Ochsner Baptist Sends Patients Home with Comfort Food Care Packages
NEW ORLEANS, LA –Ochsner Baptist Medical Center recently launched a 1,000 cup, “Chicken Noodle Soup Care Package” for its surgery patients, sending patients home with a cup of Ochsner’s homemade chicken noodle soup. The time-honored remedy is the perfect accompaniment to the recommended, bland diet immediately following anesthesia and a way for Ochsner Baptist to continue palliative care in patient’s homes.
Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate, traditional, over-the-counter medical advice and comfort food, and Ochsner’s 1,000 cup campaign encourages a speedy recovery. In fact, several medical experts have proven that old-fashioned chicken noodle soup has healing properties by displaying drug-like agents similar to those in modern cold medicines.
Another theory, put forth by the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is that chicken soup acts as an anti-inflammatory keeping a check on inflammatory white blood cells, helping patients heal faster. More ancient testaments to chicken noodle soup include:
- Chicken soup was prescribed as a cure for the common cold in ancient Egypt.
- 10th century Persian physician Avicenna referred to the curative powers of chicken soup in his writings.
Upon returning home following surgery, patients can range from feeling woozy to nauseous, typically a result of anesthesia. “We always recommend that a patient start with a liquid or bland diet upon returning home after surgery, until their stomach can handle more substantial foods,” says Joan Condon, RN, Unit Director. She goes on to explain, “We’re taking that recommendation a step further and quite literally by actually providing patients with a cup of soup and a bottle of water for their first meal at home.”
Ochsner’s Chicken Noodle soup, which is prepared in-house by Ochsner Baptist Chef Mike Shain, is a heart healthy version of the classic cure, featuring reduced sodium and fat content. The soup follows traditional recipes containing the prerequisite celery, onions, chicken stock, carrots, egg noodles, and boneless, skinless, chicken breast.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Thursday, November 5, 2009
November 1-30, Ochsner Exhibits Cancer Patients’ Art Work
Lilly Oncology On Canvas Displayed at Ochsner Medical Center – Jefferson Highway
NEW ORLEANS – The entire month of November 2009, Ochsner Medical Center is honored to display the Lilly Oncology On Canvas, a free, public art exhibit featuring works by actual cancer patients. The show is designed to honor the physical and emotional journeys people face when confronted by a cancer diagnosis. The 45-piece Ochsner exhibit, which includes several Louisiana artists, is on display 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans in the hospital’s 1st floor Art Walk. Ochsner will host an opening reception on Thursday, November 5 at 4pm in the hospital atrium with speakers from the Ochsner Cancer Institute.
Lilly Oncology On Canvas was launched in 2004, received more than 400 pieces of art from 23 countries, and began a world tour in 2005 that reached millions of people in more than 100 cities. Following its initial success, the 2006 program received more than 2,000 pieces of art and toured nearly 200 cities worldwide. The 2008 competition, which is currently touring cancer centers, hospitals, patient advocacy group meetings and other venues nationwide, included 26 prizes awarded to 20 different cancer charities selected by the 19 winners in categories including:
- From hope to fear
- The loss of individualism
- Support of family and friends
- Memory of those lost
- Perseverance of those who survive
In addition to displaying the 2008 competition winners, Ochsner is also hosting the Lilly competition in which individuals diagnosed with any type of cancer and family members are encouraged to express, through art, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. Entries will be accepted through June 2010.
The competition, which selects the winning artworks to tour the world, occurs every two years (biennial). The current competition began in 2009, ends in June 2010, and is open to all U.S. and Puerto Rico residents. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, including past winners, cancer survivors, leading oncologists, journalists, patient advocacy groups, and the competition art director. The end result is a compelling art collection that provides insights into the wide range of emotions experienced by those touched by cancer.
For further information on Lilly Oncology On Canvas, including how to enter the 2010 competition, call (866) 991-LOOC (5662) or visit www.LillyOncologyOnCanvas.com.
NEW ORLEANS – The entire month of November 2009, Ochsner Medical Center is honored to display the Lilly Oncology On Canvas, a free, public art exhibit featuring works by actual cancer patients. The show is designed to honor the physical and emotional journeys people face when confronted by a cancer diagnosis. The 45-piece Ochsner exhibit, which includes several Louisiana artists, is on display 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans in the hospital’s 1st floor Art Walk. Ochsner will host an opening reception on Thursday, November 5 at 4pm in the hospital atrium with speakers from the Ochsner Cancer Institute.
Lilly Oncology On Canvas was launched in 2004, received more than 400 pieces of art from 23 countries, and began a world tour in 2005 that reached millions of people in more than 100 cities. Following its initial success, the 2006 program received more than 2,000 pieces of art and toured nearly 200 cities worldwide. The 2008 competition, which is currently touring cancer centers, hospitals, patient advocacy group meetings and other venues nationwide, included 26 prizes awarded to 20 different cancer charities selected by the 19 winners in categories including:
- From hope to fear
- The loss of individualism
- Support of family and friends
- Memory of those lost
- Perseverance of those who survive
In addition to displaying the 2008 competition winners, Ochsner is also hosting the Lilly competition in which individuals diagnosed with any type of cancer and family members are encouraged to express, through art, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. Entries will be accepted through June 2010.
