From the Editor
T
he development of the Convergent Procedure is a story of brilliant minds coming together to create a more effective, less-invasive treatment for atrial fibrillation. Its genesis began with cardiac surgeon Andy Kiser, who was joined by electrophysiologist Mark Landers.
Together, these Pinehurst pioneers refined a treatment for persistent AF—a serious condition known to increase the risk of stroke and congestive heart failure. The Convergent Procedure involves the creation of a pattern of lesions on the inside and outside of the heart to create non-conducting segments. When performed together, it effectively controls chaotic electrical impulses. Patients who have experienced AF’s debilitating effects and then the profound sense of renewal that follows the Convergent Procedure sing their praises. Read on and you’ll learn that today its 90 percent success rate is nothing short of electrifying. This month, Triangle Physician takes a special look at scoliosis, once top of mind when spine-tickling grade-school screenings were routine in the 1970s and ’80s. Today, these checkups may be history, but scoliosis is not. Orthopedic surgeon Lloyd Hey discusses the role of physicians as the first line of defense in early detection and the screening tools available. Men’s health is also front and center, and not just in this issue of Triangle Physician. There is a growing awareness of the unique health needs of men and our general resistance toward dealing with them. Recognizing the health risks, advocates like urologist Judd Moul are promoting ways that make it easier to have a dialogue with a trusted physician about sensitive topics, such as prostate cancer. Area urologists continue the conversation about men’s health. Dr. Carmen Kalorin reviews the physiological responses to benign prostate enlargement. Dr. Joseph. Khoury addresses treatment for overactive bladder. Urologist Mark McClure reveals that United States men rank only 15th in the world when it comes to longevity, and lifestyle has a lot to do with it. Every issue of Triangle Physician offers the region’s leading medical practitioners and delivery partners a respected forum in which to come together and share news and information that empowers patients to live longer and better, personally and professionally. If this issue sparks your interest, we believe the return in increased awareness for you and your practice will have equally energizing results. As always, our deepest respect and gratitude for all you do.
Editor Mark Westphal
mark@trianglephysician.com
Contributing Editors Heidi Ketler heidi@trianglephysician.com Mateen Akhtar, MD; Dennis E. Bullard, MD, FACS; Lloyd A. Hey, MD, MS; Carmin M. Kalorin, MD; Joseph M. Khoury, MD, FACS; Michael D. Kwong, MD; Mark W. McClure, MD; Lindy McHutchinson, MD; Judd W. Moul, MD, FACS; Kevin Perry, MD; John Reidelbach; Mike Riddick; Amy Stanfield, MD, FACOG Photography Jim Shaw Photography jimshawphoto@earthlink.net Creative Director Dan Early Van Early
dan@trianglephysician.com van@trianglephysician.com
Advertising Sales Carolyn Walters carolyn@trianglephysician.com News and Columns Please send to info@trianglephysician.com The Triangle Physician is published by Early Design Group 982 Trinity Road | Raleigh, NC 27607-4940 Subscription rates: $48.00 per year $6.95 per issue Advertising rates on request Bulk rate postage paid Tucson, AZ 85726 Every precaution is taken to insure the accuracy of the articles published, The Triangle Physician can not be held responsible for the opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Opinion expressed or facts supplied by its authors are not the responsibility of The Triangle Physician. However, The Triangle Physician makes no warrant to the accuracy or reliability of this information. All advertiser and manufacturer supplied photography will receive no compensation for the use of submitted photography.
Mark Westphal Editor 4
The Triangle Physician | JUNE 2010
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