, and the role of immunotherapy in skin cancer.
Bailey Griffin and Alex Hodges examine occupational therapy’s role in reaching independence.
Marissa Locy OD, Dawn DeCarlo OD and Jason Vice MS, OTR/L, SCLV discuss low-vision awareness month. They share some of the challenges patients have faced, how delays getting patients in for treatment can impact their vision and how mental health and depression within the low vision population has increased during the pandemic.
Sam Windham, III, MD discusses catastrophic brain injury guidelines & organ donor management. He shares what has been instrumental in increasing organ recovery rates at Legacy of Hope, directly impacting the number of transplants UAB Medicine has been able to perform.
Robert Cannon MD shares the protocol for liver transplant for patients with Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma.
Chas Peyton MD discusses testicular cancer. He explains testicular cancer staging after orchiectomy and the most common sites for metastasis of testicular cancer. He examines the role of chemotherapy and surgery for testicular cancer and new developments in the detection or treatment of testicular cancer available at UAB Medicine.
Carisssa Thomas MD, PhD discusses oral cancer. She shares the incidence of oral cancer and the most common pathology.
She talks about the current the standard of care and the latest treatment options available, including what role immunotherapy plays and exciting research developments ongoing at UAB.
In the final episode of the series, James Willig, MD, and Haddon Mullins, MD, are joined by two professional educators from within the School of Medicine, Anne Zinski, PhD, and Caroline Harada, MD. The group discusses how to effectively structure feedback, the differences between self-reflection and coaching, and how to provide feedback in difficult situations.
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a relatively common condition, rarely leading to significant distress or impairment. On the other hand, comorbidities associated with TS relating to attention and obsessive/compulsive traits are often problematic. The potential for stigmatization can be high, and there is a great need for the development of a positive and supportive perspective on the part of patients, families, and communities.
In this podcast, Leon Dure MD, discusses practical issues relating to diagnosis and management of TS, from the viewpoint of a pediatric neurologist who has served as the primary consultant for a statewide population. This experience has informed a more holistic approach and led to novel management strategies.
Sumayah Abed, MD discusses the need for women’s health screenings and describes their recommended schedules. She makes the case for why women’s health is efficiently addressed in the context of family medicine, and how UAB family physicians address these issues for their female patients.
Hogan Knox MD discusses the effect of COVID-19 on glaucoma and its impact on patient care. He shares how protocols and recommendations have changed for glaucoma patients and how they work with their patients to make the decision to see patients in clinic to avoid the patient’s glaucoma progressing to a point of irreversible vision loss or postponing the visit because the patient has factors that make them at higher risk for serious COVID-19 complications.
In this episode, James Willig, MD, and Haddon Mullins, MD, discuss the topography of a bedside encounter and how establish a patient-centered approach. They will also highlight three published frameworks for bedside teaching and how to incorporate them into a clinical learning environment.
Sean Hollis PhD discusses concussion and mild TBI. He shares the frequency of post-concussion syndrome, what factors may play a role in symptom presentation and recovery and why it is important to educate patients and set expectations for recover.
Sam Galgano MD and Soroush Rais-Bahrami MD discuss the radiology and urology collaborate on alternative prostate cancer screening techniques. They share how these alternative approaches are seldom performed in other regional centers and how the close collaboration between Radiology and Urology at UAB Medicine allows for this procedure service to be as streamlined as possible.
Steve Dupont MS, RD, LD discusses medical nutrition therapy for COVID patients. He shares how the COVID pandemic has changed clinical practice in nutrition, how the critically ill COVID patient is different from the typical ICU patient and whether there are ways we can help treat or prevent COVID with nutrition.
Join James Willig, MD and Haddon Mullins, MD as they discuss how to establish expectations for learners and patients in the clinical teaching environment. The discussion covers education hierarchy, establishing expectations, and the role of peer-to-peer education. You’ll also learn how to prepare yourself for rounding with students and get some strategies for on-the-go education.
Warner Huh MD updates us on the latest guidelines on pap smear screenings for cervical cancer. He shares how Gardasil and the HPV vaccine have changed these recommendations and he offers some of the latest most exciting advances in the field of Gynecologic Oncology.