The competition, which selects the winning artworks to tour the world, occurs every two years (biennial). The current competition began in 2009, ends in June 2010, and is open to all U.S. and Puerto Rico residents. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, including past winners, cancer survivors, leading oncologists, journalists, patient advocacy groups, and the competition art director. The end result is a compelling art collection that provides insights into the wide range of emotions experienced by those touched by cancer.
For further information on Lilly Oncology On Canvas, including how to enter the 2010 competition, call (866) 991-LOOC (5662) or visit www.LillyOncologyOnCanvas.com.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Ochsner Nephrologists Recognized for Excellent Patient Care by National Dialysis Center
NEW ORLEANS – Ochsner Nephrologists Dr. Fred Husserl and Dr. Pierre Blemur, who serve as local medical directors of two Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner dialysis units, have been recognized for their excellence in patient care with the Gold Level - Fresenius Medical Care (FMC) Centers of Excellence Award.
The Ochsner physician group, individually and collectively, have been recognized for their leadership in 2008 and 2009 at the following locations:
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner New Orleans – Home Department, 1319 Jefferson Highway, Suite 2, Jefferson, LA, (504) 842-3520
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner Westbank Dialysis , 4899 Westbank Expressway, Suite B, Marrero, LA, (504) 340-0371
“These achievements are a reflection of the entire Ochsner Nephrology staff and Fresenius Medical Care’s unified team approach to provide high quality care for those who suffer from chronic renal failure. We strive to improve patient experiences and outcomes; I am proud of this recognition and share it with my entire staff,” says Dr. Catherine Staffeld, Interim Chair, Department of Nephrology.
The Gold Level mark of distinction is based upon a comparison of all FMC clinics/programs in the U.S. Honors are based according to medical scores in ultrascore, patient satisfaction, diabetic foot checks, transplant education and additional medical categories. Clinics must be financially viable and free of any condition-level deficiency. Their census must also be >25 for in-center hemo and >10 for home PD. In consideration of those criteria, an award at the Gold Level is quite an achievement.
The Ochsner physician group, individually and collectively, have been recognized for their leadership in 2008 and 2009 at the following locations:
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner New Orleans – Home Department, 1319 Jefferson Highway, Suite 2, Jefferson, LA, (504) 842-3520
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner Westbank Dialysis , 4899 Westbank Expressway, Suite B, Marrero, LA, (504) 340-0371
“These achievements are a reflection of the entire Ochsner Nephrology staff and Fresenius Medical Care’s unified team approach to provide high quality care for those who suffer from chronic renal failure. We strive to improve patient experiences and outcomes; I am proud of this recognition and share it with my entire staff,” says Dr. Catherine Staffeld, Interim Chair, Department of Nephrology.
The Gold Level mark of distinction is based upon a comparison of all FMC clinics/programs in the U.S. Honors are based according to medical scores in ultrascore, patient satisfaction, diabetic foot checks, transplant education and additional medical categories. Clinics must be financially viable and free of any condition-level deficiency. Their census must also be >25 for in-center hemo and >10 for home PD. In consideration of those criteria, an award at the Gold Level is quite an achievement.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Halloween Tips to Fight Childhood Obesity and H1N1
Healthy, Fun, and Germ-Fighting Halloween Alternatives
NEW ORLEANS – Halloween conjures of images of pumpkin buckets of overflowing candy, door-to-door trick-or-treating, and costumed children. But with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and the spread of H1N1, many parents are looking for a more health-conscious way to celebrate the ghoulish holiday. Ochsner offers the following tips for a health-conscious, yet fun-filled, Halloween:
Healthy “Treats”:“Sugarless gum, pre-packaged cheese and crackers, trail mix, nuts, corn nuts, granola bars, small bags of pretzels or popcorn, goldfish cracker packages, individual hot chocolate packages and raisins are a great alternative to chocolates and sugary snacks,” says Elesha Kelleher, Ochsner Registered Dietician. She also suggests avoiding candy altogether and opting for fun-filled treats such as: stickers, balloons, crayons, pencils, colored chalk, whistles, rubber spiders and worms.
Although it’s tempting, parents need to take control and help children pace themselves when it comes to indulging in their bountiful treats. “It’s a good idea to have a sensible dinner before heading door-to-door, or at least a healthy snack. Eating something other than sugar-filled candy in advance, can really cut down on tummy aches later,” says Kelleher. “Children need to enjoy their Halloween treats over several days and weeks - not all in one night. Rationing Halloween candy and making it a reward for your kids is a great way to teach them that most foods are okay, in moderation,” she adds.
Germ-Avoiding “Tricks”:
Top on every parents worry list this All Hallow’s Eve is the spread of the H1N1 virus. With children going door-to-door, and accepting treats being handled by many, parents need to take extra precautions. Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Ochsner Infection Control, offers the follows suggestions:
Remind children to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when they sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of their elbows.
Wash hands thoroughly before eating any treats. (Carry hand sanitizer in case your goblins can’t wait till you get home.)
Don’t allow sharing or trading of costume masks.
Discourage kids from touching their eyes, mouths, or noses since that is the quickest way to spread germs and contract viruses and if your child has flu-like symptoms, encourage them to stay home.
