CONWAY REGIONAL

DAWN HUGHES, MD

MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST

WHAT QUALITIES ARE MOST IMPORTANT IN YOUR SPECIALTY OF MEDICINE?

Empathy and meticulousness. In dealing with high-risk pregnancies, the details are important. It is such an honor to be entrusted with the care of someone’s unborn child; the field of MFM demands thoroughness in order to ensure the best plan of care.

WHEN DOES A MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST BECOME PART OF A FAMILY’S PREGNANCY PLAN?

This is usually determined by the patient’s OB-GYN prior to or during pregnancy and is based on a patient’s medical and family history. Our patients include mothers who are older than 35, those who have health conditions that could complicate pregnancy (such as hypertension, diabetes, etc.) or those who have had high-risk pregnancies in the past. We also take care of unborn babies with issues such as structural abnormalities, genetic differences and growth restriction.

ARE THERE CERTAIN WARNING SIGNS THAT WOMEN SHOULD BE AWARE OF DURING PREGNANCY?

One of the confusing and often frustrating aspects of pregnancy is that many symptoms can be totally normal or a warning sign of a potential complication. It almost always takes a complete clinical evaluation to tell the difference. Because of that, it is best to discuss any concerns with an OB-GYN or MFM specialist.

WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING THING THAT YOU HAVE LEARNED ABOUT MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE?

I didn’t realize how much my practice would change my outlook on life. Learning everything that can go wrong in a pregnancy gave me a profound appreciation for when everything goes right. After a hard day at work, I find myself marveling at my own children and the miracles that they are.

WHAT IS THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS?

I define my success by my ability to find balance and joy in the things I love most: my work and my family. I had to learn to let go of other people’s expectations and focus on what is most important to me.

SCOTT SMITH, MD ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

WHAT ARE THE MOST PREVALENT CONDITIONS YOU DEAL WITH?

I treat a lot of rotator cuff and other shoulder-associated conditions, as well as knee problems such as arthritis, meniscus, ACL and knee-cap dislocations. We treat fractures of all types, including pediatric fractures. In my practice, we can see the whole family.

CAN YOU DISCUSS SOME OF THE IMPROVEMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN MADE IN ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY SINCE YOU BEGAN YOUR PRACTICE AND HOW THEY BENEFIT PATIENTS?

We have seen positive results with robotic joint replacement using the MAKO robotic surgery system; it is a worthy way of doing joint replacement that benefits patients. There is also new implant technology that has made a difference in how we treat patients. People don’t need to be in the hospital as much as in years past, and the recovery times are quicker because of the less invasive surgical procedures we’re able to do.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THE PUBLIC RELATED TO ORTHOPEDIC CARE?

A good way to approach your joint and bone health is to manage your weight. Being overweight has a negative impact on the body – especially the lower extremities. All your weight goes through your knees, hips and ankles, and that can lead to problems that require treatment and surgery.

WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE VISIT AN ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON?

Most daily bumps and bruises can be managed with over-the-counter medication. If something persists beyond a few days or a week, you should get it checked out. If you have any ongoing musculoskeletal concerns, it is better to get them checked out before they become bigger problems.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST ABOUT BEING A SURGEON?

I enjoy the rapport that I have with my patients and the feeling that I am enhancing their quality of life. All the praise goes to the Lord, who uses my capacity as a surgeon to reach other people.

WHAT DO YOUR PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES LOOK LIKE?

Success looks like a patient who comes in not being able to walk, and then I see them walking around Kroger three months later following a knee replacement. I have had patients with bad fractures 15 years ago who are now healthy and don’t look back. Those moments are the most gratifying for me.