MEDSTAR SOUTHERN MARYLAND HOSPITAL CENTER Summer | 2016

Surviving Summer Heat Educating Saying Tomorrow’s Goodbye to Healthcare Professionals

Neck Special Care Pain for Special Thomas’s Story Deliveries

Award Winning Stroke Care Message from the President Dear Neighbor, Christine Wray, FACHE, President, MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center As I write to you at the halfway directly from former patients in point of 2016, I am reminded this issue, with great examples of of the importance of dedication how gifted physicians and to achieving healthcare quality. compassionate, high quality MedStar Southern Maryland hospital care can work together Hospital Center is in the midst of to create exceptional outcomes. 7503 Surratts Road, Clinton, MD 20735 many changes, and dedication is a 301-868-8000 or TTY 301-877-4473 critical component of our success. Beyond the hospital’s walls, Kenneth A. Samet, FACHE we take another step toward President and Chief Executive Officer, Between sketching out a bold bringing multispecialty care MedStar Health vision of this hospital’s future and into neighborhoods across M. Joy Drass, MD celebrating that vision’s successful Southern Maryland with this Executive Vice President and Chief attainment, there lies a long month’s opening of MedStar Operating Officer, MedStar Health journey. We are on the journey Health at Brandywine. MedStar Christine Wray, FACHE of high reliability and continuous Health continues to make it easy President, MedStar Southern Maryland improvement as we design and for our region’s residents to get Hospital Center and Senior Vice President, MedStar Health implement the changes necessary great care. to ensure our hospital provides the John W. Rollins, Jr. best, safest, and highest quality More than anything else, Chair, Board of Directors care available. dedication means that when Cheryl Richardson something is important, you never Director, Marketing and Community We need steadfast dedication to give up. From every corner of the Relations succeed on this journey, and hospital, I see that tenacious Design: Erin Glynn, Graphic Designer dedication is something we have attitude in our leadership, board, in abundance at MedStar Southern physicians, associates, and Heart&Soul Newsletter Design: Melanie Mussehl, Graphic Designer Maryland Hospital Center. I am volunteers, all working each day grateful for the dedication of our for the health of our Southern Photo Credits: Ryan Smith Photography, physicians and associates, who Maryland community. I hope you Peter Cane Photography, Kelanda Dickerson approach their work each day with will join us on this journey. a collaborative spirit and patient- oriented mindset, eager to Kindest regards, Health is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of incorporate new initiatives and MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital best practices. Center. It in no way seeks to diagnose or treat illness or serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Please see I am delighted as I experience our Christine Wray, FACHE your physician if you have a community’s dedication as well: health problem. President, MedStar Southern Maryland through volunteering, outreach Hospital Center On the cover: Left: Thomas Ball participation, and support, you Senior Vice President, MedStar Health Right: Amjad Anaizi, MD help us stay the course. You’ll hear

2 MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH | SUMMER 2016 Tidbits

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Tomorrow’s Pros Wray at AHA New ED Director Stroke Award

This spring, students from Hospital president Christine The hospital is pleased to We’ve done it again! Friendly High School in Fort Wray introduced U.S. announce that healthcare MedStar Southern Maryland Washington’s biosciences Congressman Steny Hoyer as veteran Ryan White, RN, MSN Hospital Center received the academy program had he addressed the American has joined the hospital as Gold Plus Achievement the opportunity to learn Hospital Association (AHA) director of the emergency Award from the American about the variety of membership at its annual department (ED). White will Heart Association’s Get with career tracks available meeting, held in Washington, focus on continuous quality The Guidelines®-Stroke within the healthcare DC in May. Congressman improvement in the ED, program and has been industry. Representatives Hoyer, who represents systematically identifying named to the Target: Stroke from different hospital Maryland’s 5th district, opportunities to improve not Honor Roll. This award departments talked with welcomed Maryland Hospital only patient care, but also recognizes the hospital for students about what their Association President and CEO the experience of patients consistently delivering day-to-day jobs are like and Carmela Coyle and shared his and their family members in quality stroke care using what skills, education, and insights about current federal the ED. Turn to page 14 to evidence-based guidelines training a person would health policies that affect learn more. proven to give stroke need for a similar career. hospitals. Wray’s introduction sufferers the best chance of Continue reading on highlighted Hoyer’s recovery. Find out more on page 13. commitment to Southern page 14. Maryland’s healthcare.