###
NEW ORLEANS – Halloween conjures of images of pumpkin buckets of overflowing candy, door-to-door trick-or-treating, and costumed children. But with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and the spread of H1N1, many parents are looking for a more health-conscious way to celebrate the ghoulish holiday. Ochsner offers the following tips for a health-conscious, yet fun-filled, Halloween:
Healthy “Treats”:“Sugarless gum, pre-packaged cheese and crackers, trail mix, nuts, corn nuts, granola bars, small bags of pretzels or popcorn, goldfish cracker packages, individual hot chocolate packages and raisins are a great alternative to chocolates and sugary snacks,” says Elesha Kelleher, Ochsner Registered Dietician. She also suggests avoiding candy altogether and opting for fun-filled treats such as: stickers, balloons, crayons, pencils, colored chalk, whistles, rubber spiders and worms.
Although it’s tempting, parents need to take control and help children pace themselves when it comes to indulging in their bountiful treats. “It’s a good idea to have a sensible dinner before heading door-to-door, or at least a healthy snack. Eating something other than sugar-filled candy in advance, can really cut down on tummy aches later,” says Kelleher. “Children need to enjoy their Halloween treats over several days and weeks - not all in one night. Rationing Halloween candy and making it a reward for your kids is a great way to teach them that most foods are okay, in moderation,” she adds.
Germ-Avoiding “Tricks”:
Top on every parents worry list this All Hallow’s Eve is the spread of the H1N1 virus. With children going door-to-door, and accepting treats being handled by many, parents need to take extra precautions. Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Ochsner Infection Control, offers the follows suggestions:
Remind children to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when they sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of their elbows.
Wash hands thoroughly before eating any treats. (Carry hand sanitizer in case your goblins can’t wait till you get home.)
Don’t allow sharing or trading of costume masks.
Discourage kids from touching their eyes, mouths, or noses since that is the quickest way to spread germs and contract viruses and if your child has flu-like symptoms, encourage them to stay home.
###
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ochsner Hosts Family Fundraiser
Party-4-Peds to Benefit Pediatrics
NEW ORLEANS – On Saturday, October 3, 2009, from 4pm-7pm, Ochsner and Capital One Bank will host “Party 4 Peds” for local families as it transforms its Children’s Health Center at 1315 Jefferson Highway into a fun-filled, family fundraiser for Ochsner Pediatrics.
The action-packed party includes entertainment by Radio Disney, refreshments by local restaurants, and entertainment including large inflatable play stations, stilt walkers, t-shirt art, and jewelry/key chain making. For adults, there will be a silent auction featuring weekend get-a-ways, dining gift certificates and more.
“Having a child in the hospital can create a terrible financial burden as well as an emotional burden on families, that’s why we’ve selected the Ochsner Pediatric Family Assistance Fund as a beneficiary of this event; it helps families of hospitalized children by enabling Ochsner to help with travel and other expenses regarding our smallest patients,” explains Dr. Douglas Moodie, Pediatric Cardiologist and Chairman of Ochsner’s Department of Pediatrics.
Another beneficiary is the pediatric literacy initiative, Reach Out and Read. Reach Out and Read distributes new books to children, encourages family reading and helps physicians better diagnose communication disorders by using books during well-child visits.
“Now is your child’s chance to return the ‘favor’ for those eventful office visits with a dunking booth,” says Dr. Moodie. Staff up to the challenge include: Dr. Vincent Adolph, Dr. Daniel Bronfin, Dr. Charles Kantrow, Erin Montgomery, LPN, "Missy" Pecoraro, RN, Dr. Christopher Snyder, Dr. Elliot Tucker, Dr. Thomas Young.
Chairing this year’s event are Malin Maitrejean and Maribeth McNamara. Tickets are $50 per adult (18 and over) and $20 per child (toddlers and babies under 2 years are free). Call 504-842-7113 or visit www.ochsner.org for more information or to purchase tickets.
NEW ORLEANS – On Saturday, October 3, 2009, from 4pm-7pm, Ochsner and Capital One Bank will host “Party 4 Peds” for local families as it transforms its Children’s Health Center at 1315 Jefferson Highway into a fun-filled, family fundraiser for Ochsner Pediatrics.
The action-packed party includes entertainment by Radio Disney, refreshments by local restaurants, and entertainment including large inflatable play stations, stilt walkers, t-shirt art, and jewelry/key chain making. For adults, there will be a silent auction featuring weekend get-a-ways, dining gift certificates and more.
“Having a child in the hospital can create a terrible financial burden as well as an emotional burden on families, that’s why we’ve selected the Ochsner Pediatric Family Assistance Fund as a beneficiary of this event; it helps families of hospitalized children by enabling Ochsner to help with travel and other expenses regarding our smallest patients,” explains Dr. Douglas Moodie, Pediatric Cardiologist and Chairman of Ochsner’s Department of Pediatrics.
Another beneficiary is the pediatric literacy initiative, Reach Out and Read. Reach Out and Read distributes new books to children, encourages family reading and helps physicians better diagnose communication disorders by using books during well-child visits.
