Advanced Medical Solutions

Breakthrough in paralysis treatment

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 17:34:46 PDT

Breakthrough in paralysis treatment

For the first time in the world a paralyzed from the waist down man is walking thanks to the advance of medicine nowadays. The miracle was made possible by electrical stimulation of the spine. The new therapy is an important step in the efforts to overcome the trauma of the spinal cord.

Rob Summers of Oregon (25) was completely paralyzed from the waist down after a crash in 2006. Today, after the pioneering operation and restoration of muscle tone in the legs, he can stand alone and stand up to 4 minutes. Rob now moves his legs, hips, knees and ankles and even walks on a treadmill.

All this was made possible by a spine implantation of 16 electrodes that are associated with the nerve nodes that control the legs from toes to thighs. Then they send electrical pulses similar to those of the brain to provoke movement.

Over two years Rob has trained constantly, trying to keep the right to walk and move his feet. In addition, he has regained other body functions related to the urinary tract, stomach and blood pressure.

Scientists warn that electrical stimulation should be conducted with other patients to confirm that it really works. Certain medicines are being developed to help the treatment.

Nurses Guide To Lap Band Surgery

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:35:05 PDT

There are about seven or eight adjustable gastric bands on the market today. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the adjustable gastric band or lap band surgery procedure is reversible. The decision to undergo weight loss surgery is not only an important medical decision but a significant financial decision too.

In general, gastric banding, including the Lap Band procedure and weight loss system, is indicated for people for whose Body Mass Index is above 40. Also for those who are 100 pounds (45 kg) or more over their estimated ideal weight according to the 1983 Metropolitan Life Insurance Tables or for those between 30 and 40 with co-morbidities that may improve with weight loss; some examples are high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and arthritis. It's almost always contraindicated if the surgery or treatment presents an unreasonable risk to the patient. People who have a dependency on alcohol or drugs are not eligible for adjustable band surgery.

The failure of a dietary or weight-loss drug therapy for more than a year can make a person eligible for the adjustable gastric band procedure. In order to be considered for the surgery one must fully understand the risks and benefits of the gastric band procedure and the have the willingness to comply with the substantial lifelong dietary restrictions that are required for long term success.

The adjustable gastric band or Lap Band is an inflatable, silicone prosthetic device which is placed around the upper portion of the stomach using keyhole laparoscopic surgery.
Whenever fluid is introduced into the stomach the lap band expands, placing some pressure around the outside of the stomach; this decreases the size of the passage into the stomach and restricts the movement of food. As the upper part of the stomach believes it's full the message to the brain is that the stomach is full and this sensation helps the person eat smaller portions of food and lose weight over time.

Calcium supplements and Vitamin B12 injections are not usually required following gastric banding as they are with Roux-en--Y gastric bypass surgery and some other types of weight loss surgery. And gastric dumping syndrome problems don't happen in lap band surgeries because none of the intestines are removed or re-routed.

Lap band or gastric band placement, unlike the traditional malabsorptive weight loss surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, biliopancreatic diversion and duodenal switch) does not cut or remove any part of the digestive system. Following surgery, adjustments, which are also called 'fills', may be performed using a fluoroscope so the radiologist can evaluate the placement of the band, the tubing and the port which runs between the port and the band. Some patients may find that before their first 'fill' they're still able to eat fairly large portions of food. And regarding fills, some doctors are more aggressive than others, but most seem to require a two to four week wait between fills

Many doctors make the first adjustment between six to eight weeks after surgery to allow the stomach enough time to heal. Then after that the fills are performed as needed. Initial weight loss in gastric banding is slower than with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery but statistics indicate that over a five-year period the weight loss outcome is very similar.

Adjustable gastric band post-surgical complications include: abdominal pain, loss of strength, infection, fever, hernia, pain, chest pain, incisional infection, incision pain, and even death. Other complications that can occur with gastric band surgery include ulceration and irritated stomach tissue.

Some of the adjustable gastric band post-surgical digestive complications are nausea, vomiting, gastro-esophageal reflux, stoma obstruction, constipation, dysphagia, diarrhea, and abnormal stools. Some of the adjustable gastric band surgery complications involving the band itself and port include: band slippage, pouch dilation, esophageal dilatation or dysmotility and the erosion of the band into the gastric lumen.

Mexico is one of the top low cost travel destinations for adjustable gastric band surgery outside the United States, where the cost for lap band surgery is usually between $8,000 and $10,000. Some post-surgical weight loss surgery teams offer support groups, but some of them mix gastric bypass surgery patients with gastric banding patients, so try to find a support group for gastric banding only if you have this surgery. Make sure if you do travel away from home for any surgery that you factor in the cost of the travel time and related travel expenses for both the surgery and any follow-up appointments.

A Quick Reference for Students of Radiology

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:29:37 PDT

Projection radiography
You may call them radiographs or more formally Roentgenographs, because they're named after the discoverer of X-rays, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen. These are often used for evaluation of bony structures and soft tissues. An X-Ray machine directs electromagnetic radiation upon a region in the body. The lower the density of the object, the more light passes through. Thus, radiation tends to pass through skin, fat, muscle, and other tissues, but is absorbed by bones, tumors and lungs affected by severe pneumonia. The radiation which has passed through a patient is then exposed onto an X-ray film. Areas of film exposed to higher amounts of radiation will usually appear dark gray after development. The unexposed areas of film of course stay white.

Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy and angiography are special applications of X-ray imaging, in which a fluorescent screen or image intensifier tube is connected to a small television system, which allows real-time imaging of structures in motion. Radiocontrast agents are administered, which are often swallowed or injected into the body of the patient, that help delineate anatomy such as the blood vessels, the genitourinary system or the gastrointestinal tract. There is a radiocontrast agent for each specific type of evaluation. For example, barium in a suspension is administered into the gastrointestinal tract and the image is taken with fluoroscopy or radiography. Radiocontrast agents, which 'soak up' X-ray radiation, in conjunction with the real-time imaging allows demonstration of dynamic processes. Peristalsis in the digestive tract or blood flow in arteries and veins can easily be seen dynamically this way, for instance.

CT scanning
CT imaging uses X-rays in conjunction with computing algorithms to take an image of a variety of soft tissues in the body. CT is acquired in the axial plane, while coronal and sagittal images can be rendered by computer software reconstruction. It is of course only recently that the combined studies of computer imaging such as 3D ray-tracing and Computer Assisted Design have made this process possible. Yes, CT imaging owes a little debt to movies like 'Tron'! Radiocontrast agents are often used with CT for enhanced delineation of the patient's anatomy. Intravenous contrast allows 3D reconstructions of arteries and veins, showing them as a network of branching tunnels in real-time space. While radiographs provide higher resolution for bone X-rays, CT can generate much more detailed images of the soft tissues. CT exposes the patient to more ionizing radiation than a radiograph, which is the main reason it isn't used any more often than it needs to be.

