Shows
MedStar Health DocTalk (series)Treating Prostate Tumors in 5 SessionsSend us a text | MedStar Georgetown University Hospital was the first hospital on the East Coast to offer CyberKnife technology. Our team is among the world’s most experienced CyberKnife sites having treated more than 2,400 patients with prostate cancer and performed more than 35,000 treatments in total. Unlike traditional radiation that’s given in 40 sessions over eight to nine weeks, CyberKnife can treat prostate cancer in just five visits. Dr. Jonathan Lischalk, a radiation oncologist at MedStar Georgetown, discusses CyberKnife radiation therapy for treating prostate, and the advantages of CyberKnife over conventional radiation. For an interview with Dr. Jonat...2025-07-0325 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Aortic AneurysmsSend us a textFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2025-07-0338 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)What's Carotid Artery Disease?Send us a textIn this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler speaks with Dr. Othman Abdul-Malak, MD, MSC, a vascular expert, to break down the what carotid artery disease is, and how it can lead to stroke, mini-strokes (TIAs), and sudden vision loss. Learn how to recognize early warning signs—like facial droop, arm weakness, or sudden speech problems—and why acting fast can save brain function. Dr. Abdul-Malak also explains:· The difference between ischemic and embolic strokes· What amaurosis fugax means · Why age, heart disease, and c...2025-06-1241 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Breaking the Silence on Women's Urinary IncontinenceSend us a textIn this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler tackles a topic that many women face but few discuss: urinary incontinence. With an estimated 25 million American women affected, it's time to break the silence. Joined by MedStar Health urogynecologist Dr. Abigail Davenport, they delve into the myths surrounding incontinence, the different types, and the various treatment options available. From urgency incontinence to stress urinary incontinence, Dr. Davenport provides invaluable insights into how lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and advanced therapies can help women regain control over their lives. Tune in to learn why...2025-05-0930 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Arthritis AwarenessSend us a textAccording to the CDC, an estimated 58.5 million US adults have been diagnosed with some type of arthritis. Arthritis Awareness Month is observed every May, and it's a time to inform people about this complex group of debilitating diseases. The goal of this episode is to educate listeners about the impact of arthritis, how to promote lifestyle changes for prevention, and highlight the importance of research and support for those living with the condition. To do that, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Kessler, Chief - Division of Hand & Elbow Surgery in the...2025-05-0719 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Hand Tumors: Lumps and BumpsSend us a textBumps and lumps of the hand can be any number of things... all are classified as a hand tumor, but do they all require treatment, and which are a cause for concern? Host Debra Schindler explores the various types of hand tumors from the benign to malignant, with hand surgeon and Chief of the Curtis National Hand Center, Dr. James Higgins, and orthopedic oncologist, Dr. Mohammed Karim. Learn about the variety of hand tumors, treatment options, and the importance of early diagnosis. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back— peace of mind is ev...2025-04-0246 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)A Colonoscopy Can Save Your LifeSend us a textMarch is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Yet this cancer can be prevented with screening and is highly treatable when detected early. On this episode of our DocTalk podcast, we’re discussing colon cancer with Dr. Walid Chalhoub, the Division Chief of Gastroenterology at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, and the Co-Director of Advanced Endoscopy at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Dr. Chalhoub discusses the difference between gastroenterology and advanced gastroenterology, and how...2025-03-2533 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Living with Celiac DiseaseSend us a textFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2025-03-0530 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease aka GERDSend us a textAre you one of the many who experience heartburn or acid reflux? In our latest episode, host Debra Schindler separates fact from fiction about gastroesophageal reflux disease -or GERD- with MedStar Health gastroenterologist Vinshi Khan, MD. Learn why long term complications from GERD make treatment so important. If you would like to provide feedback on this podcast, or get more information on hand tumors, send Debra an email: debra.schindler@medstar.net. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to m...2025-02-1936 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Scoliosis with Dr. Zan NaseerSend us a textIn the latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, orthopedic surgeon Zan Nasser, MD, who specializes in spine surgery, discusses the facts and fiction of scoliosis. From understanding the basics of curvature of the spine, to treatment options, patients, parents, and healthcare professionals alike, this podcast has something for everyone.Contrary to popular belief, scoliosis isn't solely a teenage affliction nor is it caused by poor posture. In fact, scoliosis can develop in individuals of any age, and its severity varies significantly from person to person. Bracing is often the f...2025-02-1736 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Pulsed Field Ablation for Treating AFibSend us a textA groundbreaking innovation is making