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Heartburn Drugs Could Put Your Heart at Risk

23/06/2015

Acid indigestion can strike at any time and can be seriously uncomfortable when it does. Luckily, though, there are a range of over-the-counter medicines available, which quickly relieve the symptoms of acid indigestion, also known as heartburn. But now a new study, recently published in the journal PLOS ONE, has revealed that your chosen heartburn remedy could actually be putting your heart at risk; even if you’ve never had heart problems before. Researchers found that people who took proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to tackle acid indigestion were at 16% greater risk of a heart attack than those who didn’t. Not all acid indigestion medications are classed as PPIs and the other main type – H2 blockers – were found not to pose the same risk of heart attacks by the researchers. “These drugs [PPIs] were only approved for short-term use, but as over-the-counter medications, the duration of use is not being monitored adequately,” said John Cooke, MD, PhD, study author and chair of the department of cardiovascular sciences at Houston Methodist Research Institute. “Furthermore, these drugs should only be used when safer agent, such as H2 antagonists like Tagamet or Zantac, are not effective in treating symptoms.” He suggests that PPIs should only be used under the directions of a doctor. So the next time you get acid indigestion, think twice before grabbing PPI medication…     Photo credit: CNN

Aspirin Found to Halt Breast Cancer Growth & Prevent Relapses

18/06/2015

A low dose of aspirin on a daily basis can halt the growth of breast cancer tumours and even prevent deadly relapses, according to a new study. Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid as it’s otherwise known, produces conditions in the human body which inhibit the reproduction of cancer stem cells. In the past, research has shown that aspirin can be used to effectively stop the spread of prostate, gastrointestinal and colon cancer, as well as other types. Dr Sushanta Banerjee, research director of the Cancer Research Unit at Kansas City Veterans Affairs Medical Centre, said: "In cancer, when you treat the patient, initially the tumour will hopefully shrink. The problem comes five to 10 years down the road when the disease relapses." He added: “These cells have already survived chemotherapy or other cancer treatment and they go dormant until conditions in the body are more favourable for them to again reproduce. “When they reappear they can be very aggressive, nasty tumours.” The research team exposed incubated breast cancer cells to differing levels of acetylsalicylic acid and recorded the results. They found that exposure to aspirin dramatically increased the rate of cell death. Furthermore, the cells that didn’t die were left in a state which meant they were unable to grow. The full findings of the research will be published in next month’s issue of Laboratory Investigation.     Photo credit: Irish Examiner

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17/06/2015

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French Government to Invest ‘Hundreds of Millions of Euros’ in Tourism Industry

16/06/2015

Despite being the most popular tourist destination in the world, with approximately 84 million visitors last year alone, France is set to receive massive investment in its tourism industry under ambitious new plans from the French government. The government of France want to see visitor numbers rise to a spectacular 100 million by 2020 and are determined to achieve this by investing “hundreds of millions of euros” in hotels and other tourist establishments across the country. France’s foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, said: "Tourism is a national treasure. When you ask people around the world 'where they want to go?' 'France' is always the first answer.” The new campaign will see the French Ministry of Affairs pushing for more shops and dining establishments open on Sundays. Border police will also be encouraged to be more polite and say “hello” and “thank you” during passport checks. Existing experiences will also be streamlined under the new plans, with the issuance of visas, paperless city passes and very-high-speed Internet access in popular tourist destinations all features. Fabius added: "We have to educate people so that they speak different languages, we need a publicity campaign on television, and we need to make sure people receive a good welcome when they arrive at airports.” The French government’s proposed plans for the tourism industry are fantastic news for our patients and will no doubt make their stay with us even more enjoyable.    

Melanoma Rates Have Doubled Over Last Three Decades

11/06/2015

According to a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rates of new melanomas (deadly skin cancers) almost doubled between 1982 and 2011. However, the CDC also highlighted that “comprehensive skin cancer prevention programs could prevent 20 percent of new cases between 2020 and 2030.” Melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with 50 million patients receiving treatment each year. The lead author of the study and director of the Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Lisa C. Richardson, MD, said: “The rate of people getting melanoma continues to increase every year compared to the rates of most other cancers, which are declining. “If we take action now, we can prevent hundreds of thousands of new cases of skin cancers, including melanoma, and save billions of dollars in medical costs.” Over 90 percent of melanoma skin cancers occur as a result of skin damage from ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure. So before you go rushing off to catch some sun rays, make sure you’re fully aware of the risks first. If this rising melanoma trend continues, the annual cost of treatment is projected to be $1.6 billion by 2030, which is nearly triple the total spent in 2011 ($457 million). Dr Richardson and team say that women aged between 15 and 49 are most likely to develop melanomas. Broad-spectrum sunscreens, wide-brimmed hats and protective lip balms are all recommended to prevent over exposure to UV rays this summer.   Photo credits: Healthline  

Dr. Dominique VASSE

10/06/2015

Dr. Dominique VASSE, Toulouse   "My specialty is aesthetic, and in my opinion, there is no limit between reconstructive surgery and aesthetic surgery, the aim is always aesthetic." – English speaking surgeon – Former Specialist registrar of the hospitals of Marseille – Former Senior Register of faculty of Marseille – Former Assistant of theHospitals of Marseille – Attached to Toulouse’s hospital – Specialist in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery – Certified by the European Board of Plastic, reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery – Top level diploma in microsurgery of Marseille – Inter-university diploma in humanitarian plastic surgery – Active member of “Société Française de Chirurgie Plastique, Reconstructrice et esthétique” (SOCPRE) – Member of the “College de Chirurgie Plastique, Reconstructrice et Esthétique” – Associate member of “Sociétéfrançaise de Chirurgie de la Main” (GEM) hand surgery – Surgeon with personal accreditation of the High Authority of Health since December 2008 – Former in medical hypnosis in the framework of the French Association for the study of medical hypnosis. 2013 (Benhaiem M.D.) – University Degree in Medical Hypnosis University Pierre and Marie Curie Paris VI 2014 January. - Takes part of a medical team which goes out on humanitarian missions to Tchad in Moundou, as a member of Association Handicap Santé and the association MNDP. She carries out operations mostly on children, with cleft lip deformities and severe burns. - Personal accreditation of the HAS since December 2008. The surgical operations are carried out exclusively at the Clinique de l’Union, in order to ensure the maximum security comfort and hygiene for the patient together (whit a highly competent and skilled top class team of theatre technician’s doctors and surgeons).  

