Top videos
Ectopia cordis is a rare genetic defect. During a baby’s development in utero, their chest wall doesn’t form correctly. It also doesn’t fuse together as it normally would. This prevents the heart from developing where it should, leaving it defenseless and exposed outside of the protection of the chest wall. The defect affects about one in 126,000 births. In partial ectopia cordis, the heart is located outside the chest wall, but just under the skin. The heart can be seen beating through the skin.
What is the Appendix? The appendix is a long narrow tube (a few inches in length) that attaches to the first part of the colon. It is usually located in the lower right quadrant of the abdominal cavity. The appendix produces a bacteria destroying protein called immunoglobulins, which help fight infection in the body. Its function, however, is not essential. People who have had appendectomies do not have an increased risk toward infection. Other organs in the body take over this function once the appendix has been removed. What is a Laparoscopic Appendectomy? Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical problems. One out of every 2,000 people has an appendectomy sometime during their lifetime. Treatment requires an operation to remove the infected appendix. Traditionally, the appendix is removed through an incision in the right lower abdominal wall. In most laparoscopic appendectomies, surgeons operate through 3 small incisions (each ¼ to ½ inch) while watching an enlarged image of the patient’s internal organs on a television monitor. In some cases, one of the small openings may be lengthened to complete the procedure. Advantages of Laparoscopic Appendectomy Results may vary depending upon the type of procedure and patient’s overall condition. Common advantages are: Less postoperative pain May shorten hospital stay May result in a quicker return to bowel function Quicker return to normal activity Better cosmetic results Are You a Candidate for Laparoscopic Appendectomy? Although laparoscopic appendectomy has many benefits, it may not be appropriate for some patients. Early, non-ruptured appendicitis usually can be removed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic appendectomy is more difficult to perform if there is advanced infection or the appendix has ruptured. A traditional, open procedure using a larger incision may be required to safely remove the infected appendix in these patients.
Vanderbilt Medical Center neurosurgeons and neurologists will be online demonstrating their 4-stage innovative technique used for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Deep brain stimulation therapy utilizes an implantable neuro-stimulator to treat movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia.