MedStar Health DocTalk

Send us a text

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Yet this cancer can be prevented with screening and is highly treatable when detected early. On this episode of our DocTalk podcast, we’re discussing colon cancer with Dr. Walid Chalhoub, the Division Chief of Gastroenterology at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, and the Co-Director of Advanced Endoscopy at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. 

Dr. Chalhoub discusses the difference between gastroenterology and advanced gastroenterology, and how...

Send us a text

In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with gastroenterologist Dr. Jose Parungao to delve into celiac disease, a chronic immune disorder affecting approximately 1 in 100 people in the U.S. As they explore the intricacies of this condition, Dr. Parungao explains how gluten—a protein found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley—triggers an immune response that can lead to a host of health issues, including malabsorption of essential nutrients.

Listeners will learn about the varied symptoms of celiac disease, from gastrointestinal distress to neuropsychiatric manifestations, and...

Send us a text

Are you one of the many who experience heartburn or acid reflux? In our latest episode, host Debra Schindler separates fact from fiction about gastroesophageal reflux disease -or GERD- with MedStar Health gastroenterologist Vinshi Khan, MD. Learn why long term complications from GERD make treatment so important. 

If you would like to provide feedback on this podcast, or get more information on hand tumors, send Debra an email:  debra.schindler@medstar.net.   

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to m...

Send us a text

In the latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, orthopedic surgeon Zan Nasser, MD, who specializes in spine surgery, discusses the facts and fiction of scoliosis. From understanding the basics of curvature of the spine, to treatment options, patients, parents, and healthcare professionals alike, this podcast has something for everyone.

Contrary to popular belief, scoliosis isn't solely a teenage affliction nor is it caused by poor posture. In fact, scoliosis can develop in individuals of any age, and its severity varies significantly from person to person. 

Bracing is often the f...

Send us a text

A groundbreaking innovation is making waves for the approximate six million Americans who suffer with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It’s called pulsed field ablation. In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Sunjeet Sidhu, a renowned cardiac electrophysiologist at MedStar Health, to explore the intricacies and benefits of this safer, faster, cutting-edge treatment.

 The number of those suffering with AFib, may even be an underestimate, but statistics show they are steadily increasing due to factors such as an aging population and the obesity epidemic. Traditionally, AFIB treatment involved the...

Send us a text

The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy Program is the only adult, FACT-accredited program in the Washington, D.C., area. We give patients with cancers affecting the blood or immune system and other disorders access to life-saving treatment options not otherwise available in our region. These include:

·       Allogeneic stem cell transplant

·       Autologous stem cell transplant

·       CAR T-cell therapy

Alaa Ali, MD, MSC, is a clinician, instructor, and investigator in clinical and translational research at MedStar Georgetown’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunoth...

Send us a text

In our latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, Debra Schindler talks with MedStar Health breast surgeon, Maen Farha, MD, medical director of the Breast Center at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore, about the most common breast cancer diagnosis: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). 

Learn more about the contained, early-stage disease, the intricacies of diagnosis, and the personalized treatment options available. Dr. Farha shares valuable experience and a wealth of knowledge with hope for outstanding results, possible with proper care.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to m...

Send us a text

Stomach cancer, often referred to as gastric cancer, is a sneaky cancer.  Its symptoms can be easily mistaken for more benign conditions like indigestion or acid reflux, making early detection a challenge. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into this complex disease with the help of two esteemed experts: gastroenterologist Dr. Walid Chaloub, and Dr. Reetu Mukherji, a medical oncologist from MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute in D.C. 

Host Debra Schindler explores the biology of stomach cancer with her physician guests to understand how mutations in the DNA of stomach ce...

Send us a text

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women, resulting in more cancer deaths than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined. It can take years to develop and is difficult to detect in early stages when there is greater potential for a cure. 

Fortunately, lung cancer survival rates are improving, thanks to advances in screening and treatment options, including breakthrough therapies that we're leading at MedStar Health. In partnership with the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center—a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center—we can offer our p...

Send us a text

In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, we explore the critical aspects of breast cancer detection and the intricacies of mammography with Dr. Michelle Townsend Day, Chair of the Department of Radiology and Section Chief of Breast Imaging at MedStar Good Samaritan and MedStar Union Memorial Hospitals. 

Hosted by Debra Schindler, this episode delves into the advancements in breast imaging, the significance of early detection, and the challenges faced in diagnosing breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. 

Dr. Townsend Day provides a comprehensive overview of th...