Ultrasound
Medical ultrasonography uses ultrasound, literal high-frequency sound waves, to visualize soft tissue structures in the body in real time. No ionizing radiation is involved, but the quality of the images obtained using ultrasound is highly dependent on the skill of the person performing the exam, who is known as the ultrasonographer. The use of ultrasound in medical imaging has developed mostly within the last thirty years. The first ultrasound images were static and two dimensional, but with modern-day ultrasonography 3D reconstructions can be observed in real-time. Because ultrasound does not utilize ionizing radiation like radiography, CT scans and nuclear medicine imaging techniques, it is generally considered safer. For this reason, this imaging method plays a vital role in obstetrical imaging. Fetal development can be thoroughly evaluated, allowing early diagnosis of fetal anomalies or confirmation of a normal gestation.

MRI/NMR
MRI uses strong magnetic fields to align spinning hydrogen proton nuclei within body tissues, then uses a radio signal to disturb the axis of rotation of these nuclei. It then observes the radio frequency signal generated as the nuclei return to their baseline states. MRI scans give the highest quality soft tissue contrast of all the imaging modalities. With advances in scanning speed and spatial resolution and improvements in computer 3D algorithms and hardware, MRI has made great leaps forward in the recent years. One distinct disadvantage is that the patient has to hold still for long periods of time in a noisy, cramped space while the imaging is performed. Recent improvements in magnet design like wider, shorter magnet bores and more open magnet designs have brought some relief for claustrophobic patients, who previously had to be sedated - unfortunate if you are looking at the brain on the MRI, since the brain shows different activity when sedated. MRI has its best benefit in imaging the brain, spine and musculoskeletal system. The modality can be contraindicated for patients with pacemakers (watch out for those magnets!), certain types of cerebral aneurysmal clips or metallic hardware due to the strong magnetic fields. Areas of present advancement include functional imaging, cardiovascular MRI as well as MR image guided therapy.

Nuclear medicine
Nuclear medicine imaging, our newest technology, involves the administration into the patient of substances labeled with radioactive tracers which have affinity for particular tissues. The heart, lungs, thyroid, liver, gallbladder and bones are commonly evaluated for particular conditions using nuclear medicine techniques. While anatomical detail is limited in these kinds of images, nuclear medicine is useful in displaying physiological functions. For instance, processes such as the growth of a tumor can often be monitored even when the tumor cannot be adequately visualized using any of the other methods. The principal imaging devi ce is the gamma camera which detects the radiation emitted by the tracer in the body and displays it as an image on a computer monitor. Often the information is converted into a series of slices through the body like a loaf of bread. In the most modern devi ces, nuclear medicine images can be fused with a CT scan taken at the same time so that the physiological information can be super-imposed with the anatomical structures to improve diagnostic accuracy. PET scanning is another kind of nuclear medicine. The applications of nuclear medicine can include the scanning of bones, which traditionally has had a strong role in the staging of cancers. Molecular Imaging is the new and exciting frontier in this field.

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, but the development of each of these technologies to show doctors what's happening inside the body in a non-invasive fashion has been worthwhile for saving many times a thousand lives.

Radiology Is A Major Breakthrough In The Medical Field

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:24:47 PDT

Earlier, we only had x-ray methods of detecting a disease but since the last 10-15 years, we have other methods like ultrasound and other imaging methods. Imaging simply means creating an image of the insides of your body and radiology is the use of radiation for different types of 'imaging,' including X-rays and radarscopes.

When doctors take the help of radiation for various types of imaging then it is called the science of radiology. Actually there are many other names for it. You can call it radioscopy or clinical radiology. When radiology is used for medical purposes then it is called clinical radiology.

Radiology is used for treating and diagnosing various types of disease or injuries. Radiation therapy is the use of radiant energy to destruct tumors by radiation. With the help of radiology, a radiologist can x-ray or do an ultrasound or use the method of magnetic assisted resonance imaging to take photographs of the bones in your body or your arteries as well as the soft tissues parts of your body.

The person who is a specialist in this field is called a radiologist. He has deep knowledge of understanding and ‘reading an image' or what we tend to call ‘x-ray' and they can tell us accurately how severe is the injury. They can even ‘see' the tumors that may be there. They are always correct in their reports. For this very reason, the doctors ask us to get a report done. Only a report of this kind can confirm it. The radiologist reads the report and even discusses with the doctor on the method of treatment that has to be followed. Radiology is so important that those medical clinics that don't have their own radiology lab have to depend on others for getting it done.

Since the entire treatment of the patient is based on this report, we can well understand the importance and responsibility of the radiologist. He must take the image very carefully and also study it carefully. Suppose he is not careful enough then there may be defects in the report and that may subsequently lead to wrong diagnosis and wrong medication. Don't think that it is an easy job. Suppose the patient is very ill, has hurt himself badly or is having severe pain. The patient will then be very restless. This makes it very difficult for the radiologist to calm the patient enough so that he/she may allow the radiologist to do his/her work properly. The radiologist must be very patient and must know how to tackle difficult patients. He/she must also explain to the patient the procedure of radiology and also study his/her medical records carefully as many of us do get intimidated by those big machines.

Feel Your Best with a Massage

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:30:11 PDT

Massage therapy is one of the oldest medical treatments. There are records of this treatment being practiced almost 4,000 years ago. Admittedly it was a fairly simple form of treatment at this time and was referred to as "rubbing". Modern massage therapy has now evolved to incorporate many techniques and is a recognized form of alternative treatment. It is all part of a holistic approach to medicine that looks at the entire overall health of the patient.

Basic massage: pressure, tension, motion, or vibration is applied to the soft tissues of the body. This can also include lymphatic vessels, joints, ligaments, muscles, connective tissue and tendons. It can be applied to the whole body or parts of it. There are many reasons for using massage therapy, a few common ones are; to help heal the body after injury, relive stress, manage pain, or improve circulation.

The patient is treated by, sitting in a massage chair, lying on a massage table, or lying on a pad on the floor. They are generally unclothed, or disrobed, with their body draped in towels or sheets. How the body is draped depends on where in the world you are having this treatment done. The therapy begins with the patient lying on their back and continues with them face downward. Relaxation is necessary for massage therapy to be effective.

Oils are sometimes used to increase the effects of massage therapy. Different oils are supposed to induce different reactions in the body. Massage therapy can also be practiced with no oil. Hot steam or sauna baths are often taken prior to massage therapy. This will help the patient to get warmed up and relax so that treatment can be more effective.

