South Korean Plastic Surgeons woo the Chinese Surgery Market

South Korean Plastic Surgeons woo the Chinese Surgery Market

By Chandana Banerjee

South Korea is fast becoming known as the plastic surgery capital of Asia. Now its doctors are looking to China as the next frontier of the cosmetic surgery market.

In order to look like this, some Chinese women are turning to surgery. The strength of the beauty industry in South Korea gives them confidence in the surgical procedures.

Doctors from South Korea have picked up on this business opportunity. South Korean plastic surgeons hope that their plastic surgery will continue to develop and gain a good and safe reputation in China.

So far, the government in Shanghai has approved more than 10 South Korean clinics, with more expected to come.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Woman dies after Liposuction

Woman dies after Liposuction

By Chandana Banerjee

A woman in Toronto died after having liposuction and this is raising concerns about doctors who are performing cosmetic surgery procedures despite not being licensed as plastic surgeons.

Thirty-seven-year-old Krista Stryland, a successful Toronto real estate agent and mother, underwent a liposuction operation at the Toronto Cosmetic Clinic located on Yonge Street in North York last Thursday.

Sources told CTV Toronto that the woman's heart stopped following the operation to remove fat from her abdominal area

She was taken to North York General Hospital and died despite attempts to revive her.

There are reports that the family doctor who performed the operation had training in cosmetic surgery but was not a licensed plastic surgeon, said CTV Toronto.

The situation highlights what many plastic surgeons claim is a major problem in Canada's medical system.

While plastic surgeons are required to adhere to strict regulations and undergo licensing, little can be done to stop family doctors or general practitioners from deeming themselves 'cosmetic surgeons' and performing similar procedures under far less stringent guidelines.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Diego Maradona and Cosmetic Surgery

Diego Maradona and Cosmetic Surgery

By Chandana Banerjee

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona last month visited a clinic in Colombia to iron out some wrinkles and shrink his double chin. Maradona arrived in Bogota on August 28 to undergo what his personal doctor, Alfredo Cahe, at the time said was aesthetic dental work.

The 46-year-old former player took advantage of his stay to also undergo other procedures and "lose a few years," Alejandro Rada, a Colombian doctor who worked on the star, said on Caracol broadcast network.

Maradona's double chin was reduced, and "we diminished the number of wrinkles on his forehead and between his eyebrows," Rada said.

"We also raised his eyebrows so that he could have an even more expressive look," Rada added.

Regarded as one of the greatest figures in world football, Maradona played for Barcelona and Napoli, and guided Argentina to World Cup victory in Mexico in 1986 and to the 1990 final.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Chinese favor South Korea for Cosmetic Surgery

Chinese favor South Korea for Cosmetic Surgery

By Chandana Banerjee

South Korea is known as the plastic surgery capital of Asia – celebrities in Asia like prefer heading to South Korea for nips and tucks. Now South Korean plastic surgeons are trying to crack the lucrative Chinese market. Chinese in fashion centers such as Shanghai see South Korean plastic surgeons as safer and more skilled than local doctors. Chinese men and women want ears, chins and chests just like the South Korean stars popular in China.

Kim, who runs South Korea's largest plastic surgery hospital BK Clinic and is one of the country's most successful surgeons, envisaged a bonanza in China after noting that 40 Chinese women a month were flying to his Seoul clinic for cosmetic surgery.

"I wanted to be the first Korean surgeon to make inroads into the booming Chinese market," Kim said in an operating room, talking to Reuters while performing eye and nose surgery on a client who will also receive liposuction.

"Unlike South Koreans, most of my Chinese patients come with photographs of a Korean actress and ask me to make them look like her," Kim said, citing two popular stars - Song Hye-kyo and Kim Tae-hee - as having the most mimicked faces.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Time – A Korean Movie on Cosmetic Surgery

Time – A Korean Movie on Cosmetic Surgery

By Chandana Banerjee

'Time' is a Korean movie that deals with the subject of cosmetic surgery. Starring Ha Jung-woo, Park Ji-yun and Seong Hyeon-ah and Directed and written by Kim Ki-duk, this 97 minute movie is in Korean with English subtitles.

It's been estimated that as many as 50 percent of South Korean women in their 20s — and an increasing number of men — have undergone cosmetic surgery in their quest for ul-jjang ("the perfect face"). If this suggests that South Koreans are suffering from an irrational plague of body-image insecurity, you might consider Kim Ki-duk's "Time" to be a pathological case study disguised as a romantic melodrama.

Young, attractive and two years into her relationship with Ji-woo (Ha Jung-woo), Seh-hee (Park Ji-yun) is so insecure that she flies into a rage when Ji-woo so much as glances at another woman. She later apologizes for having "the same boring face every day," then vanishes for six months — the time it will take her extensive facial surgery to heal. She returns as a new woman, her name slightly changed to See-hee (now played by Seong Hyeon-ah), determined to make Ji-woo (still devastated by Seh-hee's disappearance) fall in love with her again.

'Time' will make you ponder about what we see when we look in the mirror.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

TV Shows on Cosmetic Surgery banned in China

TV Shows on Cosmetic Surgery banned in China

By Chandana Banerjee

It’s common knowledge that cosmetic surgery shows have encouraged many people to go in for cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgery TV shows are very popular all over the world. But The Chinese government banned television shows about cosmetic surgery and sex changes.

A headline on the Web site of the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television said would no longer allow "shows about cosmetic surgery, (or) sex changes that involve public participation."

China has tightened controls on TV programs lately. At mid-month, state media reported that the broadcast agency had banned Chongqing Broadcasting Group's talent show "The First Time I Was Touched."

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Busan is the Destination for Cosmetic Surgery

Busan is the Destination for Cosmetic Surgery

By Chandana Banerjee

Korean cosmetic surgeons are in demand. Asians are flocking to Korean cosmetic surgeons in an effort to be made to look like their idols, Bloomberg news agency reported.

About 10,000 people journeyed to Korea last year for plastic surgery, the report said. While the industry is still in its infancy, tourists who want rounded cheekbones or flat tummies can choose from 80 clinics along Busan's Seomyon Street, known as Beauty Town.

Apparantly, Korean cosmetic surgery procedures are as good as procedures carried out in the U.S. and Japan, but much cheaper. Eyelid operations cost about US$1,100 to $1,600 in Korea, compared with $1,700 in Thailand, $1,900 in Japan and $4,600 in the U.S., according to Health Ministry research cited by Bloomberg.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Are Aussies less or more comfortable with Surgery?

