June 2018 • Vol. 48, No. 6
Mecklenburg Medicine A Publication of the Mecklenburg County Medical Society | www.meckmed.org
Keep Cool and Covered, as the
Dog Days
of Summer Heat Up!
Mecklenburg County Medical Society
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facebook.com/meckmed
Mecklenburg County Medical Society Foundation @meckmedsociety
Help your patients navigate changes in prostate screening Novant Health Cancer Specialists can partner with you One in 9 men will get prostate cancer — and Novant Health Cancer Specialists can partner with you to better understand the newest recommendations. Deborah Bradley, MD, a fellowship-trained and board-certified medical oncologist, specializes in diagnoses and treatment of prostate cancer at Novant Health Cancer Specialists. Dr. Bradley and the rest of the Cancer Specialists team can help your patients get the screening they need — and help you get the crucial conversations started. Prostate cancer conversations need to start earlier than many patients think. The American Cancer Society urges screening discussions begin at: • Age 50 for men who are at average risk of prostate cancer and are expected to live at least 10 more years. • Age 45 for men at high risk of developing prostate cancer. This includes African Americans and men who have a first-degree relative (father, brother or son) diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age (younger than age 65). • Age 40 for men at even higher risk (those with more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age). Deborah Bradley, MD, medical oncologist Novant Health Cancer Specialists 704-316-4485 To refer a patient, call 704-316-4485.
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Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 3
Table of Contents 5 President’s Letter: A Love Story By Scott L. Furney, MD, President, MCMS
5 Charlotte AHEC Course Offerings for June 6 Member News 6 New Members 7 Upcoming Meetings & Events 8 Welton Society Spring Luncheon 8 Beat the Heat During the Dog Days of Summer 10 MedLink Forum 11 At the Hospitals 13 Independent Physicians of the Carolinas 13 National Health & Wellness Observances for June 13 Advertising Acknowledgements
June 2018 Vol. 48 No. 6 OFFICERS
President Scott L. Furney, MD
President-Elect Elizabeth B. Moran, MD Secretary Babak Mokari, DO
Treasurer John R. Allbert, MD
Immediate Past-President Stephen J. Ezzo, MD
BOARD MEMBERS
Raymond E. Brown, PA Sarah M. Edwards, MD E. Carl Fisher, Jr., MD Donald D. Fraser, MD Vishal Goyal, MD, MPH Jane S. Harrell, MD Stephen R. Keener, MD, MPH B. Lauren Paton, MD Anna T. Schmelzer, MD Rachel L. Storey, DO Andrew I. Sumich, MD G. Bernard Taylor, MD
EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS Tracei Ball, MD, President-Elect Charlotte Medical Dental & Pharmaceutical Society Sandi D. Buchanan, Executive Director Mecklenburg County Medical Society Darlyne Menscer, MD NCMS Delegate to the AMA
Douglas R. Swanson, MD, FACEP, Medical Director Mecklenburg EMS Agency
EXECUTIVE STAFF Executive Director Sandi D. Buchanan
On the Cover:
See page 8 for tips to beat the heat. 1112 Harding Place, #200, Charlotte, NC 28204 704-376-3688 • FAX 704-376-3173 meckmed@meckmed.org Copyright 2018 Mecklenburg County Medical Society Mecklenburg Medicine is published 10 times per year by the Mecklenburg County Medical Society, 1112 Harding Place, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28204. Opinions expressed by authors are their own, and not necessarily those of Mecklenburg Medicine or the Mecklenburg County Medical Society. Mecklenburg Medicine reserves the right to edit all contributions for clarity and length, as well as to reject any material submitted. Mecklenburg Medicine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. Classified Ads: Open to members, nonprofits and non-member individuals only; advance approval of the Managing Editor and advance payment required. Member rate is 0, non-members $20 for the first 30 words; $.75 each additional word. Display Ads: Open to professional entities or commercial businesses. For specifications and rate information, contact Mark Ethridge at mecklenburgmedicine@gmail.com. Acceptance of advertising for this publication in no way constitutes professional approval or endorsement of products or services advertised herein. We welcome your comments and suggestions: Call 704-376-3688 or write Mecklenburg Medicine, c/o Mecklenburg County Medical Society, 1112 Harding Place, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28204.