Salman Rashid, MD discusses the pathway for the pharmacological management of status epilepticus in pediatric patients. He shares how nonepileptic seizures are differentiated from status epilepticus (SE), the first line medications and some of the other treatment options in patients who are refractory to the first and second line medications.
In this introductory episode, James Willig, MD, and Haddon Mullins, MD, discuss the definitions, barriers to, and advantages of bedside rounds. In addition, this episode provides some tips for feedback and how to use bedside rounds to enhance the learning environment.
Mark Harrigan MD and Elizabeth Liptrap MD discuss the array of management strategies at UAB Medicine for patients with carotid stenosis. They cover intensive medical management, surgery, stenting, a surgery/stenting hybrid technique, and the opportunity to participate in clinical trials.
Thersa Caridi, MD and Salei Aiaksei, MD discuss prostate artery embolization. They examine this as an alternative to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). They share the criteria for careful patient selection and the advantages and challenges of this procedure.
George Solomon, MD gives us an update on the most recent information regarding Bronchiectasis. He shares the latest in diagnosis and treatment and what the experts at UAB are doing to advance research into Bronchiectasis.
Kevin Williams MD Knee Pain in Adolescents. He shares how in the adolescent knee pain can range from simple issues such as apophysitis, abnormal synovial folds, or ligament sprains, to internal derangements such as meniscal tears, ligament tears, or even serious hip problems. In this podcast he explores the various possible etiologies of knee pain and briefly reviews causes and treatment for some of the more common problems
Jesse Jones MD, Mark Harrigan MD and Elizabeth Liptrap MD discuss the latest treatment options for intracranial aneurysms. They share diagnostic criteria, important factors to be considered when deciding whether to repair an unruptured intracranial aneurysm and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Emily Staples, DO discusses pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches to smoking cessation. She covers the latest medicational interventions and the 5 A technique that can improve a patient’s success and can be employed by any medical professional.
She also shares the 5 stages of change that alerts a provider that a patient is considering quitting.
Meagan Gray, MD, and Robert Cannon, MD discuss early liver transplant for severe acute alcoholic hepatitis. They share the data behind early liver transplant for severe acute alcoholic hepatitis, including selection criteria, patient and graft survival, and addiction medicine support.
Michael Hanaway, MD tells us if age matters when it comes to Kidney Transplantation. He discusses the changing paradigm about older kidney transplant recipients and outcomes on quality of life.
Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Dr. Jeffrey Blount and Curt Rozzelle MD, discuss the latest surgical interventions and techniques for treating epilepsy in pediatric patients.
Paige Porrett MD discusses uterus transplantation. She shares her experience with the procedure, who might be an ideal candidate and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for this innovative new procedure.
Brandon Rocque MD, Betsy Hopson MSHA and Jeffrey Blount MD discuss transitional and adult care in Spina Bifida. They share some of the challenges teens and young adults face when transitioning to adult health care, why it is important to have a coordinated transition of care plan for these patients and some of the perceptions and best practices for the care of adult spina bifida patients.
Amit Momaya, MD discusses the latest research and clinical implications for biologic injection therapies in sports medicine.
Amit Momaya, MD discusses COVID-19 and sports medicine: a changing environment. He shares the latest implications of COVID-19 on the practice of sports medicine and ultimately how it will affect athletes and patients.
Atrial fibrillation puts patients at greater risk for stroke. Historically, stroke risk in AF patients has been medically managed through the administration of anticoagulants. In this episode, Tom McElderry, MD discusses the Watchman device and how it offers a mechanical alternative to anticoagulants for managing stroke risk.
The Watchman functions by sealing off the heart’s left atrial appendage (LAA)—an area of the heart where blood clots are most likely to form. As over 90% of clots in non-valvular AF patient originate in the LAA, Watchman can significantly decrease stroke risk for these patients. Given the growing size of the AF patient population and the number of patients not receiving anticoagulants, the Watchman device is positioned to potentially fill a large treatment gap in mitigating stroke risk.
Similar to Orthopedic Surgeons working with elite athletes, the Laryngologist and Speech Language Pathologist treat the vocal elite athlete - the singer.