SUMMERSPRING 2016 | MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH 23 Special Care for Special Deliveries MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center’s special care nursery provides specialized care for the littlest patients

Melanie Bush with daughter Brooklyn Bush and son Brentley Bush

1 MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH | SPRING 2016 t’s a scene that parents-to-be doctors and nurses at a imagine hundreds of times: the location close to home day they welcome their little one means that new parents can into their family and meet their spend more time with their Inew baby face to face. Sometimes, babies while they are still in however, reality is a bit more the hospital. The hospital’s complicated. When a baby is born special care nursery is early or needs some extra support, known for maintaining a the dedicated professionals at compassionate, welcoming MedStar Southern Maryland atmosphere. “Highly Hospital Center’s special care specialized expertise, nursery are there to help. strong nursing skill, and warm, family-centered care Melanie Bush knows. After a is all wrapped up in one big, difficult pregnancy, she began beautiful package here at having contractions early—at only MedStar Southern Maryland 34 weeks’ gestation—and labor Hospital Center,” said was progressing rapidly. With one Mahoganey McCrae, BSN, of her twins in breech position, she RN, CPN assistant director delivered by emergency cesarean of nursing for the special section. Melanie and her husband care nursery. Benny Bush, Jr. welcomed their new son and daughter, Brentley Always welcome Melanie Bush with husband Benny Bush Jr. and Brooklyn Bush, at 1:06 and The Bush twins had ups and their three children, Brayden, Brooklyn, 1:08 a.m. respectively, on August and downs during the and Brentley Bush 23, 2014. Brentley weighed 5 eleven days they stayed in pounds, 4 ounces at birth, and the special care nursery, Brooklyn weighed just 4 pounds, particularly Brentley, who Melanie said. “The staff talked to 2 ounces. struggled with breathing and both of us as parents. Everyone was eating. The special care nursery very responsive, and no one rushed Without the full 40 weeks to team helped Brentley breathe us or made us feel unwelcome.” develop in their mother's body, using several treatments, including babies born early can face a variety a breathing tube and ventilator, Encouraged by the special care of challenges, including low birth continuous positive airway pressure nursing staff, Melanie and her weight, breathing problems, (CPAP) therapy, and supplemental husband Benny were active infections, and vision or hearing oxygen through a nasal canula. On participants in caring for their loss. About one baby in ten is born day seven, his lungs were able to babies, holding them, feeding prematurely in the United States, tolerate regular air. them, changing their diapers and and rates have been rising, taking their temperatures. according to the March of Dimes. Because he wasn’t able to eat for over a week, the team gave Melanie also appreciated the A special place Brentley the nutrition and hydration doctors' approach. “They were MedStar Southern Maryland he needed through an IV. Both available to answer questions Hospital Center’s special care Brooklyn and Brentley benefitted and did a lot of education. They nursery is a level II nursery that from phototherapy to treat their were amazing.” cares for babies born at 32 weeks jaundice, and warm enclosed or later, or who weigh at least incubators called isolettes helped Brentley and Brooklyn are now a 1,500 grams (about 3.3 pounds). the little twins regulate their body pair of active and happy 23-month- The special care nursery is led by temperatures. old toddlers. Although they don’t a team of on-site physicians from remember those first days, their MedStar Georgetown University Although there were scary grateful mom and dad will Hospital, who bring their moments, the special care nursing never forget. specialized expertise in helping staff were there every step of the the smallest babies thrive, and way. “Even though I have a To find out more about our special has a staff of experienced nurses. healthcare background, I wasn’t care nursery, go to thinking like a nurse while I was MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/ Having an experienced team of watching my babies struggle,” Nursery.