Cosmetic

10/06/2015

COSMETIC SURGERY IN FRANCE Interventions: - Cervico facial lifting - Cervical Liposuction - Eye surgery or blepharoplasty - Lipostructure of the cheeks and/or cheek bones - Lipostructure of the orbital rim - Lipostructure of the lips - Rhinoplasty - Mammary Ptosis or breast lift - Breast implants - Bodylift  

New Blood Test Can Reveal Every Virus You’ve Ever Had

09/06/2015

With just a single drop of your blood, VirScan can identify every virus you’ve ever had in your life and it can do so for around just $25. The research, which was recently published in the journal Science, could be vital for the diagnosis and treatment of viruses going forward. Contagious viruses with few obvious symptoms, like Hepatitis C, could become a thing of the past. Stephen Elledge, the lead author of the study, said: “There are people walking around with chronic Hepatitis C infections that have no idea they have them. Now imagine if this was a routine test that was done every time you went to the doctor. With things like Hep C, the earlier you treat them, the better." Imagine being able to walk into your doctor’s surgery and have a quick test to discover what previous viruses you’ve had, instead of filling out one of those tedious and often long-winded forms. Plus, the test may even pick up some viruses that you didn’t know you’d had! Once your body has defeated a virus, some of the special white blood cells that were released by your immune system at the time are then kept for reference purposes. Your body uses them as a reminder and to keep you protected from that same virus in the future. The study itself involved 569 people from the United States, Thailand, Peru and South Africa. It found that on average the participants tested positive for 10 species of virus. The most common being the flu, the common cold and gastrointestinal viruses.   Photo credit: L'Express

‘Milestone’ Lung Cancer Therapy Hailed

04/06/2015

A study of 582 people, conducted in Europe and the US, has found that Nivolumab leaves cancer cells open to attack from the body’s immune system by preventing them from being able to hide. Lung cancer kills almost 1.6 million people worldwide every year and is particularly difficult to treat as it is usually diagnosed late and sufferers often have other smoking-related diseases which make them unsuitable for surgery. The trial involved patients who had advanced lung cancer and had already tried other treatments. Individuals who were on standard therapy at this stage lived for another 9.4 months, but those being treated with Nivolumab lived for an average of 12.2 months. However, patients whose tumours were producing high levels of PD-L1 – a protein that inhibits the body’s natural defences – lived for another 19.4 months after taking Nivolumab. The study’s lead researcher, Dr Luis Paz-Ares from the Hospital Universitario Doce de Octubre in Madrid, Spain, said: "[The results] mark a milestone in the development of new treatment options for lung cancer." The data was presented by pharmaceutical company Bristol-Myers Squibb to the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the findings were described as "giving real hope to patients". Cancer Research UK welcomed the results of the study and said that harnessing the power of the body’s immune system would be an "essential part" of cancer treatment. Photo credit: Phys.org  

Rotator Cuff

03/06/2015

ROTATOR CUFF Shoulder Surgery available in France   The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles (and their tendons) that are positioned around the shoulder connecting the upper arm (humerus) to the shoulder blade (scapula). They work together to help us with shoulder movement and stabilisation. The four muscles are: Teres minor Infraspinatus Supraspinatus Subscapularis Each muscle is inserted into shoulder blade and has a tendon that attaches to the upper arm and together they form a ‘cuff’ around the upper arm. This part of the body can often become damaged and inflamed due to injury, exercise, or general wear and tear over the years. The common name for this type of injury is Rotator Cuff Injury for which there are a number of treatments depending on the specific diagnosis. Injuries are typical of the falls on the stump or shoulder movements of abduction thwarted. These fractures involve the supraspinatus, the most often, but you can see breaks in the entire external rotator cuff: supraspinatus, the infraspinatus and teres minor. Arthroscopic repair of the tendons of the rotator cuff When repair of the rotator cuff is decided several operations will succeed: 1. Exploration of the joint: This exploration enables to confirm the lesions found with imaging tests (theMRI may well underestimate tendon lesions) Also look for the presence of osteoarthritis (cartilage wear) whose presence may explain part of pre-operative pain but also residual pain after an operation on the tendons. The biceps (also frequent source of pain) will be evaluated. The exploration will also include the space under acromial, often seat of intense inflammation (bursitis), looking lesions of the superficial surface of the tendons, of the aggressive nature of the acromion and the underside of the joint acromioclavicular. 2. Surgical procedures: The cleaning of the space under acromial is necessary to remove the thick, inflammatory and painful tissue, but also to see the top side of the tendons. Usually we practice acromioplasty to make the bone ceiling mild (nonagressive), the most common resection of the coracoacromial ligament (which extends the acromion forward and contributes significantly to the tendon conflict). Some surgeons (including the ones we are working with) will performe a gesture on the long biceps, which will simply be cut (tenotomy of the biceps) or reinserted to the humerus bone in or under the eaves (biceps tenodesis). Finally the acromioclavicular joint may be the place of intense inflammation also, often as part of early osteoarthritis, because of aggressive parrot beaks in contact with the tendons of the rotator. It is therefore the subject of minimum planing (co-planning) or even of a radical resection treatment of the last centimeter of the clavicle (removal of the diseased articulation). Advantages of the arthroscopy:  The arthroscopic exploration permits an almost complete view of the joint, a comprehensive assessment of tendon injuries. It allows to repair all types of tendon rupture. The approach of the tendons is minimally invasive and does not require muscle avulsion, alleviating the immediate aftermath and sometimes the type of asset.

Ureteroscopic Stone Removal

03/06/2015

URETEROSCOPIC STONE REMOVAL What is a urinary tract stone? Waste products (from the food we eat) that usually dissolve in water are eliminated from the human body in the urine. If there is a lack of solvent (urine) or an excess of solute (the waste product the kidney stone is made of, eg. calcium, uric acid, oxalate, etc), then a supersaturated solution occurs. The solute settles (crystallises) out of the solution, in the kidney and forms a stone. Urine normally has chemicals that inhibit stones forming. In some people with kidney stones, these inhibitors seem not to work properly. The ureteroscopic stone removal procedure consists in freeing the ureter (using a mini-invasive rigid device), or the kidney (using a flexible device) from the stones by breaking them in pieces and removing if possible the fragments. The surgeon inserts an endoscope into the bladder through the urethra. Under X-ray screening, a flexible guide wire is inserted into the affected ureter between the kidney and the bladder, it will guide the endoscope into the ureter. A longer endoscope (either rigid or flexible) is then inserted into the ureter and may be passed up to the kidney if necessary. The stone is disintegrated using ballistic probe or laser fragmentation and the majority of fragments extracted with special retrieval devices At the end of the procedure a soft plastic tube or stent (JJ stent) may be set up between the kidney and the bladder to avoid renal colic induced. The Ureteroscopic treatment allows breaking down urinary stones into small fragments and getting rid of them during the procedure for immediate relief. This treatment is used when less invasive treatments can not be used or have not proved to be efficient; indeed sometimes the stone is too large to break up with ESWL, or not suitable for ESWL, and endoscopic surgery is then required.   About the medical devices and the surgical technique used For ureteral stones is used a mini-invasive rigid ureteroscope with a guide wire, a ballistic probe or a laser Holmium fibre for stone fragmentation, and a basketorgraspingforcepsdevice forstoneextraction. For kidney stones it is used a flexible ureteroscope with a ureteral introducer, two guide wires, a laser fibre, and a basket catheter for stone extraction. The procedure is screened both by X-rays and a video camera. A ureteral stent may be set up at the time of surgery. Its goal is to facilitate the urine flow from the kidney to the bladder, and to avoid renal colic. It will also dilate the ureter and then permit stone’s fragments migration after removal. The JJ stent removal is usually done under local anaesthesia between 1 and 4 weeks later. Implants used all come from suppliers that are: o Renowned worldwide, o Accredited by European medical device standards, o Selected for their quality and longstanding reputation. When checking out of the hospital, a document bearing the prosthesis’ serial number will be given to you to enable long-term follow up in the best possible conditions. And then? During the following days, you should drink between 1,5 and 2 litters /day to flush your urinary system and minimise any bleeding. You may experience pain in the kidney over the first 24-72 hours, due to the insertion of the instrument or by the presence of a stent. In case of stent it is better to avoid walking too much. If need be, anti-inflammatory painkillers will help this pain which normally settles after 72 hours but will be continue if necessary. It will take at least 10 days to recover fully from the operation. You should not expect to return to work within 7 days. You can prevent further stone recurrence by implementing changes to your diet and fluid intake. Blood, urine analysis and spectrophotometry analysis of stones’ fragments will help to find the best diet for you.