In this panel discussion, Edie Hapner PhD, SLP and Blake Simpson MD discusses the art of treating the injured singing voice. They share how an advanced knowledge of the diagnosis and medical treatment of a variety of voice disorders that impact the singing voice require an expertise in care of voice disorders, but also training or performance history in singing voice, bring the understanding of the needs of the singer and the skill of working with vocal injuries in singers.
Bill Hurd, MD discusses a modern approach to women with polycystic ovary syndrome. He shares clinical laboratory evaluation, initial and ongoing, the associated health risks and long term treatment based on desire for immediate or delayed fertility.
Brandon Rocque MD, Erin Ransom MD and Drew Davis MD discuss the Multi-disciplinary brachial plexus/peripheral nerve program at UAB Medicine. This UAB-COA team approach offers the best care for children with brachial plexus and peripheral nerve disorders. They discuss their approach and how it can benefit patients.
Greg Kennedy, MD discusses the benefits of multidisciplinary management of colorectal cancer. He shares his expertise in the latest treatment modalities and how UAB is leading the way in the multimodal approach to colorectal cancer.
Elizabeth Liptrap, MD and Michael Lyerly, MD discuss mechanical thrombectomy for stroke. They share the latest clinical guidelines on indication for use and patient selection criteria.
Mindfulness practices have been shown to result in multiple benefits, including stress reduction and increased well-being. A common myth is that practicing mindfulness equates to formal meditation.
In this episode Michael Wiederman, PhD, explains mindfulness, its benefits, and how to incorporate practice into one's daily routine.
Until recently, patients with HIV were ineligible to receive a liver transplant. Robert Cannon, MD discusses how new breakthroughs in antiretroviral drugs can give HIV patients the ability to manage and live with the virus. The success of this breakthrough has created a new pathway for HIV-positive patients to receive life-saving organ transplants.
Mustafa Ahmed MD and Clifton Lewis, Sr. MD discuss mitral and tricuspid therapies. They share what problems can occur with the mitral and tricuspid valves, what conditions can cause these valves to fail and what minimally invasive and percutaneous surgical options are available at UAB. They also talk about the current trials that UAB is participating in and the future of valve surgery and repair.
For some patients, kidney cancer can be effectively treated without surgery, according to the Society of Interventional Radiology’s first-ever position statement on the role of percutaneous ablation in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma.
Andrew Gunn MD discusses percutaneous ablation in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma and the new quality improvement guidelines for the Society of Interventional Radiology on percutaneous renal ablation, which helps physicians evaluate their practices against national standards for safety and efficacy.
One approach when considering wellness is to observe the satisfaction of core human needs that are related to a sense of flourishing. Assuming our basic material needs for food, water, and physical safety are adequately met, what do humans need to flourish?
Michael Wiederman, PhD, discusses four such core needs (the Four Cs) Contribution/Calling, Competence/Capability, Control/Choice, and Connection/Community. He shares how these promote growth, thereby fostering mental and emotional well-being.
Craig Mackinnon Jr. MD, PhD gives us an overview and an update on the latest in molecular diagnostics at UAB. He shares a blueprint for the future of molecular pathology at UAB as well as what they are doing as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this panel, Harishanker Jeyarajan MD, René Myers MD and Benjamin Greene MD discuss facial nerve disorders and injuries.
They speak about the facial nerve clinic at UAB and how their dedicated clinic treats facial nerve patients with results that have been remarkable. They share how even a slight amount of facial asymmetry or weakness can have a huge affect on a person’s quality of life and how the team of experts at UAB are able to use what they have learned from generous research on the subject and lots of practical experience to achieve the best outcomes for patients with facial nerve disorders.
Mark Law MD discusses various approaches to pulmonary valve disease. He shares treatment options, the benefits of a multidisciplinary team and why it is so important to refer to a specialist at UAB Medicine.
Herbert Chen, MD discusses what UAB is doing to make operating rooms safe during COVID-19. He tells us the current recommendations regarding CMS adult elective surgery and procedures, PPE initiatives and how they are assessing the risk of aerosol spread during intubation. He shares how they are minimizing exposure during intubation and how the dedicated PACU Spots ORs and pathways are determined.
