’s
July 11, 2014 edition
The Pulse
Your regular check up on SCKMC activities Share your thoughts, story ideas, and comments by e-mail to claytonp@sckrmc.org.
Surgeon Applauds Bravo Device SCKMC and Dr. Tyson Blatchford are leaders in the State for the advanced treatment of GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease), more commonly known as chronic heartburn. Dr. Blatchford is one of only a handful of surgeons in Kansas trained to perform the state-of-the-art incisionless surgery known as the EsophyX TIF procedure to correct the physical problem at the source of the disease. Now Dr. Blatchford and SCKMC are once again leading the way by partnering with Given Imaging to test for chronic acid reflux through the use of Bravo, an encapsulated transmitter temporarily attached to the patient’s esophagus. The Bravo is a gelcap sized, microchip device that is placed during an evaluation endoscopy for acid reflux. The Bravo capsule clips onto the esophagus and reads the amount of acid that enters the esophagus from the stomach over a 48-hour period. After the test is complete, the disposable capsule falls off the wall of the esophagus and passes naturally through the patient’s digestive tract. “This allows us to more accurately pinpoint the patients who truly have acid reflux and need a potential minimally invasive procedure to fix the problem,” said Dr. Blatchford. Typically the first step taken by Dr. Blatchford in diagnosing GERD is performing an upper endoscopy, a scope that goes down the throat to evaluate the esophagus, on the patient. The Bravo capsule can be placed during this initial endoscopy allowing the physician to gather the information to make the decision if the patient is a candidate for the incisionless TIF procedure. The classical symptoms of acid reflux include a burning sensation, chest pain, regurgitation, belching, bloating, and fullness. It has been reported through various medical studies that up to sixty-percent of the population will experience acid reflux throughout the course of a year, and twenty to thirtypercent will experience symptoms on a weekly basis. Dr. Blatchford hopes that the use of this advanced technology will encourage more people to receive treatment for their chronic acid reflux. “This is a huge advancement in the evaluation of reflux. Traditionally testing has been done by having to put a tube through your nose, down into your esophagus, and wearing the tube coming out of your nose for 24-hours. It’s a big deterrent for a lot of patients to have the 24-hour test the old way because they can’t tolerate having something stuck down their nose and then wear it for 24-hours. The bravo is much more “normal” feeling,” Dr. Blatchford said.
Healthy Living: Ask the Doctor A common question asked of Dr. Perry Lin, SCKMC’s Obstetrics & Gynecology specialist, is his philosophy on alternative herbal remedies. “I advise patients to be cautious, especially with any alternative medication. A simple rule of thumb to keep in mind is what’s on the label is often not included in the bottle, and what’s in the bottle is often not listed on the label,” Dr. Lin said. Dr. Lin is highly credentialed, and enjoys sharing his medical insight with all those that are interested. He is willing to speak at area meetings or organizations geared toward women. For more information on Dr. Lin’s services or to submit a question for the “Ask a Doctor” segment e-mail us at claytonp@sckrmc.org.
The Pharm Forum with Homer Mah, D.Ph. The FDA has released a statement warning consumers to practice extra care when starting new OTC acne products. Some OTC acne products may cause a rare but serious and possibly lifethreatening allergic reaction. Severe reactions may include: throat tightness; difficulty breathing; feeling faint; or swelling of the eyes, face, lips, or tongue. These differ from the reactions listed on the Drug Facts label listed on the product box. If any of these reactions were to occur, consumers should immediately stop using the product and seek medical attention. Consumers should initially test the product by applying a small amount to one or two affected areas for three days. If any discomfort does not occur, then use the product as directed.
Employee of the Month Congratulations Shelby Koller, Medical Laboratory Tech, for being named the SCKMC Exceptional Service Award winner for the month of July! Shelby was nominated by her manager for always doing an excellent job at troubleshooting and for being a great asset to their department.If you would like to nominate someone for next month's award visit us at www.sckmc.org.
It’s A New Day in Healthcare. A subsidiary of South Central Kansas Medical Center
The physicians and staff of Summit Clinic have joined with SCKMC to bring you seamless care for all your family health needs. Great providers that you know and trust, now partnered with the staff and specialists of your community hospital.
Kamran Shahzada, MD Internal Medicine General Practice
Rhonda Green, MD Family Practice Obstetrics & Pediatrics
Eric Thomson, MD Family Practice Obstetrics & Pediatrics
Angela Ziegler, APRN Family Practice Pediatrics
Accepting New Patients.
Same Day Appointments Available.
515 N. Summit, Ark City
Most Insurances Accepted.
(620) 442-4850