TURP - Trans Urethral Resection of the Prostate

03/06/2015

TURP - TRANS URETHRAL RESECTION OF THE PROSTATE The prostate gland lies just below the bladder. Urine leaves the bladder, passing through the centre of the gland, and then through the sphincter muscle to enter the ‘water pipe’ (urethra), to emerge at the end of the penis. In younger men, the prostate is the size of a walnut. However, as men get older, the prostate can grow to the size of a small orange due to benign (non-cancerous) growth. This tissue is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This may result in a narrowing of the urethra and outlet to the bladder, giving rise to symptoms you may have. The surgery consists in removing the inner part of the prostate which was responsible for causing the narrowing of the urethra. The outer shell of the prostate is left behind. The operation, commonly called TURP (Trans Urethral Resection of the Prostate), involves passing a narrow metal telescope up your urethra through the penis. The inside of the prostate gland is cored out, using either a hot electrical loop or a laser.

Stress Urinary Incontinence

03/06/2015

STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE Stress Urinary Incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine during exercise or certain movements such as coughing, sneezing and laughing. Weak or damaged muscles in the pelvic floor or sphincter usually cause this. It can be due to surgery, radiation or neurological diseases and can happen to both males and females. In female, stress incontinence is due to several physiopathologies: overweight, obstetrical trauma, menopausal condition, pelvic surgery, radiation or neurological disease. In male, the common aetiologies are surgery or radiation for prostatic diseases. The surgery consists in inserting a tape to act as a sling under the urethra (tube from the bladder to the outside), so that it is supported and stays in the right position even when there is pressure on it. The tape is put into place through small openings made in the skin and under the urethra. The TOT Technique (Trans-Obturator foramen Tension-free vaginal tape) is a less invasive procedure than major surgery for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. The tape may be inserted under regional or general anaesthesia. When treating a female, a small vaginal incision is made. Another small 1/4incision is made in the skin, next to the labia on each side. The tape is positioned without tension behind the urethra. The procedure may be done on its own, or as part of prolapse repair surgery. When treating a male, a small incision in the midline below the scrotum is made to introduce the sling in your body. Two additional small incisions will allow your surgeon to secure the sling in place. Surgery is used if conservative treatment such as pelvic floor muscle training, electrical stimulation, and urethral/vaginal devices have failed. Alternative surgical options include: Colposuspension (a major abdominal surgery), Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) surgery (similar to TOT), Injection of a special agent around the urethral sphincter to reinforce it; performed as a day-case procedure, it is less effective over time and may have to be repeated. Surgery outcome : If we define the expected outcome as the disappearance of urine leakage, then success rate is well over 90%. Remember that this surgery only treats stress incontinence. About the medical devices and the surgical technique used Devices implanted are made with a non resorbable mesh, specifically designed for urethral sling applications and are well tolerated by the human body to provide long-term support to the sphincter (valve). Implants used all come from suppliers that are: Accredited by European medical device standards Selected for their quality and longstanding reputation When checking out of the hospital, a document bearing the prosthesis’ serial number will be given to you to enable long-term follow up in the best possible conditions. And then? Normally you will need to take two weeks off work, depending to some extent on the type of work you do. During this time you should totally avoid lifting heavy weights. You can resume your normal activities after as little as fours weeks.little as fours weeks. For this surgery the length of stay in France is divided as follows: 2 to 3 nights prior to surgery, 1 night at the hospital after surgery, About a week in a nearby accommodation.   CONSIDERING STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE SURGERY IN FRANCE ?  CLICK HERE FOR A FREE QUOTE MORE INFORMATION ON : http://www.urologique.fr/UROlogique/Accueil.html http://www.urofrance.org/

Haemorrhoidectomy

03/06/2015

HAEMORRHOIDECTOMY Haemorrhoids (piles) are pads of tissue located in the anal canal, these pads are made of capillary or arterial and venous networks that are dilated in cases of haemorrhoidal disease. Their role is to intervene in the anal continence. We differentiate internal haemorrhoids located inside the anal canal (rather responsible for bleeding) and external haemorrhoids which are visible at the anus (responsible for pain and seeps). When internal haemorrhoids slide down towards the anus, is called prolapsus haemorrhoids. This prolapsus is classified into 4 grades allowing better targeting of surgical techniques. The hospitalisation is about 24 to 48 hours and recovery is about 8 days. The full results of the atrophy of haemorrhoids occur between 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. Recurrences after this technique are low about 5% of cases, mainly in cases of important prolapsus. The medical teams practice the techniques of Milligan-Morgan and HAL-Doppler. The final selection will be carried out jointly at the preoperative consultation with your surgeon. Objectives of surgical treatment in case of haemorrhoids: Eradicate the bleeding Remove the haemorrhoidal prolapsus Delete the pain caused by haemorrhoids The final result can be achieved for 1 to 2 months for the HAL-Doppler technique, 3 to 4 months for the Milligan-Morgan technique.

Inguinal Hernia Surgery

03/06/2015

INGUINAL HERNIA SURGERY An Inguinal Hernia is the most common type of Hernia. It occurs when part of your bowel pokes through into your groin. The bowel pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle wall (abdominal wall). The weak area is called the inguinal canal, a channel through which your blood vessels pass. Inguinal Hernias occur mainly in men. Most are thought to be due to ageing - The hernia can appear as a swelling in your groin or as an enlarged scrotum (pouch containing the testes), which may be painful. The swelling often disappears when you lie down. Two types of Inguinal Hernia exists: Indirect Hernia, which corresponds to organs going down the scrotum, Direct Hernia, which corresponds to organs bulging at groin level, just above the pubis. Surgery’s goal is to reduce and reintegrate the Hernia within the abdominal cavity and to close the hole with an implant which will strengthen and protect the abdominal wall. Different surgical techniques exist: Laparoscopic technique, with 2 or 3 incisions ranging from 0,5 to 1 cm Direct skin incision on tops of the Hernia Our surgeons master all techniques; the final choice depends on the Hernia size, your health condition, and your wishes. It will be discussed with your medical team. Benefits from Hernia Repair Surgery: Hernia stricture risk disappearance (when bulging intestines can not get back into the abdomen, blood and digestive circulation can stop, requiring an urgent surgery), Discomfort reduction when walking, bending or making a physical effort. It is a common place surgery. It is frequently performed on a day care basis. About the implant: Various implants types exist (shape, size, material), which are perfectly well tolerated by the organism. Implants used by our hospitals partners all come from suppliers that are: Renowned worldwide Accredited by European Medical Device Standards Selected for their quality and longstanding reputation When checking out of the hospital, a document bearing the implant’s serial number will be given to you to enable long-term follow up in the best possible conditions. CONSIDERING INGUINAL HERNIA REPAIR IN FRANCE ?  CLICK HERE FOR A FREE QUOTE   More information on: www.laparoscopic-surgeon.com/ www.capio.fr www.clinique-pontchaume.fr www.nhs.uk/conditions/inguinalherniarepair/Pages/Whatisitpage.aspx www.has-sante.fr (French Health Authority)