There are several different types of massage that are used in massage therapy. Here are some common ones:

Barefoot Deep Tissue: This is a combination of Eastern and Western techniques. The patient is loosely clothed and lain on their back or side, on a mat on the floor. No oil is used in this technique.

Bowen Technique: This is a rolling technique movement that is done to the fascia, muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints.

Breema bodywork: This is also performed on the floor with the subject fully clothed. It is composed of gentle leans and stretches, to aid deep relaxation. Sessions typically last for about 50 minutes.

Chair massage: This can be done either manually or by mechanical means, motors in the actual chair.

Tui Na is a form of Chinese massage and involves pushing, stretching and kneading the muscle. Zhi Ya is another form of Chinese massage based on acupuncture. It involves pinching and pressing the acupuncture points.

CranioSacral Therapy: This, as the name applies, is the gentle massage of the head and spine.

Deep muscle therapy: this technique is generally focused on increasing blood and lymphatic flow to the muscles. It is often used to promote healing and help manage back and neck pain.

Deep tissue techniques: This massage therapy concentrates on specific sets of muscles, or joints. An experienced massage therapist should do this as when it is misapplied or done too quickly this massage can cause more problems and not help the patient.

Effleurage: This form of massage is almost like stroking and is used to calm the muscles. It is often performed around the heart to help circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Esalen Massage: This style of massage therapy uses traditional methods in a gentle manner. This will relax the body and help muscles and circulation.

Foot massage: The Chinese have different points on the sole of the foot that they associate with different organs of the body. This is to do with nerve endings in the sole and in theory is related to acupuncture and acupressure. This requires the patient to soak their foot in a foot bath of warm water and herbs before having this massage therapy done.

As you can see there are many types and styles of massage therapy. It is best to have this done by a licensed therapist who will know what combination of techniques to apply to your particular situation.

Is LASIK, Laser Eye Vision Correction Right for You?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:24:15 PDT

LASIK or Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis offers a number of benefits over other forms of laser vision correction because it is performed under a protective layer of corneal tissue.

As a result, there is less surface area to heal, less risk of scarring, less risk of corneal haze, less postoperative need for medications, and vision returns more rapidly, often within a day or so. LASIK can also treat a higher range of vision errors.

Although postoperative results vary, most patients are able to pass a drivers license test without their glasses or contact lenses.

Am I a Candidate for LASIK?
Most people who wear glasses or contacts are candidates for laser vision correction. LASIK candidates should have stable vision for at least one year; this means your prescription has not changed very much during the previous year.

LASIK patients typically show signs of far-sighted or near-sighted vision and/or have astigmatism. You must meet some medical and visual health guidelines and be in fair health in general. Age is not generally a problem. LASIK is regularly performed on people of all ages.

If you are ready for a change in your life, to correct your vision, you are ready for LASIK.

Laser vision correction is not recommended while pregnant, nursing, or taking certain medications.

At Robbins Eye Center your consultation will determine your candidacy. Dr. Robbins will discuss with you whether your prognosis is optimal for the LASIK procedure. Hopefully you will be a great candidate and be able to opt for the best choice of your life - IMPROVED NATURAL VISION!

Benefits of LASIK
The main benefit of LASIK is the fact that you will no longer need your glasses or contacts to see. This is a permanent correction of your vision that may last for your lifetime.

The LASIK procedure is virtually painless. LASIK is convenient because both eyes can be corrected at the same time and you are at the Laser Center for less than 2 hours! Most patients return to work the following day. If you wear contact lenses, imagine not having to put them in every morning or clean them every night! You will save money with LASIK when you consider how much you currently spend on glasses, contact lenses and solutions. This procedure can relieve chronic allergies or irritation from contact lenses.

Generally patients return to driving and work the very next day. Your vision will improve gradually over the first 24 hours till the full effect of the surgery is realized.

About the Laser Eye Surgery Procedure
After your eye has been completely numbed using 'eye drop' anesthesia, an eyelid holder will be placed between your eyelids to prevent you from blinking.

Your surgeon will use something called a microkeratome to make a little 'flap' in the cornea. You will look directly into a light and the procedure will be performed to reshape your cornea. This is generally accomplished in less than a minute! You may feel some pressure on the eye but no pain or discomfort. The protective flap will be folded back where it bonds with your eye with any stitches or other means of securing it. Your eye heals itself!

Cosmetic Surgery – Will It Really Change Your Life?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:38:49 PDT

Thanks to recent advances in surgical techniques and equipment, cosmetic surgery is more specialized than ever. You can literally have the fat sucked out of your thighs through liposuction or your breasts enlarged to your idea of perfection with saline or silicone implants within just a few hours.

And cosmetic surgery isn't just a predominately female deal any longer. Men are having all sorts of cosmetic surgical procedures done these days. Everything from nose jobs (rhinoplasty) to face lifts to eye lifts are fair game in the male arena these days.

The technological advances that have made cosmetic surgery easier and less expensive, not to mention a great deal less painful than in the past, do not account for the meteoric rise in the number of people having plastic surgery, nor for the fact that it has now become common for both genders.

This rise is in fact due more to the fact that in American culture there are few things more highly prized than a person's looks. Studies have been done that proves the more attractive a person is the more likely they'll get a job, regardless of how much more skill and experience other people applying for the same job may have.

Images of perfect men and women on television, in print ads, movies, music videos and everywhere else have made people in our culture believe that if they just look a certain way, then everything else in their lives will be fine, even great.

And with famous celebrities touting their cosmetic surgery in front of us daily on television and in movies, it's easy for anyone to believe that if we just looked better, our lives would be perfect.

Now the reality is that a nose job changes just that: the nose. It does nothing to lift a burden of debt or exchange a lackluster love life for the romantic adventure of a lifetime.

Yes, having cosmetic surgical procedures done can give someone a quick boost to their self-esteem, but it won't last as long as the nose job will unless they do some serious positive thinking and inner work along with it. Confidence and self-esteem come from the inside, and changing the outside will only bring temporary relief for those who suffer from deep feelings of inferiority.

So before rushing out to the nearest cosmetic surgeon, anyone considering cosmetic surgery should take a good look at their inside first. If having a cosmetic surgical procedure done will add to their life, great. It's probably a good idea and will enhance their self-esteem and bring them pleasure.

But if a person thinks that any cosmetic surgery procedure will change their life and make their life perfect (or make them instantly successful and eliminate all their problems), they are in for a rude awakening, I'm sorry to say. Unless the necessary inner work is done to match the outer work, a person can actually become even more insecure than before which often leads to deep depression.