SUMMER 2016 | MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH 5 Neurosurgeon Amjad Anaizi, MD, and his patient Thomas Ball

Saying Goodbye to Neck Pain Neurosurgeon Amjad Anaizi, MD, keeps patients moving with minimally invasive surgery

hile traveling for Initially, he shrugged off the Thomas’s symptoms progressed to business on a sensation of weakness in his hand. include numbness in his hand, Monday morning in But a few days later, he was neck pain, and muscle tension 2011, Thomas Ball of awakened in the night by sharp, throughout his shoulder and arm. WLexington Park noticed something stabbing pains in his arm. “It felt “My muscles felt as tight as a piano strange: he kept dropping the like I was being hit in the biceps wire,” he said. MRI results revealed handle of his rolling suitcase as he with a hatchet,” he said. that he had developed bone walked through the airport. spurs, pinched nerves, and two

6 MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH | SUMMER 2016 slipped discs in his neck. Over the next five years, he Better than before tried anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, Because it does not cut through neck and back and injections, but nothing provided lasting relief. Like muscles or other tissues and requires a very small many people, he was hesitant to have neck surgery. incision, minimally invasive spine surgery is generally associated with a lower rate of complications such as A better option reduced blood loss, a Eventually, Thomas shorter hospital stay, and a consulted with faster recovery than neurosurgeon Amjad traditional surgery. The Anaizi, MD, a MedStar operation takes about 45 Georgetown University Almost minutes, and patients Hospital physician who typically go home the same also sees patients in day. After recovery, patients Southern Maryland. Dr. immediately, my generally have the same Anaizi performs a variety flexibility, range of motion, of spinal procedures at and stability as before. MedStar Southern symptoms were Maryland Hospital Center. “I do a lot of minimally Thomas was expecting to invasive neck and back hear that he needed major gone. I could surgery at MedStar surgery, but he was in for Southern Maryland Hospital a surprise. Center,” Dr. Anaizi said. sleep on my right “Patients are often eager to “Patients are often choose the lesser of two concerned about losing surgeries if the minimally some mobility as a result side for the first invasive approach can solve of fusing spinal vertebrae. their problem.” In some In some instances, we can cases, the patient may be avoid spinal fusion surgery time in five years. able to delay a more in favor of a different intensive intervention for option,” Dr. Anaizi said. many years; in other cases, “In Thomas’s case, a After a couple they may be able to avoid minimally invasive cervical needing a second surgery laminectomy could relieve at all. his symptoms without of days, I didn’t compromising mobility in It’s a choice that Thomas Ball his neck.” is glad he made. “Almost even need the immediately, my symptoms Dr. Anaizi performed were gone. I could sleep on Thomas’s operation at my right side for the first MedStar Southern prescription pain time in five years. After a Maryland Hospital Center couple of days, I didn’t in March. Minimally invasive even need the prescription laminectomy removes medication. pain medication. It was a some of the bone and wonderful experience, and I ligaments that are am so pleased with the crowding nerves in the result. I just wish I would spinal canal. During the have worked with Dr. Anaizi procedure, Dr. Anaizi a few years ago! This is truly inserted a series of tubular a life-changing operation.” retractors through a small incision in the back of the neck to maneuver between—not through—the neck’s To learn more, or to schedule a consultation with muscle fibers. Using a microscope and specialized Dr. Anaizi, go to MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/ instruments, Dr. Anaizi removed a small piece of bone NeuroSurgery or call 855-546-1853. from the affected vertebrae, which relieved pressure on the nerves and alleviated symptoms. There were no pins, plates or other hardware involved.

SUMMER 2016 | MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH 7 Beat the Heat Our emergency department physicians tell you how to stay safe this summer

h, the long, hot it’s not treated, it can lead to “Heat stroke produces a days of summer. heat stroke, which is life temperature of 104 Whether you’re at threatening. When the degrees or higher and the pool or just outside temperatures and may cause vomiting, Aout in the yard, the season humidity are extreme: confusion, and rapid of fun in the sun can be breathing,” said hospital dangerous. These tips from • Stay indoors, in an air- ED physician Ghofrane some of MedStar Southern conditioned environment, Benghanem, MD. If you Maryland Hospital Center’s if possible. notice these symptoms, emergency department • If you have to be outside, it’s time to head to the ED. (ED) physicians can help wear a hat and light- • Stay hydrated. “We all you make the most of all colored clothing to keep know the rule of thumb summer has to offer. the sun away. “An umbrella to drink eight 8-ounce can also do a good job of glasses of water a day, but Heat exhaustion keeping you in the shade,” in the summer sun, that and heat stroke said Michael Antonis, DO, amount should double,” The very young and the chair of the hospital’s ED. said hospital ED physician very old are most • Know the signs of heat David Lane, MD. susceptible to heat-related exhaustion, including • Keep an eye on your emergencies. Heat sweating, dizziness, racing alcohol or caffeine intake exhaustion occurs when heartbeat, and headache. and replenish fluids your body overheats, and if • Beware of heat stroke. accordingly.