Pathologists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have been a crucial part of battling the COVID-19 pandemic in Alabama. Sixto Leal, Jr. MD discusses the role of the pathologist during COVID-19 and how clinicians and researchers with UAB’s department of pathology have been working around the clock to make testing available for as many people as possible, making sure accurate results are available in a timely manner.
Theresa Northern DO, MPH discusses best practices relating to anesthesia, intubation and airway management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joseph Thachuthara-George, MD, examines a UAB Medicine telehealth pilot project: Telemedicine for Lung Nodules. Home to the only NCI-recognized cancer center in Alabama, UAB Medicine is focused on decreasing patient wait times and expediting the diagnosis and staging process for lung nodules, so that treatment can be initiated sooner. Extending this commitment to patients in rural communities through UAB's eMedicine telehealth service helps improve their access to health care and overall outcomes.
40 percent of women in the U.S. have dense breast tissue, which can hide abnormalities in mammograms. These women may qualify for a secondary test using ABUS (Automated Breast Ultrasound Screening) technology, which is now available at UAB.
Stefanie Woodard, DO discusses this innovative test that can help women with dense breasts be more accurately tested for breast cancer, and that when combined with mammography, can significantly improved readers' detection of breast cancers in women with dense breast tissue without substantially affecting specificity.
Claretha Lyas, MD, discusses chronic kidney disease. She shares what we are seeing in the trends as far as Chronic Kidney disease, how UAB is working to educate the community on this increasingly common disease and indications for referral to the experts at UAB Medicine.
Jesse Jones, MD, discusses the treatment of subdural hematoma (SDH). He shares that subdural hematoma is a relatively common neurosurgical problem most often affecting older patients and in this podcast, he examines new, less invasive treatments for SDH that is becoming more common, but needs to gain more traction in the medical community.
Clifton Kew, MD, discusses the UAB Comprehensive Transplant Institute's telehealth initiative and how it can change the way patients receive care after a kidney transplant, improving outcomes and the patient experience.
In this panel, Brooks Vaughan MD and Kristen Riley MD discuss the multidisciplinary evaluation and treatment of pituitary tumors. They share the background on pituitary tumors and common presenting signs. They examine the indicated work up- involving endocrine evaluation, imaging and ophthalmology evaluation, and they speak about the latest treatment options for pituitary tumors available at UAB Medicine.
Colin Martin, MD discusses the management of pediatric patients with intestinal failure.
He shares how the successful management and prognosis of SBS in infants and children depends on a multitude of variables and how the experts at UAB are uniquely qualified to treat infants with intestinal failure.
The UAB Comprehensive Transplant Institute is establishing a growing network of outreach clinics in order to provide patients throughout Alabama with convenient access to state-of-the-art treatment options for complications of chronic liver and kidney disease.
Mohamed Shoreibah MD and Gaurav Agarwal MD discuss how these clinics and novel treatment, which is provided by physicians who are nationally recognized as experts in the field, can improve patient outcomes and improve the quality of life for patients with chronic liver and kidney disease.
Panayotis Vardas, MD joins the podcast to discuss podcasts as a resource. He shares how the experts at UAB Medicine are using this form of new audio streaming media to enlighten the medical community and keep other providers abreast of the latest advances in medicine taking place at UAB Medicine.
In this panel discussion, Eric Wallace MD and Dana Rizk MD discuss the Rare Kidney Disease Clinic at UAB Medicine. They share what conditions the clinic treats and when it is important to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Brad Denney, MD discusses the link between textured breast implants and Lymphoma. He shares factual information for providers so they can help their patients make more informed decisions when deciding on breast implants.
Brad Denney, MD explains the key variables that determine whether tummy tuck or liposuction, or even both, can provide the "best" results, and when to refer to the experts at UAB Medicine.
Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and loss of esophageal peristalsis. The conventional treatment for achalasia has historically been Heller myotomy, a surgical procedure.
In this panel discussion, Jayleen Grams, MD and Kondal Kyanam Kabir Baig, MD, examine how Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) has emerged as a viable alternative that can be performed in an incisionless, endoscopic fashion.
