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Cancer

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world. According to the World Health Organization, there were 2.21 million cases in the year 2020. It is the most common cause of death around the world. Patients have a 13 times better chance of living for five years if they are diagnosed early. Lung Cancer Awareness Month (LCAM) is celebrated every year in November to raise awareness about the disease and continue to challenge the stigma associated with lung cancer.

The goal of the month is to urge individuals to seek medical assistance sooner rather than later, to encourage early diagnosis so that patients have the best chance of a successful treatment, and to emphasise other key aspects that affect patient outcomes. Educating people on the complexity of lung cancer, the vast spectrum of people who are affected, and the harmful effects of lung cancer stigma can aid in earlier diagnosis and better patient treatment. Furthermore, LCAM is also an occasion to highlight therapeutic developments, advocate for global access to care, and, most importantly, demonstrate our support for patients and their loved ones.

Facing the stigma

Lung cancer is often misunderstood to be solely a smoker’s disease. However, more than half of individuals diagnosed are former smokers or non-smokers. This misunderstanding has been associated with poor outcomes due to factors like waiting too long to seek treatment, disease-related distress, a lack of social support, and poor care quality.

What you need to know about Lung cancer

Cancer is a condition in which the cells of the body grow out of control. Lung cancer is cancer that starts in the lungs and spreads throughout the body. Lung cancer begins in the lungs and can spread to the lymph nodes or other organs in the body, including the brain. Cancer that has spread to other organs may extend to the lungs as well. Metastases are the spread of cancer cells from one organ to another.

There are two types of lung cancer:

Small cell lung cancers (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) are the two forms of lung cancer. This classification is based on the appearance of tumour cells under a microscope. Making the distinction between these two types of tumours is critical since they develop, spread, and are treated differently.

SCLC accounts for roughly 10% to 15% of all lung malignancies. This form of lung cancer is the most aggressive and fastest-growing of all. Cigarette smoking is highly linked to SCLC. SCLCs spread quickly throughout the body, and they are usually detected after they have spread widely.

The most common type of lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for roughly 85% of all occurrences. NSCLC is divided into three categories based on the cells detected in the tumour. They are as follows:

  • Adenocarcinomas, like other lung cancers, are linked to smoking, this form is also seen in nonsmokers, particularly women, who get lung cancer. The majority of adenocarcinomas develop in the lungs’ periphery. They have a proclivity for spreading to lymph nodes and beyond.
  • Squamous cell carcinomas used to be more common than adenocarcinomas, but now they make up around 25% to 30% of all lung cancer cases. Squamous cell tumours are most common in the bronchi of the central chest. This type of lung cancer tends to stay in the lung, spread to lymph nodes, and grow large enough to produce a cavity.
  • Large cell carcinomas, also known as undifferentiated carcinomas, are the least prevalent kind of NSCLC, accounting for 10% to 15% of all lung cancer cases. This malignancy has a significant proclivity for spreading to lymph nodes and distant locations.
  • Adenocarcinomas, like other lung cancers, are linked to smoking, this form is also seen in nonsmokers, particularly women, who get lung cancer. The majority of adenocarcinomas develop in the lungs’ periphery. They have a proclivity for spreading to lymph nodes and beyond.
  • Squamous cell carcinomas used to be more common than adenocarcinomas, but now they make up around 25% to 30% of all lung cancer cases. Squamous cell tumours are most common in the bronchi of the central chest. This type of lung cancer tends to stay in the lung, spread to lymph nodes, and grow large enough to produce a cavity.
  • Large cell carcinomas, also known as undifferentiated carcinomas, are the least prevalent kind of NSCLC, accounting for 10% to 15% of all lung cancer cases. This malignancy has a significant proclivity for spreading to lymph nodes and distant locations.

Types of Treatment

Depending on the type of lung cancer and how far it has gone, there are numerous treatment options. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments can be used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer is usually treated with a combination of radiation and chemotherapy.

  • Surgery: A procedure in which surgeons remove cancerous tissue from the body.
  • Chemotherapy: Special medications are used to shrink or kill cancer cells. The drugs can be pills that you consume or medicines that are injected into your veins, or both.
  • Radiation therapy: Treatment that involves the use of to kill cancer, high-energy rays (similar to X-rays) are used.
  • Target therapy: Drugs are used to stop cancer cells from growing and spreading. The drugs can be taken orally or administered intravenously. Before targeted therapy is employed, tests will be performed to determine if it is appropriate for your cancer type.

