Sunday, April 26, 2009

Thoracic metastases


Mostly commonly found in patients with lung, prostate, and breast cancer. Metastasis is the term used where there is only one tumor found and metastases is when there is multiple. When the cancer has spread to the thoracic spine the main bones of the thoracic spine become brittle and lead to compression fractures. The spread can also cause masses in the spinal canal causing compression on the spinal cord causing motor function problems. The means of treatment include radiation, chemo, and surgical intervention.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Cervical disc bulge




Cervical disc bulge or commonly referred to as "slipped disc" are fairly common problems with the neck. The discs that separate the bodies are put through wear and tear everyday and these cushions help our spine move. These discs can sometimes become dislodged and cause pressure on the spinal cord causing multiple symptoms such as paralysis, numbness or tingling are just some of the few. Treatment for a slipped disc can range from physical therapy, injections into the spine or surgery to remove the slipped disc.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Carotid stenosis







Carotid stenosis is one of the major causes of stroke. This occurs when the walls of the major vessels supplying the brain become partially obstructed or blocked. Plaque can form on these walls or a blood clot can become lodged. The common treatment for this problem is a vascular procedure where a balloon is forced through the vessel to help clean out the blockage, or a stent can be placed to help open the vessel more. If the problem is caught early it can be resolved without and permanent damage.,

Sunday, April 5, 2009

lipoma in neck




Lipomas are the growth of fat cells just beneath the skin. These are usually found on the neck legs and back. Lipomas are slow growing and usually painless growths that add cosmetic changes to the affected area such as bumps that feel mushy. Treatment is done for lipomas if there is infection, draining, or increase in size. Treatment is removal of the lipoma and stitches.