Gastric Banding Surgery

03/06/2015

GASTRIC BANDING SURGERY Gastric Banding surgery (Lap band surgery) is one of the different bariatric surgery's techniques Principle: Restrictive technique that reduces the size of the stomach and slows the passage of food. Digestion of food is not affected. A lap band (adjustable in diameter) is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. Only a small amount of food is required to fill this pouch and a feeling of fullness occurs quickly. Based on the same principle as an hourglass, foods will pass through the stomach very slowly. Characteristic: The only adjustable technique: Adjustable Gastric Banding Surgery is linked to a port placed under the skin via a small tube. This Gastric Banding can be tightened or untightened by injecting liquid into the port, through the skin. Radiological monitoring is necessary during follow-up. The Gastric Banding (or Lap band) can be removed through a new operation in the event of complications, lack of efficiency or at the patient's request. Expected weight loss: About 40 to 60 % excess weight loss, corresponding to a weight loss of approximately 20 to 30 kg1. If the Gastric Banding (Lap band) is removed, weight is usually regained. (studies with 10 years follow-up). Main operating time: about 15 minutes Main length of hospital stay: 1, 2 days All health facilities represented by France Surgery are recognized as Surgery Center of Excellence in obesity surgery by the EAC-BS European Accreditation Council for Bariatric Surgery.   CONSIDERING GASTRIC BANDING (LAP BAND) SURGERY IN FRANCE ? CLICK HERE FOR A FREE QUOTE To find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of Bariatric surgery in France: http://www.laparoscopic-surgeon.com/ www.soffco.fr (French Society for Bariatric Surgery) www.mangerbouger.fr (French National Nutrition Health Programme)  www.has-sante.fr (French National Health Autority)

Sleeve Gastrectomy

03/06/2015

SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY Sleeve Gastrectomy is a restrictive technique which consists of removing approximately two thirds of the stomach and, in particular, the part containing the cells that secrete the hormone that stimulates appetite (ghrelin). The stomach is reduced to a vertical tube and food passes quickly into the intestine. Appetite is also reduced. This technique does not interfere with the digestion process. Sleeve gastrectomy is sometimes the first step in a biliopancreatic diversion procedure. Expected Weight Loss: Around 45 to 65 % excess weight loss after 2 years, corresponding to a weight loss of approximately 25 to 35 kg. (studies with 2 years follow-up, for a person of average height (1.7 m) with a BMI of 40 kg/m) Mean operating time: 2 hours (Provided there are no complications during the operation). Mean length of hospital stay: 3 to 8 days (Provided there are no complications after the operation). Main complications risks : Ulcers, leakage or stenosis of the remnant stomach. Early postoperative bleeding. Possible nutritional deficiencies (to be monitored). Gastrooesophageal reflux (acids and foods coming back up the oesophagus) and inflammation of the oesophagus.Dilation of the stomach.   French health facilities represented by France Surgery are all recognized Surgery Center of Excellence in European obesity surgery by the EAC-BS European Accreditation Council for Bariatric Surgery.   CONSIDERING SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY IN FRANCE ?  CLICK HERE FOR A FREE QUOTE   To find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of the different Bariatric surgical techniques: http://www.laparoscopic-surgeon.com/ www.soffco.fr Société française et francophone de chirurgie de l’obésité www.mangerbouger.fr (French National Nutrition Health Programme) www.has-sante.fr (French Health Authority)  

Gastric Bypass

03/06/2015

GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY Gastric Bypass technique is used to reduce the stomach’s size and the food absorption in the digestive tube in order to trigger a significant weight loss. Often described as 'more comfortable' than Lap Band surgery by patients, this surgery is irreversible and implies a lifelong medical follow up and potential vitamins’ intake. The digestive bypass created during surgery leads to food derivation directly to the middle part of the small intestine. This surgery exists since 1990 and is performed on thousands of patients every year in France. We then have significant medical data to access its risk and benefits. GASTRIC BYPASS is conducted under general anaesthetic, usually via laparoscopy. This technique is recommended because it reduces the amount of pain experienced and allows the patient to return to normal activity quickly. In some cases, during the operation it is necessary to open up the abdomen (laparotomy) for safety reasons. The time spent in hospital will vary from 2 to 10 days depending on the type of operation and the general health of the patient. It may be extended. You should plan to have at least 2 weeks off work when you come out of hospital. Expected Weight Loss: Around 70 to 75 % excess weight loss, corresponding to a weight loss of approximately 35 to 40 kg (studies with 20 years follow-up for a person of average height 1.7 m with a BMI of 40 kg/m2). Mean operating time: 1,5 to 3 hours (Provided there are no complications during the operation). Mean length of hospital stay: 4 to 8 days (Provided there are no complications after the operation). Mean complications risk : Surgical complications: ulcers, leakage or stenosis at the junction between the stomach and the intestine, bleeding, occlusion of the intestine. Nutritional deficiencies. Functional complications: hypoglycaemia after meals, dumping syndrome, constipation French healthcare facilities represented by France Surgery are all recognized Surgery Center of Excellence in European obesity surgery by the EAC-BS European Accreditation Council for Bariatric Surgery. CONSIDERING GASTRIC-BYPASS IN FRANCE ? CLICK HERE FOR A FREE QUOTE   To find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of the different Bariatric surgical techniques: http://www.laparoscopic-surgeon.com/ www.soffco.fr French Society for Bariatric surgery www.mangerbouger.fr (French National Nutrition Health Programme)  www.has-sante.fr (French Health Autority)

Shoulder Arthroscopy

02/06/2015

SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY in FRANCE What is the origin of your symptoms? The symptoms that lead you to visit are most of the time listed in three categories: 1. dislocation of the shoulder: "dislocation" of the joint with loss of articular surfaces requiring a move to reduce 2. the subluxation of the shoulder feeling of incomplete dislocation of the joint often spontaneously replaced in minutes 3. painful instability for which the pain is in the foreground without you necessarily aware of the ligament origin of your pain. The explanation for your symptoms is related to a malfunction torn ligament in the first episode of dislocation. This is mostly detached from the glenoid rim. This device ligament is a thickening of the joint capsule, a sort of bag in which the relationship operates. It is the tearing of the bag at its insertion on the scapula is called Bankart lesion. The absence of scarring resulting instability   What kind of surgery is possible? 1. The open procedure may o either reattach the ligaments o be perform a stop that will come to prevent bone dislocation and its location by creating a hammock muscle tendon. 2. Arthroscopic surgery repositions ligaments attached to their anatomical location using wire and bone anchors. In the case of a shoulder arthroscopy, This is an arthroscopic Bankart procedure that is offered. This intervention is intended to restore the anatomy. This surgery will not give you a shoulder to 100% normal. This is a joint repair that is intended to give you a reliable joint, strong and mobile, which you can normally use to perform the gestures of everyday life, manual and sports.  