Why? Because they'll ultimately be disappointed over the fact they're still pretty much stuck with their same old self. The person in the mirror may look better, but if they haven't taken stock and gotten rid of negative thinking about themselves, they won't really feel better—they'll just have a perfect sexy cleft in their chins or bigger boobs that they didn't have before.

Cosmetic surgery is not something to undertake lightly or to be used as a method for changing your life, but when done to enhance your life and give you a feeling of satisfaction and/or pleasure, then by all means, find a properly licensed cosmetic surgeon.

Ask for their advice and counsel, as well as their credentials and experience in whatever procedure you want to have done. If the fit between your desires and the cosmetic surgeon's expertise is right, by all means, have your cosmetic surgery and enjoy—just don't expect it to change your life!

Facial Surgery Personal Experiences

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:36:31 PDT

Basic background
Cosmetic surgery consists not just of enhancing someone's beauty, but also to help those who have been badly damaged in an accident or who have physical birth defects. Many believe that the majority of people who undergo cosmetic surgery are women. Yet studies have shown that 11% of men are also getting cosmetic surgery - in fact since 1992, the percentage of men getting cosmetic surgery has gone up by 50%. Middle aged men see plastic surgery as an investment in their career prospects. It is important to know that it is neither sex nor age which makes some type of aesthetic surgery procedure feasible, but what is important is a good general health condition.

The stress of being beautiful is taking a strain on many people. People are spending about 10% of their gross income on cosmetic surgeries. Regarding age, there are some procedures such as facelift which are more frequently done on people over 40. However, there are people over 55 who still may not need it. On the other hand, there are also patients under 40 who may benefit from this surgery.

Talk to a cosmetic surgeon to see whether you really need extensive changes in your appearance. Learn if a face lift is right for you. Talk it over with partners, friends, spiritual counselors or life coaches if need be.

Cosmetic surgery covers a wide range of procedures, including obesity and weight loss surgery, breast augmentation, liposuction & face surgery. A facelift can be done alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as a forehead lift or an eyelid surgery. Alternatives to surgery exist. Laser cosmetic surgery may be performed around the eyes or the mouth. More consumers are considering injectables to prolong or avoid facelifts, forehead lifts and eyelid surgeries.

Eyelid surgery
Sagging upper eyelids or bags under the eyes can be one of the clearest signs of facial ageing. Patients interested in eyelid or eye brow surgery may have noticed drooping or sagging of the skin around the eyes. Eyelid surgery, technically called blepharoplasty, corrects not only the eyelids but also eye-bags. Often, the procedure is done with another cosmetic operation, such as a facelift. To remove your eye-bags whilst lifting your face is only a matter of more time for the surgeon. The goal of eyelid surgery is to remove excess skin gravity and sun exposure damage. Patients usually request for surgery to remove eye-bags and to firm the lower eyelid area. In lower eyelid surgery, the surgeon makes the incision in an inconspicuous site along the lash-line and smile creases of the lower lid. This is a very effective way of performing the surgery without leaving any obvious scarring.

Facial surgery
The face as a whole must be considered if the optimum outcome of cosmetic surgery is to be achieved. A facelift can help rejuvenate the lower face giving it a fresher, healthier appearance. The face lift works well for the jaw line and the neck. By improving facial muscle tone, you can literally lift years off your face. Muscles, fat and deep tissues of the face are all lifted and repositioned so skin is draped over more youthful contours. Most surgeons agree that the best time for the first facial cosmetic surgery is whenever it is needed. Microdermabrassion and non surgical face lifts are alternatives to surgery, in conjunction with a natural facial with elements such as green tea that promote skin wellness. It is also recommended to use facial and body massage therapy after treatments to relax you and speed your recovery. Face aerobics are terrific and can save money in cosmetic surgery.

Personal testimony of facial surgery
The following is a true personal testimony written by a good friend of mine, Bethany Lee, specifically for this article and with her full permission. She is keen to share her experiences with others who may read it.

I had cosmetic surgery some years ago – my first operation was for my eyes. I had many creases around them and was unhappy with my appearance. I contacted an agent for cosmetic surgery, thinking about whole face surgery. After a discussion with her, she convinced me to start by having correction around my eyes. The operation I had was performed under local anesthetic although this method isn't entirely suitable for many people as it is quite painful. It is possible to have it done under general anesthesia, or ‘twilight anesthesia'. Some tie it in with another surgery such as a facelift procedure. Still, I opted for the local anesthetic - I found it comforting to be able to talk to the surgeon and his nurse and know what was going on, but it is not for the faint hearted. The operation itself took about one and a half hours and I was able to have a cup of tea, don dark glasses and go home. I was given pain killers, antibiotics and eye ointment.

The painkillers were hardly needed. Although very bruised and swollen when I arrived home, my husband could see a remarkable difference in that the operation had completely removed my eye bags and wrinkles around the eyes. After the bruising and swelling finally went down (less than a week) the difference was amazing. I could see better and I looked so much younger. I was absolutely delighted. It set me off.

I was worried about my developing jowls. There was no doubt about it – the cosmetic surgery loomed. I contacted the same agent I had seen before and she showed me how my face would look after surgery. This time I opted for a full face lift. The operation took 4 hours and this was done under general anesthetic. I must admit I suffered a lot of bruising - more than most and it took about a week to settle down but after fortnight I was transformed. I found chewing sugar free dental gum useful, it helped me exercise my jaw and kept things moving. I looked better, felt better and started to look after myself more. It gave me the incentive to start exercising again. People were complimenting me on how well I looked. The incision lines were in well hidden places in my hair line and behind my ears, so there was no way anyone could actually tell that I had undergone surgery.

I was told the eye surgery would last 7 years but it is 15 years now and they still look good. Just a very slight wrinkling on the left side, which is easily correct with makeup. I have regularly used creams to keep my skin in the best possible condition. I find it invaluable, as it has kept my face very soft and near on wrinkle free.

Finally, I would say find a good cosmetic surgeon. Ask around, do not go for the cheapest or the most expensive - go for reputation. See photographs of his work if possible and ask questions. It's your money and your face – you have the right to demand the best. Naturally things can go wrong but they rarely do and they can be put right. I find yoga is a great help as it keeps mind and body in tune. A good balanced diet of fresh organic fruit, vegetables and olive oil add to a healthy skin, which will always help set you on a good road to quick recovery. You will experience a little pain but speak up and it can soon be eased. At the end of the day it will be worth it!

Liposuction Cost And The Price Of Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:33:30 PDT

If you are considering liposuction, also know as lipoplasty, you should carefully consider the cost of the procedure. If living a healthy lifestyle is not producing the cosmetic results you are seeking, you should take into account how much liposuction will cost in addition to weighing other risk and expense factors.