4 | June 2018 • Mecklenburg Medicine
Finance & Membership Director Stephanie D. Smith
Meetings & Special Events Coordinator Jenny H. Otto
MECKLENBURG MEDICINE STAFF Editor Scott L. Furney, MD Managing Editor Sandi D. Buchanan Copy Editors Lee McCracken Stephanie Smith
Advertising Mark Ethridge mecklenburgmedicine@gmail.com Editorial Board Stephen J. Ezzo, MD N. Neil Howell, MD Jessica Schorr Saxe, MD Graphic Design Wade Baker
President’s Letter
A Love Story By Scott L. Furney, MD
A
patient of mine passed away a few months ago. As I reflect on his life story and passing, the privilege our profession provides humbles me. We engage in the improvement, extension and dignity of our patients’ lives. He came to me as a complex patient, who had clear goals for the remainder of his life. Although he was ill, he needed to be around to care for his wife of more than 60 years. She was disabled and no longer could live independently, so his existence primarily was to spend time with her in her nursing facility. He joined her for at least two of her three meals, going back to his own apartment briefly, if at all. He returned to his apartment at night when he knew she was settled in and was as comfortable as her conditions would allow. That love and devotion kept him going, even when he was quite ill. I was asked to see him by his daughter, who was struggling to find someone to help with his care. He had advanced kidney disease but did not want dialysis, as he had seen its effect on the quality of life in others. After declining dialysis, he said his physicians did not feel they had anything left to offer him. That alone could be a topic for an article, but not today. While I will not detail much of his medical history, suffice it to say he required a great deal of “adjustment” to keep his diseases at bay. I had him come to my office for the first few months until I realized travel was quite a burden for him. Then I began making home visits. My visits were monthly at first (aided by Hospice nurses who checked frequently), and with increasing frequency over a year’s time. Eventually, it was my Friday afternoon routine to see him on my way home, just a few minutes detour from my usual route. I found myself spending more and more time with him, but not always out of medical necessity. I truly enjoyed his company and the gruff wisdom he shared. With little warning, his wife became gravely ill and passed a few days later. While he and his family grieved, very little else changed for a few weeks. Then I noticed it ... the spark of purpose had left him. Fatigue, edema, insomnia and other symptoms appeared. I checked his renal function, which had been amazingly stable for two years, and found his creatinine nearly had doubled. It was as if his kidneys realized they had met the last major goal in their host’s life. I had seen Takasubo cardiomyopathy (broken heart syndrome) but had not seen “broken” kidneys before. Over the next few months we worked diligently to maintain his dignity and independence. When the number of good days were outnumbered by the bad days, he requested we stop his complex pharmacologic regimen and let nature take its course. His final goal was to stay in his home, while approaching a dignified death. We were able to achieve that goal with loving family support, a little advice from me and fabulous Hospice nursing.
In the two years (or so) I cared for him, we avoided the ED, the hospital and all of the other things we usually see at the end of life. His case has crystallized for me the true meaning of value-based care. Not in the Medicare “spend per beneficiary” way insurers see it, but in meeting goals for his life with dignity, grace and comfort. We have the profound privilege of seeing into the most private and vulnerable parts of our patients’ lives. In that space, we bring value by helping patients achieve their goals, even if not the traditional ones we are taught in medical school. The real value is to us, though, if we take the time to appreciate the privilege we are given and rejoice in our efforts. To some it may seem I sacrificed a lot to care for this man (and his family), but I received so much more in return. The Friday evening visits still nourish my soul as I reflect on what our profession means. In humble service,
CHARLOTTE AHEC COURSE OFFERINGS Charlotte AHEC is part of the N.C. Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Program and Carolinas HealthCare System.
JUNE 2018
Continuing Medical Education (CME) 6/4 6/5 Online Online Online Online Online Online Online
Hello: Making Tough Conversations Easier Aligned Together to Realize, Innovate, Unite and Motivate Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs Risk Management: Patient Identification Social Media: Risks and Benefits for Physicians Prevention and Management of Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Motor Vehicle Crash Victims MTAC Trauma Modules Get the 4-1-1: Everything Primary Care Providers Should Know About Parent Training in Behavior Therapy While Working With Families With Young Children With ADHD Electronic Medical Record on Trial (Risk Management)
For more information or to register for these courses, call 704-512-6523 or visit www.charlotteahec.org.
Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 5
Member News
NEW MEMBERS Shraddha S. Mehta, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology CMC NorthPark Family Medicine 251 Eastway Drive Charlotte, NC 28213 704-446-9991 University of Arkansas, 1999
Photo not available.
Kate K. Miller, MD Anesthesiology Piedmont Triad Anesthesia 145 Kimel Park Drive #120 Winston-Salem, NC 27103 University of Texas, 2004 Edmire F. Souffrant, MD Family Medicine Novant Health Carolina Family Physicians 7110 Lawyers Road Charlotte, NC 28227 704-537-0020
Southeast Anesthesiology Consultants 927 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203
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704-377-5772
Susan E. Atkin, MD Anesthesiology University of Illinois, 2005 Melanie J. Bamert, MD Anesthesiology SUNY Upstate Medical University, 2004 David J. Brenneman, MD Anesthesiology University of Connecticut, 2012 William C. Buhrman, MD Anesthesiology Duke University, 1983 Ted R. Campbell, MD Anesthesiology Texas A&M University, 2003
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Russell A. Cheaney, MD Anesthesiology University of Louisville, 1982
Michael D. Hodge, MD Anesthesiology Medical College of Georgia, 2006
Bobby G. Clifton II, MD Anesthesiology University of Tennessee, 1992
Jason K. Klopotowski, MD Anesthesiology University of Rochester, 2005
Nicholas J. Coates, MD Anesthesiology Medical College of Georgia, 2006
Shweta Koirala, MD Anesthesiology Manipal College of Medicine Sciences, 2001
Vincent A. Cordero, MD Anesthesiology University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, 2009
LaKesha N. Legree, MD Anesthesiology University of Iowa, 2008
Nathan S. Davis, MD Anesthesiology Wake Forest University, 2012
Michael F. Mantinan, MD Anesthesiology Michigan State University, 2008
Robert G. Ellis, MD Anesthesiology Virginia Commonwealth University, 2007
Aoife M. Marasco, MD Anesthesiology University of Dublin, 2000
Richard C. Franklin, MD Anesthesiology Wake Forest University, 1991
Devin P. McCullough, DO Anesthesiology Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2007
Jodi J. Galla, MD Anesthesiology Wake Forest University, 2009
Sara A. Moseman, DO Anesthesiology Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2008
Jessica S. Gonzalez, DO Anesthesiology Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2011
Diana L. Newby-Boyd, MD Anesthesiology Medical College of Wisconsin, 2004
Melody G. Herman, MD Anesthesiology Saint Louis University, 2011
Yvette D. Page-Turner, MD Anesthesiology Medical University of South Carolina, 1999
Member News Nishita D. Patel, MD Anesthesiology Medical University of South Carolina, 2010
Benjamin A. Trapp, MD Anesthesiology Northeastern Ohio Universities, 2006
Sonya C. D. Randazzo, MD Anesthesiology Ohio State University, 2012
Kristen M. Trulear-Jackson, MD Anesthesiology Howard University, 2010
John L. Reynolds, MD Anesthesiology University Autonoma Guadalajara, 1980
Lauren N. Welsh, MD Anesthesiology East Carolina University, 2009
Joseph F. Rivers, MD Anesthesiology Medical College of Georgia, 2008
Jonathan E. Wilson, MD Anesthesiology University of Arizona, 2008
Anne Walker, MD, Has Joined Starks Pediatrics In April, Anne Walker, MD, a long-time member of the MCMS and the Child Health Committee, joined Starks Pediatrics. In addition to pediatric care, Dr. Walker offers International Adoption consultations to include pre-adoption planning, including risk assessment for special needs children, analysis of foreign medical records, and care and referrals when children come home to their families. She is accepting patients just born through college age at 2315 W. Arbors Drive, suite 115 in Charlotte. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 704-717-2826.