Study Reveals Elderly Exercisers Live Five Years Longer

02/06/2015

A study of 5,700 men in Norway has revealed that doing just three hours of exercise per week has a dramatic effect on life expectancy, with regular exercisers living up to five years longer than their sedentary peers. The study’s authors, writing in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, have called for more campaigns to encourage regular exercise and fitness in older people. Conducted by Oslo University Hospital, the study found that both light and vigorous exercise had a positive impact on life expectancy. This tallies with official UK government advice, which recommends 150-minutes of moderate exercise per week for people aged over 65. While the study showed that doing less than an hour a week of light exercise had little impact, those undertaking the equivalent of six 30-minute sessions – regardless of intensity – were a whopping 40% less likely to have died during the study, which lasted 11 years. "Even when men were 73 years of age on average at start of follow-up, active persons had five years longer expected lifetime than the sedentary,” said the report. It even added that exercise was as "beneficial as smoking cessation" at reducing deaths. Julie Ward, from the British Heart Foundation, reiterated the study’s findings, saying: "Regular physical activity, whatever your age, is beneficial for your heart health and ultimately can help you live longer.”   Photo credit: Human Kinetics Sport, Health & Fitness Blog

Bunion Surgery

02/06/2015

BUNION SURGERY in FRANCE Surgical techniques for correcting distortions The main principle is not simply "shave the bump", but tackling the issue, ie reducing the metatarsophalangeal angle. This requires bringing the first metatarsal in the second, and align the joint of the big toe in its extension.   In order to reducethis angle,the interventionconsists of: 1. osteotomy translation of your first metatarsal, two fragments will slide one over the other and will be fixed by two screws. 2. Possibly an osteotomy of the proximal phalanx of the big toe that may require a clip for attachment. Thus the distortion disappears completely.* The osteosynthesis material (screws or staples), which ensure the correctness of your front foot won’t be removed only if you want to and only after a year, however the consultation after one year s essential to check good tolerance of the material. Chevron osteotomy Scarf Miniinvasive Chevron percutaneous surgery In some situations, it is possible to treat hallux valgus percutaneously. The scar is less but the consequences are often more difficult because the osteotomies are set only by the bandage. This is a possible solution for small deformations of the young women. In contrast, it is often proposed solution to the very elderly, with significant distortion.   Basal osteotomy The major deformations and / or hallux valgus instability with the base of the first metatarsal (foot spread when loading) may require a different treatment with a correction at the base of the first ray. Often, a double osteotomy is performed. It is a more serious surgery but large deformations can be corrected in very good condition l This technique generates additional constraints: • Protection of the support by crutches for 2 weeks. • 1 month post-operative shoe.   Cuneo-metatarsal arthrodesis This technique also called "Lapidus technique" is useful for large deformations with instability of the joint at the base of the first metatarsal. This is observed in large losses of the first support beam, in certain arthritis or flat feet. Again, the consequences are more serious because you can not use the forefoot (press allowed) for 45 days.. Metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis If the deformation or cartilage damage required, it is not possible to keep the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. The operation is performed arthrodesis and consists of a full and final locking of the joint. this surgery is effective and well tolerated. We are of course at your disposal to answer any questions you will ask if this technique is offered. Postoperatively, you should not use the link that must merge

Ophthalmic

28/05/2015

CATARACT SURGERY You are suffering from cataract responsible for your visual disorders. Your ophthalmologist proposes surgery because it is the only way to improve your vision.  Cataract is the clouding of the crystalline lens, a high power lens located inside the eye. Cataract procedure: The patient lays on the back, in a sterile surgical environment under a microscope. Cataract’s operation represents a major surgical procedure, because it consists of incising the eye and extracting one of its elements inside: crystalline lens. About hospitalisation: A minimum of several hours hospitalisation is necessary. Your ophthalmologist will decide the mode of anaesthesia in accordance agreement with the anaesthetist. About anaesthesia: The eye can be desensitised by injections of neighbourhood or solely by the instillation of drops. General anaesthesia is also possible. The choice stems from the advice of your ophthalmologist and one of the anaesthetists. Your wish is taken into account whenever possible. The cataract extraction was performed with or without the aid of an ultrasound probe. The envelope of the lens (the capsule) is left took in place. It is exceptional to make the total extraction of the lens. Implantation of an artificial lens (intraocular implant) the lens is replaced with a synthetic lens placed behind the pupil. The incision is sutured to the eye or not. Incidents or difficulties before surgery are rare and unpredictable. They sometimes lead to place the implant to the ward or to waive any location. It may be necessary to remove a small fragment of the iris and / or ablate a portion of the vitreous. The course of the intervention may be complicated by a rupture of the capsule (less than 5% of cases). The cataract extraction is sometimes incomplete. Bleeding can occur and usually resolves in a few days (in very exceptional cases, it can lead to vision loss or even loss of the eye). Postoperative course: In the vast majority of cases (95%), cataract surgery is painless. The vision is improving very quickly and an appropriate correction with glasses can be prescribed after a few weeks. The presence of other lesions of the eye may limit visual recovery. Local care is reduced to the instillation of drops and wearing eye protection for a period that will be specified by your surgeon. It is sometimes necessary to ablate suturing thread.  Resuming your professional occupation, operating machinery or dangerous instruments and driving are not recommended for a limited period which will be defined by your ophthalmologist. In over 30% of cases in the years following the operation, a capsule opacification may occur: the secondary cataract responsible for a new low vision. The treatment consist in achieving the coverage of the capsule by laser surgery.

Ophthalmic

28/05/2015

CATARACT SURGERY You are suffering from cataract responsible for your visual disorders. Your ophthalmologist proposes surgery because it is the only way to improve your vision.  Cataract is the clouding of the crystalline lens, a high power lens located inside the eye. Cataract procedure: The patient lays on the back, in a sterile surgical environment under a microscope. Cataract’s operation represents a major surgical procedure, because it consists of incising the eye and extracting one of its elements inside: crystalline lens. About hospitalisation: A minimum of several hours hospitalisation is necessary. Your ophthalmologist will decide the mode of anaesthesia in accordance agreement with the anaesthetist. About anaesthesia: The eye can be desensitised by injections of neighbourhood or solely by the instillation of drops. General anaesthesia is also possible. The choice stems from the advice of your ophthalmologist and one of the anaesthetists. Your wish is taken into account whenever possible. The cataract extraction was performed with or without the aid of an ultrasound probe. The envelope of the lens (the capsule) is left took in place. It is exceptional to make the total extraction of the lens. Implantation of an artificial lens (intraocular implant) the lens is replaced with a synthetic lens placed behind the pupil. The incision is sutured to the eye or not. Incidents or difficulties before surgery are rare and unpredictable. They sometimes lead to place the implant to the ward or to waive any location. It may be necessary to remove a small fragment of the iris and / or ablate a portion of the vitreous. The course of the intervention may be complicated by a rupture of the capsule (less than 5% of cases). The cataract extraction is sometimes incomplete. Bleeding can occur and usually resolves in a few days (in very exceptional cases, it can lead to vision loss or even loss of the eye). Postoperative course: In the vast majority of cases (95%), cataract surgery is painless. The vision is improving very quickly and an appropriate correction with glasses can be prescribed after a few weeks. The presence of other lesions of the eye may limit visual recovery. Local care is reduced to the instillation of drops and wearing eye protection for a period that will be specified by your surgeon. It is sometimes necessary to ablate suturing thread.  Resuming your professional occupation, operating machinery or dangerous instruments and driving are not recommended for a limited period which will be defined by your ophthalmologist. In over 30% of cases in the years following the operation, a capsule opacification may occur: the secondary cataract responsible for a new low vision. The treatment consist in achieving the coverage of the capsule by laser surgery.