For many, liposuction cost determines whether or not they decide to move forward with the procedure. Here's why:

There are two basic components used by surgeons to determine liposuction cost which is the area of the body and how much fat needs to be removed. Typically the most affordable areas to have liposuction are the arms and back. More expensive areas include this breasts and abdomen.

Fee and Expense Breakdown
Liposuction cost includes both surgical and non-surgical fees. Non-surgical fees will include pre-op lab tests, surgical supplies, use of the operating room as well as post-op garments and bandages. The surgical fee is of course the actual cost of surgery. The cost of surgery is largely dependent upon what areas of the body are being operated on. Generally, the more fat deposits that need to be removed, the more the procedure will cost. Anesthesia is also often included in the surgical fee.

When shopping around for a good plastic surgeon to perform liposuction, it is not a good idea to hire the cheapest surgeon. Many patients unfortunately end up paying more in the long run when the have to repeat the procedure to remove bumpy spots or have more fat removed. Although liposuction cost is important when choosing a surgeon, it is wise not to be too frugal about it.

Financing
Because lipoplasty is a cosmetic procedure, most health insurance plans will not cover it. However, if you choose to undergo this procedure, there are several other ways to pay for it. The recommended option is paying the liposuction cost in cash upfront. If that option isn't realistic for you, there's always financing it. The financing options includes loan and credit card payments.

INSIDERS TIP: Credit card interest is often much lower than cosmetic surgery loans.

The choice to have liposuction done is completely yours. It is for your benefit and satisfaction. Since you care about both your body and your money, you should take care of both wisely. Make sure to carefully weigh all the pros and cons of cosmetic surgery before committing to go under the knife.

Liposuction - a Weight Loss Method?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:30:40 PDT

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery employed to remove excess fat from body parts. It is also called lipoplasty, suction lipectomy, liposculpture or fat suction. Generally, the fat is removed from thighs, chin, buttocks, love handles (abdomen), breasts and stomach for women and chin, waist, breasts and buttocks for men.

This surgical procedure is not an alternative to exercise and dieting and should be used only to remove the stubborn fat that does not respond to exercises and diet. Liposuction is not a weight loss method but a method to remove excess fat. 10-15 pounds of fat is generally removed. However, taking out large amounts of fat can be dangerous at times.

There are many types of liposuctions performed today such as traditional liposuction, tumescent liposuction, ultrasound liposuction and superwet liposuction. All these methods employ a cannula (a blunt straw like tube) for suction of fat.

Saline water is injected into the space between muscle and fat to separate them. If the amount of saline water is less than the amount of fat to be removed, it is called traditional liposuction. If the saline water is 3 to 4 times the volume of fat to be removed, it is called tumescent liposuction. Adding extra water assists the surgeon in moving the cannula back and forth to break up the fat cells. However, excess water may affect the homeostasis of the body. In super wet liposuction, the amount of saline water is the same as the amount of fat to be removed. This is the most popular surgical method used by surgeons. In ultrasonic liposuction the fat is initially liquefied by ultrasound before being suctioned out. However, ultrasound methods are not popular as they sometimes lead to necrosis (death of skin) and seromas (collection of yellow fluid in pockets).

In all types of liposuction, either local anesthesia or general anesthesia is used. The usual anesthetic used is lidocaine. Epinephrine is also used in liposuction to reduce blood loss. To perform liposuction the patient must be over 18 and in good health with elastic skin. If the skin is not sufficiently elastic the excess skin may have to be removed after liposuction. Generally, when the excess skin is removed from abdomen, it is called abdominoplasty or tummy tuck. This leaves scar marks on the skin.

Diabetics and patients on antibiotics are advised not to undergo liposuction. Before operation, the patient should not have taken any anticoagulants like warfarin, phenindione etc. If general anesthesia is given, the patient has to fast on the night before the operation. If local anesthesia is given, there is no requirement of fasting. Smoking and drinking should be avoided.

The incisions are usually less than an inch. After operation, the excess fluid takes days to weeks to drain out. During that time, antibiotics and/or pain killers are prescribed. Patient recovery varies from days to 2 months. As with all surgeries, there are surgical risks in liposuction too. There are minor risk, up to 0.7%, of side effects like internal organs being scraped, seromas, necrosis, excessive bleeding, etc.

Liposuction is not a weight loss method and the patient should expect realistic and not dramatic changes in appearance.

Nursery Room Decor

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:46:15 PDT

The nursery is your newborn's first room, his own little world: the environment,which in part will influence and shape his personality. As a parent your goal is to provide a surrounding that is comfortable, secure, inviting and cozy.

A functional, safe and stimulating environment precedes aesthetic needs. Here is one illustration for decorating a boy's nursery. Instead of restricting the color to a single monotonous tone, a variety of bright blues, yellows, reds, pinks and green were selected. According to studies, introduction to bright colors and shapes help stimulate babies' imaginations. The inspiration for this nursery was derived from the adorable multi-colored hand hooked rug with animals and alphabets. The animals on the rug provided a theme for the room and formed the central focus for design.These motifs play off the animal mobile overhead, crib bedding, pillows and other accessories.

The furniture was kept simple. The entertainment center from Pier One Imports used as an armoire is practical, inexpensive and most importantly has ample storage. Built in cabinets conceal clutter, help organization and present a neat tidy look. Both the armoire and the cabinet are excellent long-term choices not restricted to age and can be used as the child grows. These furniture items with simple white distressed finish complement varied kids of décor can be alternately used in another room.

Safety precedes any other aesthetic element. The crib and bassinet should be ideally positioned in an area that is away from objects like windows, draperies, blinds or shelves that can cause accidents. One other important thing to consider while placing the crib is to avoid picture frames or any other items that can fall on the baby. Here the crib is placed against the wall away from the window with a light mesh canopy hung from the ceiling. The canopy is securely fastened from a hook to prevent accidents. The canopy with its pale yellow hue and ruffle edges adds a delicate touch to the crib. A traditional white wicker bassinet with blue gingham ribbon details stands out against the colorful background. This affordable bassinet from Wal-Mart is an outstanding choice; the two wicker baskets provide extra storage.. The room has both a bed and a crib and as the baby grows this arrangement will ease the transition from "baby bed" to "big-boy bed." As a concerned parent, it's also nice to have a spot where Mom or Dad can sleep near the baby.