Upcoming Meetings & Events JUNE
Kenneth J. Sauve, MD Anesthesiology Wake Forest University, 2008 Rachel M. Sloan, MD Anesthesiology University of Kentucky, 2011 Anna Greta B. Taylor, MD Anesthesiology Medical University of South Carolina, 2005 Daniel M. Thailer, MD Anesthesiology University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, 1991 Ilka D. Theruvath, MD Anesthesiology Medical Upper School of Hannover, 2000 Lan Chi B. Tran, MD Anesthesiology University of North Carolina, 2009
Southeast Pain and Spine Care 927 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203
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704-377-5772
Charles R. Clover, MD Pain Medicine University of North Carolina, 2010 Kevin F. Costello, MD Pain Medicine Eastern Virginia Medical School, 2009 Jon-David Hoppenfeld, MD Pain Medicine Rosalind Franklin University, 2003 Raza A. Khan, MD Pain Medicine Spartan Health Sciences University, 2007
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Interested in becoming a member? Join or renew your membership online at www.meckmed.org or call the Medical Society at 704-376-3688.
Meetings are at the MCMS office unless otherwise noted. n
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Tuesday, June 12 MedLink meeting Community Care Partners of Greater Mecklenburg 4701 Hedgemore Drive, Charlotte 8:30 a.m. Monday, June 18 Executive Committee meeting 5:45 p.m.
Thursday, June 21 CAMGMA Social Time and location to be determined
ng i k e e S sors: Spon If your practice is looking
rtunities, call for sponsorship oppo utive director, Sandi Buchanan, exec unty Medical at the Mecklenburg Co 88. The Society at 704-376-36 several meeting Medical Society has l Meeting, opportunities (Annua ction meetings, Women Physicians Se ber socials) membership/new mem unity to opport and we welcome the with you. consider partnering
Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 7
Member News
Welton Society Spring Luncheon
Beat the Heat During the
Dog Days of Summer
n Avoid the Heat.
Stay out of the heat and indoors as much as possible. Spend time in an air-conditioned space. Only two hours a day in an air-conditioned space can reduce the risk of heat-related illness significantly. Shopping malls offer relief if your home is not airconditioned. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember, electric fans do not cool, they just blow hot air around. n Dress for the Heat.
The Welton Society Spring Luncheon was held April 26 at the Charlotte Country Club. William E. Downey, MD, a cardiology specialist with Atrium Health and graduate of Duke University, was the speaker. His topic was “Interventional Cardiology 2018 and Beyond.” The Welton Society has a spring and a fall luncheon for Emeritus and early retired members of the MCMS.
The More You Know ... A Brief History of the Welton Society
In the 1980s, David G. Welton, MD, a dermatologist and concert pianist, occasionally invited a few of his colleagues to lunch and a piano concert at Charlotte Country Club. In the early 1990s, Dr. Welton asked his fellow musician, Larry Boggs, MD, and his neighbor, Tom Dulin, MD, to help him expand the luncheon at Charlotte Country Club to include all retired local physicians. It was decided that two meetings a year, March and September, with a medical-related speaker would be the appropriate agenda. The initial gatherings, which immediately were popular, were called “The Retired Physicians Group.”
After Welton’s death in 1995, it was thought appropriate to honor the lead “founder” of the group by changing the name to the Welton Society. As the city has grown, so has the number of Emeritus members of the Mecklenburg County Medical Society. Today, there are about 250 potential attendees at the biannual meetings. The members who do attend these meetings thoroughly enjoy their interactions with colleagues of prior years.
8 | June 2018 • Mecklenburg Medicine
Wear loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Choose lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight and helps maintain normal body temperature. Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating. n Drink FOR the Heat.
Drink plenty of water and natural juices, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Even under moderately strenuous outdoor activity, the rate your body can absorb fluids is less than the rate it loses water due to perspiration. However, if you have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restrictive diets; or have a problem with fluid retention, you should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake. n Do not drink IN the Heat.
Avoid alcoholic beverages and beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, tea and cola. Alcohol and caffeine constrict blood vessels near the skin reducing the amount of heat the body can release. Although beer and alcohol beverages appear to satisfy thirst, they actually cause further body dehydration. n Eat for the Heat.
Eat small meals more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein because they increase metabolic heat. Avoid using salt tablets, unless directed to do so by a physician. n Living in the Heat.
Slow down. Reduce, eliminate, or reschedule strenuous activities such as running, biking and lawn care work when it heats up. The best times for such activities are during early morning and late evening hours. Take cool baths or showers and use cool, wet towels.
