Right at HOME Video e-Magazine February 2024 Issue

TIMELY TECHNOLOGY

Enhanced Lung Cancer Treatment at North Central Baptist Hospital

By Amy Morgan

Cancer. It’s a dreaded diagnosis that inspires fears of complicated treatment, pain — even death. But now San Antonians diagnosed with lung cancer have a new, less invasive to fight this deadly disease. Surgeons at North Central Baptist Hospital in Stone Oak are using the Davinci Robotic System to remove cancers and treat other lung and chest disorders.

In the past, surgeons would need to open a patient’s chest wall to reach the lungs, resulting in a much longer incision and trauma to the ribs. By 2003, surgeons began using a surgical robot to make four or five smaller incisions to slide a camera and biopsy instruments into the lungs via the space between the ribs. Technology has evolved with the advent of specially designed instruments and high-definition cameras, allowing surgeons to configure the Davinci robot to reduce the number of incisions to just one.

Physicians specializing in thoracic surgery treat patients at North Central Baptist Hospital with lung

and esophageal cancers, nodules, cysts, or masses, as well as thymic tumors. Those physicians were among the first in San Antonio to adopt an innovative robotic system using single-incision thoracoscopic and robotic surgery and have now successfully performed uniportal robotic-assisted

thoracoscopic surgery on more than 100 patients at North Central Baptist Hospital. The innovative robotic system allows the removal of cancerous and other lung tumors through a small incision.

Before a patient is scheduled for treatment, their suspicious nodule or lesion must first be diagnosed. It usually involves a biopsy to rule out cancer or confirm other problems like sarcoidosis, tuberculosis or pneumonitis that appear as shadows on a lung X-ray. As part of its emphasis on lung disease, North Central Baptist Hospital has ramped up its diagnostic capabilities, incorporating the Ion endoluminal system, a robotic-assisted platform for minimally invasive biopsy of the lung. The Ion’s catheter sizing and shape-sensing technology allow better reach, precision, and stability over manual technologies and minimize complication rates. This technology allows the surgeon to more precisely collect lung tissue samples for biopsy safely and simply, even when nodules are tiny and located in very hard to reach locations in the peripheral lung.

Because the catheter enters the body through the mouth while the patient is sedated, the risk of biopsy complications is extremely low. Other benefits: the

doctor can collect samples from more than one nodule, and a pathologist can provide real-time feedback about whether additional tissue needs to be collected to aid diagnosis. The surgeon can also inject fluorescent dye into a nodule, making it easier to locate it during subsequent surgery.

North Central Baptist also incorporates a nurse navigator to walk patients through their journey from diagnosis to recovery. Providing nurse navigators shows North Central Baptist’s commitment to the physical and emotional well-being and healing of our patients and can help reduce the stress and anxiety of a lung cancer diagnosis.

North Central Baptist Hospital recently began holding a multi-specialty conference twice a month that brings together representatives from thoracic surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, primary care, radiology, and pathology to discuss best practices for patients diagnosed with lung nodules.

Despite a difficult diagnosis, San Antonians facing lung disease can rest assured their prognosis for a swift recovery may improve now that innovative technologies are available right in Stone Oak.

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Community Calendar

Presented by Frost

Activities at the Walker Ranch Senior Center – Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Hot meals served daily from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for qualifying seniors and their spouses. Exercise, field trips, bingo, loteria, movies, arts and crafts, free health and wellness screenings vary daily. 835 W. Rhapsody 78216; 210-207-5280.

Stone Oak Rotary Club – Tuesdays, noon -1 p.m. Guest speakers weekly. Dona Tota, 923 Loop 1604 W. #115 78232; www.stoneoaksarotary.org.

Fiddler on the Roof presented by Reagan Stage Theater – Thursday, Feb. 1 - Saturday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m., matinee Feb. 3, 1 p.m. Gloria Jennings Robinson Auditorium, Ronald Reagan High School, 19000 Ronald Reagan 78258; www.reaganstage.org.

Single Professionals Networking Meeting – Friday, Feb. 2, 4-6 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. La Hacienda de los Barrios, 18747 Redland Road 78259; www.spn-sa.org.

Culinaria presents Titans of Tailgate

Saturday, Feb 3, 1 - 4 p.m. Join local chefs including legendary Jeff Dady as they engage in a battle of the grills at the best tailgate party and immersive feast. Samplings, wine and tailgate games. Proceeds benefit culinary education in San Antonio schools. Sunken Garden Theater, 3875 N. Saint Mary’s St. 78212; www. culinariasa.org.

YOSA Winter Showcase – Sunday, Feb. 4, 7 p.m. Performers from the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio symphony, wind ensemble and intermezzo strings perform together, featuring guest trumpet soloist Daniel Orban. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle 78205; www.tobincenter.org.

75th annual San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo – Feb. 8-25. Established in 1949, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo has grown to one of the largest, most prestigious events in the city. AT&T Center, 1 AT&T Center Parkway 78219; www.sarodeo.com.

Chuckwagon Lunch at Frost Bank

Friday, Feb. 9, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Kick off the rodeo season close to home with a free chuckwagon lunch. Frost Bank 281 North Financial Center, 16500 San Pedro Ave. 78232; 210-220-4091.

Foster Perry Travel presents Eric Darius in its Jazz on the Water series – Saturday, Feb. 10, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Special guest Rebecca Jade. By Land & Sea Concert features nationally recognized Smooth Jazz artists. 501 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. 78207; www.jazzonthewaterus.com/concerts.html.

11th Annual San Antonio Coffee Festival

Saturday, Feb. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Taste fresh coffee, learn about beans and roasting, enjoy live music and food. Travis Park, 301 E. Travis St. 78205; www.sacoffeefest.com.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus,the Musical at the Magik Theatre – Saturday, Feb. 10 - Sunday, March 17, days and times vary. Live theater production based on Mo Willem’s bestselling book features an innovative mix of actors, puppets and feathers. The Magik Theatre, 420 S. Alamo St. 78205; www.magiktheatre.org.

San Marcos Half – Sunday, Feb. 11, 13.1, 10k, 5K, 7:30, 8:30 a.m., staggered starts. The second of the Texas Hill Country Challenge Series. Start at the Tanger Outlets, 4015 135 N., San Marcos 78666; www.scallywompus.com.

Single Professionals Networking Meeting

Wednesday, Feb. 14, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Kennedy’s Public House, 19179 Blanco Road 78258; www.spn-sa.org.

Single Professionals Networking Meeting –Friday, Feb. 16, 5-7 p.m. Join other 55+ widowed, divorced and single mature professionals for conversation, libations and food in a relaxed, social setting. Magic Time Machine, 902 NE Loop 410 78209; www.spn-sa.org.

Jerry Seinfeld live comedy tour – Saturday, Feb. 24, 7, 9:30 p.m. All new show performed live by one of America’s most recognizable comedic talents. Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston 78205; www.majesticempire.com/events.

Donut Dash 5 and 10 K – Saturday, March 2, 7:30 a.m. An original classic with all the charm of a local run. Oodles of fresh donuts at the post-race celebration. Lion’s Field, Broadway at Avenue B 78209; runthealamo.com/donut-doughnut-dash.

Run the Alamo – Sunday, March 3, 6:45 a.m.

The original, home grown, spring 1/2 and full marathons in San Antonio start with a multiple musket volley at the historic cradle of liberty, the Alamo, then wind past San Antonio’s cultural icons to an amazing post-race party. The Alamo, 400 S. Alamo 78205; www.runthealamo.com.

Protect your Pup

Frigid Temperatures Can Freeze Fido

By Camp Bow Wow Staff

It was just a few weeks ago that San Antonio shivered through days of Arctic cold. It wasn’t just the freeze, strong North winds made temperatures feel even lower. Although we’ve turned a new page on the calendar, we’re not out of the woods yet — our record of nine degrees actually happened in the month of February!

Every time winter weather threatens, we’re reminded we might lose power. Don’t forget Fido in your emergency preparations. Make sure you have enough of his food and medications on hand and count his water consumption in with the family’s as you stock up.