Are Aussies less or more comfortable with Surgery?

By Chandana Banerjee

Are Australians more comfortable with cosmetic surgery or is it the other way around?

When it comes to embracing boob jobs and facelifts, young Australians are still far more cautious than their American counterparts, new research shows.

The study of Melbourne university students found that most were familiar with a huge range of cosmetic procedures, from botox injections to nose jobs and liposuction, but only 1% had actually gone under the knife.

And overall, the sample of 284 students was negative about the procedures, with half saying they would be "fearful" about the surgery.

A third said it was a waste of money and about the same number said it was wrong to get the operations to boost self esteem.

"Most respondents indicated they would be embarrassed to let others know if they had had such surgery," University of Melbourne researcher Dr David Castle wrote in the Medical Journal of Australia.

"And the majority - 70% - would not consider cosmetic surgery in later years, even if their partner wished them too."

The results are in stark contrast to a new US study of female students.

The Australian research found the one third of those questioned knew someone who had had surgery, and 11% said a family member had had a procedure.

But in the US, 5% had had it themselves, 67% knew someone else who had, and for 33% this included a family member.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

She’s got the Looks!

She’s got the Looks!

By Chandana Banerjee Chandana Banerjee

Tara Mahoney draws people to her. Men are attracted to her like bees to honey. Women too are impressed by the way she looks. So is Tara a diva in real life? Or is she a former beauty queen? Well, she’s neither a diva nor a beauty queen. The interesting thing is that Tara, a 28-year-old business writer, is not a classic beauty.

She can’t squeeze into those tiny black dresses or tight skirts with tiny waists. She doesn’t strut about in stilettos and is your regular jean-and-tee girl. So what’s so special about Tara? Well, she’s totally comfortable with the way she looks and maybe that’s what attracts others to her.

In fact, it’s quite common to get attracted to people who regard themselves highly. Sometimes it’s the right attitude that can make you look more appealing that a just-so nose or doe eyes or plump lips.

Here are some ways to look and feel good:
Falling in love with the face in the mirror doesn't always come easily, but with a little effort you can learn to do it.

Remind yourself that there's no such thing as an "ideal" appearance. Human beings come in all shapes and sizes and there is beauty in all of them.

Understand that the images you see in magazines, on TV and in the movies are anything but real. Models and actors are professionally made up.

Play up the features you like and forget the ones you're not so keen on.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Aussies choose to go Under the Knife

Aussies choose to go Under the Knife

By Chandana Banerjee

More and more Aussies are considering going in for cosmetic surgery, an independent survey into cosmetic intervention has revealed. A survey of 2211 people by NEWS.com.au and research company CoreData found 60.8 per cent of respondents have thought about having plastic surgery while 58.5 per cent have considered non-surgical procedures such as wrinkle treatments and laser hair removal.

Feelings of self-worth and confidence are the biggest drivers of cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatments, with the majority of respondents doing it to feel better about themselves, followed by looking more attractive for their partner.

Improving appearances in a bid to further careers was the least popular reason for both types of procedures.

Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons president Dr Howard Webster said a number of studies had shown "appropriate" plastic surgery had long-term positive effects on self esteem, with less than 1 per cent of people becoming addicted to it.

The stigma associated with plastic surgery has also fallen, with the majority of respondents not shy of telling their fiends and family that they had work done.

The lure of big breasts hasn’t lost its grip, with breast enlargement the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure, followed by rhinoplasty and liposuction. Penis enlargements also scored a mention with 17.9 per cent of males who have undergone plastic surgery braving the operation.

Wrinkle treatment is the most popular non-surgical treatment for both sexes, with not a great deal of difference between the percentage of men and woman who have had it.

Treatments to reduce acne scarring or “skin needling” where the skin is punctured with small needles to inject collagen and improve scars and wrinkles were by far the least popular procedures with only 5.6 per cent of people having them done.

Despite many of us secretly considering cosmetic treatments, the leap from thought to action is a big one with only 10 per cent of respondents actually undergoing cosmetic surgery and non-surgical procedures.

While many Australians are considering cosmetic intervention, when it comes to paying for it only 3.3 per cent would consider spending their tax return on enhancements.

The majority of respondents, or 53.4 per cent, preferred to spend their money on reducing debt, followed by improving their homes.

Credit from http://www.surgerywatch.com

Track the Knife: Plastic Surgery Shows Upset Doctors

Track the Knife: Plastic Surgery Shows Upset Doctors

by Erik Sass

REALITY TV SHOWS THAT DEAL with plastic surgery directly influence first-time patients seeking a surgical procedure, according to the co-authors of a study published in the July issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, an official industry journal. And while that finding might support the efficacy of TV as a sales medium--including in-program product placement--the plastic surgeons who authored the study are not happy.


The recent proliferation of reality TV plastic-surgery shows marks one of the stranger intersections of American society's fascination with medicine, appearance and "reality" programming. Popular shows now on air include ABC's "Extreme Makeover," Fox's "The Swan," MTV's "I Want a Famous Face," TLC's "Plastic Surgery: Before and After," E!'s "Dr. 90210" and Bravo's "Miami Slice."

John Persing, M.D. explained the background of the Yale University School of Medicine: "Despite widespread unease about the effects that reality television shows have on patient decision making and expectations, no data existed on how these shows affected potential patients."

To get a handle on the phenomenon, the researchers interviewed 42 cosmetic plastic-surgery patients, and found that 57% were "high-intensity" watchers of plastic-surgery shows--meaning regular viewers of at least one ongoing program. Ninety-five percent of the respondents were female.

These respondents attributed a substantial degree of influence to these shows and other media in shaping their decision-making process. Four out of five respondents said TV influenced them directly to pursue a particular surgical procedure.

While this was a small sampling, media planners would probably rejoice at this level of TV impact; the doctors feel just the opposite. Dr. Persing opined: "It is unfortunate that patients are turning toward the entertainment industry for educational information--we had hoped for different results. These shows may create unrealistic, unhealthy expectations about what plastic surgery can do for you. Although it's called reality TV, it may not be reality."

Overall, according to the study, "more than 95% of patients are aware of plastic-surgery reality television shows, and the majority of them are high-intensity viewers."