Send us a text

Foot pain is a common issue that many of us face at some point in our lives. While plantar fasciitis is often the culprit, there's another- probably under-reported condition that deserves attention: plantar fibromatosis, also known as Ledderhose disease. In our latest podcast episode, Debra Schindler takes a dive deep into this lesser-known condition with MedStar Health podiatric foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Paul Carroll.

Plantar fibromatosis affects approximately 200,000 people in the United States and is characterized by the growth of fibromas—benign nodules—on the plantar fascia, the thick band of t...

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the fascinating world of brain waves and neurological diagnostics with Dr. Syed Shabbir, Director of Epilepsy and Medical Director of the EEG Lab at Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center. Hosted by Debra Schindler, this episode sheds light on the complexities of the human brain and the critical role of electroencephalograms (EEGs) in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders.

 The human brain is an intricate organ, constantly firing neurons and generating electrical activity known as brain waves. These brain waves can be measured using EEGs, a...

Send us a text

 | Join us for an insightful episode with Dr. Kieran Dunleavy, an internationally recognized expert in lymphoma and blood cancers. Learn about the innovative treatments and clinical trials happening at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital that are transforming patient care. Discover how accurate diagnosis and cutting-edge therapies like CAR T cells and bispecific antibodies are improving outcomes and reducing toxicity. Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed about the future of cancer treatment. Listen now! 

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

Unlock the mysteries of thyroid health with our special guest, Dr. Paul Sack from MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore. Ever wondered how a tiny gland in your neck can orchestrate the harmony of your body's systems? Dr. Sack reveals the critical role of the thyroid gland, its impact on overall health, and the complexities of diagnosing conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. Through our conversation, gain a deeper understanding of how these conditions can mimic other health issues and the vital role endocrinologists play in managing them.<...

Send us a text

Comprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine from the largest healthcare system in the Maryland D.C. region: this is MedStar Health DocTalk.

In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with thoracic surgeon Dr. Duane Monteith and gastroenterologist Dr. Dana Sloan for a comprehensive look into esophageal cancer. They discuss everything from early symptoms and risk factors to advanced treatment options like minimally invasive surgery. This episode is packed with valuable insights that could make a significant difference in early detection and treatment. 

For more e...

Send us a text

Did you know that Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States in men and women combined? March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. On this episode of our DocTalk podcast, we’re discussing colon cancer. Dr. Priyanka Kanth, the Director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Prevention Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital talks about every aspect of colon cancer from symptoms, stages, causes, and treatment.

Having accurate facts about colon and rectal cancer is very important. Whether you're reporting on a story, doing a homework assignment, or ra...

Send us a text

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

In this heart-stirring episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, we delve into the alarming trend of heart attack fatalities among the young. With heart disease steadfastly holding its ground as the leading cause of death in the U.S., our host Debra Schindler sits down with cardiologists Dr. Barbara Srichai and Dr. Estelle Jean from the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute to dissect the why's and how's of this disturbing rise.

The episode takes an unexpected turn with the inspiring story of Jude Mabone, Miss District of Columbia 2023, who shares her jaw-dropping...

Send us a text

Electrophysiologist Dr. Richard Jones, of the MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute, talks about symptoms and treatment for the full spectrum of the most common form of cardiac arrythmia: atrial fibrillation. 

 

Are you feeling a flutter in your chest, or maybe your smartwatch is signaling an irregular heartbeat? It's time to tune in to your heart's health because atrial fibrillation (AFib) is not just a condition for the textbooks—it's a growing concern for millions.

 In the latest episode of 'MedStarHealth Doc Talk,' we sit down with Dr. R...

Send us a text

Hand surgeon, Dr. Avi Giladi and endocrinologist Dr. Malik Cheikh discuss why their specialties lend to a fracture prevention program; why bone fractures are risky, particularly for seniors, as well as treatment and prevention tips.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

In our latest podcast episode, Debra sits down with Dr. Aubrey Grant, a sports and performance cardiologist at Medstar Health, who offers a deep dive into sports cardiology, the athlete's heart, and its capacity to remodel itself.

Dr. Grant, a graduate of the only sports cardiology fellowship in the country, shares his unique insights into the physiological wonders of high-performance athletes. He explains how the heart, much like any other muscle, remodels itself in response to the demands of intense exercise. This remodeling can result in an athlete's heart looking and...