waves for the approximate six million Americans who suffer with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It’s called pulsed field ablation. In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Sunjeet Sidhu, a renowned cardiac electrophysiologist at MedStar Health, to explore the intricacies and benefits of this safer, faster, cutting-edge treatment. The number of those suffering with AFib, may even be an underestimate, but statistics show they are steadily increasing due to factors such as an aging population and the obesity epidemic. Traditionally, AFIB treatment involved the...2025-01-1737 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Stem Cell Transplant & Cellular ImmunologySend us a textThe MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy Program is the only adult, FACT-accredited program in the Washington, D.C., area. We give patients with cancers affecting the blood or immune system and other disorders access to life-saving treatment options not otherwise available in our region. These include:· Allogeneic stem cell transplant· Autologous stem cell transplant· CAR T-cell therapyAlaa Ali, MD, MSC, is a clinician, instructor, and investigator in clinical and translational research at MedStar Georgetown’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunoth...2025-01-1418 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) with Dr Maen FarhaSend us a textIn our latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, Debra Schindler talks with MedStar Health breast surgeon, Maen Farha, MD, medical director of the Breast Center at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore, about the most common breast cancer diagnosis: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Learn more about the contained, early-stage disease, the intricacies of diagnosis, and the personalized treatment options available. Dr. Farha shares valuable experience and a wealth of knowledge with hope for outstanding results, possible with proper care.For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to m...2024-12-3131 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Stomach Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment PathwaysSend us a textStomach cancer, often referred to as gastric cancer, is a sneaky cancer. Its symptoms can be easily mistaken for more benign conditions like indigestion or acid reflux, making early detection a challenge. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into this complex disease with the help of two esteemed experts: gastroenterologist Dr. Walid Chaloub, and Dr. Reetu Mukherji, a medical oncologist from MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute in D.C. Host Debra Schindler explores the biology of stomach cancer with her physician guests to understand how mutations in the DNA of stomach ce...2024-12-1248 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Traveling and the Risk of DVTs (Deep Vein Thrombosis)Send us a textFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-11-2222 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Healthcare Innovation and Reducing Hospital ReadmissionsSend us a textFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-11-1944 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month: What to KnowSend us a textLung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women, resulting in more cancer deaths than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined. It can take years to develop and is difficult to detect in early stages when there is greater potential for a cure. Fortunately, lung cancer survival rates are improving, thanks to advances in screening and treatment options, including breakthrough therapies that we're leading at MedStar Health. In partnership with the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center—a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center—we can offer our p...2024-11-0424 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Finding Breast Cancer with Dr. Michelle Townsend DaySend us a textIn this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, we explore the critical aspects of breast cancer detection and the intricacies of mammography with Dr. Michelle Townsend Day, Chair of the Department of Radiology and Section Chief of Breast Imaging at MedStar Good Samaritan and MedStar Union Memorial Hospitals. Hosted by Debra Schindler, this episode delves into the advancements in breast imaging, the significance of early detection, and the challenges faced in diagnosing breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Dr. Townsend Day provides a comprehensive overview of th...2024-10-1033 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Plantar Fibromatosis with Dr. Paul CarrollSend us a textFoot pain is a common issue that many of us face at some point in our lives. While plantar fasciitis is often the culprit, there's another- probably under-reported condition that deserves attention: plantar fibromatosis, also known as Ledderhose disease. In our latest podcast episode, Debra Schindler takes a dive deep into this lesser-known condition with MedStar Health podiatric foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Paul Carroll.Plantar fibromatosis affects approximately 200,000 people in the United States and is characterized by the growth of fibromas—benign nodules—on the plantar fascia, the thick band of t...2024-08-1424 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Plantar Fibromatosis with Dr. Paul CarrollFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-08-1425 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)EEGs and the brain: insights from Syed Shabbir, MDSend us a textIn our latest podcast episode, we delve into the fascinating world of brain waves and neurological diagnostics with Dr. Syed Shabbir, Director of Epilepsy and Medical Director of the EEG Lab at Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center. Hosted by Debra Schindler, this episode sheds light on the complexities of the human brain and the critical role of electroencephalograms (EEGs) in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders. The human brain is an intricate organ, constantly firing neurons and generating electrical activity known as brain waves. These brain waves can be measured using EEGs, a...2024-08-0643 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Blood Cancers with Dr. Kieron DunleavySend us a text | Join us for an insightful episode with Dr. Kieran Dunleavy, an internationally recognized expert in lymphoma and blood cancers. Learn about the innovative treatments and clinical trials happening at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital that are transforming patient care. Discover how accurate diagnosis and cutting-edge therapies like CAR T cells and bispecific antibodies are improving outcomes and reducing toxicity. Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed about the future of cancer treatment. Listen now! For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-06-0431 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)All things thyroid; a discussion on thyroid heath with Dr. Paul SackSend us a textUnlock the mysteries of thyroid health with our special guest, Dr. Paul Sack from MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore. Ever wondered how a tiny gland in your neck can orchestrate the harmony of your body's systems? Dr. Sack reveals the critical role of the thyroid gland, its impact on overall health, and the complexities of diagnosing conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. Through our conversation, gain a deeper understanding of how these conditions can mimic other health issues and the vital role endocrinologists play in managing them.2024-05-3151 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)All things thyroid- a discussion with Dr. Paul Sack2024-05-3151 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)The Silent Threat of Esophageal CancerSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine from the largest healthcare system in the Maryland D.C. region: this is MedStar Health DocTalk.In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with thoracic surgeon Dr. Duane Monteith and gastroenterologist Dr. Dana Sloan for a comprehensive look into esophageal cancer. They discuss everything from early symptoms and risk factors to advanced treatment options like minimally invasive surgery. This episode is packed with valuable insights that could make a significant difference in early detection and treatment. For more e...2024-05-1534 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: What to KnowSend us a textDid you know that Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States in men and women combined? March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. On this episode of our DocTalk podcast, we’re discussing colon cancer. Dr. Priyanka Kanth, the Director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Prevention Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital talks about every aspect of colon cancer from symptoms, stages, causes, and treatment.Having accurate facts about colon and rectal cancer is very important. Whether you're reporting on a story, doing a homework assignment, or ra...2024-03-0824 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Breaking down barriers: A candid discussion on colorectal cancer screening with Dr. Dana SloaneSend us a textFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-03-0436 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Young people and heart health featuring Miss D.C. 2023Send us a textIn this heart-stirring episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, we delve into the alarming trend of heart attack fatalities among the young. With heart disease steadfastly holding its ground as the leading cause of death in the U.S., our host Debra Schindler sits down with cardiologists Dr. Barbara Srichai and Dr. Estelle Jean from the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute to dissect the why's and how's of this disturbing rise.The episode takes an unexpected turn with the inspiring story of Jude Mabone, Miss District of Columbia 2023, who shares her jaw-dropping...2024-02-1435 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Let's talk AFib, or atrial fibrillationSend us a textElectrophysiologist Dr. Richard Jones, of the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute, talks about symptoms and treatment for the full spectrum of the most common form of cardiac arrythmia: atrial fibrillation. Are you feeling a flutter in your chest, or maybe your smartwatch is signaling an irregular heartbeat? It's time to tune in to your heart's health because atrial fibrillation (AFib) is not just a condition for the textbooks—it's a growing concern for millions. In the latest episode of 'MedStarHealth Doc Talk,' we sit down with Dr. R...2024-01-3147 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Bone health and fracture prevention programSend us a textHand surgeon, Dr. Avi Giladi and endocrinologist Dr. Malik Cheikh discuss why their specialties lend to a fracture prevention program; why bone fractures are risky, particularly for seniors, as well as treatment and prevention tips.For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-01-3042 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)The athlete's heart: A deep dive into sports cardiology with Dr. Aubrey GrantSend us a textIn our latest podcast episode, Debra sits down with Dr. Aubrey Grant, a sports and performance cardiologist at Medstar Health, who offers a deep dive into sports cardiology, the athlete's heart, and its capacity to remodel itself. Dr. Grant, a graduate of the only sports cardiology fellowship in the country, shares his unique insights into the physiological wonders of high-performance athletes. He explains how the heart, much like any other muscle, remodels itself in response to the demands of intense exercise. This remodeling can result in an athlete's heart looking and...2024-01-0531 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Multiple sclerosis 101Send us a textBoard certified neurologist Dr. Tamar Harel discusses the complex autoimmune disorder, multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is triggered by the immune system attacking the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers, known as myelin, as something foreign. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of coordination, pain, and memory and vision loss. For details on diagnosis and treatment options, listen to this week's episode of MedStar Health DocTalk with host, Debra Schindler. debra.schindler@medstar.netFor more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2024-01-0537 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Cervical cancer: prevention, diagnosing and treatmentSend us a textDr. Irinia Tunnage of MedStar Health, talks with host Debra Schindler about the signs, symptoms, screening and treatment of cervical cancer. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2023-12-0426 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Endometrial cancer is uterine cancerSend us a textAccording to the American Cancer Society, approximately 66,000 new cases of uterine cancer are currently diagnosed each year. Unlike most cancers in the Unites States, endometrial cancer, the most common type of uterine cancer, has been increasing in both incidence and death rates and there is no way to effectively screen for it. That’s why it’s important to understand the risk factors for and symptoms of endometrial cancer as well as how it is diagnosed and treated. During this podcast, Dr. Ali Mahdavi, a gynecologic oncologist with MedStar Health, discusses what women need...2023-11-0933 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Lung cancer: what is it, where is it, and how do we treat it?Send us a textMedical oncologist Dr. Joshua Reuss, an expert in lung cancer, mesothelioma and thymoma, and pulmonologist Dr. Rebecca Krochmal, an expert in benign and malignant airway and pleural disease, both with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., address questions related to finding and treating lung cancer.To listen to and download all episodes, visit: https://www.medstarhealth.org/news-an....Learn more about Dr. Reuss: https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors....Learn more about Dr. Krochmal: https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors....F...2023-11-0833 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Transradial approach to uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)Send us a textThere’s a game changer in the treatment of uterine fibroids. Women whose lives are compromised by pain, long periods, severe bleeding, anemia and other symptoms of the muscular tumors, can opt for an embolization through the wrist. Known as transradial uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, the doctor access the uterus though a single tiny opening in the wrist, while the patient is under twilight sedation. Most procedures take less than an hour and patients go home the same day. Dr. Brian Swehla, chief of interventional radiology at MedStar Health, has all the de...2023-10-0252 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Hope for Kienbock's disease: the mysterious wrist conditionSend us a textKienbock’s disease, a debilitating condition where a wrist bone collapses and dies, has no known cause. Typically affecting young men in their teens or twenties, untreated Kienbock’s disease can result in progressive arthritis in the wrist and loss of function. For no clear reason, the lunate, one of eight small bones in the wrist, loses blood supply and the bone collapses. But how common is this extremely painful disease? And how can it be treated? On this episode of DocTalk, the chief of the Curtis National Hand Cent...2023-08-1441 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Let's talk liver massesSend us a textLiver masses or lesions are increasingly being identified incidentally during imaging tests and through bloodwork for unrelated conditions. While most are benign, many are complex making them difficult to accurately diagnose and treat. That’s why it’s important to see a specialist who can determine the specific type and nature of the lesion as the most appropriate treatment can vary greatly. During this podcast, Dr. Abhinav Sankineni, an interventional gastroenterologist, and Dr. Edward McCarron, a surgical oncologist, who both practice at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, discuss liver masses …what they are and ho...2023-07-2031 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Returning to play in sports medicineSend us a textSports medicine orthopedic surgeon Dr. Richard Hinton, and athletic trainer and DPT McKenzie Bane talk about the wrap-around care necessary for not only a successful return to play, but to return to performance. It's never soon enough for an athlete.Topics covered include commotio cordis, preparation for catastrophic events on the athletic field and the evolution of sports medicine.For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2023-06-211h 02MedStar Health DocTalk (series)What's an electromyography (EMG)? And why do I need one?Send us a textFrom a test that lasts an average of 40-minutes, patients with nerve injuries or neuro-muscular conditions can learn a lot about the health of the nerves signaling messages to muscles. The test is called an electromyography, or EMG. Neurologist Dr. Derrick Fox of MedStar Health explains why the test is useful, who should be tested, what information is gleaned from it, how it is conducted, and more....For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2023-06-1641 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Understanding menopauseSend us a textNight sweats, hot flushes, female