Leading Medicine Winter 2018, Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital edition

LEADING MEDICINE W INT ER 2018

A LOOK AT STROKE IN YOUNGER PATIENTS KEEP YOUR KNEES YOUNG

WHY WOMEN SHOULD LISTEN TO THEIR HEARTS Symptoms can vary when compared to men

YOUR LINK TO HEALTH INNOVATIONS, NEWS AND TIPS IN EAST HOUSTON/BAYTOWN

HEALTHY EATS

Spaghetti and Spinach Pesto Try a new spin on spaghetti with whole-wheat noodles, spinach and feta cheese.

INGREDIENTS 1 pound whole-wheat spaghetti, uncooked (or your favorite pasta shape) 1 package (10-ounce) frozen spinach, thawed, well-drained 2 tablespoons canola oil ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 2 cloves garlic ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon dried basil 2 tablespoons tub margarine ⅓ cup water 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese DIRECTIONS 1. In a blender (or food processor), combine spinach, oil, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt and basil. Mix at medium speed until finely chopped.

2. Melt margarine in water. With blender or processor running, gradually pour in melted margarine mixture until blended.

3. Cook pasta according to package directions.

4. Toss pesto with cooked pasta.

5. Sprinkle feta on top and serve.

Recipe courtesy of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, whatscooking.fns.usda.gov

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING Number of servings: 8 294 calories; 9 g total fat; 3 g saturated fat; 8 mg cholesterol; 417 mg sodium; 45 g carbohydrates; 8 g dietary fiber; 2 g total sugars; 0 g added sugars; 12 g protein; 1 mcg vitamin D; 202 mg calcium; 2 mg iron; 203 mg potassium.

IN THIS ISSUE - WINTER 2018

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A Look at Stroke in Younger Patients Increased risk of stroke in younger age groups is becoming a disturbing trend.

A Diabetes Game Plan Learn how to decrease your risk of complications through good diabetes self-management.

B reast Cancer Facts Women Should Know There are many different types of breast cancer. Being informed may help with early detection.

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Why Women Should Listen to Their Hearts Learn more about steps you can take to reduce your risk of a heart attack.

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C heckups Every Guy Should Get Taking time to assess your overall health with a doctor each year is as important for men as it is for women.

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T he ABCs of Hepatitis Could your flu-like symptoms be more than a run-of-the-mill virus?

Keep Your Knees Young Your knees depend on the muscles around them to stay strong as you age.

Imaging Tests Help Detect and Treat Disease Diagnostic imaging helps health care providers determine the best treatment and care.

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A LOOK AT STROKE IN

YOUNGER PATIENTS Me? At risk for stroke? No way!

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troke is often considered a condition that almost exclusively strikes older people. Although people over 50 still comprise the vast majority of stroke patients, research findings published in 2016 in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggest a disturbing trend indicating an increase in stroke in younger Dr. Ruby age groups.

Parveen “When people think of stroke, they think of grandpa who smokes and has hypertension,” said Dr. Ruby Parveen, neurologist and medical director of the stroke program at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital, “And while he certainly carries a higher risk of stroke, it doesn’t mean that if you’re young and healthy you can’t be at risk of stroke, too.”

BE ALERT TO THE RISKS

Research indicates that 10 percent of all ischemic strokes (the most common type of stroke) now occur in adults under age 50. U.S. researchers attribute the apparent rise in strokes among younger adults to many of the same lifestyle risk factors commonly found in older patients: high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol levels, diabetes and smoking.

Parveen said younger patients may have additional stroke risk factors, such as congenital or structural heart defects or injuries to the arteries in the neck possibly caused by even minor trauma. Another factor may be illicit drug use, including abuse of substances like cocaine and methamphetamines. Young people with blood coagulation defects or conditions, such as sickle cell disease, are more susceptible to stroke, and the risk also increases if they have developmental anomalies of the blood vessels of the brain.

TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT AGAINST STROKE

While the symptoms of stroke are the same for both older and younger adults (see “The FAST Test”), people may not readily recognize the symptoms in younger patients, which may lead to a delay in diagnosis that can cause permanent damage.

Parveen said young adults should be aware of their stroke risk factors and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and scheduling regular blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings.

THE FAST TEST

F A S T Face

Arms

Speech

Time

The “FAST” test from the National Stroke Association may help you determine if someone is having a stroke: Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

Arms: Does one arm drift downward when you ask the person to raise both arms?

Speech: Can he or she repeat a simple sentence correctly? Are the words slurred?