Accessories such as picture frames, lamps and artwork, are a great way to add fun, pattern and color without much expense. Room accessories like the distressed white wooden letters hung from blue gingham ribbon add a distinctive, personal touch to the nursery

When designing a nursery, creating a cute themed room is important but creating an intellectually stimulating, safe, spacious environment should be the central focus.Visit www.exquisiterugs.com to find unique kids room accessories.www.exquisterugs.com has a wide selection of kids rugs in different price range,styles,colors and patterns.A number of kids room accessories like kids decorative pillows, personalized kids room decorArticle Submission, frames and other decor items are available.

How To Conduct A Radiology Job Search

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:42:58 PDT

So you've graduated from a certification program and you're now a full-fledged radiologist technician. Congratulations! Now get ready for the question you'll get asked a lot: What's your next step?

Logically, of course, the next step is to find a job in your chosen field. There are numerous ways to go about a radiology job search and some are more successful than others. If you've already got a lead on a job, your best bet is to pursue that first- personal connections are a great way to get hired for the first time in the medical industry.

But if you're just starting out and you haven't got a clue where to turn, this information should help. Below are three major ways many new radiologist technicians find a job. Good luck on your radiology job search!

Radiology job search method one: Network
You might not have a one-on-one connection with the medical field but you may know someone who can help you... and you may not even realize it. If you're shooting for a job at your local hospital, think about relatives, friends and neighbors that you would be willing to turn to for help. Chances are fairly good that at least one person in your immediate circle has a connection to the facility.

Even if you don't use this person directly, it can help immensely to know someone 'on the inside.' Try to connect with someone at the hospital or clinic that can tell you whether or not they're hiring and what they're looking for. If necessary, pick up the phone, call the facility where you wish to work and ask to speak to someone in the Human Resources department. Try your best to strike up a conversation and ensure you'll be remembered. If they're not hiring now, your goal is to have a foot in the door so that when they actually do need someone, you'll be one of the first to know.

Radiology job search method two: The Internet
It might come as a surprise, but the Internet is a fantastic resource for medical jobs. Other listings come and go, but radiology jobs online tend to be updated constantly and there are literally thousands. Choose a job-hunting website or go it alone by typing your position as well as your city and state into a search engine. Chances are good you'll find out pretty quickly who is hiring in your area and whether or not you're qualified for the job.

Radiology job search method three: School
If you've graduated with a radiology certification, the school or hospital that trained you is almost certain to be able to help with job leads. If they offer a standard job placement assistance program, by all means take advantage of it. Many hospitals and clinics have arrangements with schools and are willing to hire new graduates immediately. If your school doesn't have a job placement program, that doesn't mean they won't be able to help with your job search. Speak to teachers, counselors and even former graduates about what might be available in your area. They should be more than happy to assist you.

The fact is, the medical industry needs more radiology technicians than ever before. Now is a fantastic time to be entering the field and you shouldn't have a shortage of available jobs. Doing your radiology job search is simply a matter of knowing where to look. If you put a little effort into your search, you should have multiple jobs to choose from and then you'll be sitting in the best position possible. Choose the one that suits you best and welcome to your new career!

Massage Therapy - If You Havent Tried It Nows The Time

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:40:05 PDT

One of the most relaxing and rejuvenating experiences you can have is that of receiving or giving a massage. During our busy daily schedules we are constantly adding pressure and stress as we do not find the time to perform activities that would release all this extra tension. Massage therapy has gained over the years worldwide funs that enjoy its invigorating character which manages to relax the body and mind as well as loosen tight, achy muscles and joints. But if you cannot visit a certified massage therapist due to the costs involved, or because these type of services are not usually covered by your health insurance plan, then you should try receiving or giving a body massage at the comfort of your own house. But before performing such an act, it is important for you to know the basics of this relaxing and soothing therapy.

Massage is the practice of applying structured pressure, tension, motion or vibration, either manually or with the aid of mechanical equipment, to the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, joints and lymphatic vessels. The ultimate objective of massage therapy is one's beneficial response. Whether it is performed to heal an injury, relieve stress, or improve the condition of muscles by increasing blood circulation, the "art" of massage has been studied since ancient years and associated with a variety of therapeutic outcomes. Most importantly, because everyone can appreciate a massage, this technique has gained tremendous popularity among different cultures. In fact, anyone can become a massager as long as they keep themselves up-to-date on current massage practices and are very careful when applying pressure to the muscles and joints of those willing to experience the positive effects linked with massage therapy.

For example, if a person is about to receive a massage, it is better to lie face-down on a smooth and flat surface. Although this surface should not be hard, it should not be soft either. Feeling comfortable and relaxed is what is of crucial importance. Using a variety of aromatherapy oils, which release fragrances like lavender or chamomile, the one performing the massage can begin by applying some gentle strokes on the naked skin surface of the other person's skin. The various amounts of pressure that will be used, when giving a massage, will lead to experiencing a relaxing sensation from the party that receives this kind of special therapy. Using all five fingers and especially the thumb, the massager can exercise light or firm pressure so as to spread the oil used to smooth the rubbing process, until it is fully absorbed by the body. Usually, people ask to be massaged on their scalp, back and feet. One can begin massaging at the base of the neck and slowly move to other areas of the body. Pay particular attention to the area of the spine, as this massage should move from the center outwards and from the top of the body to its lower parts.

Finally, most people that instinctively rub their necks and shoulders when feeling sore and tense do not actually realize that this self-healing process is called self-massage. But this personally handled healing technique has led to tremendously positive results for those wishing to perform it. In fact, massage has been found to act as a preventive mechanism against a variety of diseases. Especially when a massage therapy is combined with other methods of treatment, it can enhance the effectiveness of the healing methods used and increase a person's ability to perform better and feel refreshed.

Lasik Eye Surgery Benefits

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 04:46:04 PDT

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new custom lasik procedure in September of 2005. This new procedure can now treat many patients who were previously ineligible for the surgery.

Nearsightedness
Nearsightedness occurs when the eye is too long and light rays focus in front of the retina, instead of focusing on the retina. Some of the symptoms of nearsightedness are blurred distant vision, eyestrain, and squinting, along with having a difficult time seeing at night.

Although nearsightedness can be easily fixed with glasses or contact lenses (when not too severe), many people don't like to hassle with either one. With this new lasik procedure, folks will now be able to have pure vision.

Astigmatism
Astigmatism is the effect of the eye being shaped like a football, instead of round like a baseball. This deformity -- where the light rays focus on two points on the retina instead of one -- results in blurred vision, double vision, and shadows on letters when reading. Until recently, this deformity has prevented some people from even getting contact lenses. Breakthroughs in contact lenses have only helped those with slight astigmatism.

However, with this new lasik procedure, patients can now have their eyes repaired to normal, or at least be repaired enough to comfortably wear contact lenses. Either way, their vision is enhanced and many are happy just to get rid of the glasses and finally be able to wear contacts, or possibly nothing at all.