discomfort and dryness, anxiety, and weight gain are just a few symptoms of menopause. How does a woman get there?What are the facts and myths about this change that can make a woman feel less feminine and outdated? On MedStar Health’s podcast DocTalk, Christina Enzmann, MD, a gynecologist and menopause specialist at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore, brings a fresh approach to explaining and treating menopause. She explains the stages of menopause, how it's different for everyone, and by making changes in...2023-05-2244 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Understanding peripheral artery disease?Send us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk.By the time we reach our 40’s, about 10-million Americans have some degree of plaque build-up in the arteries, called atherosclerosis. Deposits of that plaque in the arteries can impede or block the blood flow to the legs. It’s called peripheral artery disease, or P-A-D, PAD- and you may not even know you have it. To make an appointment with Jason Crowner, MD, FACS at...2023-04-1932 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Understanding thyroid cancerSend us a textThe thyroid gland is a small butterfly shaped organ that secretes hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. Though uncommon, when cancer grows in the thyroid, it's not often aggressive, and very treatable when found early. Dr. Vinay Gupta, a surgical oncologist at MedStar Health, talks with host Debra Schindler about diagnosing and treating thyroid cancer. For more information on thyroid cancer, go to MedStarCancer.org. Or for a consult with an expert, call 443-777-7911. For more episodes of MedStar Hea...2023-04-0124 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Lung nodulesSend us a textLung nodules are found in up to half of adults who get a chest x-ray or CT scan. Often called a spot on the lung or a shadow, they usually don’t cause any noticeable problems. However, in some cases, they can be an early sign of cancer. That’s why it’s important to seek follow-up care to accurately diagnose and monitor lung nodules. During this podcast, Dr. Ziv Gamliel, chief of Thoracic Surgery at The Angelos Center for Lung Diseases at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center discusses lung nodules…what they are and...2023-03-1535 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)CyberKnife® radiation treatment for prostate cancerSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk. CyberKnife®, also known as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is non-surgical, highly precise, targeted radiation, with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Unlike conventional prostate radiation therapy that can take up to 40 sessions, CyberKnife treats prostate cancer in only five treatments. This treatment is extremely accurate and painless. This treatment causes minimal side effects and requires virtually no recovery time. Listen to Dr. Sean Collins, radiation oncologist and director, CyberKnife Prostate Program, MedS...2023-03-1321 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Social determinants of healthSend us a textThe color of your skin, the community you belong to, and the place you call home are the largest predictors of health and longevity, according to a recent research article. These, and other non-medical factors are called social determinants of health. Learn more from Drs. Luke Carlson and Andrea Gaspar from Care Transformation about how MedStar Health is helping their communities on the latest episode of our podcast DocTalk. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.2023-03-0229 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Veterans’ Health Administration adds MedStar Georgetown University Hospital to its National Solid Organ Transplant NetworkSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk. Veterans across the country who are in need of a life-saving liver or kidney transplant now can receive these procedures at one of the top transplant centers in the nation, MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute, thanks to the recent inclusion of the MedStar Health program in the Veterans Health Administration network. The newly established relationship expands veterans’ access to a top ten transplant center in the nation allowing them to receive lifesaving care at on...2023-02-2717 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Transforming the treatment of brain and spine tumorsSend us a textThough rare, there are more than 100 different types of brain and spine tumors, making them complex to diagnose and treat. Because of this, a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment that brings together specialists that include neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, neuro-oncologists, and other experts is essential for the best outcomes. During this podcast, Dr. Teresa Wojtasiewicz, a neurosurgeon; medical oncologist Dr. Mahsa Mohebtash; and radiation oncologist Kelly Orwat; all with the Neuro-Oncology program at MedStar Health discuss the different types of brain and spine tumors as well as advances in treatment. ...2023-02-0233 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Advanced heart failureSend us a textOver 6 million adults in the United States are living with heart failure. Simply put, heart failure means that the heart isn’t pumping as well as it should be. While this is a serious condition, many people with heart failure can lead a full life when it is managed properly. It’s important to recognize the symptoms and understand the various treatment options –from medical management through transplant. Dr. Erika Feller, a MedStar Health heart failure and transplant cardiologist, shares her insights on these topics and more in this episode of MedStar Health DocTal...2023-01-1844 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Advancements