“Now is your child’s chance to return the ‘favor’ for those eventful office visits with a dunking booth,” says Dr. Moodie. Staff up to the challenge include: Dr. Vincent Adolph, Dr. Daniel Bronfin, Dr. Charles Kantrow, Erin Montgomery, LPN, "Missy" Pecoraro, RN, Dr. Christopher Snyder, Dr. Elliot Tucker, Dr. Thomas Young.
Chairing this year’s event are Malin Maitrejean and Maribeth McNamara. Tickets are $50 per adult (18 and over) and $20 per child (toddlers and babies under 2 years are free). Call 504-842-7113 or visit www.ochsner.org for more information or to purchase tickets.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Ochsner Offers New Advice to Help Prevent the Spread of H1N1
NEW ORLEANS, LA– Ochsner Health System, in conjunction with the CDC, has new advice for healthy individuals who have flu-like symptoms – stay home and rest. Don’t plan to visit the doctor’s office unless your symptoms worsen, as you will be exposing even more people to the virus. However, physicians caution, if you are considered “high risk”, you should call your physician immediately for advice on what to do.
“We know that H1N1 is going to continue to spread throughout the community; therefore, our goal is to appropriately care for individuals, while reducing ER overcrowding and additional spread of the illness. We would like to provide education on when to seek medical care and when to remain at home,” explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Medical Director of Infection Control.
Ochsner is encouraging local residents to follow the recommended CDC advice:
• Healthy individuals are asked not to visit the doctor with onset of symptoms; instead remain at home, away from other individuals, in order to recover and reduce the spread of H1N1.
• Individuals who are asked to call their physicians, with onset of symptoms, include the following high-risk populations:
- Immuno-compromised (example: cancer, transplant, diabetes, HIV, those with underlying lung disease)
- Pregnant women
- Parents of young children (less than 5 years)
- Older population (greater than 65 years)
Dr. Baumgarten explains, “If you have flu-like symptoms and are otherwise healthy and not a high-risk category, Ochsner physicians recommend plenty of fluids, Tylenol, and plenty of rest.” She advises that Tamiflu will only be administered to high-risk populations and explains, “Most individuals are able to weather the illness as they do the seasonal flu.”
As with any illness, it can occasionally worsen in otherwise healthy adults. Those individuals are advised to seek care without delay if they begin experiencing the following symptoms:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Intractable nausea and vomiting
• Return of high fever after original fever has gone away
If residents will follow this advice, potential over-crowding in local ER’s and the spread of the virus can be reduced. One of the problems physicians are trying to avoid is non-infected patients getting the H1N1 virus from others in patient waiting areas.
Warning signs for children to seek immediate emergency medical care include:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not urinating as usual
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or interacting as usual
• Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held
• Fever returns after being absent or a significant change in fever pattern (101 degrees for several days then 103 degrees)
“The H1N1 virus is comparable to the seasonal flu in its effects on the population; every year millions of Americans catch the flu and recover, and every year we suffer some deaths. H1N1 can be dangerous to some individuals but for the majority of the population it’s simply an uncomfortable experience,” adds Baumgarten.
All individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot, which will be available in mid to late September. An H1N1 vaccine is not expected to be available until late fall and will then only be distributed to high-risk populations as directed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
For additional H1N1 information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or www.ochsner.org.
###
“We know that H1N1 is going to continue to spread throughout the community; therefore, our goal is to appropriately care for individuals, while reducing ER overcrowding and additional spread of the illness. We would like to provide education on when to seek medical care and when to remain at home,” explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Medical Director of Infection Control.
Ochsner is encouraging local residents to follow the recommended CDC advice:
• Healthy individuals are asked not to visit the doctor with onset of symptoms; instead remain at home, away from other individuals, in order to recover and reduce the spread of H1N1.
• Individuals who are asked to call their physicians, with onset of symptoms, include the following high-risk populations:
- Immuno-compromised (example: cancer, transplant, diabetes, HIV, those with underlying lung disease)
- Pregnant women
- Parents of young children (less than 5 years)
- Older population (greater than 65 years)
Dr. Baumgarten explains, “If you have flu-like symptoms and are otherwise healthy and not a high-risk category, Ochsner physicians recommend plenty of fluids, Tylenol, and plenty of rest.” She advises that Tamiflu will only be administered to high-risk populations and explains, “Most individuals are able to weather the illness as they do the seasonal flu.”
As with any illness, it can occasionally worsen in otherwise healthy adults. Those individuals are advised to seek care without delay if they begin experiencing the following symptoms:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Intractable nausea and vomiting
• Return of high fever after original fever has gone away
If residents will follow this advice, potential over-crowding in local ER’s and the spread of the virus can be reduced. One of the problems physicians are trying to avoid is non-infected patients getting the H1N1 virus from others in patient waiting areas.
Warning signs for children to seek immediate emergency medical care include:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not urinating as usual
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or interacting as usual
• Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held
• Fever returns after being absent or a significant change in fever pattern (101 degrees for several days then 103 degrees)
“The H1N1 virus is comparable to the seasonal flu in its effects on the population; every year millions of Americans catch the flu and recover, and every year we suffer some deaths. H1N1 can be dangerous to some individuals but for the majority of the population it’s simply an uncomfortable experience,” adds Baumgarten.
All individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot, which will be available in mid to late September. An H1N1 vaccine is not expected to be available until late fall and will then only be distributed to high-risk populations as directed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
For additional H1N1 information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or www.ochsner.org.