Farsightedness
Farsightedness happens when light rays focus behind the retina instead of on the retina, resulting in blurred near vision. Some patients with severe farsightedness have to step back from what they are reading and others require magnifying glasses to see something that is right in front of them. People with farsightedness can see you 30 feet away, but when you get right up close they can't see you! This can be embarrassing and cause the afflicted person much insecurity along with the feeling that they are going blind.

Farsightedness is easily remedied by wearing glasses to read and see things up close, but it's very inconvenient to constantly be taking your glasses on and off. Not only is it inconvenient, you take the chance of leaving your glasses behind. Some patients keep their glasses on a chain so they won't lose them, but this makes them feel old. Now, lasik surgery is another option for these patients.

New Laser Technology
The FDA recently approved the new Visx STAR Excimer laser system. This fantastic breakthrough in technology allows doctors to do more than they ever could before, giving them the ability to reshape the eye to correct astigmatism, farsightedness and nearsightedness. Before this marvelous breakthrough these patients were not good candidates for lasik eye surgery. They now can join the rest of the vision impaired and have the option for lasik.

Recent FDA studies show that over 98% of all patients receiving these new procedures were seeing 20/40 or better 6 months after surgery. Over 84% were seeing much better than 20/20 after 6 months. Now that's reason to celebrate!

New breakthroughs in lasik eye surgery technology are happening all the time. Now people don't have to be inconvenienced by the hassle of glasses or contacts. All they want to do is to be able to get up in the morning and see normally. These breakthroughs in lasik technology are giving them an improved quality of life that once was unattainable.

Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:15:39 PDT

Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery

The merits of cosmetic surgery are one of the more debated subjects these days. Joining that debate, let's talk about the benefits of cosmetic surgery.

Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery
With its recent increase in popularity, it seems that everyone these days is getting plastic surgery. The most popular procedures – breast augmentation, facelifts and liposuction – all have something in common. All of these procedures seek to create a better look for the patient, as well as conforming to society's standards. Are these procedures really good for the client, or are they just a product of today's unrealistic ideals? Here are some of the benefits of cosmetic surgery that you might not have thought about.

The physical benefits of cosmetic surgery are very obvious to the eye. People who get plastic surgery show benefits that are immediately noticeable, even if at first they may not look beautiful due to swelling and bruising. For example, if a woman undergoes breast augmentation, her larger cup size will be seen right away, even if her breasts have scars or bruises. The same is true for rhinoplasty and most other types of plastic surgery – these physical benefits are right there.

But what about the emotional benefits of plastic surgery? These results can many times be greater than the physical rewards. If you have felt bad about the way you look, due to a flaw such as a nose that you feel is too large or wrinkles that make you feel old, plastic surgery can make you feel better about yourself. While some doctors and psychologists feel that plastic surgery is not the answer to poor self-esteem, if you feel that there is just one area that needs to be corrected on your body, it can be a solution to better emotional wellness.

There are risks to plastic surgery, which are the same risks that you'll find if you undergo any surgery. There's a risk of a reaction to the anesthesia, as well as a chance for infection or other post-surgery complications. Finally, you can be unhappy with the way that your surgery has turned out after healing; you may expect some results that are impossible due to your underlying structure, or your surgeon may not be able to complete the dramatic transformation you're hoping for.

Whether you're going under the knife for a surgery you've always wanted, or if you just want to erase some wrinkles and make yourself feel younger, the benefits of cosmetic surgery are obvious. Be sure to see a certified plastic surgeon for any of your procedures, and think carefully about the results before undergoing any surgery.

Tummy Tuck

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:16:52 PDT

Tummy Tuck, Arm and Thighs Lift and of course the Full Body Lift

With the rampant and almost epidemic manifestation of obesity nowadays, it is not uncommon for the overweight person to have to lose a massive amount of weight. Whether the weight has been lost naturally or through cosmetic surgery, it will almost certainly result in a good amount of unsightly sagging skin.

When the loss is in the neighborhood of 100 pounds, losing the extra weight is only the beginning of the transformation. Patients who have had gastric bypass surgery, lap band surgery or lost the weight without surgery, have achieved a significant accomplishment and when they look in the mirror, they deserve to see a pleasant body shape.

However, cosmetic surgery procedures should be considered only after your weight has stabilized. This usually occurs approximately 18 months after surgery, depending on an individual's pre-operative weight. Performing a skin tightening procedure prior to weight stabilization may result in the need for further skin tightening in the future.

Massive weight loss patients should be aware that body contouring may require surgeons to address the entire body circumferentially and not just one or two specific areas, as is the case with body contouring in more normal weight patients.

When someone loses 100 pounds or more in a short period of time, particularly after cosmetic surgery, a certain amount of sagging skin is expected in a number of areas including the face and neck, breasts, arms, abdomen, back and thighs.

With body contouring the shape of the body can be drastically improved, but we cannot improve the quality of the skin. Patients seeking body contouring after massive weight loss must be realistic in their expectations. The tissues will still give over time, but not to the same degree as before.

A variety of surgical procedures is often necessary and performed at different times. Depending on which area bothers you the most, the surgery should always be tailored to fit your needs, starting with the area of greatest concern.

Here are some of the most popular cosmetic surgeries associated with weight loss and a possible sub sequential skin tightening procedure:

Tummy Tuck - The tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and fat from your abdomen and tightens the muscles of your abdominal wall. The results of a tummy tuck are almost immediate and you will notice your tighter, firmer stomach as soon as you leave the operating room.

Upper Arm Lift - The upper arm lift removes extra skin and fat from the arm, dramatically reducing flabbiness. The result of an upper arm lift is a firm, more youthful contour that is more in proportion with the rest of the body.

Thigh Lift - The thigh lift removes excess skin and fat from the thighs through incisions or liposuction. A thigh lift improves the contour of your legs and helps you have tighter, more attractive thighs and buttocks.

Full Body Lift - Finally we have the full body lift, certainly the most complete and common post-weight loss cosmetic surgery. The extra skin and fat are removed from the belly, hips, buttocks, back and outer thigh, offering dramatic and lifelong results.

Whether you paid with hard cash or with the determination and effort necessary to loose weight naturally, you definitely deserve the body you have worked so hard to achieve.

How To Organize Your Babys Nursery

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:04:07 PDT

How To Organize Your Babys Nursery

A baby's room can get cluttered fast, especially if it is the first child since everyone goes nuts with gift giving for the first baby a couple has. One of the hardest things is keeping all of that stuff organized so that it isn't always all over the floor and underfoot. There a several things that you can do to keep the nursery uncluttered that will not interfere with your design plans for the room.