In this panel discussion, Chad Burski, MD and Melanie Morris, MD examine Crohn's Disease & Colitis. They share how these patients are managed both by GI medicine doctors and surgeons, and when it is important to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Peter Kolettis, MD discusses male infertility. He examines the latest treatment options available and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Michael Hanaway, MD discusses kidney transplantation at UAB Medicine. He highlights UAB's progress on wait list management and reducing waiting times as well as recent changes in the kidney transplant waiting list experience and kidney allocation process.
Brad Denney, MD discusses technical considerations and benefits of a Brow Lift or Blepharoplasty, and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Dr. Richard Stahl joins the show to compare and contrast the two most common types of bariatric surgery – gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. He discusses parameters when deciding which procedure to use and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, one of the nation’s leading hospitals in robotic surgery volume, is enhancing its work in the field.
Dr. Soroush Rais-Bahrami, and Dr. Jeffrey Nix, Urologists at UAB Medicine discuss the new single port robot as it relates to Urologic surgeries.
Jeffrey Simmons MD discusses perioperative medicine and specifically preoperative optimization.
He shares best practices and the several modifiable preoperative conditions that if improved upon increase a patients chance of having a better outcome. He shares how UAB is equipped to manage preoperative optimization.
LINX is a magnetic sphincter augmentation device that reconstructs the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent acid reflux. LINX is an alternative to the current standard of care operation for reflux, Nissen fundoplication, and has the potential to avoid many of the unwanted side effects of that operation.
Three UAB foregut surgeons, Abhisek Parmar MD, Jayleen Grams, MD and Britney Corey, MD discuss The LINX procedure and when it is important to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Retroperitoneoscopic (RP) adrenalectomy is an approach that allows more direct access to the adrenal gland without having to traverse the peritoneal cavity and mobilize other surrounding organs, including potential scar tissue from prior operations.
Brenessa Lindeman, MD discusses the surgical technique involved in Retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy, the benefits for the patient and the surgeon and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medcine.
Not everyone will be a candidate for outpatient total joint replacement.
Elie Ghanem, MD discusses how we screen patients for different factors such as motivation, physical conditioning, family and social support, and general medical condition. He shares how we have collaborated with our partners in anesthesia to afford our patients high quality pain control via spinals and peripheral nerve blocks while allowing them to ambulate aggressively with PT/OT in order to meet their needs at home.
Anthony Morlandt, MD, DDS, FACS discusses the challenges of delicate facial reconstruction after oral cancers and how Transoral Minimally Invasive Microsurgical Facial Reconstruction can assist physicians and improve outcomes and quality of life for the daily lives of patients.
In this informative podcast, Jeff Dobyns DO, MSHA discusses Perioperative Glucose Management & Surgical Site Infections. He shares his knowledge on the goals for perioperative glycemic control and what methods he uses to achieve them.
Anthony Morlandt, MD, DDS, FACS discusses the latest technology and advancements in oral oncology.
In this resident panel, Ronnie Gravett, MD, Michael Fordham and Kachina Kudroff examine Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and the current epidemiological trends of HIV.
They share who needs to be on PrEP, how to provide it, the referral process. and what challenges or problems affect successful PrEP provision.
Anthony Morlandt, MD, DDS, FACS examines the trends & oral cancer survival in Alabama and how the experts at UAB Medicine are raising awareness and making strides in the treatment or oral cancers.
Hernias represent extremely common surgical problems but the minimally invasive treatment of hernias is relatively new. In this podcast Abhisek Parmar, MD discusses the benefits of minimally invasive surgery including the application to inguinal, hiatal, and large abdominal wall hernias that require complex abdominal wall reconstruction.
It is estimated that about 1/3 of US adults have NAFLD but it is still largely undiagnosed and unaddressed until it progresses to advanced stages.
Meagan Gray, MD discusses nutrition in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and how the mainstay of therapy at this time is weight loss, reducing saturated fat, free sugars and processed food in the diet.
Leah Leisch, MD examines for the listener why opiates are so addictive and the benefits of medication assisted treatment for opioid dependency.