Member News
Smith Arthritis Fund Committee Accepting Grant Applications Through June The Smith Arthritis Fund was established in 1979 when Carolyn Kirkpatrick Smith donated $41,500 for arthritis research. This fund is administered through the Mecklenburg County Medical Society and is designed to support research projects as they relate to the needs of patients suffering from rheumatologic diseases. Each year, the committee awards about $1,000 per grant. There are no rigid restrictions. The Smith Arthritis Fund Committee of the Mecklenburg County Medical Society is accepting grant applications from interested physicians through the end of this month. Contact the Medical Society at 704-376-3688 for more information.
Save the Date! Eighth Annual
October 2, 7 p.m. CenterStage — NoDa
Fashion presentation by Dillard’s.
Fashions modeled by member physicians and local attorneys. S Silent Auction, Raffle and Wine Pull S Benefitting the Clyde and Ethel Dickson Domestic Violence Shelter For more information about sponsorship opportunities, email ssmith@meckmed.org.
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TIFFANY SLAYDEN d. 704-971-8906 tiffany@FlagshipHP.com DEVELOPMENT • CAPITAL SOLUTIONS • ACQUISITIONS • BROKERAGE • ASSET MANAGEMENT • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • ENGINEERING • CONSULTING Flagship Healthcare Properties is a fully integrated commercial real estate firm committed to healthcare. Flagship has developed over 1.6 million square feet and currently manages over 3 million square feet of healthcare space. The firm invests through and is manager of Flagship Healthcare Trust, a private REIT. 2701 Coltsgate Road, Suite 300 | Charlotte, North Carolina 28211 | 704-442-0222 | www.flagshiphp.com
Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 9
MedLink News
FORUM The sixth Annual MedLink Forum, sponsored by the Mecklenburg County Medical Society, was held April 10 at Project 658. The event focused on how to bridge the gap between social services and health services to improve health outcomes and impact social determinants of health. Speakers and topics were Erine Gray with Aunt Bertha speaking on “An Outsider’s Approach to Reducing the Cost of Healthcare in the U.S.;” Julieanne Taylor with the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, speaking on “State of Access to Care;” and Alisahah Cole, MD, with Atrium Health, speaking on “Enhancing the Health of Our Communities.” The free, all-day forum was well-attended. MedLink advocates for improved access to care in Mecklenburg County through education, communication and collaboration among service providers and they envision a community in which all residents have access to collaborative health care. MedLink partners include representatives from local health safety net providers, who support the delivery of healthcare services. MedLink is leading efforts to address Access to Care, which was identified as a top health priority in the most recent Community Health Assessment conducted by the Mecklenburg County Health Department. Visit medlinkofmecklenburg.org.
10 | June 2018 • Mecklenburg Medicine
At the Hospitals
Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center Names Chief Nursing Officer Tammy Brooks has been named the chief nursing officer for Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center, scheduled to open in October. The 50-bed hospital will provide surgery, emergency care, diagnostic testing, Tammy Brooks inpatient care and other medical services. Brooks will lead the nursing team, focusing on Novant Health’s ongoing commitment to remarkable quality care, patient safety and satisfaction. Brooks joined Novant Health 15 years ago as a coronary care nurse after graduating from the Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing. She has served in a variety of nursing leadership roles, including assistant manager of invasive cardiology, nurse manager of noninvasive cardiology, and most recently, director of nursing for Novant Health Heart & Vascular Institute (HVI). She holds an undergraduate degree in nursing from Winston-Salem State University and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Pfeiffer University. In addition to HVI service line leadership, Brooks has been very involved in many system-wide nursing initiatives focused on improving quality of care. The new hospital currently is accepting applications for the following opportunities: • Nursing and inpatient care • Emergency services • Laboratory services • Radiology • Respiratory therapy • Pharmacy • Rehabilitation • Operating room For employment information or to view all available positions, visit NovantHealth. org/MintHillTeam. n
Physicians Earn COEMIG Recognition Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center earned recognition as a Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive n
Gynecology (COEMIG) by Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) in 2012. Scott Schneider, MD, with Novant Health Bradford OB/GYN, has been a COEMIG designee since 2012 and recently was re-accredited. Matt McDonald, MD, with Scott M. Schneider, MD Novant Health Gynecologic Oncology Associates, also was recently awarded COEMIG recognition. A COEMIG designation means both the hospital and the surgeons have undergone a critical review process and have met standards developed by SRC to ensure the efficacy, safety and efficiency of their minimally invasive gynecology capabilities. Among the many qualifications considered are the experience of the surgical staff, the status of the hospital’s technology and equipment, adherence to established clinical pathways for perioperative care and the availability and competency of the support staff and surgical team members. “Stop the Bleed” Training Program to Help Save Lives in Union County Novant Health has received a substantial grant to provide bleeding control kits and education to all 53 Union County Public Schools (UCPS). With these funds, Novant Health trauma team members will work collaboratively with UCPS to educate school emergency response teams, teachers, students and parents. The project aims to train about 6,000 Union County residents by the end of 2018. n
William Belcher, MD
Bruce Culp, MD
Steven Gilchrist, MD
Led by Angela Clarkson, BSN, RN, TCRN, outreach and injury prevention coordinator at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Novant Health already has conducted 35 “Stop the Bleed” training courses to more than 350 community members since August 2017.