18 MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH | SPRINGSUMMER 2016 2016 Pictured from left to right: Ghofrane Benghanem, MD, David Lane, MD, and Michael Antonis, DO

• Check on elderly family members, overemphasize the importance with repellant if you’re going neighbors, or friends. of using sunscreen each and hiking. every time you’re going to be • Check everyone in the family— Pool and sun safety outside,” Dr. Benghanem said. including family pets—for ticks “The top three things to remember • Reapply sunscreen every three to daily. with kids and pools are supervision, four hours, or after time in the supervision, and supervision,” pool. Some people have an allergic Dr. Lane said. “Having a designated • Wear long sleeves and hats, reaction to bee or wasp stings. A adult responsible for watching kids even in the pool. severe allergic reaction is an while they’re in the pool can save a emergency. “If you are stung by an child’s life.” No matter how many Insect bites and stings insect and experience swelling in people are nearby, make sure Ticks and mosquitoes are more your mouth or throat, go to the someone is always acting as the than just annoying. Their bites can nearest ED immediately,” said lifeguard. cause serious diseases, like Lyme Dr. Antonis. He also recommends disease and West Nile virus. To carrying an antihistamine (such as To minimize sun exposure—at the avoid getting bitten: Benadryl or Claritin) when you’re pool or anywhere outside: hiking or traveling. • Wear long-sleeved shirts and • Avoid sunburn and reduce skin long pants to protect your skin. Have a safe and happy summer! cancer risk by applying lots of • Use an insect repellent (available high-SPF sunscreen to adults in lotion, liquid, or spray varieties). For more information about our and children. “We can never • Consider treating your clothing Emergency Department, visit MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/ Emergency.

SUMMER 2016 | MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH 9 A Celebration of Giving

On the evening of April 28, hospital leaders, volunteers, and their guests gathered to celebrate the steadfast dedication of those who devote time to helping MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center at the annual Volunteer Banquet. The spirit of the evening’s theme, “Volunteers: Giving Time and Touching Hearts,” was present as hospital associates and community members reflected on volunteers’ contributions over the past year. Hospital president Christine Wray, FACHE and volunteer services coordinator Joanne Johnson each spoke, thanking the volunteers and highlighting their work’s importance to both the hospital and the community at large. During the festivities, two college-bound participants in the youth summer Candy Striper volunteer program, Christin Hardy and Jordan Purvis, received $1,000 scholarships. These scholarships were made possible through efforts of the hospital’s adult volunteers. A Celebration of Giving

Some exceptional adult volunteers also received awards. The Founder’s Award was presented to Patrick Hilaire, and Trudell Beach received the Outstanding Achievement Award. The Meritorious Award, a commendation that has been awarded to a deserving hospital volunteer for over 30 years, was given to Asha Macali. Volunteers serve in 22 departments throughout the hospital. They support the hospital in a variety of ways, from answering visitor questions to helping departments keep up with filing and other office-related tasks. Community members interested in volunteering can fill out an application in person or online. The candy striper program is open to high school students aged 15 to 17 and runs from June to August. To learn more information, please visit MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/ Volunteer or call 855-546-1063. MedStar Health at Brandywine The care you want, at a location you’ll love: MedStar Health at Brandywine opens July 19.

here’s a new face in the neighborhood. NRH Rehabilitation Network will provide physical MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center therapy services. MedStar Health at Brandywine will is proud to introduce MedStar Health at also offer laboratory and radiology capabilities. As Brandywine, which opens July 19. MedStar an added feature, an on-site referral coordinator will THealth at Brandywine is a multispecialty health help patients make follow-up appointments for center, offering both primary and specialty medical screenings, testing, specialist consultations, or care in a convenient location. additional care.

Specialists from MedStar Georgetown University Every detail was created with patients in mind. Hospital and MedStar Washington Hospital Center Amenities include convenient parking, free are teaming up with MedStar Medical Group and Wi-Fi, and meeting space available for use by private practice physicians to see patients at the community organizations. new Brandywine facility, giving Southern Maryland residents convenient, one-stop access to the We look forward to seeing you soon. region’s best primary care physicians, cardiologists, orthopaedic surgeons, ear nose and throat specialists MedStar Health at Brandywine (otolaryngologists), rheumatologists, and physical 13950 Brandywine Road medicine specialists (physiatrists). Brandywine, MD 20613

Rehabilitation experts from the renowned MedStar For more information, please visit MedStarHealth. org/Brandywine.