Dr. Blayke Gibson and Rachael Lee, MD examine the biggest challenges in diagnosing Sepsis and some key recommendations for clinical practice guidelines for rapid management of sepsis.
Learn more about Antibiotic Selection Sepsis
Learn more about Antibiotic Crosswalk Sepsis
Learn more about Antibiotic Monotherapy Sepsis
Eosinophilic esophagitis, also termed 'EoE', affects both adults and children and is an increasing cause of swallowing difficulties in adults.
James Callaway, MD discusses the causes and latest treatment options for EoE and when it is important to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a genetic disease that results in severe sinus and pulmonary infections and is particularly difficult to treat. George Solomon, MD discusses how UAB has a specialized center dedicated to diagnosis and treatment of these patients.
Devika Das, MD discusses the latest screening guidelines for lung cancer, what modality is used to screen patients and how providers can follow up on these screening findings.
Rita Paschal, MD discusses the causes, evaluation and management of iron deficient anemia. She explains which physical findings suggest iron deficiency and the latest treatment options available.
Non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung disease is particularly vexing for clinicians to diagnose and treat. George Solomon, MD discusses emerging treatments as well as the guidelines for diagnosis and management.
There is an increased interest in cannabis-derived products for the treatment of human illness. Most recently, randomized and double blinded clinical trials have shown efficacy of plant-derived extract for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet Syndromes.
Jerzy Szaflarski, MD, PhD discusses how concurrent open label studies showed potential efficacy of cannabidiol for the treatment of other seizure types and the utility of cannabis-derived products (FDA approved and artisanal) for the treatment of epilepsy.
Recent work has uncovered important links between activation of the immune system and the progression of Parkinson's Disease. UAB is launching a new NIH funded Center which seeks to define the specific immune mechanisms involved, and develop new treatments to slow or stop the advance of the disease.
David Standaert, MD, PhD is here to discuss the role of the immune system in the development and management of Parkinson's disease.
Brad Denney, MD discusses the options for breast reconstruction and how these options are chosen for patients. Additionally, he focuses on a new method for implant based breast reconstruction known as prepectoral expander based reconstruction and why it is advantageous for patients and physicians.
Since continuing seizures are associated with increased risk of trauma, fractures, burns as well as mood problems, depression and sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP), some patients opt to undergo evaluation for potentially curative brain surgery.
Jerzy Szaflarski, MD, PhD discusses new developments in the surgical treatment of epilepsy.
Cystic Fibrosis therapies have entered a new era of protein-based treatments that show promise for significant improvements in health.
George Solomon, MD discusses these treatments and the next level strategies for treating CF.
UAB is launching a Neuro Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Program to provide specialized care for babies at risk for brain injury.
Manimaran Ramani, MD, and Andrew Klinger, MD discuss the Neuro Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Program and when it is important to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Endobronchial valve (Zephyr Valve) placement for advanced emphysema was approved by the FDA in the summer of 2018 and is the first bronchoscopic lung volume reduction procedure approved in the US.
Mark Dransfield, MD shares how the Zephyr Valve procedure has been demonstrated to reduce lung volume leading to substantial improvements in lung function, symptoms, and quality of life.
UAB Medicine’s Red Mountain Home Dialysis Training Unit is taking a major step into telemedicine, thanks to a recent grant that will allow its peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients living outside Jefferson County to eliminate some of their trips to Birmingham for monthly checkups.
Eric Wallace, MD discusses telemedicine in nephrology. He shares what the barriers to starting a telemedicine program were, what UAB is currently doing and planning on doing and how telemedicine is transforming healthcare for the better.
In this panel style discussion, Andrew Gunn, MD, Ali Ahmed, MD, and Sushanth Reddy, MD, discuss Pancreatitis treatment, management of complex pancreatitis and advances in treatment of pancreatic and GI neuroendocrine tumors.
Sweat is a function of the small peripheral nerves that is under complex control from multiple systems including the central nervous system and the endocrine glands.
Mohammed Kazamel, MD examines TST as an important tool in assessing the entire pathway that controls sweat functions to see that different patterns of sweat or lack of sweat helps to delineate the diagnosis in a variety of central and peripheral nervous system disorders.