###
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Ochsner Replaces Heart Valve without Open Heart Surgery
PARTNER Trial offers New Alternative for Patients with Non-Operative, Aortic Stenosis
NEW ORLEANS, LA – On Tuesday, August 11, 2009, an 82-year old New Orleans resident with severe aortic stenosis successfully had a heart valve replaced at Ochsner Medical Center using the same technique as angioplasty, a far cry from the traditional open heart procedure. Patients who are considered high-risk or non-operable for conventional open heart valve surgery now have a potential new research option available regionally only through The John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute.
Ochsner Medical Center is the only hospital in the Gulf South selected to participate as an FDA investigative site in the PARTNER (Placement of AoRTic traNscathetER valves) clinical trial, evaluating the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter aortic heart valve in patients who are at high risk for open heart surgery and surgical valve repair.
Annually, some 200,000 people in the U.S. need a new heart valve. “This dramatic new procedure offers a new lease on life for patients with severe aortic stenosis, severe narrowing of the heart valve, and highlights Ochsner's continuing efforts to place patient care first by offering a minimally invasive alternative to open heart surgery which may reduce morbidity and recovery time,” explains Dr. Stephen Ramee, Ochsner Cardiologist, and clinical investigator.
The purpose of the PARTNER study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of the Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve device and delivery systems (leg: transfemoral and chest: transapical). Amazingly, the percutaneous arm of this study makes no cuts in the chest at all. A catheter carrying a tissue valve built into a metal stent a half an inch in diameter is threaded up the artery from the leg to the aortic valve, where it positions the new valve within the damaged one. This procedure is performed in a state-of-the-art cath lab on a “beating heart,” without the need for bypass machine, which can pose additional risks. As with any research trial, no guarantees can be made about outcomes. Study benefits and risks along with alternatives are reviewed in detail before a person enrolls.
Ochsner was chosen for the trial due to its expertise in valve replacement surgery and vast experience in interventional procedures. “This is an interdisciplinary study in which Ochsner’s Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Anesthesia departments are working collaboratively, using the best techniques from all three specialties, to advance the standard of care for our patients,” explains Dr. Gene Parrino, co-investigator in the trial.
A prospective randomized study, PARTNER has two separate treatment arms. The surgical arm features 690 high-risk patients who are candidates for conventional open-heart surgery. Randomized, these patients will receive either the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve or an Edwards surgical valve to demonstrate that the transcatheter heart valve is not statistically inferior to conventional surgery. The non-surgical arm will feature 350 non-operative patients who will be evenly randomized to receive either the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve or appropriate medical therapy in order to demonstrate that the transcatheter heart valve is statistically superior to medical management.
###
NEW ORLEANS, LA – On Tuesday, August 11, 2009, an 82-year old New Orleans resident with severe aortic stenosis successfully had a heart valve replaced at Ochsner Medical Center using the same technique as angioplasty, a far cry from the traditional open heart procedure. Patients who are considered high-risk or non-operable for conventional open heart valve surgery now have a potential new research option available regionally only through The John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute.
Ochsner Medical Center is the only hospital in the Gulf South selected to participate as an FDA investigative site in the PARTNER (Placement of AoRTic traNscathetER valves) clinical trial, evaluating the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter aortic heart valve in patients who are at high risk for open heart surgery and surgical valve repair.
Annually, some 200,000 people in the U.S. need a new heart valve. “This dramatic new procedure offers a new lease on life for patients with severe aortic stenosis, severe narrowing of the heart valve, and highlights Ochsner's continuing efforts to place patient care first by offering a minimally invasive alternative to open heart surgery which may reduce morbidity and recovery time,” explains Dr. Stephen Ramee, Ochsner Cardiologist, and clinical investigator.
The purpose of the PARTNER study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of the Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve device and delivery systems (leg: transfemoral and chest: transapical). Amazingly, the percutaneous arm of this study makes no cuts in the chest at all. A catheter carrying a tissue valve built into a metal stent a half an inch in diameter is threaded up the artery from the leg to the aortic valve, where it positions the new valve within the damaged one. This procedure is performed in a state-of-the-art cath lab on a “beating heart,” without the need for bypass machine, which can pose additional risks. As with any research trial, no guarantees can be made about outcomes. Study benefits and risks along with alternatives are reviewed in detail before a person enrolls.
Ochsner was chosen for the trial due to its expertise in valve replacement surgery and vast experience in interventional procedures. “This is an interdisciplinary study in which Ochsner’s Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Anesthesia departments are working collaboratively, using the best techniques from all three specialties, to advance the standard of care for our patients,” explains Dr. Gene Parrino, co-investigator in the trial.
A prospective randomized study, PARTNER has two separate treatment arms. The surgical arm features 690 high-risk patients who are candidates for conventional open-heart surgery. Randomized, these patients will receive either the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve or an Edwards surgical valve to demonstrate that the transcatheter heart valve is not statistically inferior to conventional surgery. The non-surgical arm will feature 350 non-operative patients who will be evenly randomized to receive either the Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve or appropriate medical therapy in order to demonstrate that the transcatheter heart valve is statistically superior to medical management.