Course participants learn the ABC’s of bleeding control: A, be alert and call 911; B, find the bleeding injury; and C, compress it. In small groups, with handson instruction from Novant Health team members, participants learn how to use tourniquets and pack wounds, as well as other critical steps to take in the moments following a traumatic event before rescue crews and police arrive. “Stop the Bleed,” launched by the White House in 2015, is intended to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage bystanders to become trained, equipped and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives.
Vanessa Stewart, MD
Robin Desavaux, FNP
Blakeney Family Physicians Steelecroft Has New Name and New Address Novant Health Blakeney Family Physicians Steelecroft has changed its name to Novant Health Steelecroft Primary Care. The office also has moved across the street from its previous location. The new address is 13425 Hoover Creek Blvd., suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28273 and the phone number, which remains the same, is 704-316-2080. The providers at this office are William Belcher, MD; Bruce Culp, MD; Steven Gilchrist, MD; Vanessa Stewart, MD; and Robin Desavaux, FNP. n
Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 11
At the Hospitals
Colon Cancer: A Disease of the Elderly, Until Recently A study led by the American Cancer Society last year confirmed what oncologists have seen firsthand: Rates of colorectal cancer, which include colon and rectal cancer, are rising among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. The risk factors for colorectal cancer — including obesity, diabetes, smoking and drinking — are more prevalent in older populations than younger ones, yet the rates are decreasing in the older and increasing in the younger. Last year’s ACS study revealed 20-somethings have experienced the most dramatic increases, with rates of colorectal cancer rising nearly 4 percent each year between 1987 and 2013. “It’s a very alarming phenomenon,” says Mohamad Salem, MD, an oncologist with Atrium Health’s Levine Cancer Institute. “Most of the younger patients with colorectal cancer we see in our clinic don’t have these risk factors. Most of them eat healthy, are in good shape and have no family history. Most likely, there’s something else going on causing this.”