Needless to say, should we experience another deep freeze, or even a Snowmageddon, limit the time your pup spends outdoors in extreme temperatures and don’t leave him out unsupervised. Dogs can get hypothermia or frostbite just like people.

If the weather makes you feel cold, chances are it will for your furry family member too, especially if your pup has short hair or is elderly. In fact, some veterinarians recommend small and short-haired dogs layer up with a pup-sized coat or sweater just like their humans if the temperature dips below 45 degrees. And those cold-conscious dogs will really feel the nip when temperatures go below 32. In addition to warm-wear, you can add an extra blanket to his bed to allow Fido to cuddle in if he feels chilly.

Cold weather also can worsen some conditions like arthritis. Check your deck or patio for icy patches before letting your pup out. Any spot that’s elevated will be prone to freeze if it collects any moisture at all, whether from the atmosphere or a leaky hose or

burst sprinkler head. Arthritic and elderly pups with less mobility might slide and injure themselves on those slippery surfaces.

Winter steals the day’s warmth quickly once the sun goes down, so even if your pup is one who enjoys the cool, make sure to bring him in after dark. Sweater up and limit the duration of that last potty break in the evening.

Long-haired dogs bred for cold like Huskies might love a chance to stretch their legs should San Antonio get snow. Make sure to dry your pup’s wet fur when you can get him in, and don’t forget to look for clumps of snow on his feet in between his footpads.

Be aware of Fido’s demeanor when he comes inside. Does he seem like he’s enjoyed his frosty romp?

If he’s whining, shivering, stops moving, seems anxious or starts looking for a place to burrow, he may have contracted hypothermia, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Wrap your furry family member in a blanket or towel warmed in the dryer and call your vet if you are concerned. Our “Texas Winter” will be over before we know it. Keep Fido’s comfort in mind, and soon he’ll be bounding through Bluebonnets.

Smile Service

Free Oral Health Care Day for Adults in Need

By Amy Morgan

We’ve all felt the pinch in our pocketbook this past year, with prices from gas to groceries rising faster than we can keep up. Many parents put their health and wellness on the back burner to make sure their children are taken care of.

The professionals at 7to7 Dental & Orthodontics are keenly aware that many adults are sacrificing their dental care when money gets tight. They created a day to give back called Dental Hope that provides much needed teeth cleanings, fillings and extractions at no cost to adults once a year in February. This Saturday, Feb. 17, marks the eleventh time the practice will hold this all-hands-on-deck event at their Braun Road 7to7 Dental office located at 10103 W. Loop 1604 N. Most of 7to7 Dental’s more than 34 doctors and 250 staff members will participate in some way to make sure 175 patients get the oral health care they need. By the end of the day, 7to7 Dental’s professionals will have performed hundreds of dental procedures on patients continually rotating through the office’s 23 chairs.

“We have a heart for our patients and want to give back to the community that has supported us for the past 16 years,” said 7to7 Dental CoOwner Justin Coke. “Over the years we would treat patients with needs as the ability rose, but we decided it would be good to set aside a day to serve in a more mindful way,” agreed practice Co-Owner Tiffany Winburn, D.M.D.

People look forward to this event every year – sometimes even sleeping in their cars in the parking lot to make sure they are one of the first in line when the office doors open at 7 a.m.,

“It’s our favorite day of the year as we help people smile again,” Travis said. “Some are in pain because of neglected dental work but can’t afford the extractions or fillings they need.”

Dental Hope could not take place without the help of partners and supporters from the community, Travis added. 7to7 Dental has recruited professional peers, dental supply companies and local businesses to donate goods and time to each patient. Sponsors include Mia’s Mexican Grill, Summer Moon Coffee, Halftime (Formerly Big’s) Convenience Stores, Bilia Eatery, ASC Promotions, CareCredit, Sunbit, Little Caesars Alamo Ranch, The Cottage, Crazy Snacks, Monarch Trophy Studio, Darby Dental, Nestle, and Colgate. High Def Communications and DJ Stash are on hand to keep the waiting room upbeat, Travis added. You can check 7to7 Dental’s website and social media pages to find shout-outs and thanks to all whose contributions make Dental Hope possible.