###
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Double Transplant Recipient Offers Hope to Patients on Waiting Lists
Life Expectancy, Quality of Life, Are More Than Restored for Transplant Recipients
NEW ORLEANS – Although over 110,000 Americans are on an organ transplant waiting list, a second chance at life is only one phone call away and, for a Slidell resident, that life-saving call came sooner than he expected. Since his double transplant at Ochsner Medical Center on March 28, 2008, Nic Whitacre has decided that there is a reason he’s still alive – and he’s not going to let the history of his health stand in the way of his future.
“When I was lying in the recovery room after my transplant, I thought to myself, what can I do if I’m given the opportunity to live?” said Whitacre. “Then and there, I just knew that becoming a nurse would be my way to give back to patients just like me. I hope my experience will allow me to bring a new level of empathy to my patients,” he adds. Following his pancreas and kidney transplant, Whitacre, 47, enrolled in Delgado Community College to prepare for nursing school, and he will begin the Charity Nursing Program in January 2010.
Following 18 months of nursing school, Whitacre will finally reach his goal of becoming a registered nurse. “My goal is to work in a transplant step-down unit and eventually on a surgery team. My health has been fully restored and this is the least I can do,” said Whitacre.
But, becoming a nurse isn’t his only goal. In August of 2010, Whitacre will run in his young donor’s honor in the 2010 Transplant Olympics in Madison, Wisconsin. Before Whitacre’s transplant, he was diagnosed at a very young age with diabetes. Vision loss, gastroparesis, nerve damage and kidney failure are just a few of the complications he experienced - all of which hindered his physical fitness. After 33 years, Whitacre is no longer a diabetic and his kidneys are functioning normally. And, his new health, along with months of training, will take him across the 5K finish line next August.
“I’m going to compete and in order to beat the previous record, I’ll have to run about a six minute mile,” said Whitacre. “I’m trying to encourage others to get active by updating others on my training progress via Twitter.” Twitter, a newly developing online social network, is also a way for Whitacre to get the word out about becoming a registered organ donor. “Most people don’t realize that you can take 10 seconds to change your license status online to become an organ donor – take the time, you may be able to save a life,” he adds.
To register to become an organ donor, visit www.donatelife.com
NEW ORLEANS – Although over 110,000 Americans are on an organ transplant waiting list, a second chance at life is only one phone call away and, for a Slidell resident, that life-saving call came sooner than he expected. Since his double transplant at Ochsner Medical Center on March 28, 2008, Nic Whitacre has decided that there is a reason he’s still alive – and he’s not going to let the history of his health stand in the way of his future.
“When I was lying in the recovery room after my transplant, I thought to myself, what can I do if I’m given the opportunity to live?” said Whitacre. “Then and there, I just knew that becoming a nurse would be my way to give back to patients just like me. I hope my experience will allow me to bring a new level of empathy to my patients,” he adds. Following his pancreas and kidney transplant, Whitacre, 47, enrolled in Delgado Community College to prepare for nursing school, and he will begin the Charity Nursing Program in January 2010.
Following 18 months of nursing school, Whitacre will finally reach his goal of becoming a registered nurse. “My goal is to work in a transplant step-down unit and eventually on a surgery team. My health has been fully restored and this is the least I can do,” said Whitacre.
But, becoming a nurse isn’t his only goal. In August of 2010, Whitacre will run in his young donor’s honor in the 2010 Transplant Olympics in Madison, Wisconsin. Before Whitacre’s transplant, he was diagnosed at a very young age with diabetes. Vision loss, gastroparesis, nerve damage and kidney failure are just a few of the complications he experienced - all of which hindered his physical fitness. After 33 years, Whitacre is no longer a diabetic and his kidneys are functioning normally. And, his new health, along with months of training, will take him across the 5K finish line next August.
“I’m going to compete and in order to beat the previous record, I’ll have to run about a six minute mile,” said Whitacre. “I’m trying to encourage others to get active by updating others on my training progress via Twitter.” Twitter, a newly developing online social network, is also a way for Whitacre to get the word out about becoming a registered organ donor. “Most people don’t realize that you can take 10 seconds to change your license status online to become an organ donor – take the time, you may be able to save a life,” he adds.
To register to become an organ donor, visit www.donatelife.com
Friday, August 21, 2009
OCHSNER AND ROUSES MARKETS PARTNER FOR Choose Healthy INITIATIVE
Partnership Focuses on Building a Healthier Community & Economy
NEW ORLEANS (August 21, 2009) – Today, August 21, 2009, at 1:30pm at the Rouses Market, 4500 Tchoupitoulas Street, Ochsner Health System and Rouses Markets, the largest independent grocer in Louisiana, will announce the Louisiana community initiative partnership, “Choose Healthy, www.choose-healthy.org.” This program is designed to educate people about the benefits of smart food and lifestyle choices, disease prevention and regular medical checkups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Louisiana is the 8th most obese state in the U.S., with nearly 30% of all residents considered medically obese.
“People traditionally only get wellness information at the doctor’s office, clinic or hospital,” said Dr. Patrick Quinlan, CEO of Ochsner Health System, “but a grocery store is a natural setting for people to talk about nutrition and meal planning. Rouses has given us a great opportunity to reach people before they make their food choices.”