n
A Call for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Because colorectal cancer is associated with older populations, most young people aren’t screened for it, nor do they have much knowledge about the disease. This means that when a younger person is diagnosed, the cancer has often progressed to a later stage. It also means awareness of the symptoms of colorectal cancer becomes critical. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, consistent nausea and unintended weight loss. Dr. Salem emphasizes that having any of these symptoms shouldn’t cause alarm — many conditions can cause them — but it should push people to get examined to find out the cause. Earlier Diagnoses, More Effective Treatments Levine Cancer Institute actively participates in research of innovative treatments for colorectal cancer, including the TAPUR study, a national clinical trial that matches tumor types with the best medicines to fight them. Immunotherapy is
emerging as a promising treatment, as well. But still, Stage IV colon cancer has no cure. Salem recently treated a woman in her 20s with Stage IV colon cancer who asked about the impact of her disease on having children. He had the difficult conversation with her that chemotherapy and pregnancy aren’t compatible but that without chemotherapy, her life expectancy would decrease significantly. Education and awareness, then, are vital to early discovery of colon cancer. Salem says younger people who notice unusual health issues, should visit a doctor for an exam. If they’ve had a relative with colorectal cancer, they should ask their doctor when to be screened. Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Performs First-in-World Stent Implantation Atrium Health’s Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute’s clinical team has enrolled and treated the first patient in the investigational device exemption study for a venous self-expanding stent system. Erin Murphy, MD, FACS, director of Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute’s venous and lymphatic program, and Gregory Stanley, MD, FACS, vascular surgery fellowship director, performed the venous procedure on the first patient in the world in December 2017 at Atrium Health’s Carolinas Medical Center. The patient, who has nonthrombotic iliac vein lesion (NIVL), is doing well post-treatment. The implantation is part of a multicenter international trial, with Dr. Murphy as the lead principal investigator for the ABRE IDE trial in the United States. “Deep venous obstruction impacts more than 27 million people worldwide and can result in limited mobility and poor quality of life,” says Murphy. “By investigating a new form of iliac vein stenting, we are committed to exploring the latest treatment options for patients.” The multicenter study, which analyzes treatment of symptomatic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction in patients with venous occlusive disease, will enroll up to 35 sites internationally. “Iliac vein stenting for venous obstruction has now become a first-line treatment option for many patients, vastly improving symptoms related to the diseased vein and quality of life,” says Dr. Stanley. Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute is uniquely positioned as a leader in the future of n
12 | June 2018 • Mecklenburg Medicine
cardiovascular medicine. In 2013, Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute was the first in the world to implant a branched stent graft specifically designed for branch vessel repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms. This endovascular treatment for aortic aneurysms has provided an important alternative to open-chest operations. Invention Revolutionizes Recovery After Surgery Jeko Madjarov, MD, of Atrium Health’s Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, knew open chest surgery was a life-saving procedure for many patients, but he also saw just how tough it could be on the body. For patients who already have weak muscles from certain conditions, it can be even harder. Supporting a patient’s bone structure after open heart surgery was critical — not only to their recovery, but to lessen the damage from any future trauma or impact. Dr. Madjarov came up with a solution. Instead of the traditional titanium and wire that holds the breastbone together horizontally after surgery, he developed a device that could close and hold the sternum together with additional support. The sternal closure device was developed entirely inhouse at Atrium Health over the course of six years, and in February 2016 it was approved by the FDA. The device is the only one of its kind that uses a high-quality polymer. Soon after, Madjarov performed the firstever chest implantation of his device. His patient, Thomas, needed the enhanced support of the new device due to a condition called myasthenia gravis, that left him with very weak skeletal muscles. After a successful procedure, Madjarov was hopeful the patient would benefit — but he couldn’t have guessed that his new device was about to be put to the ultimate test. The very day Thomas was cleared to resume normal activities, including driving, he was involved in a car accident. His air bag deployed in the crash. In usual circumstances, this impact likely would damage the chest and possibly break the structure supporting the breastbone. But, while Thomas suffered rib and back injuries, his chest closure was rock solid. For Madjarov — and the patient — the closure device was validated as a true life-saver. “I’m inspired by the way this device has helped save multiple patients’ lives to date,” says Madjarov. “This option now is available nationally and has been used in more than 2,000 cases.” n
Independent Physicians of the Carolinas
Independent Physicians of the Carolinas is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) membership organization whose mission is to create public awareness of medical doctors not employed by a network or hospital system and to provide educational programs and resources to physician members and their administration. Visit us at IndependentPhysicians.org. Matthews Internal Medicine has opened The Med Spa at MIM, focusing on the latest medical advancements to aid in magnifying patients’ beauty. The Med Spa is providing a full range of spa services using medical-grade chemical peels, medical-grade skin care, the Icon™ laser, Botox®, and filler. Visit www.mimspa.com or on Facebook or Instagram using @medspaatmim. To schedule a consultation, call 704-899-5038. The collaborative team of oncologists, nurses and staff at Oncology Specialists of Charlotte is honored to partner with the Mecklenburg Breast Health Coalition, an initiative created through grant funding under Susan G. Komen Charlotte, to address the high, late-stage diagnosis rate of breast cancer in Mecklenburg County. Various medical, emotional, educational and financial resources are engaged in the 18 organizations committed to breast health in our community. A resource sharing event is scheduled for September 5, 2018. For more information on the Mecklenburg Breast Health Coalition, visit https:// komencharlotte.org/impact/mbhc/.