Time: If a person shows any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Carefully note the time when the first symptoms appeared. This information is critical for treatment decisions.

Get the Stroke Care You Need

Designated by the American Heart Association as a Gold Plus Primary Stroke Center, Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital is committed to helping stroke patients achieve the best possible long-term results.

To learn more about our complete stroke care services, visit houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto or call 832.556.6535.

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A Diabetes GAME PLAN Develop a winning self-care program with your diabetes health team

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lthough there’s no cure for diabetes, you can learn how to decrease your risk of complications with good diabetes self-management. Consider yourself captain of your health care team, which should include a diabetes educator.

"Working with your team helps you effectively manage the disease, keep up with advances in care and prevent serious complications," said Jennifer Litaker, RD, LD, CDE, diabetes educator at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital.

Use the schedule below as a model for your self-care diabetes program, adding any other guidelines you and your team have agreed you should follow.

EVERY DAY

S elf-monitor and log your blood glucose. There’s no “right” number of times to test. At certain times, such as when you’re first diagnosed, you’ll benefit from testing several times a day to help get blood glucose in your healthy range K eep track of your medications. Understand your team’s recommendations for dosages and timing E xercise. Frequent activity is important for weight control and general health E xamine your feet. “Because you’re prone to numbness, infections and poor circulation, your feet are vulnerable to health problems that should be caught early,” Litaker said

EVERY WEEK TO EVERY MONTH

W eigh yourself. Maintaining a normal weight makes it easier to achieve good blood glucose control B uild and follow a healthy meal plan. Planning menus and shopping ahead will save you from eating last-minute meals that may not fit into a healthy diet F ind a diabetes support group. The Houston Methodist San Jacinto diabetes support group currently meets on the first Tuesday of the month in January, May and September. Visit houstonmethodist.org/for-patients/events for more information

EVERY THREE TO SIX MONTHS

S chedule a doctor’s visit to monitor your diabetes and routine.

Your doctor should: • Perform a hemoglobin A1C blood test, which measures the past three-month average of glucose in your blood • Weigh you • Take your blood pressure. People with diabetes are susceptible to heart disease S chedule a dental exam. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop gum disease and infection

EVERY YEAR

B e sure your primary doctor: • Tests your urine for any sign of kidney disease • Conducts a medical foot exam

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WEIGHT-LOSS OPTIONS The Houston Methodist Weight Management Center at San Jacinto offers a full spectrum of options to help patients better manage their diabetes and improve their overall health by losing weight.

Dr. Laura Choi, director of the Houston Methodist Weight Management Center at San Jacinto, says the center provides personalized Dr. Laura Choi care for patients with conditions attributed to obesity through both medical nutritional counseling and bariatric (weight-loss) surgery.

Bariatric surgery procedures restrict the amount of food you can eat and/or changes the route food takes through your body so that less food is absorbed.

The center offers weight-loss surgery for patients with weightrelated health problems who are unable to lose pounds through a healthy diet and exercise. Patients, whose BMI is in the morbid obesity range, are eligible for bariatric surgery. Patients, whose BMI is in the 35-40 range, are also eligible if they have existing medical conditions considered to be caused by or associated with morbid obesity, such as type 2 diabetes and obstructive sleep apnea.

"Weight-loss surgery offers excellent results for patients who qualify. Surgery can greatly improve type 2 diabetes. Some patients have experienced complete remission after surgery," Choi said.

• Screens your blood for cholesterol and triglyceride levels • Gives you a flu shot and updates pneumonia, tetanus and hepatitis B vaccinations. "Getting vaccinated is important since diabetes can weaken your ability to fight illness and infection," Litaker said G et an eye exam annually. Diabetes puts you at risk for vision complications

Customized Diabetes and Weight Management Care

The Houston Methodist Weight Management Center at San Jacinto partners with you to create an individualized diabetes plan of care through diet, exercise, medication, as well as weight-loss surgery for those needing help in maintaining a healthy weight. Visit houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto or call 281.420.8525 for information.

BREAST CANCER FACTS WOMEN SHOULD KNOW

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any women think of breast cancer as a single disease. In fact, there are many different types of breast cancer. Knowing about breast cancer will Dr. Esther help you in your quest Dubrovsky to detect problems early, when chances of a cure are greatest.

“Breast cancer is classified based on where in the breast it arises from. The most common place for cancer to start is in the ducts of the breast,” said Dr. Esther Dubrovsky, breast surgeon at the Houston Methodist Cancer Center at San Jacinto.