Rouses customers will find healthy, Ochsner-endorsed eating recommendations on every aisle of their market, and be able to take advantage of Ochsner education programs and materials and free health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and body fat. Rouses Chef Nino will be incorporating lighter and heart healthy recipes into his cooking demonstrations. Customers will also be able to access recipes and information on smart food choices, proper meal planning and disease-specific diet alternatives online at www.rouses.com and www.ochsner.org through the “Choose Healthy” link.
“We have always considered Rouses as more than just a place to buy groceries,” said Donald Rouse, President of Rouses Markets. “I think this will go far in educating and motivating our customers to lead healthier lifestyles. Having Ochsner-endorsed meal plans and recipes, and food recommendations clearly marked, makes it easier for people to make a healthier choice.” The partnership will also benefit Rouses’ 4,800 team members. “Ochsner will be providing free, in-store education and health screenings for our team members,” said Rouse. “If we educate our employees, they, in turn, will educate our customers.”
The way Rouse and Quinlan see it, “Choose Healthy” should also be a boost to the local economy. Rouses has long promoted buying local, and Quinlan thinks that’s an important component of the obesity solution. “Part of Louisiana’s answer to the obesity crisis is encouraging people to eat fresh, local vegetables and seafood. Educating residents on a healthy diet, and encouraging them to take advantage of our natural resources, can shrink our community’s waistline and grow our local economy,” said Dr. Quinlan.
Ochsner Health System (www.ochsner.org) is a non-profit, academic, multi-specialty, healthcare delivery system dedicated to patient care, research and education. The system includes seven hospitals and over 35 health centers located throughout Southeast Louisiana. Ochsner employs more than 750 physicians in 90 medical specialties and subspecialties and conducts over 300 clinical research trials annually. Ochsner has been listed as one of the “Best Places to Work” by New Orleans CityBusiness. In 2009, Ochsner was ranked as “Best” Hospital by U.S. News and World Report in Heart care, Urology and ENT services. Ochsner has 11,000 employees system-wide.
Founded in 1960 by the late Anthony J. Rouse Sr. with a single store in Houma, Louisiana, and only four employees, today Rouses (www.rouses.com) employs 4,800 people and has locations in two states. In 2007, Rouses Markets doubled in size by acquiring A&P’s Southern Division. In addition to four Mississippi Gulf Coast stores, Rouses Markets has 31 locations in Louisiana, making it the largest independent grocer in the state. In 2008, only one year after opening its first store in New Orleans, Rouses was voted “Best Supermarket in New Orleans” by Gambit Weekly. It was also voted one of the “Best Places to Work” by Louisiana Life Magazine.
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NEW ORLEANS (August 21, 2009) – Today, August 21, 2009, at 1:30pm at the Rouses Market, 4500 Tchoupitoulas Street, Ochsner Health System and Rouses Markets, the largest independent grocer in Louisiana, will announce the Louisiana community initiative partnership, “Choose Healthy, www.choose-healthy.org.” This program is designed to educate people about the benefits of smart food and lifestyle choices, disease prevention and regular medical checkups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Louisiana is the 8th most obese state in the U.S., with nearly 30% of all residents considered medically obese.
“People traditionally only get wellness information at the doctor’s office, clinic or hospital,” said Dr. Patrick Quinlan, CEO of Ochsner Health System, “but a grocery store is a natural setting for people to talk about nutrition and meal planning. Rouses has given us a great opportunity to reach people before they make their food choices.”
Rouses customers will find healthy, Ochsner-endorsed eating recommendations on every aisle of their market, and be able to take advantage of Ochsner education programs and materials and free health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and body fat. Rouses Chef Nino will be incorporating lighter and heart healthy recipes into his cooking demonstrations. Customers will also be able to access recipes and information on smart food choices, proper meal planning and disease-specific diet alternatives online at www.rouses.com and www.ochsner.org through the “Choose Healthy” link.
“We have always considered Rouses as more than just a place to buy groceries,” said Donald Rouse, President of Rouses Markets. “I think this will go far in educating and motivating our customers to lead healthier lifestyles. Having Ochsner-endorsed meal plans and recipes, and food recommendations clearly marked, makes it easier for people to make a healthier choice.” The partnership will also benefit Rouses’ 4,800 team members. “Ochsner will be providing free, in-store education and health screenings for our team members,” said Rouse. “If we educate our employees, they, in turn, will educate our customers.”
The way Rouse and Quinlan see it, “Choose Healthy” should also be a boost to the local economy. Rouses has long promoted buying local, and Quinlan thinks that’s an important component of the obesity solution. “Part of Louisiana’s answer to the obesity crisis is encouraging people to eat fresh, local vegetables and seafood. Educating residents on a healthy diet, and encouraging them to take advantage of our natural resources, can shrink our community’s waistline and grow our local economy,” said Dr. Quinlan.
Ochsner Health System (www.ochsner.org) is a non-profit, academic, multi-specialty, healthcare delivery system dedicated to patient care, research and education. The system includes seven hospitals and over 35 health centers located throughout Southeast Louisiana. Ochsner employs more than 750 physicians in 90 medical specialties and subspecialties and conducts over 300 clinical research trials annually. Ochsner has been listed as one of the “Best Places to Work” by New Orleans CityBusiness. In 2009, Ochsner was ranked as “Best” Hospital by U.S. News and World Report in Heart care, Urology and ENT services. Ochsner has 11,000 employees system-wide.