Credit from http://publications.mediapost.com

How Wrinkles Form?

How Wrinkles Form?

By C.D. Mohatta

As you know, our skin is made of three layers - the epidermis, the dermis and the underlying fat layer. As we grow, the skin deteriorates and loses its youth because of genetic programming. This programming also makes our hair white and makes our teeth fall as we age. We cannot stop this genetic change. Sun damage takes toll of the skin and the skin ages much faster because of that. Two persons of same age may have skin with different aging. One who has moved around in the sun freely will show much more damage on the skin compared to one who has protected his/her skin from sun.


With these aging changes, the epidermis becomes thicker and the dermis and the fat layer become thinner. These two are mainly responsible for wrinkle formation. The dermis is mainly made of collagen fibers with elastin fibers to give the skin its elasticity. Both these fibers make a mesh like structure in the dermis and give support to the skin surface. With age, collagen and elastin reduce and the support starts to break down. Moreover production of new collagen and elastin slows down. This makes it easy for any skin change such as wrinkles to appear easily and become permanent.

We make facial gestures. We smile, raise eyebrows, move eye muscles, stress on forehead skin while concentrating. We make many actions with our skin and as we age, with the support giving away, these changes become etched forever on our face. They are wrinkles. Smokers pull the puff. We may sleep on one side every night, making wrinkles on one cheek and do many such acts that make wrinkles. After thirties, these changes start becoming permanent on the skin and give an old look full of wrinkles.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.

Credit from http://www.americanchronicle.com

Skin Care- What Are AHAs and How Should You Use Them-3

Skin Care- What Are AHAs and How Should You Use Them-3

By C.D. Mohatta

AHAs are becoming very popular in the fight against aging skin. They are getting added to most of the beauty and skin care products. AHAs are one of the ingredients that help keep skin looking young for a longer time. Let us find out about common AHA molecules and how they help in skin care.

Glycolic Acid:

This is one of the most commonly used Alpha Hydroxy Acids in skin care. It is derived naturally from sugarcane juice. Glycolic acid has a very low molecular size. The low molecular size allows glycolic acid to penetrate skin faster. The dead skin cells, that bind with the skin, are removed by glycolic acid by loosening the glue, that sticks the dead cells with the skin. As the glue loosens, the dead cells exfoliate giving a cleaner look to the skin. Shedding dead cells faster also allows growth of new cells. Glycolic acid smoothens fine wrinkles. This acid also helps in treatment of blackheads and dries out the excess surface oil on the skin. It is thought that glycolic acids stimulate collagen production to some extent. This acid also keeps the skin moisturized by keeping water bound to the skin and prevents drying of skin. It can also bleach some spots on the skin. One added advantage of glycolic acid is that it helps other skin care ingredients reach deeper in the skin and makes them more effective. Glycolic acid is on the frontier of skin care.

Lactic Acid:

It is derived from milk. Milk baths have been popular since ages to get fresh and better skin. Lactic acid is a good skin moisturizer as it helps retain water in the skin. It is also a good exfoliator of dead skin cells. It is generally used in combination with other AHAs in skin care products.

Citric Acid:

It is also an Alpha Hydroxy Acid. Citric acid is derived from citrus fruits. It accelerates collagen production and also removes spots on the skin. Citric acid is not a good exfoliator. It is considered a good anti-oxidant, as it neutralizes free radicals that age the skin. Citric acid has been used for skin care since long in household remedies.

Other Acids:

Malic acid and tartaric acid are other popular Alpha Hydroxy Acids. They are not commonly used alone for skin care treatments but are added to make a combination of AHA skin care products to derive multiple benefits.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.

Credit from http://www.americanchronicle.com

'LipoDissolve' Injections Claim To Reduce Fat

'LipoDissolve' Injections Claim To Reduce Fat

Dr. Sean Kenniff
Reporting

(CBS4) MIAMI LipoDissolve injections claim to reduce the size of localized fat deposits and cause skin retraction in body regions where treated.

It's a non-surgical alternative for those patients seeking minimally invasive techniques to improve body contour. It is not a treatment for weight reduction but rather a procedure for improving shape and reducing targeted fat.

But critics, among them officials of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery say there is no convincing evidence that LipoDissolve is effective or safe, and they warn patients to stay away from fat-loss shots.

Dr. Roger Friedman is the medical director of Medsculpt, a new LipoDissolve clinic with offices in Maryland and Virginia.

He explained that the procedure is different than liposuction. "It's very different. And the real difference is volume. We're doing inches. It doesn't require an anesthetic. It doesn't require a hospital visit. It doesn't really require recovery."

He explained that it's a series of injections designed to melt away the fat.

The solution that's injected into the body is called PCDC. Though the formulation can vary, one of the main ingredients is a bile salt which helps break down fat. Although the procedure has been performed in Europe for over a decade, PCDC has not been approved by the FDA.

Dr. Alan Gold is incoming president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic surgery. He says there's no scientific proof the injections are safe and that they work. He said, "I'm saying that I'm not certain that it is safe."

Medsculpt says it's treated 500 patients since January, and no one has complained of unsatisfactory results. Dr. Gold says it's not a risk-free procedure.

Credit from http://cbs4.com/topstories/local_story_207142428.html

Knife-Free Plastic Surgery

Knife-Free Plastic Surgery

By Deanna Fene
First Coast News

The new laser procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and theres no recovery time
It happens to all of us, as we get older, things change. But what if you could defy the years, without a doctor's scalpel? In fact, imagine leaving your office for lunch and coming back looking better.

You no longer have to undergo the knife to look younger. And you no longer have to worry about the down time with microdermabrasions and chemical peels, either.

The new laser procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and there's no recovery time. The laser helps reverse the aging process by making fine wrinkles and sun damaged skin practically disappear.

Dr. Scott Trimas uses two different lasers on his patients, one for wrinkles, another for brown spots and blood vessels. "With these lasers you don't get any external damage to the skin. It's all internal which corrects the outward things that we see."

Dr. Dan Collaway uses a different laser. This one works on wrinkles and brown spots. "It's a very subtle very gentle very natural way of rejuvenating the skin."

It only takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and with little to no redness, clients can rush back to work.

33-year-old Leslie Dorian's been getting the treatment for a few months now. "You can go finish your day." And she's able to do it on her lunch break, without anyone knowing she's had any work done, "that's right that's what I like best."