Approximately 800,000 patients experience a stroke in the US, with Alabama having one of the highest rates in the country. Despite that, only 30% of stroke survivors receive any outpatient stroke rehabilitation which results in suboptimal recovery.
Chen Lin, MD examines how The Stroke Recovery Clinic (SRC) at UAB hopes to address this serious issue. With an array of therapists including Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapy along with Neuropsychology and Social Work., patients will have the ability in one convenient opportunity to be evaluated by multiple important services all in one visit. In addition, our clinic will be focused on improving quality of care and outcomes after stroke.
pManagement of patients with Central Airway Obstruction can be difficult, but new therapeutic and diagnostic tools are now available that are beneficial to most patients and almost all airway obstruction can be relieved expeditiously.
Hitesh Batra, MD examines how the most comprehensive approach to treatment is offered at UAB and that the management of complex airway disorders is enhanced by the availability of highly advanced endoscopic and surgical options.
As cigarette smoking seems to be on the decline, another method of nicotine use has managed to hook a growing number of people, especially teenagers. Some smokers find that vaping helps them quit cigarettes for a few months, but they often go back to smoking.
Kathy Harrington, PhD, MPH, and Susan Walley, MD, join the segment to discuss the latest research and the health risks associated with vaping.
James Davies Jr., MD, director of the UAB Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, is the first surgeon in the Southeast to implant the new Edwards Inspiris heart valve.
He joins the podcast to discuss how since it was developed for patients with aortic valve disease, the Inspiris valve is made of specially treated bovine tissue that may help it last longer and has an expandable frame to allow future valve-in-valve procedures.
After UAB’s first ERAS surgery in 2015, the health system saw improvements in lengths of stay and pain scores for colorectal surgery patients. The initiative won a UAB Health System Innovation Award in 2016, and the positive results have prompted other surgical service lines to begin coordinating their own ERAS pathways. UAB aims to grow the success of its ERAS program through a new partnership.
Daniel I. Chu MD discusses how UAB Medicine has partnered with SeamlessMD, becoming the first health system in Alabama to leverage patient engagement technology to improve patients’ recovery from major surgery.
Vasectomy can sometimes, but not always, be reversed. Reversal is a more complex operation with greater success rates if performed less than 10 years after the original surgery.
Peter Kolettis, MD discusses the certain criteria in which vasectomy reversal is possible and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Alabama has a high rate of emphysema, and healthy people who know they have Alpha-1 in their family, should be tested for the gene to slow or prevent deterioration of health. As delayed diagnosis is thought to be associated with adverse outcomes, it is important that providers know the facts about Alpha-1 to council their patients on the importance of testing so they can make the lifestyle adjustments necessary to achieve the best outcomes.
Mike Wells, MD, discusses the Alpha-1 Clinic at UAB Medicine and when to refer.
Adrenal nodules are being increasingly identified on imaging studies (i.e., CT or MRI) obtained for other reasons. All identified adrenal nodules should be evaluated to determine whether they lead to over-production of hormones or might harbor a malignancy such as adrenocortical carcinoma.
Listen as Brenessa Lindeman, MD, and John Porterfield, MD, discuss what to do if a nodule is found, including when surgery might be indicated.
Ravikumar Paluri, MD, Rojymon Jacob, MD, and Greg Kennedy, MD, join the segment in this panel discussion on the benefits of multi-disciplinary care for Colorectal Cancer patients, and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Our parathyroid glands usually do a great job of controlling our body’s calcium levels, but one or more can begin to hyperfunction and lead to high levels of calcium in the blood.
Herbert Chen, MD, discusses who is most at risk for parathyroid disease, the associated symptoms, how to treat it, and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia (formerly Critical Limb Ischemia) is a natural progression of untreated or unrecognized Peripheral Arterial Disease. It is important for providers to recognize symptomatic patients for prompt referral.
Graeme McFarland, MD, discusses how the earlier a diagnosis can be made, the earlier treatment can be started with less serious consequence.
Britney Corey, MD, discusses optimizing hernia repair and how UAB recently joined the Americas Hernia Society Quality Collaborative. This relationship will allow UAB to participate in continuous quality improvement efforts to optimize outcomes and costs of hernia care.
