Firefly Imaging

Everyone loves a new toy or device.  You see this every year when Apple releases a new Iphone.  It is quite amazing what technology is going each day.

I would like to draw your attention to a new surgical ability called Firefly.  While in it's infancy, I believe this may become a greater part of surgical care in the future.  Currently used in combination with the Intuitive Da Vinci Surgical Robot, this technique involves an injection of radiotracer which highlights the blood vessels for easier identification.  Furthermore, as cancer is parasitic and will form it's own blood vessels with increased supply, it allows you to demarcate the tumor with greater ease.

You can view the difference in the below picture.  It is fascinating what we can come up with.

Center for Robotic Surgery at St. Thomas Hospital

I have been asked recently by several patients why I choose the robotic platform for radical prostatectomy.  I believe my outcomes are superior with this surgical technique.  Please visit the St. Thomas website below for further information.  Thank you

http://www.stthomas.org/robotics/prostatectomy.php

Kidney Stones and Statins

A recent study has shown that cholesterol may do more than lead to clogged blood vessels.  Cholesterol may also contribute to kidney stone formation.  A study by Dr. James Masterson has shown a decreased incidence of stone formation in those individuals with high cholesterol who use statin drugs (Lipitor, etc.) compared to those who do not.

While the improvement is slight (3.9% Vs. 3.2%), it is the first true evidence that metabolic syndrome (hypertension, diabetes, obesity) may directly relate to stone formation.

Further studies are needed, but the good news is that there may be preventative stone treatment on the horizon with proven benefit.  

Rosepepper

I admit: I have an extreme weakness for Mexican food.  Last night we went to Rosepepper in East Nashville for dinner and margaritas.  This was after a day of coughing, sneezing, and general congestion.  Needless to say -- we needed to get out.  The miracle cure? Green chili verde (extremely hot) and a house margarita.  I'm going to suggest this to everyone.  I can breathe again!

Happy New Year

Happy New Year's recovery day.  Enjoy watching the games.  Go Gamecocks!