ACL Reconstruction

28/05/2015

ACL RECONSTRUCTION in FRANCE The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of four knee ligaments. There are two collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL) and 2 ligaments called central cross as they intersect in the middle of the knee. The ligaments are stretched from one guy to another bone. They allow joint surfaces remain in contact during movement and thus ensure the stability of the joint. Cruciate ligaments and especially the anterior cruciate ligament provides most of the stability of the knee. Breach of the lateral ligaments, one speaks of mild sprain, but in case of infringement of the anterior cruciate ligament sprain is serious talk, for then the stability of the knee is compromised. Consequence of the ACL rupture Rupture of anterior cruciate ligament thus causes a decrease in the stability of the knee. Fortunately, the anterior cruciate ligament is not necessary in everyday life sedentary. It is involved in activities where the legs are involved significantly in particular in gestures of twisting the knee, such as ball games or combat ... How can we make an ACL sprained? Several mechanisms may lead to an ACL rupture. Most often, this is a twisted knee during a reception of a jump or during a change of direction while running, the foot still stuck in the ground. The skiing accident during a turn or fall without detaching is also conventional. Other mechanisms exist especially hyperextension of the knee during a shoot in the air for example.   What are the signs to suspect an ACL ruptured ? The classic triad of ACL rupture is "Cracking - dislocation - immediate swelling. The athlete feels a cracking or tearing sensation in the knee. The dislocation is felt either as a sensation that the knee by the side then back up is that the knee was rotated (torsion). Shortly after injury, the knee began to swell significantly. Walking is difficult or impossible. Unfortunately, in some cases, these signs do not exist, the knee does not swell barrier example. Pain is not a good sign because in some breaks, it is minimal or absent. That is why a specialist consultation is necessary when knee sprain.   ACL rupture diagnosis The ACL rupture diagnosis is a clinical diagnosis. The ACL can be compared to a rope that holds the knee. If the cord is intact, the knee is stable, if it is broken, we say the knee is lax (moves abnormally when examined). Thanks to specific tests (Lachman test), the specialist can usually tell if there is a breach or not. Very often, the diagnosis is focused on MRI, but these images are only a picture of ACL. MRI can only say if ACL presente a lesion or not. How to treat? It does exist two treatments : functional treatment and surgical treatment. 1. Functional treatment : Objective : compensate the absence of an ACL and muscle proprioceptive rehabilitation. That will allow the knee to remain stable. The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the stability of the knee, but other structures will contribute in particular muscles. Rehabilitation grants will be developed in a hand muscle strength of knee muscles (quadriceps in front and rear hamstring) and secondly, the overall functioning of the knee position (standing, jumping, running) to improve equilibrium and stability of the knee.   Surgical treatment : Surgical treatment is to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament with an other tendon. The tendon most used is the patellar tendon. Another technique uses the tendons of the crow's feet.   Functional treatment Benefits : Avoids surgery No complication Possible surgery secondary Disadvantages ACL is not repaired Do not allow the resumption of all sports Muscles have to be trained regularly Surgical treatment Benefits : Repair of the ACL Allows recovery of all sports Definitive treatment Disadvantages : Surgery with operative risks Possible complications In case of failure, complex surgery   Who can be operated ?   Fortunately, ACL is not part of the vital organs of the human being. The vast majority of people can live normally without anterior cruciate ligament. For these individuals, the functional treatment is enought. Patients who need a perfect stability in their lives or because of sports or job should choose surgical treatment. Surgical treatment is indicated when there are significant lesions associated with anterior cruciate ligament rupture causing instability in everyday life.  

Medical Travel: A Patient's Experience in France

28/05/2015

Here's how your medical travel experience with France Surgery will look like:

Prostate Cancer Drug Found to ‘Extend Lives’

28/05/2015

For prostate cancer sufferers, docetaxel is usually only given after hormone treatment has failed. But now a major study has revealed that earlier treatment with the drug can extend life expectancy anywhere from 43 to 65 months. The results, which will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology, are being labelled as “potentially game-changing”. In the UK alone, 40,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and 11,000 die from the disease every year. The trial was conducted across Britain and Switzerland and involved 2,962 men. At the start of their treatment, some of the men were given six doses of docetaxel and subsequently lived 10 months longer than those that weren’t. However, patients who had already seen their cancer spread past their pelvis saw their life expectancies increase by 22 months. One of the researchers at Warwick University, Prof Nicholas James, who was involved in the study said he was very pleased with the results and emphasised that the NHS needed to act upon them quickly: "To see a 22-month survival advantage off six lots of treatment given several years earlier is a very big benefit.” Furthermore, the fact that docetaxel is out of patent means that it represents a potentially cost-effective method of treatment. Commenting on the study’s findings, Cancer Research UK said the results were “important” and "show that it should be given earlier in a man's treatment".   Photo credit: NHS

OUR SERVICES

28/05/2015

OUR SERVICES Our International Patients Service works for you, providing information, advice and services about our extended network of French hospitals, travel companies, hotels, B&Bs, ambulances... Our dedicated team combines all of your specific medical needs, choices, religious and cultural expectations into a tailor made experience that makes you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. APPOINTMENT / MEDICAL OPINION For expatriates living in France, connection with elite French specialists, scheduling of an appointment : just tell us where and when ! MEDICAL AGENDA Connection with highly experienced medical teams Pre travel medical opinion Coordination of your pre and postoperative medical exams & consultations Coordination of your Surgery/treatment appointments Administrative assistance PREMIUM ASSISTANCE Pre travel organisation Connection with highly experienced medical teams Pre travel medical opinion Coordination of your pre and postoperative medical exams & consultations Coordination of your Surgery/treatment appointments Administrative assistance Hospitalisation Airport pick up & drop off Consultations with the surgeon and the anaesthetist Surgery/treatment First post - op medication 1 post op control Clinic or hospital's stay in a private classic room Comfort pack at the hospital : Private room, WIFI, Newspaper delivery, TV Channels, Bathrobe, Toiletry kit ... Bilingual accompanying service (check in/out, consultations, reviews, daily visits) Postoperative care Assistance for the organisation of your postoperative care in France YOUR REHABILITATION IN FRANCE Assistance for the organisation of your postoperative stay and postoperative care in France. TRAVEL PROCEDURE ASSISTANCE France Surgery offers to assist you with your administrative procedures to travel to France, obtaining a visa ...

ABOUT US

27/05/2015

ABOUT US France SURGERY is a private French company located in Toulouse (south west France) and has over 20 years of experience in the French medical sector. Our team is comprised of several French doctors, specialists and healthcare professionals. We will put you in touch with Internationally renowned hospitals & specialists in France, ensuring that your medical treatment or operation is undertaken in the most professional way, thus providing reassurance and peace of mind for you and your family. OUR ADVANTAGES We offer the largest online Platform for medical travel in France, with approximately 120 hospitals and more than 1500 highly experienced specialists all across the country… Direct access to elite French physicians: pre travel e-consultation for each patient. Secure Platform for exchange of medical data: Your secure area is completely confidential, and will allow: The surgeon or doctor to easily access your medical file: past and current medical history, current medication, digital X-ray, blood grouping & full blood tests, specialist examination report relating to the disorder. The surgeon or doctor to discuss their medical opinion directly with you or your GP and the organisation of your prospective treatment. Us to contact you directly (by telephone, e-mail or video-conferencing) to help you make the best decision. Selection of highly experienced medical teams and not just hospitals, according to a very strict ethical code of practice. Realistic pre-travel medical evaluation through specific questionnaires. Post-op e-follow up. Automatic sending of medical enquiries & scorings, planned operative e controls. You stay in direct contact with your physician even after you’re back home. You’ll never feel alone! What our patients think about us: click here