in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancersSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk.What are some of the most recent advancements in targeted treatments for patients with GI cancers? Have there been any recent advancements in how we use immunotherapy to treat GI cancers? And how do patients with localized GI cancers like rectal and pancreatic cancer benefit from having access to a multidisciplinary care team? Dr. Ben Weinberg is gastrointestinal medical oncologist at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital who is focused on developing new therapies fo...2023-01-1224 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Complex lead extraction for cardiac implantable electronic devicesSend us a textApproximately one million pacemakers, cardiac defibrillators, and resynchronization devices are implanted worldwide each year, including more than 300,000 in the United States alone. Today’s cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are reliable and effective. However, what happens when a pacemaker or a cardiac defibrillator needs to be removed? And why would it need to be removed? Dr. Rachel Harrison, cardiac surgeon, and Dr. Sunjeet Sidhu, cardiac electrophysiologist discuss the reasons for lead extraction and what happens during the procedure. For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doct...2023-01-0531 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Cyberknife for the treatment of prostate cancerSend us a textDue, in large part, to advances in treatment, more men are surviving prostate cancer than ever before. Through the use of state-of-the-art technologies, such as CyberKnife, which makes it possible to deliver targeted radiation directly to the tumor—painlessly and without an incision—many patients are experiencing better outcomes with fewer side effects than other treatment options. Dr. Stephen Ronson, MD, a radiation oncologist at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus shares information about this advancement in the treatment of prostate cancer.For more episodes of M...2022-12-2726 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Advancements in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancerSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk. What are some of the most exciting innovations in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer? What role do lung cancer screenings play in catching lung cancer at an earlier stage? And how does our multidisciplinary team determine the best course of treatment for a patient with lung cancer? Dr. Joshua Reuss is an award-winning thoracic medical oncologist at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital who specializes in the treatment of lung cancer, mesothelioma, an...2022-11-2526 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Pancreatic cancerSend us a textThough it’s a rare type of cancer, pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. That's because pancreatic cancer symptoms aren't obvious in early stages and there is no official screening for it yet. So, most people don't know they have it until it has advanced to a stage when it is challenging to treat. During this podcast, Dr. Edward McCarron, a surgical oncologist at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center with extensive experience diagnosing and treating pancreatic cancer discusses the symptoms of pancreatic cancer as well as...2022-11-2217 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Outpatient joint replacementSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk.While some post-surgical patients like to be cared for in the hospital, other patients want to return home as soon as possible. Now for joint replacement, outpatient surgery is becoming the norm. But how does the hospital safely take care of its patients when they aren’t under their roof? On this episode of DocTalk, MedStar Health joint replacement surgeon Dr. Mark Hasenauer explains how outpatient joint replacement works, its benefits to patients, and who is a...2022-11-2112 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)The Curtis National Hand Center and reconstructing handsSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk. One of the medical legacies of World War II is combining the expertise of orthopedic, neurology and plastic surgery into one medical specialty: Hand Surgery. It was in 1947 when Dr. Ray Curtis was discharged from the Army and brought his expertise in hand surgery and reconstruction to MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore.Seventy-five years later, the Curtis National Hand Center is the only trauma designated center in the...2022-11-1435 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Living kidney donationSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk. Who is eligible to be a living donor? What are kidney swaps and exchanges? And can someone be a living donor even if they don't have a specific recipient in mind? Dr. Jennifer Verbesey specializes in kidney/pancreas transplantation for adults and children, and live donor nephrectomies. Dr. Verbesey is director, Living Donor Kidney Transplant at the MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute, and surgical director, Pediatric Kidney Transplant at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Fo...2022-11-1023 minMedStar Health DocTalk (series)Hyberbaric oxygen therapy for wound healingSend us a textComprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk.Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used to treat some chronic, non-healing wounds. Initially utilized to treat decompression sickness in divers, HBOT is now used for a number of medical problems, both chronic and acute. It is a simple yet effective treatment process in which a patient breathes pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber, allowing the greatest amount of oxygen to make its way into the lungs. Since the healing process is highly dependent on having en...2022-10-2818 min