In the treatment of lung cancer, doctors from various specialties frequently collaborate. Pulmonologists are doctors who specialise in lung illnesses. Surgeons are medical professionals who carry out procedures. Thoracic surgeons specialise in surgery of the chest, heart, and lungs. Medical oncologists are doctors who specialise in using medications to treat cancer. Radiation oncologists are doctors who use radiation to treat cancer.

It is important to educate yourself and your loved ones about the most common type of cancer so that lives can be saved. If you notice anything unusual contact your doctor immediately.

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Piles

Miph- Latest Treatment Option For Piles

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common anorectal disorders; according to NCBI it affects around 25% to 30% of the population. People of all ages, genders, races, and ethnicities are affected. Piles become increasingly common as people become older, affecting more than half of those over the age of 50. Hemorrhoids are very common, so don’t be shy to get help! Hemorrhoids are bulging, inflated veins that occur in the anus and rectum (Back passage). They can be unpleasant, painful, and cause rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids, are natural cushions we’re all are born with, although they don’t bother us at first. They only cause uncomfortable symptoms when they become swollen and enlarged, then known as swollen piles.

Hemorrhoids (Piles) are a topic that most people avoid discussing and prefer being silent about. But being silent may prevent you from receiving treatment for a common ailment and which can land you up in severity. Your doctor isn’t shy about bringing up the subject of haemorrhoids, so discuss freely. 

When to see the doctor? 

Most people think of hemorrhoids as a minor problem, it can be very painful. It is important to know when to treat hemorrhoids on your own and when to seek help, as it can avoid unnecessary complications. 

Make an appointment with your doctor if you’re having any of the following symptoms related to your hemorrhoids:

  • You notice bright red blood on your toilet paper or have rectal bleeding.
  • Your rectum or anus is causing you agony and discomfort.
  • You’ve tried over-the-counter medications for more than a week and they haven’t helped you.
  • You experience a maroon or dark tar-colored bowel movement, which could be an indication of bleeding.
  • You feel mass outside your back passage

If your rectal bleeding won’t stop and you’re feeling dizzy or faint, it’s a medical emergency that necessitates a visit to the Emergency room (ER). 

 How do doctors treat Haemorrhoids? 

 Hemorrhoids are treated by doctors in the office, in an outpatient clinic, or a hospital. Treatment depends on severity. For an initial stage of piles lifestyle changes can help you if given at on right time. For mild piles office procedures can help you. But for severe piles surgery is the only option.

Office procedures for very mild piles:

  • Rubber band ligation: Rubber band ligation is a treatment that surgeons employ to treat internal hemorrhoids that are bleeding or prolapsing. A doctor wraps a specific type of rubber band around haemorrhoid’s base. The band stops the blood supply. Within a week, the banded component of hemorrhoid shrivels and slumps.
  • Sclerotherapy: In this therapy, a surgeon injects a special chemical into haemorrhoids, which causes the haemorrhoid to shrink, while also stopping it from bleeding.
  • Photocoagulation with infrared light: A doctor employs an infrared light instrument to treat internal hemorrhoids. Scar tissue forms as a result of the infrared light’s heat, cutting off the blood supply and reducing hemorrhoids.
  • Electrocoagulation: A doctor inserts an electric current into an internal hemorrhoid with an instrument. Scar tissue forms as a result of the electric current, cutting off the blood supply and reducing hemorrhoids.

Surgical procedures for moderate to severe piles:

  • Haemorrhoidectomy: A haemorrhoidectomy is a procedure in which a surgeon removes the prolapse of hemorrhoids (which is coming out from the back opening) by cutting it directly with a scalpel, scissors, or electrical energy source.
  • MIPH (Minimally invasive procedure for Hemorrhoid): Internal hemorrhoid tissue is removed and the prolapse of the internal hemorrhoid is pulled back into the anus by using a special stapling circular device.

Today, let us know more about MIPH 

MIPH (Minimally invasive procedure for Hemorrhoid) or Stapled haemorrhoidopexy is a surgical procedure for treating hemorrhoids. It is the preferred therapy for third and fourth-degree hemorrhoids (a severe form of piles that protrude with straining and are visible on physical examination outside the anal margin. The manual reduction must be done on a regular or irregular basis). Stapled haemorrhoidectomy is a misnomer because the procedure removes the unusually slack and enlarged tissue which supports hemorrhoids that have caused the hemorrhoids to prolapse downward, rather than the hemorrhoids themselves.

A circular, short hollow tube is introduced into the anal canal for stapled haemorrhoidopexy. A suture (a long thread) is woven circumferentially through the anal canal above the internal hemorrhoids through this tube. The stapler (a disposable instrument with a circular stapling device at the end) is inserted into the hollow tube, and the suture ends are brought together and pulled inside the stapler along with prolapsed hemorrhoids. Stapler when fired causes cutting of slack tissue and stapling of hemorrhoids back to their original position.