Obese Teens at Increased Risk of Bowel Cancer

26/05/2015

A new study has suggested that obese or very overweight teenagers are at twice the risk of developing bowel cancer in later life than their slimmer peers. Bowel cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in the UK and adult obesity has long been thought to increase the risk of contracting it. But now a team of researchers in the US have studied the records of some 240,000 men born in the early 1950s, who then went on to undergo a compulsory conscription assessment for the Swedish military in their late teens. The difference between being overweight and obese all depends on a person’s body mass index (BMI). Having a BMI of 30 or more sees someone labelled ‘obese’ but even over 25 is still considered ‘overweight’. All of the individuals were assessed in terms of their weight at the time of their conscription and while 81% were considered of ‘normal’ weight, 1.5% had a BMI of over 25 and 1% over 30. An analysis of their health 35 years later discovered that 885 had been positively diagnosed with bowel cancer. Scientists found that those in the uppermost weight bracket were 2.38 times more likely to develop the condition. While further research is needed, especially in women, the study by the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, Massachusetts was published in the journal Gut and its authors said: "Even with these limitations it is important to recognise the unique strengths of this study.”   Photo credit: CSIRO

Cystic Fibrosis Patients Offered Hope with New Drug Combination

21/05/2015

Doctors say that a “ground-breaking” cystic fibrosis therapy could dramatically improve the quality of life for sufferers of the condition. Patients usually die before they reach the age of 40 as they’re left prone to infection from the mucus that clogs and damages their lungs. But now, a major clinical trial on some 1,108 patients, the results of which were published in the New England Journal of Medicine, revealed that a combination of drugs had the ability to bypass the genetic errors that caused the condition and increase life expectancy as a result. In the UK alone, one in every 2,500 babies are born with cystic fibrosis and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust believes the new findings could “improve the lives of many”. A genetic condition, the DNA of cystic fibrosis sufferers contains an error which means the individual is unable to control salt and water levels in their lungs. A thick mucus forms and inexorably damages the lungs. Antibiotics have been used historically to prevent infection, but nothing has been developed to address the underlying problem for most sufferers. Lumacaftor and ivacaftor are the two drugs which when combined, improved the lung function of those patients that received them over the course of a 24-week trial. It was also reported that patients gained weight during the trial, something which was attributed to the mucus lining in the gut being affected too. Professor Stuart Elborn, who headed up the Queen’s University, Belfast part of the trial, said: “It is not a cure, but it is as remarkable and effective a drug as I have seen in my lifetime.”   Photo credits: Discover magazine, The New York Time Magazine  

Paris Mayor wants Right Bank of the River Seine to be Made Car-Free

19/05/2015

The left bank of the River Seine in Paris is already a pedestrian haven, but now the city’s mayor, Anne Hidalgo, wants to extend the car-free zone to cover the right bank as well. Hidalgo has been waging a personal war on vehicles in the French capital for a while in an attempt to reduce pollution and make Paris a nicer place to live and visit. Speaking at a press conference last week, Hidalgo said: “It’s an urban project, almost philosophical, which is to envisage a city in an alternative way than through the use of cars.” Other French cities like Lyon and Bordeaux have been lauded for reclaiming parts of their river banks for use by pedestrians and it’s cities such as these that Hidalgo is using to reinforce her case. “The transformation of an urban highway into a promenade will be very strong marker of this mandate,” she added. At present, some 2,700 or so vehicles pass along the right bank of the Seine each hour at peak times, but these will be replaced by riverside gardens and a games area. The current Georges-Pompidou highway on the right bank of the Seine is part of a larger Unesco World Heritage Site and it is thought that it will become a pedestrian-only zone after the annual Paris Plage festival next year.   Credit photo: JC Choblet

High-Protein Diets Linked to Weight Gain and Heart Disease

12/05/2015

Every week, there seems to emerge new advice on dieting which contradicts previously accepted methods. This week is no different and it’s the turn of the protein-packed diet to get a meaty dressing down. An international team of researchers voiced their concerns about diets high in protein at the European Congress on Obesity in Prague. The research team looked at data collected from over 7,000 men and women over the age of 55 who had no previous history of heart disease. When quizzed about their eating habits, the individuals divulged their dietary trends over the last five years. The results showed that when carbohydrates were replaced with protein, the risk of gaining 10% more body fat was increased by 90%. Furthermore, higher protein intake was also linked to a 59% greater risk of death from any cause. When fat was replaced by protein, the risk of death rose even further to 66% said the researchers. "These results do not support the generalised use of high-protein diets as a good strategy for losing weight," said the study’s lead researcher Monica Bullo, of Pere Virgili Health Research Institute in Reus. She added: "Long-term efficacy and safety of these diets deserve more attention.” With 69% of the population of America overweight, high-protein diets have been favoured because they often provide quick results. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that American adults are already eating enough protein and the American Heart Association website says it “doesn’t recommend high-protein diets for weight loss.” Photo credits: Guardianlv, Fawesome.ifood

The Next Generation of Surgical Tools: Self-Dissolving Surgical Clips

07/05/2015

Surgical clips are a ubiquitous part of surgery and have helped surgeons close off blood supplies during important invasive procedures for some time now. However, these surgical clips have traditionally been made out of stainless steel or titanium and following certain surgeries, such as a gallbladder removal, are actually left inside the patient. While the risks of doing this are minimal and complications rare, there still exist and these clips have been known to find their way to other parts of the patient’s body. But now, a collaborative effort between Kobe University engineers and surgeons has yielded what could be the next generation of surgical clips; ones that dissolve safely inside the body. The new clips contain calcium and zinc and in trials involving mice they did not raise the levels of magnesium found in the body. A Kobe University spokesperson said: “The volume of the implanted clip was reduced by almost half after 12 weeks. Therefore, the clip is likely to dissolve and exit the body within one year.”   Of course, we can’t expect these self-dissolving clips to start being used for human surgery just yet. There is a lot of further testing that needs to be done, including human trials. But, if proven to be successful, they could revolutionise the way in which surgeons conduct surgery going forward. For more information about the wealth of world-class medical procedures we can help facilitate here in France, contact us through our website today.   Photo credit: Kobe University

New Study says Just Two Minutes of Walking Could Reverse the Effects of Prolonged Sitting

05/05/2015

A new study has found that just two minutes of walking could counter the negative effects of prolonged sitting. In the past, numerous studies have suggested that sitting for prolonged periods of time could increase an individual’s risk of heart disease and early death. This is thought to be because a staggering 80 percent of Americans are unable to carry out two and a half hours of physical activity every week – the recommended amount. This led a team from the University of Utah School of Medicine to conduct a study to discover whether more realistic, low intensity activities resulted in positive health effects. The study’s findings, which were published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (CJASN), showed that two minutes of light intensity workout every hour resulted in a 33 percent lower risk of death. The lead author of the study, Srinivasan Beddhu, M.D., said: "It was fascinating to see the results because the current national focus is on moderate or vigorous activity.” He added: “To see that light activity had an association with lower mortality is intriguing." Regular exercise is still highly recommended for people who can perform it, but the two minutes of walking every hour advice is a step in the right direction for those who can’t.   Photo credit: Ironman.today