It's quick, easy, and virtually painless, but it'll take several months and multiple treatments to see any results. And at $250 to $500 a pop, it isn't cheap.

Dorian says it's worth the price, "plastic surgery or a face lift is ten thousand dollars, so I'm only paying $500 dollars. It's definitely worth it."

After two months, Leslie says the fine wrinkles around her eyes are now gone. The brown spots on her forehead are still there but not as strong. She hopes another treatment or two, and it will be gone.

Credit from http://surgerynews.net/news/111003/face/face311-005.html

Ear surgery pioneers in city operation

Ear surgery pioneers in city operation

SURGEONS from all over the world were set to perform pioneering ear reconstruction operations in Edinburgh today.

Three children were due to get new ears created for them in complex procedures at a specialist unit in the Capital.

Pictures of the surgical teams - from Japan, France and Germany - at work will be beamed live to the Royal College of Surgeons to be watched by delegates from across the globe.

The conference was organised by the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgeons, with work by Edinburgh-based cosmetic surgeon Ken Stewart.

Mr Stewart, who is the only surgeon to perform the complex surgery in Scotland, said the operations took between six and eight hours.

The surgeons will operate on nine-year-old Sean Bentley, from Denny, Stirlingshire, who was born with one underdeveloped ear.

The other patients are a 12-year-old whose ear was ripped off by a dog when she was a baby, and another child with a birth defect.

Mr Stewart said: "There is evidence that this kind of surgery, while often purely cosmetic, can have a big effect on children's self-esteem and improve their lives in the long term."

Credit This article from : http://news.scotsman.com

Considering Breast Enhancement? What You Need to Know

Considering Breast Enhancement? What You Need to Know

By Dr. Richard Reynolds

Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure that plastic surgeons use for breast enhancement or to obtain more symmetry. Every day, women all over the world decide to undergo breast augmentation surgery for a variety of reasons. It is important to research and understand the surgery and examine your reasons for considering it when deciding whether breast augmentation is the right procedure for you.

Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Right for Me?

Women are impacted by the pressure from society to look perfect from a young age. Compound that with a spouse or partner that prefers larger breasts and it is reason enough for many women to decide to undergo breast augmentation surgery. There are plenty of women that decide to proceed with breast enhancement for the right reasons, based solely on their own wants and needs. To ensure a successful outcome, it is important to take a close look at what is behind your desire for enhanced breasts.

-Have realistic expectations - Women must go into breast enhancement with realistic expectations of what the operation will do for them. It is important to keep in mind that even though breast augmentation surgery can do wonders for self-esteem, it is meant to enhance your appearance, not make your life perfect.

-Who are you doing it for? Yourself or someone else's happiness? - It is essential that you decide to explore breast enhancement for yourself and not for anyone else. Many women make the mistake of going through with breast augmentation surgery to please their spouse or partner, or to comply with social pressures, instead of listening to their own needs. This is a mistake that will not fix problems, but has the potential to multiply them.

-Be physically healthy - The best age for breast enhancement is anywhere between 18 and 50. After 50, you can still get implants, but there is a higher risk of medical complications, and the operation has a lower success rate. If you are pregnant or nursing, now is not the time for breast augmentation surgery. Make sure that you don't have any serious chronic diseases or ongoing treatments that may pose a risk. The best way to be sure that you are a good candidate for breast enhancement is to talk to your doctor.

-Does your surgeon have the necessary experience to deliver the breast enhancement result you are looking for? Ask potential surgeons to disclose important information about their background, including; education, professional experience, board certification, and the number of years they have performed breast augmentation surgery.

-Be mentally prepared for altering the appearance of the body - Often, there is a period of adjustment after surgery. Take the time to ensure that breast enhancement is right for you from both a physical and mental perspective.

-Know what results you want to see - Be upfront and open with your doctor about what you want your breasts to look like after the breast augmentation surgery. Clear up any questions or lingering concerns about expectations before moving forward with breast enhancement.

-Know what type of breast implants you want - The two options for breast implants are silicone or saline. Both are safe for breast enhancement, but each has pros and cons that need to be considered.

-Understand the maintenance that may be required over the long-term - You can undergo breast enhancement, but you cannot stop the process of aging and your shape may change with time and a breast lift may be required later. Many women have to go in for follow-up treatment, either to remove or replace the implants, or have them adjusted due to the effects of age.

The Breast Augmentation Surgery: Before and After

Although breast augmentation surgery is a quick and efficient procedure, it is still serious and it is important to know what to expect during and after, in terms of pain and recovery. A breast enhancement is performed as an outpatient procedure, usually under a general anesthetic and takes about one hour. There is mild to moderate soreness that improves significantly two to three days after breast augmentation surgery and most patients are back to work three to four days after surgery. Low impact activities can resume immediately but there are some restrictions on strenuous activity for three to six weeks. Six weeks after the surgery there are no restrictions.

Short term side effects of breast augmentation surgery include soreness, swelling, change in nipple sensation (increased or decreased sensation), and bruising. Most of these resolve completely within a few weeks to a few months. Some potential long term problems include deflation, leaking, rupture, capsular contracture, and rippling. Capsular contracture is abnormal scar tissue around the implant. All implants develop a capsule around them but some can become hard or painful and may require a procedure to remove the scar tissue. An MRI can confirm leakage of a silicone implant if suspected and saline implants usually deflate entirely when there is a leak or rupture.

When considering breast augmentation surgery, do your homework on the options available for types of implants. In November of last year, the FDA approved use of silicone implants for all women over twenty-two years old, which ended a thirteen year restriction on silicone implants. Plastic surgeons can now use silicone or saline implants for breast enhancement, depending upon patient preference and anatomy.

If silicone implants are used during breast augmentation surgery, the implants can be placed above or below the chest muscle. If saline implants are used for breast enhancement, most plastic surgeons will place them under the muscle. There are pros and cons to placing them above and under the muscle. Placing the implants above the muscle decreases post-operative pain and may decrease distortion during heavy chest muscle activity--important for body builders or weight lifting enthusiasts. Placing the implants below the muscle hides the upper portion of the implants and offers slightly more tissue coverage if tissue in this area was very deficient.

Conclusion

Breast enhancement is a valuable option for women who want to enhance their appearance, with realistic expectations in mind. In order to ensure a successful outcome from breast augmentation surgery, it is important to understand your own motives and to do your homework to learn about all the risks and potential side effects that could result from the procedure in the short and long-term.