 Patients who undergo a minimally invasive procedure for hemorrhoids (MIPH)/ Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy benefit from the following:

  • Return to work as soon as possible
  • There is very little discomfort
  • There are no cuts, hence there are no dressings required
  • There are no follow-ups
  • Released from the hospital in a day

Comparison between MIPH and Conventional Haemorrhoidectomy

Haemorrhoidectomy is a procedure that removes hemorrhoids from the body. You will be given general or spinal anesthesia to prevent you from feeling discomfort. Around hemorrhoids, incisions are made in the tissue. To prevent bleeding, the enlarged vein inside the hemorrhoid is tied off, and the hemorrhoid is removed. It is possible to suture the surgical area to shut it or leave it exposed. The wound is covered with medicated gauze. A knife (scalpel), an electric tool (cautery pencil), or a laser can be used to do surgery. In most cases, the procedure is performed in a surgical center. You’ll probably return home the next day or more.

Stapler Haemorrhoidectomy / MIPH (Minimally Invasive Procedure for PILES) is a procedure where an expert surgeon employs stapling equipment to remove a portion of the pile mass with a staple gun, addressing two major concerns: bleeding and prolapsed hemorrhoids. The titanium staples not only cut but also seal at the same time, which lowers bleeding and post-operative pain. Because no extra incision on the lower region of the anal canal is necessary, the patient does not require any post-operative dressing. A patient can return home the same day and resume normal life in a day or two.

The most prevalent complaints of piles are painless rectum bleeding and haemorrhoidal prolapse, painful defecation. When compared to open haemorrhoidectomy, the average length of surgery for MIPH and post-operative bleeding is much shorter. The postoperative pain score and subsequent need for analgesics are significantly lower in the MIPH. MIPH patients have a faster average wound healing time and a quicker return to routine activities. Less recurrence or incontinence is observed. Similarly, there are no significant differences in long-term problems between MIPH and traditional open haemorrhoidectomy in patients with MIPH.

MIPH is a frequently used and safe procedure for grade III and IV hemorrhoids. It results in less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and fewer early postoperative problems. Wound healing and return to normal activities are faster, and long-term problems are not significantly different.

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Knee Replacement

5 Things To Know About Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure done to reverse knee damage, to relieve pain and disability caused by conditions such as arthritis. For people suffering from severe knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or any other similar ailment, knee replacement surgery may be able to offer relief. Whether you need to undergo a surgical procedure or not is a decision that you and your doctor will collectively take.

The procedure for knee replacement involves cutting away the damaged bone and cartilage and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal or plastic polymer.

The treatment methods for arthritis and other conditions as such are advancing day by day and providing better and more optimal long-term relief. This is where the futuristic robotic knee replacement surgery comes in. A lot of people have queries about the procedure and its after-effects. Here are 5 important things you should know about Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery.

  • A robot does not perform the surgery

The robotic technology’s state-of-the-art 3D software lets your surgeon design and plan the surgery much in advance, making necessary adjustments in real-time to provide a more precise alignment of the implant as compared to conventional non-robotic partial knee replacement.

While up to 20% of patients are not happy with the outcome following Knee Replacement surgery, the use of a robot as an additional surgical tool helps the surgeon during all stages of the knee replacement surgery and helps in delivering the best possible outcome.

  • Improved accuracy

Robotic assistance technology enhances the surgeon’s expertise, preventing accidental surrounding tissue damage aiding in greater precision during surgery. It helps the surgeon to pre-plan bone cuts and implant sizes, unique to your anatomy.

The 3D images of the knee obtained through a CT scan help the surgeon to specialize and prepare for the surgery. These images help the doctor to plan for the optimal type of implant and the accurate placement of the same. Robotic knee replacement surgery acts as a guide, helping your surgeon to follow a laid-out plan much in advance, as compared to traditional knee replacement surgery.

  • Faster Recovery

The robotic arm helps with lesser tissue trauma as well as minimal bone and blood loss, as it follows the specified dimensions set before surgery. This helps with faster recovery and lesser post-operative pain. It also allows the implant to be placed with precision, therefore increasing the overall longevity of the new joint. Due to greater accuracy, there are fewer complications and hence a lower chance of revision surgery.

  • Candidature varies

If you are a candidate for traditional knee replacement surgery, chances are you are a likely candidate for robotic knee replacement surgery. It is equally important to talk with your doctor to evaluate your surgical and non-surgical options.

Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may or may not recommend surgery. They might also recommend less invasive treatment methods first like anti-inflammatory medications, weight loss through diet or exercise, physical therapy, cortisone shots, and or knee braces. If these are unable to help significantly, knee replacement surgery may help. Robotic knee replacement means more accurate implant positioning, which is a plus for middle-aged patients who can undergo knee replacement surgery and get back to their usual active lifestyle.

Having said that, it is always recommended to discuss all the possible options with your surgeon, irrespective of your age, and then opt for knee replacement surgery is suggested.

  • Lesser Risk

With traditional surgery, there is only a 2% chance that serious complications may occur. Robotic knee replacement surgery comes with the same risks as traditional knee replacement surgery, namely:

  • Infections
  • Nerve damage
  • Allergic reactions to the materials used in the artificial joints
  • Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots)

Although robotic knee replacement procedures require a smaller incision and potentially can be performed with greater accuracy, doctors are hopeful that these risks can be significantly reduced.

Because knee replacement surgeries have been using the traditional approach way longer than the robotic approach, more benefits of robotic joint replacement surgery are yet to be understood and validated with data. Need for more research is essential to determine whether or not robotic-assisted technology is as effective for total knee replacement. Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery is all about optimal execution and implant positioning, which leads to a better and faster recovery. So, make sure you take your doctor’s advice and make an informed decision.

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Knee Replacement

Traditional Vs Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

Do you often skip taking the stairs and opt for elevators because of your knee pain? Does walking few meters feels like too much? If so then you are not alone, you are one of the millions of people who have been suffering from chronic knee pain. There is no point in sugar-coating it as we all know knee pain ruins the fun in life. The positive news is there are options available for those who are suffering from pain. At first, most doctors will try to treat in non-invasive ways that are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, therapy, or these days even stem cell-derived growth factor injection but if your knee pain is disabling and alternative treatments are not working, knee replacement surgery might be the best route for you. 

A knee replacement surgery can be life-altering for patients with knee pain. This surgery eliminates pain and helps restore mobility so that the patients can resume their active lifestyle. A knee replacement surgery might sound intimidating but advanced technology has made this procedure more effective with the best outcomes. This can be performed in a conventional way where the surgeon seats the implants manually or with the assistance of a robotic arm controlled by the surgeon. Let us understand the difference between these procedures so that they can help you be more at ease. 

 Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery

Traditional knee replacement surgery has been existing for more than 70 years. This technique typically replaces only a part of the joint. Based on the x-ray an experienced surgeon will carefully examine the correct alignment and positioning for the metal implant. The surgeon then cements the prosthesis and all this is done manually by a surgeon. This replaces the damaged part of the knee which results in more natural feeling and movement. It facilitates quicker recovery and returns to normal activities. 

Conventional knee replacement surgery started a revolution in the medical sector and with advanced research and development new forms of surgery have come up to benefit the patients in a better and effective way. It is one step ahead of traditional knee replacement surgery. With the intervention of robotics in medical science it has given another direction, it has touched the orthopedic sector and has proven beneficial in bringing effective results for the patients undergoing robotic knee replacement surgery. 

Do you often skip taking the stairs and opt for elevators because of your knee pain? Does walking few meters feels like too much? If so then you are not alone, you are one of the millions of people who have been suffering from chronic knee pain. There is no point in sugar-coating it as we all know knee pain ruins the fun in life. The positive news is there are options available for those who are suffering from pain. At first, most doctors will try to treat in non-invasive ways that are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, therapy, or these days even stem cell-derived growth factor injection but if your knee pain is disabling and alternative treatments are not working, knee replacement surgery might be the best route for you. 

A knee replacement surgery can be life-altering for patients with knee pain. This surgery eliminates pain and helps restore mobility so that the patients can resume their active lifestyle. A knee replacement surgery might sound intimidating but advanced technology has made this procedure more effective with the best outcomes. This can be performed in a conventional way where the surgeon seats the implants manually or with the assistance of a robotic arm controlled by the surgeon. Let us understand the difference between these procedures so that they can help you be more at ease. 

 Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery

Traditional knee replacement surgery has been existing for more than 70 years. This technique typically replaces only a part of the joint. Based on the x-ray an experienced surgeon will carefully examine the correct alignment and positioning for the metal implant. The surgeon then cements the prosthesis and all this is done manually by a surgeon. This replaces the damaged part of the knee which results in more natural feeling and movement. It facilitates quicker recovery and returns to normal activities. 

Conventional knee replacement surgery started a revolution in the medical sector and with advanced research and development new forms of surgery have come up to benefit the patients in a better and effective way. It is one step ahead of traditional knee replacement surgery. With the intervention of robotics in medical science it has given another direction, it has touched the orthopedic sector and has proven beneficial in bringing effective results for the patients undergoing robotic knee replacement surgery. 

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Heart Attack

USE HEART TO CONNECT – WORLD HEART DAY

World Heart Day is celebrated on 29th September every year, to spread awareness on Cardiovascular Diseases and other heart conditions, while emphasizing the importance of heart health and how to maintain it.

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, and claim about 17.9 million lives approximately every year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). World Heart Day provides an ideal platform for those suffering from CVDs to fight against it and reduce the global burden of the disease.

Created by the World Heart Federation, World Heart Day is a global campaign that informs people about the risk of cardiovascular diseases and highlights the actions one can take to keep heart diseases at bay.

World Heart Day 2021

This year, the theme of World Heart Day is Use Heart to Connect, which urges everyone to use their knowledge, influence, and the power of digital media to connect to the global community and ensure that everyone gets a chance to live a heart-healthy life. 

COVID-19 has brought about a drastic change in the world and has posed a serious threat to everyone, making us increasingly aware of the importance to protect our health as well as that of our loved ones. For those living with CVD, COVID-19 has put them in a compromising situation, as they are at a higher risk of contracting the virus.

The goal of World Heart Day 2021 is to harness the power of digital health to improve awareness of the prevention and management of CVD, on a global level, with the help of three key pillars – equity, prevention, and community

Equity:

Due to the lack of internet facilities among half the world’s population, awareness on CVD prevention, treatment, and control are unavailable. It is important to use technology and data to bridge this gap with the use of digital tools and enable better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart-related diseases.

Prevention:

Prevention is better than cure, To maintains a healthy heart, follow a healthy diet, avoid alcohol and tobacco abuse and follow a regular exercise regimen. If you are diagnosed with an underlying health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or more, ensure regular check-ups with your medical practitioner.

 Community:

According to the World Heart Federation, over 520 million people are living with CVD across the globe, and have been severely affected due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as they are highly prone to the infection, and have to be isolated. This has resulted in missing medical follow-ups and appointments, lack of contact with people, and reduced exercise. Through digital networks, those who are vulnerable can easily connect with their families, friends, and even doctors for support.

What are Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs)?

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) refer to the set of conditions that affect the functioning of the heart and blood vessels such as:

Arrhythmia:

Arrhythmias refers to abnormal heart rhythms. In this condition, the heart either beats too slow or too fast. Bradycardia occurs when the heart rate is too slow (less than 60 beats per minute) and Tachycardia occurs when the heart rate is too fast (more than 60 beats per minute). When an arrhythmia occurs, the heart may not be able to pump enough blood required by the body.

Aortic Disease:

Aorta is the large artery through which oxygen-rich blood flows to the rest of the body. Sometimes, the aorta may widen or tear, which leads to a condition called Atherosclerosis. This condition develops when plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries, making blood flow difficult. This may even lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Heart Attack:

This occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked by a blood clot, leading to a lack of oxygen.

What are the risk factors of CVDs?

Some of the major risk factors of Cardiovascular Disease include:

  • High cholesterol levels
  • Diabetes
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Tobacco consumption
  • COVID-19

How can you prevent Cardiovascular Diseases?

There are several risk factors associated with CVDs such as the family history of heart diseases, that cannot be prevented or helped. However, certain risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol levels can be treated on time, reducing the risk of CVDs. If you are a frequent consumer of tobacco and alcohol, reducing the consumption of these can also help prevent heart diseases. It is also important to make several lifestyle changes such as a regular physical activity routine and incorporating a healthy diet, which will also help keep heart diseases at bay.

Some tips to keep the heart healthy

Now that we know the importance of keeping the heart healthy and how CVDs can affect our health drastically, here are some tips one can follow to ensure that the heart remains in a good shape. They are:

Eat Healthy: Avoid foods that are extremely rich in fat content, and eat fiber-rich foods. Also, make sure that you eat in moderation.

Get Active: It is also important to have a regular exercise routine and stay physically active. Also incorporate regular movement if your job requires you to sit at a desk for long hours, and maintain a healthy weight.

Quit Smoking: It is a well-known fact that smoking is one of the main causes and risk factors of heart disease. If you are a regular smoker, quit smoking immediately and avoid the risk of CVD.

Overall, it is extremely necessary to maintain your health and go for regular follow-ups if you have underlying conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Though there are several treatment methods for different types of heart diseases, making certain lifestyle changes will ensure that you don’t develop the risk of CVDs at all. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

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