Everyday Objects Could Soon Help Diagnose Diseases

30/04/2015

Imagine if objects that you use on a daily basis, such as your toothbrush and your smartphone, could one day help detect serious medical conditions including Alzheimer’s and caner. While it may seem like something straight out of science-fiction movie, a future in which our mobile devices and products found around the house alert us to health issues might not be that far away. That’s because Oxford Nanopore Technologies – a firm renowned for creating palm-sized nanopore detectors and who developed the MinION, a USB gene sequencer - want to get each of our DNA online. Clive Brown, the chief technology officer at Oxford Nanopore, said: "Our big dream is to move towards self-quantification, and we're going to make a version that works on handheld mobile phones. It can measure your blood markers and collate that data to track changes in your daily biology.” Experts believe that fun-size nanapore sequencers contained in day-to-day objects will help with the detection of many diseases. They will allow a person’s DNS to be decoded into a digital format, which can then be compared with a genetic marker to allow for specific diseases to be spotted. Brown added: “You can run it anywhere on anything and that opens it up to other applications. We can embed it in fridges or toothbrushes as it gets smaller — it can become a ubiquitous sensing apparatus.” However, the device will be a just a self-quantification tool and not offer any medical advice.   Photo credit: Oxford Nanopore Technologies

France Surgery Now Officially ‘Medical Travel Agency of the Year 2015’

28/04/2015

It’s with great pleasure that we can announce France Surgery’s success at the recent International Medical Travel awards in the UK. At a high profile reception at the Royal Garden Hotel in London, France Surgery were named ‘Medical Travel Agency of the Year 2015’ by medical travel publication the International Medical Travel Journal, (IMTJ, www.imtj.com) at their annual awards ceremony. The ceremony, which was part of the overall International Medical Travel Journal Medical Travel Summit, saw medical travel industry experts and providers from all over the globe come together for a special night of awards. Keith Pollard, managing editor of the IMTJ and chairman of the judges on the night said: “Medical travel is an exciting and growing global industry, with many providers delivering excellence in both medical care and customer service. The IMTJ Medical Travel Awards are the first independent awards to recognise those who are the best of the best and hopefully to encourage others to emulate them. The judges wanted to reward innovation and excellence, highlight best practice and celebrate those who are leading the way in the industry and delivering successful outcomes for patients. “All our winners exemplify the way the medical tourism industry should be run – professional, offering exceptional patient care and providing the best possible medical outcomes.” Our patients past and present have told us how fantastic the services we offer are, but it’s always nice to get some recognition in the form of an award – especially one from as prestigious a publication as the IMTJ. We’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to our success. Facilitating world-class medical procedures and providing expert care here in France is our passion and we’ll continue to do it long into the future.  

Women: Don't Skip Mammograms When you hit 50

23/04/2015

According to the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, women should have a mammogram every two years once they reach the age of 50 and, even though routing screening for women in the 40s doesn’t hurt, it brings little benefits and should be an entirely personal choice. The task force also said that there still isn’t enough evidence to say whether more modern 3D mammograms are the best option for routine screening, or if extra testing is required for women with denser breasts. However, the advice has left some individuals confused as the American Cancer Society has long recommended yearly mammograms for women once they enter their 40s. Even though medical insurance often covers the cost of a mammogram, the task force still advises women to consult with their doctors on a one-to-one basis to discuss the pros and cons of screening. Task force chairman Dr. Michael LeFevre of the University of Missouri said: “Screening is most beneficial for women ages 50 to 74.” The report also found that 576 more false alarms were recorded when women started having biennial mammograms in their 40s instead of their 50s. This causes unnecessary stress, unneeded biopsies and over-diagnosis. While the report from the government advisory panel has only just been released, it is an open draft available for public comment until May 18.   Photo credit: American Cancer Society  

New Study Suggests Parents Can’t Recognise their Children’s Weight Problems

21/04/2015

Childhood obesity is a complicated disease that’s on the rise globally and now affects over twice as many children as it did 30 years ago. That’s according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In an attempt to understand how the link between parents and obese children can be used to improve paediatric health, researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine studied the responses given by 2,976 questionnaire respondents – 369 of which had children who were heavily overweight. During the study, the researchers uncovered that 31 percent of the parents interviewed were unable to classify their own child’s BMI scale range. This is worrying because it suggests that many parents simply do not acknowledge when their child is overweight and, therefore, are unlikely to do anything about it. The study’s senior author, Dr. Sanjay Kinra - reader in clinical epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine – said: "If parents are unable to accurately classify their own child's weight, they may not be willing or motivated to enact the changes to the child's environment that promote healthy weight maintenance.” Staggeringly, more than one third of American children are either overweight or obese and that’s a problem which will only worsen unless parents start taking measures now. Another of the study’s authors, Professor Russell Viner - an academic paediatrician at the UCL Institute of Child Health – said: "Measures that decrease the gap between parental perceptions of child weight status and obesity scales used by medical professionals may now be needed in order to help parents better understand the health risks associated with overweight and increase uptake of healthier lifestyles.”   Photo credit: U.S. News      

Giant Replica of Prehistoric Caves Now Ready in Southeast France

13/04/2015

It had a budget of 55 million euros, involved 35 companies and hundreds of workers, but now after two and a half years, the famous prehistoric Chauvet Caves were finally inaugurated by French President François Hollande on Friday. Discovered in 1994 by amateur explorers Jean-Marie Chauvet, Eliette Brunel and Christian Hillaire, the Chauvet Caves are thought to be the world’s oldest known caves decorated with human paintings and are estimated to date back about 36,000 years to the Aurignacian era. Experts believe that the caves were sealed shut by a rockfall around 23,000 years ago and remained that way until they were discovered in 1994. The walls of the caves are adorned with over 1,000 images and thee site was given Unesco World Heritage status in 2014. Situated in Vallon Pont d’Arc in the Ardèche region of south-east France, the replica caves are only a few kilometres from the original and while modern-day humans will never get to the see the original cave’s paintings, the replica is 3,500 square metres of Stone Age animal paintings, engravings and red dots. Anyone wishing to pay a visit can do so from April 25 this year. For more information about how France Surgery can facilitate a number of medical procedures and afford a relaxing recovery period here in France, contact us today. Photo credit: EOL Learning and Education Group

Louvre Announces Single Fare to Encompass its Permanent Collections and Temporary Exhibits

13/04/2015

We’ve got some fantastic news for museum fans and art lovers alike today because the Musée du Louvre in Paris – the world’s most visited art museum – has just announced that it will be introducing a flat 15-euro fee, which will give visitors full access to both its permanent collections and temporary exhibits and create “better synergy” between all its components. The Louvre drew a staggering 9.26 million visitors in 2014 alone and the museum believes that figure could reach an astonishing 12 million by 2025. More surprising is the fact that 70 percent of its visitors are foreign tourists who come especially to see some of the world’s most famous masterpieces such as the Vénus de Milo and, of course, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. In contrast, domestic visitors tend to skip the permanent collections and instead favour the temporary exhibits. In an official press release last week, the Museum said: “"For the past 18 months, the Louvre has been working on trying to create better balance and stronger links between the permanent collections and the temporary exhibits.” At present, visitors to the Louvre pay 12 euros for the permanent collections, 13 euros for entrance to a temporary exhibit and 16 euros for a combined ticket. The new 15-euro flat fee will take effect on July 1 and brings the Louvre more in line with other famous art museums across the world. To find out how you can undergo a world-class medical procedure here in France and experience the majesty of the Louvre as part of your recovery, contact us today. Photo credit: Dennis Jarvis

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