Credit from http://www.americanchronicle.com

Ten Plastic Surgery Risks You Need To Know

Ten Plastic Surgery Risks You Need To Know

By Miriam Marcus

We are one vain bunch.

Need proof? Demand for cosmetic plastic surgery continues to increase. Americans spent $11.5 billion for 11 million cosmetic procedures in 2006--a 48% increase over the number performed in 2000, according to the National Clearinghouse of Plastic Surgery Statistics.

While TV shows like ABC's Extreme Makeover and NBC's Bionic Woman paint a rosy picture, plastic and cosmetic surgeries are not without risks.

After all, surgery is surgery.

"The human body makes no distinction when the scalpel hits," warns Dr. Richard D'Amico, president-elect of the American Society for Plastic Surgery (ASPS). "The difference with elective cosmetic surgeries is that patients generally start out being healthy."

Among the more common dangers: numbness, seroma and necrosis.

Proceed With Caution
Temporary numbness or loss of feeling at the site of the incision is fairly common in face-lifts and tummy tucks, though it's rarely permanent.

Numbness after breast surgeries of any type is the most common. Loss of sensation in the nipple in particular occurs anywhere from 10% to 70% of the time, says Dr. Nahai, president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) depending on the type of procedure. What's worst? Breast reductions, where the nipple and areola are totally removed and reattached as skin grafts.

Seroma is a collection of watery body fluids that occurs most often in tummy tucks. It's common enough that many surgeons take preventative measures by inserting a drain during surgery, notes Dr. D'Amico.

Some tissue death from surgical manipulation, called necrosis, is inevitable after any procedure, though your risks increase dramatically if you're a smoker. That's because smoking affects blood supply to the tissues. By definition, the surgeon is cutting into those tissues, and if the blood supply is already compromised, necrosis is more likely to occur.

After any surgery, there is the possibility of excessive bleeding. Hematoma, a collection of blood, occurs more in men than in women because beard follicles in the face mean there are more capillaries--and therefore an increased blood supply in that area.

Infections are rare in plastic surgery patients, since most are healthy to begin with. When they happen, however, they can spread quickly and must be stopped immediately.

The rarest and most feared of side effects is, of course, death. Toxic levels of anesthetics have been known to cause respiratory failure in some patients. In some rare instances, high levels of topical lidocaine have led to death. In others, imitation Botox, or other imitation fillers not approved by the FDA, have left patients in comas for up to several years, and eventually dead.

Scared? There are several steps you can take to minimize the potential dangers of plastic surgery.

Reduce Your Risk
Choosing the right surgeon is important. Identical twins may undergo the same procedure by two different doctors and have two different results, explains Dr. Darrick E. Antell, a New York-based plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and aesthetic surgery.

Be sure to pick a surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only plastic surgery board recognized by the American Medical Association. Ask your doctor which types of medicine they hold certifications in, and check for yourself at the American Board of Medical Specialties Web site.

Any MD can claim to be a surgeon, but you should choose only a board certified plastic surgeon for your procedure.

Also, verify that your doctor of choice has privileges to perform surgery in a hospital. A doctor may choose to perform certain procedures in a private office, but he or she should have credentials from a hospital's "credential committee." Having such credentials, says Dr. Antell, is as important as a doctor's board certification.

If your doctor chooses to perform surgery in a private space, make sure the facility is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation for Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) or the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). Accreditation is "the gold standard," according to Dr. Antell--and many of these facilities are better than what you'll find in hospitals. Make sure there are registered nurses and an anesthesiologist on hand in case anything goes wrong.

To Operate Or Not To Operate?
Some elective surgeries are a safer bet than others. Many surgeons, like Dr. D'Amico, would recommend any proven procedure as long as there is an acceptable ratio between risk and benefit. Others, like Dr. Nahai, disapprove of certain procedures per se. He's not in favor of thread lifts, for example (like a face-lift, but less invasive).

"It's not a good operation," he says. In relation to the risk, "the results don't last long enough."

The doctor must be certain the surgery is appropriate for that specific patient, and that the risk to benefit ratio is balanced.

"People need to practice some restraint," insists Dr. Antell. You want to pick the smallest procedure to get the results you want with the least risk. Remember that these are elective surgeries.

"Everyone thinks 'complications won't happen to me,'" he says, "but they can and do happen."

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The Benefits Of Glue Used In Facelift Surgery

The Benefits Of Glue Used In Facelift Surgery

Facelift Surgery

Dr. Davis B. Nguyen, M.D.'s and Dr. Frank M. Kamer, M.D.'s
co-authored study on the benefits of the use of fibrin glue adherent in facelift surgery has been published in the September issue of world's premier Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, that of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The study represents the most comprehensive clinical assessment of the use of fibrin glue in facelifts to date and its conclusions demonstrate a significant advancement in surgical facelift technique.

The study was conducted at the venerated Lasky Clinic in Beverly Hills, one of the first accredited outpatient ambulatory surgical centers in greater Los Angeles, founded by Dr. Frank Kamer in 1981. Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Kamer analyzed two hundred patients undergoing elective facelifts in a consistent fashion. One hundred patients over a one year period received fibrin glue during facelift surgery and their healing was measured prospectively. Another one hundred patients from the previous year who had not received fibrin glue had their charts retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent facelifts by the same surgeon using the deep plane technique, which involves repositioning large skin flaps at multiple levels of the face. Patient healing was evaluated in stages at 24 hours, 48 hours, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

The use of fibrin glue was associated with several significant benefits in both the short and long-term healing processes of the patients studied. Fibrin glue alleviated the need for drainage tubes postoperatively that can cause discomfort. The tubes are normally placed under the skin for 1-2 days following facelift surgery to collect blood and prevent swelling. The fibrin glue adherent, which is applied before the external skin flap is resealed, also reduced the incidence of severe complications such as hematoma, seroma, and death. Most notably, zero percent of patients who received fibrin glue suffered prolonged swelling, discoloration, or hardness as opposed to twenty-two percent of patients who had not received fibrin glue.