12 MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH | SUMMER 2016 Tidbits

Doctors, Nurses—and Much More At hospital-sponsored Career Day, high school students learn about the wide range of healthcare careers

hink healthcare is need to have a bachelor’s degree, In addition to physicians and something that only doctors and a master’s degree is standard nurses, departments across the and nurses do? Think again. for management positions hospital participated, including From data analytics to in nursing.” physical therapy, speech therapy, Tdesign, and from supply chain exercise physiology, respiratory management to environmental Nearly 100 students from all four therapy, radiology, human science, healthcare careers have grades attended the event, learning resources, community outreach, something for everyone. about the job requirements and sleep laboratory, information day-to-day duties of various technology, and the hospital’s That was the central message of positions and asking questions Women and Newborns Center. the MedStar Southern Maryland about education and training that Hospital Center’s recent Career are necessary to get jobs in For more information, call Day at Friendly High School in these areas. 855-546-0906. Fort Washington. The goal of the day-long program was to give students in the school’s Health and Biosciences Academy an opportunity to hear from professionals working across the spectrum of healthcare careers.

This is the third year the hospital has sponsored a Career Day event at Friendly High School. It is part of the hospital’s ongoing relationship with several schools in Prince George’s County. During the event, representatives from departments throughout the hospital gave students insight into what their job is really like, what education is required, and how to go about getting a job in that field. Hospital associates also urged students to focus on earning top grades, noting that school performance opens doors to college scholarships and other opportunities.

“We’re committed to providing guidance, encouragement, and a practical perspective for students who may be considering healthcare careers,” said Paul Zeller, the Left: Amy Holland, RT, with a hospital’s vice president of human student at Friendly High School resources and development. “The education bar is constantly being in Fort Washington, Maryland raised in healthcare. For example, today’s registered nurses typically

SUMMER 2016 | MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH 13 Tidbits

needs,” White said. More patients are New ED Director coming to the ED each year, many of whom are older, and a higher percentage of those patients have MedStar Southern serious or life-threatening conditions. Maryland Hospital Center These changing demographics is proud to welcome necessitate new solutions to improve the patient experience. Ryan White, RN, MSN, the hospital’s new director of the Using data as a starting point, White will lead the ED team in identifying Emergency Department opportunities, conducting root cause analyses, and developing and ew hospital emergency implementing improvement initiatives. department (ED) director By using a systematic approach, and Ryan White, RN, MSN has by reviewing the results of each experienced many different process improvement, White hopes to Nhospital settings in his career and has make it easier for the hospital’s worked in some of the busiest EDs in dedicated ED staff to provide efficient, the nation. At MedStar Southern high quality care to each patient who Maryland Hospital Center, White will comes through the doors. work with ED physicians, nurses, and staff to implement process “By understanding current realities, we improvements throughout can create a model of care that will the department. work today—as well as in the new ED we’re building for the future,” he said. “We’re focused on improving our processes, which need to evolve to For more information on the ED, visit meet our community’s changing MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/ Emergency. Great Stroke Care, Close to Home MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center wins prestigious American Heart Association Award Tidbits

n 2015 alone, MedStar Southern “It’s a huge team effort to make Maryland Hospital Center this happen for our patients and treated close to 900 people our community,” said Deborah suffering strokes. With the need Oncale-Guthrie, who served as Ifor stroke care in our community, interim stroke coordinator during it’s good to know that our hospital 2015 and is now the hospital’s does it right. core measures coordinator. “I’d like to recognize the nurses in speech therapy, and occupational The hospital recently received the particular, who play a vital role in therapy, to name a few. Stroke Gold Plus Achievement Award ensuring that our stroke care is treatment is extremely time from the American Heart compliant with AHA standards and sensitive: with every minute that Association’s Get with The do a fabulous job.” passes during an acute stroke, Guidelines®-Stroke program and nearly two million brain cells die. was named to the Target: Stroke Excellent stroke care requires Honor Roll. This is the third year coordination among departments To find out more about our the hospital has received these throughout the hospital, including hospital’s stroke care, visit honors, which were publicized in physicians, nurses, and staff from MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/ US News & World Report’s Best the emergency department, StrokeCenter or call Hospitals edition. radiology, laboratory, pharmacy, 855-546-0921. critical care, physical therapy,