Have you renewed your MCMS membership for 2018? Not a member? Join or renew membership online at www.meckmed.org or call the Medical Society office at 704-376-3688.
NATIONAL HEALTH & WELLNESS OBSERVANCES JUNE 2018 Cataract Awareness Month n Fireworks Safety Months (June-July) Great Outdoors Month n Men’s Health Month n Migraine & Headache Awareness Month n Safety Month n Scleroderma Awareness Month June 2: Trails Day June 3: Cancer Survivors Day June 5: World Environment Day June 10: National Children’s Day June 11-17: Men’s Health Week June 14: World Blood Donor Day June 18-20: 43rd Annual National Wellness Conference June 27: National HIV Testing Day
Advertising Acknowledgements The following patrons made Mecklenburg Medicine possible.
Atrium Health.........................................................................................15 Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates...................................... 3 Charlotte Radiology...............................................................................14 DJL Clinical Research PLLC..................................................................3 Flagship Healthcare Properties...............................................................9 Haymond Properties LLC.....................................................................14 LabCorp..................................................................................Back Cover Novant Health...........................................................................................2 L to R: Justin Favaro, MD, PhD; Jason Shultz, MD; Catherine Moore, MD; and Dipika Misra, MD.
Southeast Radiation Oncology Group...................................................3
Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 13
Weddington Area: New Medical Office Site We can build to suit. A beautiful new office building, now 17,000 ± sq. ft. OR You can purchase the land and build to your satisfaction. Great location on Providence Road, a few doors from Weddington. Offered by
HAYMOND PROPERTIES, LLC
704-841-9415
14 | June 2018 • Mecklenburg Medicine
Sample building
A PLACE…
filled with light
where each and every heartbeat begins
A GATHERING GROUND…
Where diverse thinkers come together And connections are made
AN AMBITION…
Working with partners to build something new To better more lives
Bringing health, hope and healing
FOR ALL
Carolinas HealthCare System is Mecklenburg Medicine • June 2018 | 15
Mecklenburg County Medical Society
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHARLOTTE, N.C. PERMIT NO. 1494
1112 Harding Place, #200 Charlotte, NC 28204 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED MCMS Mission: To unite, serve and represent our members as advocates for our patients, for the health of the community and for the profession of medicine. Founders of: Bioethics Resource Group, Ltd., Hospitality House of Charlotte, Teen Health Connection, N.C. MedAssist, Physicians Reach Out
LabCorp Laboratory Corporation of America
PATIENT SERVICE CENTERS
Ballantyne Billingsley** Carmel** Cabarrus Charlotte Charlotte** Gastonia Stat Lab Huntersville Huntersville** Lake Norman Matthews Northridge* Pineville Rock Hill Salisbury** Shelby Statesville** University**
… for all of your laboratory testing needs
15830 John Delaney Drive 300 Billingsley Road, Suite 200A 5633 Blakeney Park Drive, Suite 100 478 Copperfield Blvd. 8401 Medical Plaza Dr, Ste 140 1718 E. 4th Street 660 Summitt Crossing, Suite 206 16525 Holly Crest Lane, Suite 250 10030 Gilead Road, Suite B100 134 Medical Park Drive, Suite 102 1500 Matthews Township Parkway, Suite 1147 5031-G West W.T. Harris Blvd. 10410 Park Road, Suite 450 2460 India Hook Road, Suite 101 601 Mocksville Avenue 809 N. Lafayette Street 1710-A Davie Avenue 10320 Mallard Creek Road
*Drug Screens only **Blood Draws only
16 | June 2018 • Mecklenburg Medicine
Charlotte, NC Charlotte, NC Charlotte, NC Concord, NC Charlotte, NC Charlotte, NC Gastonia, NC Huntersville, NC Huntersville, NC Mooresville, NC Matthews, NC Charlotte, NC Pineville, NC Rock Hill, SC Salisbury, NC Shelby, NC Statesville, NC Charlotte, NC
704-540-0251 704-332-6904 704-542-7061 704-795-2710 704-372-6609 704-372-6609 704-854-9497 704-948-8101 704-875-9130 704-799-6230 704-849-0154 704-598-6266 704-341-1145 803-328-1724 704-637-1676 704-480-7004 704-878-0948 704-549-8647