Doctors at Hadassah University Hospital in Ein Karem are implanting a device known as the “brain pacemaker” into severely depressed patients. The treatment, which involves neurosurgery, places two metal electrodes in the frontal lobe, which is known to affect moods. The electrodes then provide stimulation based on the electrical activity in the target area. While it is unknown why the procedure works, it has had a 70 percent success rate.

Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Louisville are creating surgical tools that could be used for future space expeditions. To counter challenges raised from the lack of gravity, the researchers are developing a watertight surgery system to isolate wounds and control bleeding via a “pressurized aqueous environment within the surgical field.” This system could potentially be used for terrestrial surgeries as well.

Amie Philips, a 27-year-old mother from Cresco, IA, decided to undergo surgery to repair spina bifida in her unborn child. The procedure involved removing Philips’ uterus (at 26 weeks), reinserting it, and staying in the hospital (Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.) until the delivery day – 10 weeks later. The surgery carries a 40 percent chance for the baby to be born prematurely, and in some instances, it can lead to death.

After a successful trial of its texting initiative (MyCareText) back in March, Children’s National Medical Center is implementing the SMS notification service for families whose children are undergoing surgery. The service will provide real-time updates from surgical team members directly to families. While MyCareText will improve communication between doctors and families, it will also help ease tension in anxious family members.

Earn 2.3 Contact Hours

Earn 2.1 Contact Hours