Founded in 1960 by the late Anthony J. Rouse Sr. with a single store in Houma, Louisiana, and only four employees, today Rouses (www.rouses.com) employs 4,800 people and has locations in two states. In 2007, Rouses Markets doubled in size by acquiring A&P’s Southern Division. In addition to four Mississippi Gulf Coast stores, Rouses Markets has 31 locations in Louisiana, making it the largest independent grocer in the state. In 2008, only one year after opening its first store in New Orleans, Rouses was voted “Best Supermarket in New Orleans” by Gambit Weekly. It was also voted one of the “Best Places to Work” by Louisiana Life Magazine.
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Wednesday, August 5, 2009
In Emergencies, Breastfeeding is a Lifeline with Valuable Health Benefits
Ochsner Supports World Breastfeeding Week
NEW ORLEANS – Emergencies, including hurricanes and floods, can happen anywhere in the world, and during a disaster infants and young children are especially vulnerable to illness and death. In celebration of World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1-7), Ochsner obstetricians and pediatricians are encouraging families to embrace breastfeeding as a lifeline and a shield to protect infants in emergencies; from natural disasters to the flu pandemic.
“In an emergency, hurricanes being the most common in our region, infants are one of the most vulnerable populations to infection,” said Cindy Boudreaux, RN, Ochsner Medical Center. “Often times, clean water is not readily available, as well as electricity, and infants are five times more likely to die in an emergency, primarily due to the inability to properly sterilize the baby’s formula. Breast milk is always available. It’s clean, and the mother/baby contact helps calm the infant by lowering stress cortisol levels in both mom and baby.”
Boudreaux adds that the antibodies in human milk also lower the risk of diarrhea and infections that can occur. The World Health Organization (WHO) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age and continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond – and its even more critical in emergencies.
This year, World Breastfeeding Week focuses on making sure families are prepared to continue breastfeeding in a natural disaster, an economic crisis or any other emergency. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that breastfeeding was found to have a significant impact on both infant and maternal health; mothers enjoy a reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes in the mother, and infants a reduced risk of:
• Acute ear infections
• Lower respiratory tract infections
• Asthma
• Obesity
• Type 1 and 2 diabetes
• Childhood leukemia
• Infant death syndrome
“Even smaller emergencies such as a job loss can hurt a family’s resources and make purchasing expensive formula very difficult,” said Boudreaux. “Because emergency situations don’t give us much warning, it’s important for moms to start a breastfeeding routine from day one.” The AAP, among others, recommends that babies exclusively breastfeed for at least the first six months of life.
Ochsner nurses provide many resources to help new moms; including a “Warm Line” that provides telephone assistance to any breastfeeding mother in the community. For assistance from a board certified lactation consultant on staff at Ochsner, call 504-842-5210 for Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans, 504-391-5195 for Ochsner Medical Center – West Bank, or 504-464-8345 for Ochsner Medical Center – Kenner.
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NEW ORLEANS – Emergencies, including hurricanes and floods, can happen anywhere in the world, and during a disaster infants and young children are especially vulnerable to illness and death. In celebration of World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1-7), Ochsner obstetricians and pediatricians are encouraging families to embrace breastfeeding as a lifeline and a shield to protect infants in emergencies; from natural disasters to the flu pandemic.
“In an emergency, hurricanes being the most common in our region, infants are one of the most vulnerable populations to infection,” said Cindy Boudreaux, RN, Ochsner Medical Center. “Often times, clean water is not readily available, as well as electricity, and infants are five times more likely to die in an emergency, primarily due to the inability to properly sterilize the baby’s formula. Breast milk is always available. It’s clean, and the mother/baby contact helps calm the infant by lowering stress cortisol levels in both mom and baby.”
Boudreaux adds that the antibodies in human milk also lower the risk of diarrhea and infections that can occur. The World Health Organization (WHO) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age and continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond – and its even more critical in emergencies.
This year, World Breastfeeding Week focuses on making sure families are prepared to continue breastfeeding in a natural disaster, an economic crisis or any other emergency. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that breastfeeding was found to have a significant impact on both infant and maternal health; mothers enjoy a reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and type 2 diabetes in the mother, and infants a reduced risk of:
• Acute ear infections
• Lower respiratory tract infections
• Asthma
• Obesity
• Type 1 and 2 diabetes
• Childhood leukemia
• Infant death syndrome
“Even smaller emergencies such as a job loss can hurt a family’s resources and make purchasing expensive formula very difficult,” said Boudreaux. “Because emergency situations don’t give us much warning, it’s important for moms to start a breastfeeding routine from day one.” The AAP, among others, recommends that babies exclusively breastfeed for at least the first six months of life.
Ochsner nurses provide many resources to help new moms; including a “Warm Line” that provides telephone assistance to any breastfeeding mother in the community. For assistance from a board certified lactation consultant on staff at Ochsner, call 504-842-5210 for Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans, 504-391-5195 for Ochsner Medical Center – West Bank, or 504-464-8345 for Ochsner Medical Center – Kenner.
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