14 MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH | SUMMER 2016 Heart&Soul HELPING YOU GET TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER

SUMMER 2016 • VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 3

A Message from the Vice President, Medical Affairs Each day, we face hundreds of choices. From what to wear to which movie to see, our choices define our present, but they can also help shape our future. One of the most striking aspects of cardiovascular medicine in particular is how big a role our lifestyle choices play in our heart and vascular health. The choices we make each day matter in terms of our lifelong health. Even small improvements, like cutting down on fast food, cooking more meals at home, or taking a walk during your lunch break can make a big difference in your health. Bigger changes, like quitting smoking or losing weight, can lead to dramatically better health. In this issue of Heart&Soul, some of MedStar’s experts discuss different heart and vascular conditions. What they all have in common is that lifestyle factors like diet, Yvette C. Johnson-Threat, MD Vice President, Medical Affairs exercise, and smoking cessation can help reduce your risk of developing them. What MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center choices can you make today to make tomorrow healthier? We know you have choices when it comes to healthcare, too. We’re proud to serve the Southern Maryland region with a wide array of advanced medical services provided by doctors like the top-notch physicians who contribute to each issue of this publication!

Sincerely,

Yvette C. Johnson-Threat, MD

What is an aortic aneurysm? By: Frederick P. Beavers, MD

An aneurysm is a blood are found incidentally, and typically have vessel that is bigger when tests such as a shorter hospital than it should be. These chest x-ray or abdominal stays and a quicker bulging or ballooning ultrasound are ordered for recovery. Open blood vessels can occur another reason. Once they surgical procedures are throughout the body. are detected, they can sometimes necessary Aortic aneurysms affect often be managed with for more complicated the aorta, the body’s smoking cessation and situations. largest blood vessel, and blood pressure control, If you are over the age are the 10th leading cause combined with regular of 65 and are enrolled in Frederick P. Beavers, MD of death in the United monitoring. Medicare, the SAAVE Act Vascular Surgery States. It is an age-related MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center For aortic aneurysms that allows a free, one-time 301-877-7353 PHONE condition, which can run require intervention, they aneurysm screening. in families. can often be treated using Anyone over 65 with a To schedule a consultation Aneurysms are usually not endovascular (minimally family member who has with Dr. Beavers, call preventable, but death invasive) techniques. been diagnosed with an 301-877-7353. from an aneurysm is. Minimally invasive options aneurysm, or who has Most aortic aneurysms put less stress on the body ever smoked, should be screened. Heart&Soul SUMMER 2016 EDITION

Terms To Know By: Athanasios Thomaides, MD, FACC

Do you know the emergency. If you, or evaluation. Although difference between a heart someone around you, fainting is harmless in attack, sudden cardiac develop these signs, call many cases, we should death, and congestive 911 immediately. make sure that it’s not a heart failure? Sudden cardiac death sign of a heart rhythm Heart attack: The medical (SCD): is the result of problem. term for a heart attack heart rhythm disturbance. If you see someone is myocardial infarction The electrical system of collapse, and they are (MI). MIs are caused the heart suddenly stops not breathing, call 911 by blocked arteries working, causing the and look to see if an Athanasios Thomaides, MD, FACC supplying the muscle of heart to quiver and not automated external Cardiology MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center the heart (myocardium). be able to pump blood defibrillator (AED) is 301-877-5677 PHONE The blockages result throughout the body. available nearby. If not, known as cardiomyopathy. from plaque formation Examples of SCD include start CPR immediately Symptoms of congestive and plaque rupture, ventricular tachycardia and continue until the heart failure include which are caused by and ventricular fibrillation. ambulance arrives. difficulty breathing, high cholesterol and These often lethal Congestive heart failure fatigue, and swelling. hypertension. Symptoms arrhythmias cause the (CHF): or simply heart Heart failure is a chronic of a heart attack include sufferer to suddenly failure, is a term used to condition that can chest pain (which may collapse and lose describe hearts when they often be managed with be felt in the shoulder, consciousness. no longer function/pump medication. arm, jaw, or upper back), If you experience sudden effectively. This syndrome difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness is frequently caused by To schedule a consultation sweating, and nausea. (fainting), you should weakening of the muscle with Dr. Thomaides, call A heart attack is an come to the hospital for of the heart, a condition 301-877-5677.