FACT: Most breast cancers start in the milk ducts. These tubes carry milk from the milk-producing glands (lobules) to the nipple.

Cancers that start in the milk ducts are called ductal carcinomas; cancers that start in the lobules are called lobular carcinoma.

PINPOINTING CANCER

“Screening mammograms are catching cancers at very early stages, and it’s common to identify cancers that are still confined to the ducts. These cancer cells have not had a chance to break out of the ducts and invade the surrounding breast tissue,” Dubrovsky said. “Noninvasive cancer that is confined to the duct is called ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, and is considered stage 0 breast cancer.”

FACT: Noninvasive breast cancers rarely cause symptoms or lumps you can feel, but they may appear as tiny areas of

calcification (tiny flecks of calcium) on a mammogram.

INVASIVE BREAST CANCERS

“Breast cancer is classified as invasive if it has grown outside the duct or lobule where it started into surrounding breast tissue. It then has the potential to spread to other areas of the body,” said Dubrovsky.

FACT: About 80 percent of breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). It appears as a hard, firm lump. In advanced stages of IDC, the skin over the lump may appear dimpled or the nipple may be retracted (pulled inward).

FACT: About 12 percent of breast cancers are invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Rather than appearing as a hard lump, this cancer may feel like a thickening. ILC may be more difficult to detect on a mammogram than IDC.

EARLY DETECTION IS KEY

“You are the first line of defense when it comes to breast cancer. That’s why it’s crucial to know how your breasts normally look and feel,” Dubrovsky said.

Knowing the warning signs will help you recognize when to alert your doctor (see “Breast Cancer Symptoms”).

FACT: Mammograms can detect breast cancer in its early stages, up to two years before a lump can be felt. Early detection means a better chance of a cure.

FACT: Ninety percent of women with breast cancer are alive five years after diagnosis.* *Source: American Cancer Society

Make Time for a Mammogram

Schedule a mammogram at the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at San Jacinto by visiting houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or calling 855.454.PINK (7465).

BREAST CANCER SYMPTOMS The following are warning signs of breast cancer. See your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, but keep in mind that most breast lumps aren’t cancer.

A painless lump or mass in or near the breast A change in breast size or firmness Breast skin changes, such as dimpling, a sore or a rash Nipple itching, burning, rash, turning inward or discharge A warm area in the breast Pain in the breast Swelling under the armpit or of the arm

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WHY WOMEN SHOULD LISTEN TO THEIR HEARTS Symptoms can vary when compared to men

New High Blood Pressure Guidelines

Are you at risk?

The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association released new scientific guidelines on what’s considered high blood pressure, lowering the threshold from 140/90 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg. Recommendations focus on making healthy lifestyle changes to lower blood pressure, including quitting smoking, managing weight, being active and eating a heart-healthy diet. Some patients may also need medication.

The new blood pressure categories consider both systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) pressure.

Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg levated: Systolic between 120–129 and diastolic E less than 80 mmHg igh Stage 1: Systolic between 130–139 or diastolic H between 80–89 mmHg igh Stage 2: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least H 90 mmHg Talk to your doctor to learn if you’re at risk and how you can protect your heart.

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espite the perception that heart disease is a man’s disease, it’s the No. 1 killer of women, according to the American Heart Association. Millions Dr. Nadia Fida of women die of heart disease every year, yet many are unaware of their risk for the condition. Women often put off taking care of their health — and this inaction can put an extra burden on their hearts.

One form of heart disease, a heart attack, can strike suddenly and with no advance warning. Just like men, women often experience the crushing chest pain and discomfort typically associated with a heart attack. But, women are somewhat more likely than men to experience other common heart attack symptoms and often ignore them.

“A misunderstanding of gender-related heart attack symptoms could cause women to delay getting care because they aren’t sure if they’re having a heart attack, panic attack or indigestion,” according to Dr. Nadia Fida, cardiologist with the Houston Methodist Heart & Vascular Program at San Jacinto.

“It’s key to learn and watch for signs that something may be wrong — and if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek prompt medical care.”

Use these heart health facts for women to bolster your prevention and treatment efforts:

HOW A WOMAN’S HEART ATTACK MAY FEEL

You may already be familiar with classic heart attack symptoms for men, such as crushing chest pain that radiates down the left arm associated with sweatiness, paleness and shortness of breath. “Women are more likely than men to describe chest pain that is burning and sharp, as well as experience extreme fatigue, pain in the neck, jaw, throat, abdomen or back,” Fida said.