Death rate following first time onset of diabetic foot ulcer or after a lower limb amputation has a survival rate that is now worse than most cancers. It is predicted that by 2050 one in three Americans will have diabetes. Physicians need to be educated on symptoms and when to refer patients so as to avoid amputation.
Brent Haverstock DPM discusses this multispecialty program that utilizes the expertise of vascular surgeons and podiatrists, but also involving physicians from many other medical and surgical disciplines in the management of this significant health problem, of which Alabama has the highest prevalence.
There are about 50,000 people living with Hep C in the state of Alabama currently.
The hepatitis C virus is carried in the blood and often is transmitted by sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. For some people, hepatitis C is a short-term illness, but for many it becomes a long-term, chronic infection that can result in serious health problems, even death, if left untreated.
Brendan McGuire,MD, and Michael Saag,MD, discuss the cure for Hepatitis C. They discuss when a physician should refer a patient and to be more aware of this cure so that they can get their patients tested.
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) uses a multi-modal and multidisciplinary approach to deliver best-evidence surgical care to all patients to improve their outcomes and experience.
Daniel Chu, MD, discusses ERAS, its benefits to patients, providers and healthcare systems and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
People share many things with the dogs in their lives. Unfortunately, that can include a tendency to develop brain tumors. Dogs and humans are among the few species that spontaneously develop naturally occurring brain tumors. Those tumors have a lot in common, too, which has led scientists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham to wonder whether studying tumors in dogs will help treat humans, and whether studying tumors in humans will help treat man's best friend.
Dr. James Markert, Dr. Gregory Friedman,and Dr. M.R. Chambers, discuss the latest in brain tumor therapy and when to refer to the specialists at UAB Medicine.
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States. Without treatment, those with glaucoma slowly lose their peripheral (side) vision and in time may lose all vision.
Carson Bee, MD, discusses treatment options for Glaucoma and when it is the right time to refer a patient to the specialists at the Pell City Clinic of UAB Medicine's Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics.
Soumya Sivaraman, MD, discusses Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and how important it is that referring physicians understand that this is a more humane treatment than in past decades and has better results than other methods.
UAB’s Histocompatibility Lab is one of approximately 200 such laboratories in the United States, and the only one in Alabama. The lab tests and monitors every solid organ, bone marrow and stem cell transplant patient from Children’s of Alabama, the Birmingham VA Medical Center and UAB. The lab performs testing on every recipient after transplant to monitor for rejection. Prior to transplant, the technologists in the lab run pre-transplant risk assessment for patients and donors to test for compatibility and make sure there are no problems with early rejection.
In this fascinating segment, Vera Hauptfeld PhD, and Zhuo Tao MD, discuss the exciting work being done at the Histocompatability Lab at UAB and when to refer to this specialized Lab.
As central Alabama's premier comprehensive vein center, the UAB Vein Clinic provides state-of-the-art cosmetic, minimally invasive, and surgical treatments for vein conditions and diseases. Our specialty-trained surgeons and physicians are leaders in their field and have excellent track records in treating some of the most complex vascular cases.
In this segment, Clinic Director Marc Passman, MD, discusses the latest in minimally invasive treatments for venous disease available at UAB Medicine and when to refer to a specialist. For providers looking to refer their patients for spider or varicose veins or more complex vein problems, the UAB Vein Clinic offers comprehensive evaluation, the most advanced procedures, and compassionate care.
Awareness of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is very low in both patients and in primary care practice despite an increase in incidence. Referral to vascular medicine can aid in both diagnosis and risk factor modification and can lead to better outcomes.
Benjamin Pearce, MD, discusses the presentation of PAD to primary care and some easy questions/non-invasive tests to help improve appropriate and timely referral.
A vena cava filter is one type of treatment for deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. One of several treatments for these conditions, it typically is reserved for patients who cannot take blood thinning medications. Some types of filters are permanent and others can be temporary and later retrieved.
Andrew Gunn, MD discusses Inferior Inferior Vena Cava Filter Placement, Removal and when to refer.