Fibrin Tissue adhesive dates back to World War I when it was used topically to control the bleeding of wounded soldiers. Since then, it has been utilized with success in a variety of surgical procedures. It has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for colostomy procedure, cardiopulmonary bypass, and splenic surgery. Its use in aesthetic surgery, though popular in Europe, has been less widespread in the United States. Dr. Davis Nguyen, former chief surgical resident at Yale University, is among the few facial plastic surgeons employing this advanced facelift technique. "This advancement has had a tremendous impact on my practice," states Nguyen. "The major concerns for my patients are results, risk, and downtime. With this technique, my patients benefit from shorter recovery periods, fewer complications, and superior surgical outcomes."

By: Dr. Davis B. Nguyen, M.D. on Oct 01 2007

Credit from
By: Dr. Davis B. Nguyen, M.D. on Oct 01 2007
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Structured programmes for MRCS

Structured programmes for MRCS

Recognition: Professor Gautam Sen, chairman, Indian Chapter of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

“The Medical Council of India (MCI) has to take many factors into consideration before giving blanket recognition for [degrees such as] MRCS and FRCS and MRCP,” says Professor Gautam Sen, chairman of the Indian Chapter of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

MRCS is only an acknowledgement that the candidate is fit for four more years of training before he or she could be certified to practise surgery, says Dr. Sen. In an e-mail interview with Education Plus, he explained the background of these degrees.

“MRCS diploma is Membership of Royal College of Surgeons of all Royal College of Surgeons in England — The Royal College of Surgeons of England, The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and The Royal College of Surgeons of Glasgow. This diploma came into existence only in 2000, when the training to become a surgeon became more structured. It was provided in two stages — a two-year basic surgical training (BST), and only after two years of Basic Surgical Training (after MBBS) and a Basic Surgical Skills Course — one could appear for this basic diploma and if successful become member of either of the Royal College of Surgeons.”

MRCS was a first step to undertake four more years of higher surgical training in the U.K. On completion, a certificate of completion of surgical training (CCST) is issued. Thus after six years of training in the U.K., one could appear for the FRCS examination. Only after this could one become a consultant surgeon.

Changes introduced

In 2001- 2003, changes in training methods were introduced under the new Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board (PMETB) — an autonomous body, set up by the U.K. Government and independent of all Royal Colleges. This was followed by the Modernising Medical Career (MMC) Document, which the U.K. considers as basic to train their doctors into specialists. “The emphasis is on structured training, competence-based continuous and in-training assessment,” Dr. Sen says.

Basically, there is Foundation Year 1, Foundation Year 2 and Foundation Year 3, training which is common to all, after MBBS, followed by, if selected, further four years of continuous training before one can get a Completion Certificate of Training. This means a student could be considered for appointment as consultant in NHS hospitals.

Phased out

“The present pattern of MRCS Examination is soon going to be phased out. The Indian Chapter of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh brought FRCS examination to India in 1998 so that surgical trainees here could write it. The examination was discontinued in 2000 in favour of the BST and HST system.

“The Colleges conduct MRCS examination in India that does not require training as eligibility criterion, unlike in the U.K., where a structured training programme after MBBS is a pre-requisite.

“Theoretically, one may take this examination in India, without a single post of training, and get MRCS Diploma,” he explains. Earlier, successful non-European Union MRCS students could go to the U.K. and work in NHS hospitals.

Basic and Higher training

The Indian chapter has initiated a dialogue with the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, for conducting the Basic Foundation Years of Structured Training (3 years), followed by MRCS examination and then continuing further four years of structured training in Specialty, followed by FRCS examination as in the U.K.

Recognising MRCS diploma as an eligibility to practise surgery does not arise. If a candidate undergoes BST and HST for six to seven years in Indian hospitals then the MCI should recognise such training and the FRCS degree as Postgraduate Degree in Surgery or in higher specialty in Surgery.

As regards recognising the old FRCS — that is, 1975 to 2000 (FRCS prior to 1975 was recognised) is welcome, as most of the doctors with this old FRCS had enough experience and developed competence working in the U.K. and later in India.

MRCS is the first step to undertake four more years of higher surgical training in the U.K.

R. SUJATHA

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SBi Launches RHead(TM) Lateral Radial Head Implant And.....

SBi Launches RHead(TM) Lateral Radial Head Implant And RHead(TM) Plating Systems To Expand Its Elbow Management System

Small Bone Innovations, Inc. (SBi), a single-source provider of products, technology and education for the small bone and joint orthopedic market sector, announced the launch of the rHead(TM) Lateral Radial Head Implant System. To further augment its Elbow Management System, the company also launched the rHead(TM) Plating System for internal fixation of proximal radius fractures.

The rHead Lateral Implant is a side-loading radial head prosthesis that allows for a minimally invasive approach and exposure in radial head replacement surgery. The head and stem of the implant connect by the means of a dove-tail locking mechanism that does not require a set screw - saving time in the operating room.

The rHead implant and new plating systems have received 510(k) clearance by the FDA. The rHead Lateral is indicated for treatment of arthritic and traumatic conditions of the radial head.

Anthony G. Viscogliosi, Chairman & CEO of SBi, said: "The addition of the rHead Lateral implant and the complementary new plating system responds to surgeon demand for a full range of treatment options for every disease stage or severity of trauma in the elbow."

The stem of the rHead Lateral implant is plasma coated with titanium for immediate stability in the canal and optimum osteo-integrating properties. As with SBi's existing rHead implants, the stem has a 12-degree curve to match the anatomy of the radius. This stem is available with a 2 mm standard collar or a 6 mm extended collar.

"The modularity of treatment options now available from SBi is making the often complicated alignment challenges in elbow repair or reconstruction more manageable and predictable in outcome," said Amit Gupta, M.D, who completed the first procedure using the Lateral rHead at the Louisville Arm and Hand Center.

"A unique feature of the system is the coupling mechanism between the radial head and stem that enables the implant to be implanted sideways to reduce ligament disruption," Dr. Gupta added.

According to SBi, surgeons have been instrumental in creating the Elbow Management System. The first rHead(TM) device was released in 1999 by Avanta (later acquired by SBi) and two years later a bi-polar version, the rHead Recon was introduced.

This was followed last year with the introduction of the SBi UNI-Elbow Radio Capitellum System(TM) as the first commercially available uni- compartmental elbow arthroplasty system. The new rHead Lateral implant heads are approved for use with the UNI-Elbow System for patients requiring a uni- compartmental solution.

Surgeons using SBi's Elbow Management System are also benefiting from the company's Precise Guidance Technology (PGT(TM)) instrument system that assists anatomical placement of the rHead implants. The trialing system helps to size the implant to render it as minimally invasive as is practicable.