“Breaking out in a cold sweat is also more common in women, as is lightheadedness,” she explained.

RISK FACTORS OFFER CLUES

Managing your risk factors for cardiovascular disease is only possible if you know what they are, and routine screening tests can reveal the answers.

At your next checkup, ask your doctor to assess your weight and BMI (body mass index), waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol and fasting blood glucose level. “These tests offer important clues to cardiovascular health as well as your overall health,” Fida said.

HEART ATTACK NOT SOLE SETBACK

With all the focus on heart attacks, some aren’t aware that cardiovascular disease can take many forms. Other heart problems include heart failure, in which the heart isn’t pumping as efficiently as it should; arrhythmia, a too-slow or too-fast heartbeat that can affect its ability to meet the body’s needs; and heart valve problems, which can impede proper blood flow through the heart.

Nearly all of these conditions are easily detectable with routine medical checkups,” Fida said. “It’s yet another reason why establishing an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician is so critical to your heart health.”

MENOPAUSE TOO LATE TO PREPARE

Women with heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a family history, shouldn’t wait until menopause to start a dialogue with their primary care physician about a prevention regimen to keep them healthy.

A recent survey published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that 74 percent of women in the United States had at least one heart disease risk factor, but only 16 percent told their doctor about it.

“Women have such a relatively low prevalence of heart disease compared with men before menopause that often times, the topic is ignored until women are well into their 50s and 60s,” Fida said.

“But those with risk factors need to be 10 years ahead of the game when it comes to prevention. Unfortunately, too many women already have heart disease by the time they’re tested.”

LEARN ABOUT YOUR FAMILY HEALTH HISTORY The role of genetics and family history is becoming increasingly clear when evaluating our risks of developing heart disease, said Houston Methodist Dr. Raghunandan San Jacinto Hospital Muppidi interventional cardiologist Raghunandan Muppidi. “That’s why it’s imperative to delve into your family tree and determine what your ancestors died from — especially if they died at a young age — as well as what your family members may be living with right now,” Muppidi emphasized. “Take the time to sit down with family elders and ask questions about what led to Great-Uncle Henry’s and Grandma Mary’s deaths, for example. The answers may surprise you.”

If you learn that heart disease runs in your genes — especially through several generations — share that information with your doctors. They may recommend certain dietary or lifestyle changes, prescribe medications, and/or perform various heart disease screening tests earlier or more frequently. You may also be referred to a cardiologist for regular care.

Heart Health Screenings Learn about ways to improve your heart health and your 10-year risk for heart disease as well as receive free cholesterol and blood pressure screenings during the Heart Month Celebration at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital on Feb. 14, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Reilly Pavilion at the Garth campus. To register, visit houstonmethodist.org/ sanjacinto/events or call 281.428.2273.

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CHECKUPS EVERY GUY SHOULD GET

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et’s face it — there are many things you’d rather be doing than going to the doctor for a checkup. But taking time to assess your overall health with a doctor Dr. Eleazar each year is important. It Flores could even save your life.

Dr. Eleazar Flores, a doctor with the Houston Methodist Primary Care Group at San Jacinto, says if you’re a man — or a woman who is concerned about the health of your husband, father, grandfather, son or other male loved one — you’ll want to be aware of these recommended checkups, screenings and immunizations for men.

“Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and you should check with your doctor for a schedule that’s right for you,” Flores said.

Physical exam. A once-a-year exam by a primary care doctor may include an assessment of height, weight, blood pressure, skin cancer risk, eating and exercise habits, and emotional well-being.

The doctor will ask about your family health history and answer any questions you have about sleep or snoring, sexual health, or other health concerns.

Flores recommends having a one-time screen for hepatitis C performed for those at highest risk for the viral infection — anyone born between 1945 and 1965, people with HIV and longterm kidney dialysis patients.

A one-time HIV test is recommended for persons ages 13-64, or annually for those with risk factors.

Immunizations. Men should get a flu shot every year and a tetanus-diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) or tetanusdiphtheria (Td) booster every 10 years.

Your doctor may recommend other

8 LEADING MEDICINE IN EAST HOUSTON/BAYTOWN

vaccines depending on your age and health history.

Eye exam. If you have problems with vision, schedule an eye exam every two years.

Dental exam. Don’t forget to visit the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning.

Hearing test. Your doctor may screen for hearing loss and suggest ways to protect the hearing you have as well as recommend hearing-aid devices if needed.