“Dental Hope strikes a chord in our hearts,” Justin said. “We love what we do and love helping people. Dental Hope takes away all the barriers like finances and paperwork that are the most frustrating and allows us to just help people.”

said Director of Marketing Travis DeZuba.

Happier Heart

Know Symptoms of Cardiac Distress to Safeguard your Valentine

By Amy Morgan

Cardiovascular disease is responsible for the deaths of 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men, according to the American Heart Association. This Valentine’s month, rather than stocking up on candy hearts, safeguard the physical hearts of those you love. Be aware of the symptoms of cardiac problems so you know what to do should a loved one show signs of distress.

Heart disease is known as the silent killer because it can catch people unaware. Sudden onset of any heart-related symptom – chest pain, shortness of breath, chest pressure, heart palpitation or a sudden collapse – is reason to be evaluated, said Zack Baum, M.D., Medical Director of Physicians Premier free-standing emergency room, located west of Highway 281 on Highway 46 near the HEB Plus. Dr. Baum has been practicing emergency medicine for 12 years.

“If you are worried – don’t go it alone – and don’t wait,” Dr. Baum said. “The moment you have a concern, turn the decision about whether it is serious or not over to someone trained to determine the problem. You are not wasting my time. That’s why I’m here!” he said. “Even if the symptom seems mild, I am happy to help.”

Cardiac arrest is defined as when the heart stops beating – a life-ending condition that can be caused by a heart attack or brought on by arrythmia, also known as an abnormal heartbeat. Signs of heart attack vary greatly, even between men and women, Dr. Baum said. Chest pain described as pressure, heaviness, “somebody sitting on their chest,” is a hallmark. Women may experience pain that radiates to their shoulder or jaw. Don’t dismiss heartburn, which is one of the most common complaints – and especially if it

is unusual and doesn’t resolve after taking typical antiacid medication. If experiencing symptoms, Dr. Baum advises to take an aspirin, which has been clinically proven effective in reducing tissue damage in case of heart attack or stroke and seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room.

Seconds count when treating a cardiac emergency. Tissue deprived of oxygen dies. “You only have a certain window of time to save the heart muscle,” Dr. Baum said. Speedy diagnosis and treatment in the ER are vital not only to prevent death, but also to allow for the best chance of recovery and avoid serious disability. The faster you can start CPR or get an AED and initiate treatment, the higher the chances of survival and good outcome.

In the ER, doctors will use specialized equipment including lab tests, X-Ray, and EKG to determine the problem and formulate a treatment plan. The physicians also can administer stronger medications to dissolve an offending clot or thin the blood to prevent further clotting prior to transferring the patient to a facility with full cardiac capability.

This February, resolve to brush up on the signs of heart problems so you can act quickly and celebrate many more years with your Valentine.

Wholehearted Wrestler

JHS Student Leads By Example

By Amy Morgan

She loves winning, and she’s not afraid of hard work, traits that serve Johnson High School senior Annika Lopez well as she leads the Jaguar wrestling team. While she’s technically captain of the girls’ team, they practice together with the guys, so her leadership authority extends to them, too. Annika placed second in District in the 114 lb. weight class last year and qualified as a State alternate two years in a row. She’s set a goal for the entire team to sweep the District in 2024 and is bound and determined to place at State herself.

“I put my whole heart into it,” Annika said. “Winning makes all the work worthwhile.” While she had previously played volleyball and basketball at Tex Hill Middle School, the selfmotivated student wanted to try something new. She signed up to wrestle her freshman year at JHS and won only three matches her first year. Annika persisted with club program NB Elite and experienced the thrill of victory, accumulating 100 wins over the past four years. She plans to continue to wrestle in college, hopefully at D’Youville in New York, which has been recruiting her. She plans to combine a major in marketing and minor in entrepreneurship.

Art is another of her passions that blossomed at JHS. Her teacher, Mr. Williams, encouraged her to try painting because “he saw a lot of potential in me,” Annika said. She claims her first pieces were not good at all, but once again, hard work paid off.

“I’m not as talented as everyone else, but I’m still proud of myself,” she said. Annika sent a pen and ink drawing to the Scholastic competition two years ago that earned high scores of fours. This year, she’s submitted two pieces in oils, a macro portrait of her eye and a Cyber-punk piece that diagonally combines two of her friends’ faces as inspired by the movie, Ready Player One. Annika said painting relaxes her and appreciates Mr.