DVT and IVC Filters: What You Need to Know By: Ryan D. Muller, MD

Deep vein thrombosis newer therapies available. will return. (DVT) is a blood clot, most These include minimally often affecting the legs. invasive options for For patients who have an If a portion of the clot removing the initial blood IVC filter, it is important breaks off and travels to clot as well as treating the to follow up with your the lungs, it can cause a underlying conditions doctor to decide if and life-threatening condition – such as narrowing of when the filter should called a pulmonary the blood vessels – that be removed. Most embolism (PE). contributed to the clot’s modern filters are now “retrievable”. The sooner formation. Ryan D. Muller, MD An IVC filter may be filters are removed Interventional Radiology placed (in certain clinical During these interventional (once they are no longer MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center scenarios) as a protective procedures, access is needed), the higher MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/IR measure for patients with a gained into the blood the rate of successful DVT. It is a metallic device stream by inserting small, removal. If you have been For more information that is designed to stop a catheter-based tools treated for DVT in the past, about the interventional blood clot from reaching into the clot or narrowed follow up with the doctor radiology program the lungs. blood vessels. This not who is managing your at MedStar Southern only rapidly improves the blood thinners to find out Maryland Hospital Although the standard symptoms of pain and whether you have an IVC Center, please visit of care for DVT is swelling, but also lessens filter in place and, if so, MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/IR. anticoagulation (“blood the likelihood that the clot when it is safe to remove it. thinners”), there are also Ask-the-Doctor Seminar Series Community Healthcare Education

Please join us for an informative, interactive seminar “Getting Your Back on Track” Presented by Amjad Anaizi, MD

You know the feeling; pain in the back or in the neck. It can be sharp, throbbing, and unbearable. But what happens when it’s accompanied by numbness in certain areas of the body? This could indicate bigger problems, such as bone spurs, pinched nerves, and slipped discs. Sometimes a combination of anti- inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and injections can provide relief…but what if it doesn’t?

The good news is you don’t have to suffer anymore. Join Dr. Amjad Anaizi for a discussion on back and neck pain and the minimally invasive options that are available to treat it. Dr. Anaizi, a MedStar Georgetown University Hospital neurosurgeon who treats patients at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, will discuss the various treatment Amjad Anaizi, MD, options for back pain, including nonsurgical, such as anti- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Department of Neurosurgery inflammatory medications and injections, and surgical, such at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center as minimally invasive spinal fusion and laminectomy. His presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session for all seminar attendees.

August Thursday, August 4, 2016 Thursday 2016 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center Meeting Room 4 7503 Surratts Road, Clinton, MD

Admission is free but you must reserve a seat in advance. Register online today at MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/calendar or call 855-546-1788.

About Dr. Anaizi: Dr. Anaizi is a neurosurgeon at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, assistant professor of neurosurgery at Georgetown University and neurosurgeon at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. He completed a fellowship in complex and minimally invasive brain surgery at the University of Cincinnati (The Mayfield Clinic). Dr. Anaizi has also completed training in minimally invasive spine surgery. He has extensive clinical expertise in the areas of minimally invasive spine and brain surgery including the treatment of brain tumors and brain aneurysms. He has multiple publications on these techniques in a variety of peer reviewed journals. Ask-the-Doctor Seminar Series Community Healthcare Education

Please join us for an informative, interactive seminar “Treating Uterine Bleeding and Fibroids” Presented by Ngozi Wexler, MD

If you are a woman between the ages of 35 and 55, you’ve likely heard of fibroids. Maybe you have even experienced one or more of the symptoms: heavy menstrual bleeding, painful periods, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or lower back pain. Unfortunately uterine fibroids can cause enough discomfort to interfere with work or social activities, and heavy bleeding can even lead to anemia.

But you no longer have to live with the pain and discomfort. Please join Dr. Ngozi Wexler for a discussion about uterine fibroids. Dr. Wexler’s presentation will cover the medical aspects of living with fibroids, hysterectomy, myomectomy, and the advancement in treatment options of the bleeding issues that most affect a woman’s quality of life. Ngozi Wexler, MD, Obstetrics and Gynecology, MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session for seminar participants.