Send us a text

Board certified neurologist Dr. Tamar Harel discusses the complex autoimmune disorder, multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is triggered by the immune system  attacking the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers, known as myelin, as something foreign. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of coordination, pain, and memory and vision loss. For details on diagnosis and treatment options, listen to this week's episode of MedStar Health DocTalk with host, Debra Schindler. 

debra.schindler@medstar.net

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

Dr. Irinia Tunnage of MedStar Health, talks with host Debra Schindler about the signs, symptoms, screening and treatment of cervical cancer. 

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 66,000 new cases of uterine cancer are currently diagnosed each year. Unlike most cancers in the Unites States, endometrial cancer, the most common type of uterine cancer, has been increasing in both incidence and death rates and there is no way to effectively screen for it. That’s why it’s important to understand the risk factors for and symptoms of endometrial cancer as well as how it is diagnosed and treated. During this podcast, Dr. Ali Mahdavi, a gynecologic oncologist with MedStar Health, discusses what women need...

Send us a text

Medical oncologist Dr. Joshua Reuss, an expert in lung cancer, mesothelioma and thymoma, and pulmonologist Dr. Rebecca Krochmal, an expert in benign and malignant airway and pleural disease, both with MedStar Georgetown  University Hospital in Washington, D.C., address questions related to finding and treating lung cancer.

To listen to and download all episodes, visit: https://www.medstarhealth.org/news-an....

Learn more about Dr. Reuss: https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors....
Learn more about Dr. Krochmal: https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors....

F...

Send us a text

There’s a game changer in the treatment of uterine fibroids. Women whose lives are compromised by pain, long periods, severe bleeding, anemia and other symptoms of the muscular tumors, can opt for an embolization through the wrist. Known as transradial uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, the doctor access the uterus though a single tiny opening in the wrist, while the patient is under twilight sedation. Most procedures take less than an hour and patients go home the same day. Dr. Brian Swehla, chief of interventional radiology at MedStar Health, has all the de...

Send us a text

Kienbock’s disease, a debilitating condition where a wrist bone collapses and dies, has no known cause.

Typically affecting young men in their teens or twenties, untreated Kienbock’s disease can result in progressive arthritis in the wrist and loss of function. For no clear reason, the lunate, one of eight small bones in the wrist, loses blood supply and the bone collapses. But how common is this extremely painful disease? And how can it be treated?

On this episode of DocTalk, the chief of the Curtis National Hand Cent...

Send us a text

Liver masses or lesions are increasingly being identified incidentally during imaging tests and through bloodwork for unrelated conditions. While most are benign, many are complex making them difficult to accurately diagnose and treat. That’s why it’s important to see a specialist who can determine the specific type and nature of the lesion as the most appropriate treatment can vary greatly. During this podcast, Dr. Abhinav Sankineni, an interventional gastroenterologist, and Dr. Edward McCarron, a surgical oncologist, who both practice at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, discuss liver masses …what they are and ho...

Send us a text

Sports medicine orthopedic surgeon Dr. Richard Hinton, and athletic trainer and DPT McKenzie Bane talk about the wrap-around care necessary for not only a successful return to play, but to return to performance. It's never soon enough for an athlete.

Topics covered include commotio cordis, preparation for catastrophic events on the athletic field and the evolution of sports medicine.

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

From a test that lasts an average of 40-minutes, patients with nerve injuries or neuro-muscular conditions can learn a lot about the health of the nerves signaling messages to muscles. The test is called an electromyography, or EMG.  Neurologist Dr. Derrick Fox of MedStar Health explains why the test is useful, who should be tested, what information is gleaned from it, how it is conducted, and more....

For more episodes of MedStar Health DocTalk, go to medstarhealth.org/doctalk.

Send us a text

Night sweats, hot flushes, female discomfort and dryness, anxiety, and weight gain are just a few symptoms of menopause. How does a woman get there?

What are the facts and myths about this change that can make a woman feel less feminine and outdated? 

On MedStar Health’s podcast DocTalk, Christina Enzmann, MD, a gynecologist and menopause specialist at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore, brings a fresh approach to explaining and treating menopause. She explains the stages of menopause, how it's different for everyone, and by making changes in...

Send us a text

Comprehensive, relevant and insightful conversations about health and medicine happen here… on MedStar Health Doc Talk.

By the time we reach our 40’s, about 10-million Americans have some degree of plaque build-up in the arteries, called atherosclerosis. Deposits of that plaque in the arteries can impede or block the blood flow to the legs. It’s called peripheral artery disease, or P-A-D, PAD- and you may not even know you have it. 

 To make an appointment with Jason Crowner, MD, FACS at...