Williams’ continued encouragement in her Art 4 Painting class.

Although Annika spent most of her time growing up in the JHS area, as a military dependent, she understands the disorientation students feel when moving to a new school. She became involved with JHS’s Student to Student Club and now serves as President. Members help students get acclimated, give tours and act as lunch buddies so no one has to feel alone.

“It’s hard for kids who move around a lot. I wanted to be part of something I hold close to my heart,” she said. Counselor Elena Sandoval helps the club identify new students and pair them with others who have similar interests. Annika particularly enjoyed a city-wide chapter training at UTSA to learn team building skills, an opportunity she noted as one of her favorite JHS memories.

The youngest of a blended sibling group of four sisters and two brothers, several of who’ve previously graduated from JHS, Annika’s work ethic and heart for others will propel her athleticism and artistic talents to new levels of achievement.

Craving Connection

Quality Social Interactions Benefit Your Health

By Amy Morgan

It started early last month when a specialty-themed pink Stanley cup craze reminded us that Valentine’s Day was approaching – a time dedicated to romance. But relationships don’t need to be romantic to improve our quality of life. Connections with others have the ability to greatly impact our mental, emotional and even physical well-being and stave off diminished health caused by loneliness.

The CDC recently reported that loneliness is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. “The physical toll is also harrowing, as the lack of social connectedness is found to be a predictor of premature death. It carries a risk akin to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and is even more perilous than obesity, escalating the mortality risk by approximately 30%.”

Social connectedness is just one of the six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine addressed by husband-and-wife team, Dr. Prisiliano Salas and Dr. Monica Salas, at their practice, Salveo Direct Care. The physicians are board certified in both Family Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine to offer their patients personalized, holistic medical care. Lifestyle Medicine promotes choices to prevent, manage and even reverse chronic disease and increase healthy longevity by addressing six areas that are important to a whole person: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, positive social connectedness and eliminating toxic substances.

Both doctors take time to assess their patient’s personal relationships as part of an annual exam or initial appointment to establish care.

“Social connectedness has a huge impact on a person’s health,” Dr. Monica said. “We’ll ask about their home situation, what they do for work or hobbies. We want to identify if they are connecting regularly with people."

The pandemic brought to the forefront issues of social isolation. “We saw a huge increase in mental health issues in our practice and nationwide. Emergency rooms reported an overwhelming number of mental health crises and suicide attempts. Anecdotal evidence and academic research has shown us that loneliness can shorten a person’s life and increase the incidence of all sorts of health conditions. We need to be aware from a physician’s perspective what a person’s social connectedness looks like and find ways to improve those connections,” Dr. Monica said.

Another clue to a person’s emotional and mental health: Do they feel well supported? One member of the family may do the emotional heavy lifting for the others, but feelings of support need to be reciprocal, she added, otherwise the giver might become overwhelmed. Dr. Salas will probe to detect signs of things that would heighten levels of concern. Is a patient showing signs of depression: apathy, lack of motivation and hope, loss of interest in things they used to enjoy, withdrawal, sleep or nutrition issues? "Sometimes people are still getting things done, but their flame has gone out,” she added.

Mental wellness is one of the most important things to a healthy life, Dr. Prisiliano said. Salveo Direct Care offers access to a licensed professional counselor to support their patients’ mental health. The doctors also teach coping skills and can use medication as appropriate.

To improve social connectedness Dr. Monica recommends starting with something small and simple. A great way to connect through community is to find a way to serve. Helping people gives you a sense of purpose and belonging, Dr. Monica added.

She and Dr. Prisiliano practice what they preach. A group of Salveo Direct Care’s professionals and patients, including their kids, recently volunteered as a group at the Texas Diaper Bank and regularly participate in local volunteer events throughout the year.

Three tips to improve your mental wellness this month: Reach out to three people for a quick connection every week. Volunteer once a month for a cause you support. Pick one activity you enjoy and find an opportunity to do it in a group of others who share your interest.