TIME TO MAN UP FOR SCREENING TESTS

20s

30s

40s

Blood pressure screening

X

X

X

X

X

Cholesterol test

X

X

X

X

X

Diabetes screening (if overweight)

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Colon cancer screening Prostate cancer screening Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening

50s 60+

These are general guidelines and are not intended as medical advice. Talk to your doctor about screening tests that may be right for you. Sources: National Institutes of Health, American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association.

Need a Doctor?

If you’re a guy who never gets sick and hasn’t set foot in a doctor’s office for a few years, it’s probably time for a checkup. A primary care doctor at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital can team up with you to take care of your health now and going forward. To schedule an appointment, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 832.556.6936.

The ABCs of HEPATITIS

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ould your flu-like symptoms be more than a run-of-the-mill virus? Vague complaints of not feeling well, fever, muscle aches and loss of appetite can signal hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver.

Some types of hepatitis can become chronic and cause extensive liver damage, cirrhosis (potentially fatal scarring), liver cancer and Dr. Rashid Khan liver failure.

“A number of factors cause hepatitis, but in the United States, the usual culprit is a viral infection by one of three different strains, hepatitis A, B or C,” said Dr. Rashid Khan, a gastroenterologist-hepatologist at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital. The illnesses share some common symptoms: Fatigue Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes Abdominal pain or discomfort Dark-colored urine or light-colored bowel movements Not everyone with hepatitis has symptoms. “Millions of people become infected, suffer liver damage and transmit the viruses to others unknowingly,” Khan said.

HBV infection may include medications and ongoing monitoring of liver health.

The HBV vaccine is advised for: All infants and children Hemodialysis patients People with liver disease International travelers Health care, emergency or correctional facility workers

HEPATITIS C

Hepatitis C (HCV) can lead to acute or chronic infection of the liver. “It’s the most common type of chronic hepatitis found in the U.S. and spread through direct exposure to infected blood,” Khan said. While no vaccine exists for HCV, acute and chronic types of the illness can be cured with the use of direct-acting antiviral agents prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend HCV testing if you: Were born between 1945 and 1965 Had a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992 Received clotting factors (used by hemophiliacs) before 1987 Had tattoos or body piercings Used injected drugs and shared needles

HEPATITIS A

The hepatitis A virus (HAV) is commonly transmitted when an infected person neglects to wash his or her hands after using the toilet and then handles the food you eat. The liver usually heals completely within one to two months in most people.

The HAV vaccine is advised for: All children People with liver disease Day-care workers Household members of infected people International travelers

HEPATITIS B

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is spread through contact with the blood, saliva, semen or vaginal secretions of infected people. Pregnant women should be tested for HBV because their babies can become infected during childbirth.

The infection usually resolves within six months for most adults, and patients develop immunity. Treatment for chronic

PREVENT HEPATITIS Take these steps to protect yourself and your family against hepatitis: If you think you’ve been exposed to hepatitis, see your doctor right away. Receiving immune globulin and vaccinations may thwart infection Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B Wash your hands before preparing and eating food, and after using the bathroom and changing diapers Don’t eat raw shellfish Avoid sharing personal items, such as toothbrushes and razors Don’t share or reuse hypodermic needles If you’re pregnant, get tested for hepatitis viruses Before getting a tattoo or body piercing, be sure the facility is licensed and meets all health and safety requirements Avoid unprotected sex with an infected partner

Schedule Your Screening Today

To schedule an appointment for a hepatitis screening with a Houston Methodist Gastroenterology Associates specialist, visit houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto or call 281.422.7970.

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KEEP YOUR KNEES YOUNG

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s you age, it’s common to start experiencing some pain in your joints, especially in the knees. But you can combat the wearing down of cartilage (osteoarthritis) and the general wear and tear that your knees go through.

Dr. Michael Hopson

STRENGTHEN YOUR LEGS

Your knee depends on the muscles around it to take some of the impact and pressure of everyday use. By strengthening your leg muscles, you can bolster the joint and relieve pressure. “The main muscles to focus on are your quadriceps (the muscles above your knee on the front of your thigh) and hamstrings (back of your thigh), though the muscles in your calves, hips and core also play important roles in stability,” said Dr. Michael Hopson, orthopedic surgeon with Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at San Jacinto. → TRY THIS: Start with low-impact exercises like walking, cycling and yoga to build strength. For help with building a tailored strength-training regimen, speak with a physical therapist or trainer.