September

Tuesday 2016 Tuesday, September 20, 2016 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center Meeting Room 20 7503 Surratts Road, Clinton, MD

Admission is free but you must reserve a seat in advance. Register online today at MedStarSouthernMaryland.org/calendar or call 855-546-0639.

About Dr. Wexler: Dr. Wexler has been practicing since 1977. Board certified in obstetrics and gynecology, she is also a fellow in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and provides a wide range of women’s healthcare services, both preventive and curative. These services, addressing health issues from adolescence through menopause, include gentle gynecological exams, cancer testing and prevention, treatment for excessive bleeding, menopause care, non-invasive and minimally invasive alternatives to major surgery, and both routine and high-risk obstetrical care individualized for each woman. MEDSTAR SOUTHERN MARYLAND HOSPITAL CENTER RESOURCE GUIDE For more details on these programs and others, please call the phone numbers listed or visit our website: MedStarSouthernMaryland.org

SUPPORT GROUPS CLASSES Blood Pressure Screenings— Free! Breastfeeding Support Group— Breastfeeding Class Every Thursday Free! First Saturday of every month from noon to 4 p.m. Every Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon. Hospital Solarium from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Hospital Library (ground floor) 301-374-9098 (excluding holidays) Registration required. Please call for location. 301-877-5740 Car Seat Safety Check—Free! 301-877-5740 Third Saturday of every month. The First Year of Life Not offered during the months of Diabetes Support Group—Free! Third Saturday of every month December, January, and February. Fourth Thursday of every month from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. (November and December moved Hospital Library (ground floor) Colony South Hotel (parking lot) to third Thursday because of Registration required. Registration required. holidays) 301-877-5740 301-877-5740 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Hospital Library (ground floor) Prenatal Childbirth Class Free Screenings 301-877-5560 Second Saturday of every month MedStar Southern Maryland from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hospital Center offers periodic Prostate Cancer Support Hospital Library (ground floor) free screenings at the Waldorf Group—Free! Registration required. Screening Center for a variety of Second Tuesday of every month 301-877-5740 medical conditions. from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 301-374-9098 Hospital Library (ground floor) 301-877-5556 Hospital Volunteer Program OTHER PROGRAMS MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center volunteers make NAMI/Mental Health Support Weight Loss Surgery Seminar and a difference every day helping Group for Family Members and Support Group Meeting—Free! to support the health of our Caregivers—Free! Tools, resources and non- community. Please call First Tuesday of every month judgemental support for battling 301-877-4553 for more from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. obesity. Seminar conducted by information about volunteer Hospital Library (ground floor) bariatric surgeon John Brebbia, opportunities. 301-429-0970 MD, MBA, FACS, CNSC. Fourth Tuesday of every month Mall Walkers Program—Free! Stroke Support Group—Free! Hospital Library (ground floor) St. Charles Towne Center Last Thursday of every month Seminar: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Supervised, all-weather walking from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Support Group: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. with FREE blood pressure Hospital Library (ground floor) Registration required. monitoring. Registration required. 301-774-8962 301-877-5858 301-374-9098 Women and Newborns Center Tours—Free! Hospital Solarium (first floor) 301-877-5740

SUMMER 2016 | MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center HEALTH 15 7503 Surratts Road Clinton, MD 20735

Top Doctor Bringing empowerment, respect, and love to the patient experience.

ou don’t have to speak with and abnormal bleeding. She is OB/GYN Nahid Mazarei, experienced in caring for women MD, for long to realize that with high-risk pregnancies. Yshe loves her work. “Each patient has to be treated with Dr. Mazarei earned her medical the utmost respect and love,” she degree from George Washington said. “I offer options and expert University and completed residency advice, but it’s important to training at Einstein Medical Center empower the patient as the in New York. She chose to specialize authority in the relationship.” in obstetrics and gynecology because OB/GYN offered three Treating medical issues is often just appealing components: surgery, a starting point. It’s not unusual for delivery, and the opportunity her to talk with her patients about to develop long-term patient their lives, including stressful relationships. situations or habits that may have a physical impact, now or in Dr. Mazarei, who serves as the the future. hospital’s chair of obstetrics and gynecology, specializes in Her philosophy is simple, she says. minimally invasive procedures, “I give my patients all I have. I care including laparoscopic or about our community and robotic hysterectomy, as well their future.” as management of fibroids To arrange a consultation with Dr. Mazarei, call 855-546-0636.