The new rHead Lateral implant comes with an assembly tool for quick engagement or disengagement of the head and stem. The accompanying impactor tool is configured to assure precise positioning of the implant by referencing the surrounding anatomy.

About Small Bone Innovations, Inc.

Small Bone Innovations, Inc. (SBi) was founded in 2004 by Viscogliosi Brothers, LLC, (VB), the New York-based merchant banking firm that specializes in the musculoskeletal/orthopedic sector. VB created SBi as the first company to focus purely on small bone & joint science. By integrating established companies and professionals in the field, SBi can offer a broad, clinically proven portfolio of products and technologies to treat trauma and diseases in small bones & joints. Today, SBi has more than 130 employees at facilities in New York, NY, Morrisville, PA, and Bourg-en-Bresse, France.

SBi was a 2006 recipient of Red Herring magazine's annual "Red Herring 100 North America" award, recognizing SBi as one of the nation's leading technology companies and the only orthopedic device company selected among an initial entry of more than one thousand firms.

Additionally, SBi's Artelon(R) CMC-I Spacer, developed for patients with osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb, was featured on the cover and highlighted within Medical Design Technology magazine's "Year of Innovation" issue as one of the most fascinating technologies influencing the medical device industry.

Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry magazine named SBi to its list of "50 Companies to Watch" in 2006, noting, "Small Bone Innovations is going against the grain in its determination to become a market leader in the small bone & joint device sector."

About Viscogliosi Bros., LLC

Established by Marc R. Viscogliosi, John J. Viscogliosi and Anthony G. Viscogliosi in New York City in 1999, Viscogliosi Bros., LLC (VB) was the first venture capital/private equity and merchant banking firm dedicated to the musculoskeletal/orthopedics sector of the health care industry.

Today, VB is a leading independent firm with a mission to create, build and finance companies founded on innovations developed by surgeons and uniquely focused on "life changing" musculoskeletal/orthopedic technologies. VB has worldwide surgeon, industry and trade relationships and significant financial expertise in the musculoskeletal/ orthopedic sector.

As principals of VB, the Viscogliosi brothers have a combined total of nearly half a century of experience analyzing and investing in the musculoskeletal-orthopedics sector, directing literally billions of dollars through the orthopedics industry.

The Viscogliosi brothers have pioneered innovative financial, strategic and management initiatives for nearly 150 companies in the sector, from start- up, seed and development stage all the way to exit, while helping people lead better lives through the orthopedic and spinal products marketed and sold by the companies they have assisted in developing and financing. For more information about VB, please visit: http://www.vbllc.com

Forward-looking statements:

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of risks and uncertainties impacting SBi's business including increased competition; the ability of SBi to expand its operations and to attract and retain qualified professionals; technological obsolescence; general economic conditions; and other risks.

Small Bone Innovations, Inc.
http://www.totalsmallbone.com

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Imported surgeons could cut by 80 per cent

`Imported surgeons could cut by 80 per cent...

By Rosemary Mirondo, Ifakara

It has been revealed that Tanzania is the largest exporter of surgery patients for overseas treatment in sub-Saharan Africa due to lack of surgeons and facilities needed to conduct surgery in the country.

This was said by president of the Tanzania Surgical Association, Dr Petronila Ngiloi, during an official opening of the Second Congress of the International Federation of Rural surgeons held at St Francis Hospital, Ifakara on Thursday.

Dr Ngiloi said that 95 per cent of patients went overseas for surgery, while 80 per cent could otherwise be treated locally if the country were to substitute the export of patients with importation of surgeons.

`It is cheaper and less risky for a surgeon to travel to follow a patient than a patient to follow a surgeon and it also strengthens the local capacity,` said Dr Ngiloi.

She said that the association`s target was to have at least one surgeon in each regional hospital.

She added that for 13 years, her association had been striving to promote the art of surgery and inspiring young doctors to take up the trade as their specialty.

Dr Ngiloi said that the number of surgeons in Tanzania was less than 100 for a population of more than 35 million people, leaving the bulk of surgeries to be conducted by medical officers or Assistant Medical Officers.

Elaborating, she said that there were only four pediatric surgeons for the whole country, three neurosurgeons and only two thoracic surgeons who however, did not have the necessary equipment to fully utilise their skills.

She said under such circumstances, patients who needed surgery services could take several months or even years before getting one.

She called on the government to train surgeons in various super-specialties by setting up a programme in collaboration with overseas colleagues.

She added that if one surgeon of a certain special skill was invited during the setting of surgical camps, Tanzania could gain by having more patients operated and it would help capacity building locally so that in a few years there would be non or very few overseas referrals patients.

She also urged the government to improve operating theatres and to recognise the contribution of the private sector saying that 70 per cent of health services in Dar es Salaam were provided by private hospitals.

The Vice President, Ali Mohammed Shein who graced the meeting, commended surgeons who work in rural areas.

He said the burden posed by surgical problems in rural areas especially in developing world was working on constrained budgets leading to inadequate health financial allocations, crisis of human resources and poor infrastructure and illiteracy.

He added that the government would take seriously the importance of developing and promoting rural surgery.

SOURCE: Guardian

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SA surgeon in trailblazing TV operation

SA surgeon in trailblazing TV operation

Xolani Mbanjwa

A leading South African doctor has shown the world how it's done in a groundbreaking surgery viewed by thousands of doctors around the world.

Professor Heine van der Walt, from Pretoria, a world leader in laparoscopic surgery, performed seven surgical operations during a live transmission at Netcare's Unitas Hospital in Centurion, Tshwane, to colleagues around the world.

The operations were broadcast live to a two-day Digestive Apparatus Surgery Conference in Rome, where surgeons and surgical students, including 2 500 conference attendees, watched the procedures on big screens.

Thousands more also viewed the operations in various countries, including Australia, Japan, Belgium and the United States.

While many doctors around the world still cut their patients to perform medical operations, Van der Walt demonstrated the delicate operation, which requires only about three to five holes, no more than 3mm, to be drilled in the surgery area.

He said that while the procedure is expensive, it saves time as most patients take only two days to recover instead of the normal six weeks when they are cut open.

"Instead of cutting a patient to get to a particular organ, you drill small little holes where you insert a camera and your working tools.

"You look at the monitor to view your surgery. It's cleaner, quicker, pain-free and chances of infection are minimal."