LOSE WEIGHT

Extra weight puts more pressure on your knees than you may think. It’s estimated that for every extra pound we carry, we add 4 pounds of pressure to our knees. That means a loss of even 10 pounds can relieve 40 pounds of pressure. By staying within a healthy body mass index (BMI) range, usually from 18.5 to 24.9, you can prevent extra wear on your knees and ankles. → TRY THIS: If you’re overweight, set a goal for weight loss that’s within your reach so you can make progress right away.

You might aim to lose 5 to 10 percent of your current weight, for example.

IMPROVE FLEXIBILITY

“A mobile, conditioned knee is less likely to develop overuse problems. Whether you work out a lot or joint issues keep you mostly stationary, improving your flexibility can alleviate pain and stiffness,” Hopson said. → TRY THIS: Work on improving flexibility by stretching the muscles in your legs (quadriceps, hamstrings and calves).

Or, try a gentle yoga or tai chi class. Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend exercises that are right for you.

10 LEADING MEDICINE IN EAST HOUSTON/BAYTOWN

SAY NO TO KNEE PAIN When knee pain and stiffness interfere with your daily activities, it’s time to speak to an orthopedic specialist about knee replacement surgery. At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at San Jacinto, we offer a full spectrum of services, including: Minimally invasive knee replacement Advanced techniques to minimize postoperative discomfort and accelerate recovery Robotic-assisted partial knee replacement Complex joint revision surgery Therapy for arthritic knees

Schedule a Consultation

To schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at San Jacinto, visit houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics/ locations/baytown or call 281.427.7400.

Imaging Tests Help Detect and Treat Disease

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hen facing an injury, unexplained illness or worrying symptoms, you want to know what’s wrong and what can be done to fix it. Diagnostic imaging gives health care providers an inside look at the body to locate broken bones, pinpoint diseases, guide cancer treatments and much more. Above all, Dr. Nassim Akle diagnostic imaging aids in saving lives.

“Most diagnostic imaging exams result in little or no discomfort. For those who are sensitive to sounds or uncomfortable in tight spaces, our team helps you prepare for your test and addresses your concerns so you have the best experience possible,” said Dr. Nassim Akle, radiologist at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital.

Here are some common imaging exams you and your loved ones may need: COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT). During a CT scan, an X-ray tube inside the machine rotates around your body and produces detailed images of your internal organs. → WHY IT’S USED: Doctors use CT scans to detect cancer and heart disease; diagnose muscle and bone disorders; detect internal injuries; and locate tumors, infections and blood clots.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI). This tunnel-shaped machine uses a magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures of your brain, neck, spinal cord and soft tissues. → WHY IT’S USED: MRIs produce high-resolution images to diagnose central nervous system disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and brain tumors. MRI also assists in identifying disorders of blood vessels and internal organs.

ULTRASOUND. A computer creates images from patterns created by the sound waves. During an exam, warm gel is applied to the skin and a handheld device (a transducer) is pressed against the part of the body being examined. → WHY IT’S USED: Although often used during pregnancy to check on the fetus, ultrasound exams can also be used to study the heart, diagnose some forms of infection and cancer, guide biopsies and treatment of tumors, check the thyroid gland, diagnose gallbladder disease and reveal abnormalities in the scrotum and prostate.

POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY (PET). A type of nuclear medicine that uses radioactive materials, a camera and a computer to create 3-D images of internal organs and tissue. → WHY IT’S USED: PET scans help doctors detect cancer, assess the effectiveness of cancer treatment, or determine if cancer has spread. It’s also used to assess how well blood flows to the heart, and checks for brain abnormalities, such as memory and seizure disorders.

X-RAY. An X-ray machine uses electromagnetic radiation to create images of your bones, teeth and internal organs. → WHY IT’S USED: X-ray images assess for bone problems, joint infections, lung and heart diseases, abdominal pain, dental conditions and more.

INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY. Utilizes multiple imaging technologies to assist and guide radiologists and physicians in minimally invasive procedures. → WHY IT’S USED: Assists physicians in procedures, such as the collection of specimens from internal organs and the placement of catheters and stents. It results in reduced pain, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times for a variety of procedures that once required open surgery.

Advanced Imaging When You Need It Most

If your doctor recommends diagnostic imaging, you can rely on the expertise of the board-certified radiologists and advanced technology at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital. Call 281.428.2273 or visit houstonmethodist.org/sanjacinto to schedule an appointment.

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