It was the third time Van der Walt had participated in the conference to demonstrate what he calls "telemedicine".

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Pioneering surgery cuts out scalpel

Pioneering surgery cuts out scalpel

Provided by: Sun Media
Written by: MEGAN GILLIS

Dr. Marc Ruel has pioneered the surgical technique of placing grafts on a beating heart through an incision a little bigger than a paper-clip.

But even more revolutionary is his research at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute into using cells transplanted from the bloodstream to regenerate the heart without using a scalpel at all.

It's made the surgeon, scientist and scholar the first cardiovascular surgeon to win the Royal College of Physician and Surgeons' prestigious gold medal in surgery.

"Our work at the Heart Institute shows the potential to regenerate the heart and takes us one more step toward new treatments to restore heart function," Ruel said. "We are just scratching the surface in this area. But our cardiac surgery research team is still growing, moving us into the future with a new vision of how cardiac research will evolve."

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Ruel won the gold medal for research that suggests that transplanted cells from the patient's bloodstream could be used to regenerate blood vessels, restoring blood supply to the heart.

Ruel studied medicine at the University of Ottawa but left Canada for a fellowship at Harvard University. He was lured back to Canada with a grant from the Canadian Centre for Innovation, which allowed him to set up a lab.

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'Controversies And Advances' Conference For Cardiologists And Heart Surgeons

'Controversies And Advances' Conference For Cardiologists And Heart Surgeons

Main Category: Cardiovascular / Cardiology News

Stem cell therapy for cardiac regeneration and the controversial issue of medicine and the media will be the focus of the keynote addresses at the seventh annual "Controversies and Advances in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease" conference. Conducted by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center at the Beverly Hills Hotel on Oct. 4 and 5, the conference is co-sponsored by the California Chapter of the American College of Cardiology, the California Chapter of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, and Promedica International CME.

Professional differences of opinion often have stood between heart surgeons and cardiologists, and recent innovations in minimally invasive medical procedures have done nothing to reduce the friction. The ongoing debate as to whether it is better to replace and repair aortic and mitral valves surgically or to manage them medically is just one example. And when considering treatment options for Atrial Fibrillation, the choices are even more diverse -- should the physician opt for minimally invasive surgery, drugs or a catheter treatment? And then there is the highly controversial stent issue -- drug-eluting vs. bare metal which is better?

This major symposium -- one of the very few that brings together both cardiologists and heart surgeons -- will directly explore the controversies and latest medical and surgical advances in an open forum. Many subjects will be addressed in debate formats. Others will be lectures presented by highly respected leaders in their fields.

Lawrence K. Altman, M.D., author of the book "Who Goes First? The Story of Self-Experimentation in Medicine" and a member of the New York Times science news staff since 1969, will be one of two keynote speakers. Altman, senior medical correspondent at the Times, has published an average of 100 scientific stories a year and writes the column "Doctor's World." His remarks will focus on medicine and the media.

A clinical professor at New York University Medical School, Altman has received three Howard W. Blakeslee Awards from the American Heart Association and the George Polk Award for excellence in journalism.

Eduardo Marbán, M.D., Ph.D., recently named director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, will be the second keynote speaker and will discuss stem cell therapy for cardiac regeneration. Prior to joining Cedars-Sinai, Marbán was a member of The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine faculty for 22 years, most recently serving as chief of cardiology and professor of cardiology, physiology and biomedical engineering.

Editor-in-Chief of the journal Circulation Research and an expert in molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying heart problems, Marbán is widely known for directing major multidisciplinary research programs leading to gene therapy, drug treatment and stem cell discoveries.

"The field of cardiology is poised for a revolution in which cell-based methods will be used to regrow healthy heart muscle after myocardial infarction or in chronic heart failure. Cardiac stem cells (CSCs) show great promise for regenerative therapy. Before 2003, when these resident stem cells within the heart were first discovered, the heart was thought to have little or no regenerative potential," said Marbán, providing a preview of his address.

"We have isolated cardiac stem cells from adult human and porcine endomyocardial biopsy specimens, differentiated them in vitro and characterized their functional properties. They can regrow healthy heart muscle and blood vessels," Marbán continued. "We also have developed methods to isolate and expand CSCs from routine biopsy specimens; they readily become excitable and contractile. These observations provide both a simple method and a solid rationale for the use of CSCs for autologous cardiac regeneration therapy."

Autologous refers to cells reimplanted within one patient, not transplanted from one person to another.

Marbán came to Cedars-Sinai to serve as the first director of the Heart Institute, which integrates and oversees the development of programs in cardiology, cardiac surgery, cardiac imaging and other areas. He has received funding to support three clinical studies reintroducing cardiac stem cells into heart patients, with first enrollment anticipated early next year.

Additional keynote speakers will include Dr. Jack Lewin, CEO American College of Cardiology, who will speak on healthcare reform.

Program directors for "Controversies and Advances in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease" include: Gregory P. Fontana, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon and vice chairman of Surgery; Raj Makkar, M.D., cardiologist and director, Interventional Cardiology; P.K. Shah, M.D., cardiologist and director of the Division of Cardiology; Alfredo Trento, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon and director of the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai; and John G. Harold, M.D., FACC, cardiologist and President, California Chapter American College of Cardiology (ACC), ACC Governor for Southern California, and a recent Chief of Staff at Cedars-Sinai.

Sessions on Thursday, Oct. 4, will address coronary artery disease (part 1), mitral valve and carotid artery disease, arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation, and the future and new techniques. Friday's sessions look at coronary artery disease (part 2), aortic valve disease, congenital heart disease, and surgery and interventional cardiology. Several lectures and/or debates will be presented on each subject.

----------------------------
Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.

The first in Southern California and one of only 10 hospitals in the state whose nurses have been honored with the prestigious Magnet designation, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is one of the largest nonprofit academic medical centers in the Western United States. For 19 consecutive years, it has been named Los Angeles' most preferred hospital for all health needs in an independent survey of area residents. Cedars-Sinai is internationally renowned for its diagnostic and treatment capabilities as well as breakthroughs in biomedical research and superlative medical education. It ranks among the top 10 non-university hospitals in the nation for its research activities and is fully accredited by the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc. (AAHRPP). Additional information is available at http://www.cedars-sinai.edu/.

Source: Sandy Van
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

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