One of the things that you will want to do is look at storage bins that are available on rollers or casters. You really can't beat these, some of them even come with a changing table built in on top of them. It is really easy to just add a decorative piece of cloth that will match the nursery and hide the fact that the storage bin is really a utility cart. The cool thing about the storage carts with wheels is that they are easy to move around and can be easily updated and changed as the child grows up.

Another great option is the under the crib variety of storage unit. These types of storage bins can be found almost anywhere and will easily slide under the crib to keep it out of site. This is also a great place to store the baby clothes that don't fit yet so that they are out of site. If you have a crib skirt it will hide the bin as well, if not you can always buy bins that have colors that match the theme of the nursery.

The majority of new parents these days will have a changing table that will hold a variety of your baby's needs as well as diapers. You can come up with a lot of decorative and fun ideas to make the changing table a nicely styled storage space. These will easily fit under the crib or in any small space. The best thing to do is have an array of bins that will hold anything from diaper creams, teething supplies, baby towels, and more. This way you not only have a matching piece of furniture but also something functional.

I know if you have a baby you also have tons of stuffed animals, everyone does. If someone can't think of a good gift to buy they will usually buy a stuffed animal so you end up with stacks of them. Most people want to keep them as keepsakes for when they get older. One thing that is cool is using a hammock that you can throw them all in and hang in a corner. It looks great and can easily be moved down so they can reach it as they get older. This also adds a great decoration to the room and it's a must have for keeping down clutter.

The Various Fields in Radiology

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 16:38:34 PDT

The Various Fields in Radiology

Radiology is an extremely specialized area of the medical profession. It is estimated that only 1.2% of physicians specialize in radiology. With that said, radiology plays an extremely important part in modern medicine, and jobs for those with knowledge of radiology are plentiful.

Radiologists, in contrast to other types of physicians, help diagnose diseases through the use of images. These images can come from x-rays, radioactive substances, or other ways of examining the inside of the body such as sound waves. Radiologists are not only trained to gather these images safely; they are also trained in how to interpret the images in order to diagnose a particular patient's medical problem. Often, those with radiology jobs work in specialized departments and regular physicians will refer patients to a radiologist if such an exam is needed.

Are you interested in obtaining a radiology job? There are some general qualifications for working in this field, regardless of what type of job you're interested in and where you wish to work.

Like all other types of physicians, radiologists must graduate from medical school and receive a license to practice. They are then required to complete four or more years of graduate medical education, usually in the form of a residency at a hospital or clinic. Radiologists should also be board-certified. This requires passing an exam given by the American Board of Radiology or similar organizations in the country where you wish to practice.

Areas of Diagnostic Radiology
Once a radiologist is graduated and certified, there are a number of radiology jobs available. Specialized fields of radiology jobs include:

Cardiovascular Radiology- these radiologists diagnose diseases of the blood system.
Chest Radiology- these specialists focus on illnesses in the thorax area. This can include heart and lung diseases.
Breast Radiology- this science focuses on the science of breast examination and illnesses such as breast cancer.
Gastrointestinal Radiology- these radiologists focus on the gastrointestinal tract and stomach.

In addition to the various types of radiology jobs that focus on different parts of the body, there are also different categories of radiology that use specialized technology. For example, Computed Tomography (CT) radiology uses computer equipment to x-ray and examine bone as well as soft tissue. Interventional radiology uses fluoroscopy and ultrasound techniques.

Radiology Nurses
If you're interested in radiology jobs but have not or do not plan to graduate from medical school, it is possible to become a radiology nurse. Radiology nurses are expected to see patients through radiology treatment and provide plans for before and after any procedures. In order to become a radiology nurse, you will have to graduate from an accredited nursing school and then take various courses in radiology in order to become specially certified and licensed.

If you choose not to go into Diagnostic Radiology, which is the science of diagnosing illnesses, you also have the option of radiology jobs in therapy. Radiation therapy deals with the ongoing radiation treatment of cancer patients. There are several jobs available in this field, ranging from the oncologist who oversees the treatment to the nurses who care for the patients individually.

Radiology jobs are a huge part of today's medical industry and there's no shortage of positions available for those who are interested in this field. If you're looking for a radiology job, your best bet is to begin with your medical school or with local hospitals that may be hiring. The science of radiology changes and evolves constantly and those with the skills for radiology jobs are always in demand.

Health Benefits of Massage

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 15:03:40 PDT

Health Benefits of Massage

More and more Americans are turning to massage to relieve the stresses of everyday life. It is pleasant and relaxing to receive an aromatherapy massage in a quiet spa. However, massage actually can have significant health benefits beyond the simple relaxation of a basic spa massage.

Massage therapy has been proven to reduce the amounts of the stress hormone cortisol in the body. Cortisol is the hormone that causes the symptoms of stress including muscle pain, irritability, headaches and other physical symptoms. Digestion, which is often directly affected by stress, can be improved by application of regular massages.

Additionally, some scientists suspect that massage may release endorphins which produce a "high" or a sense of well-being similar to that which is achieved by exercise. Because of this effect, massage therapy has been particularly useful in helping arthritis patients who may not be able to exercise regularly. Massage can also help arthritis patients improve the range of motion in their joints.

Massage may also help improve circulation. It is theorized that the stroking motion of massage encourages healthy blood flow and assists in clearing toxins from the blood. The stroking motion may also assist the flow of lymph fluid. Lymph fluid bolsters the body's immune system, leading to increased resistance to disease.

Shiatsu massage, which uses some of the same principles as acupuncture, tai chi and other types of Chinese medicine can be used to treat more specific illnesses. Unlike a regular massage session at a spa, a shiatsu practitioner will take your medical history and ask you questions about specific symptoms, diet and exercise. Some of the conditions treated by shiatsu massage include asthma, menstrual cramps, arthritis, insomnia and constipation.

Ayurvedic massage is a 5,000 tradition of holistic healing including massage. Ayurvedic massage places emphasis on using scented oils and healing herbs to heal and relax the body. People can learn how to give themselves an Ayurvedic massage which, if performed in the morning, can increase vitality, circulation and stamina throughout the day.

Certain people should avoid all types of massage. These include people with open wounds or rashes, people with circulatory disorders, people who have had recent surgery and people with a history of blood clots. People with cancer should avoid massage following radiation or chemotherapy treatment and should avoid direct massage of any area with a tumor. Pregnant women are advised to avoid abdominal massage during the first three months of pregnancy.

Do you know what the LASIK risks and benefits are?

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:00:37 PDT

Do you know what the LASIK risks and benefits are?

It is important for patients to be aware of important LASIK eye surgery information, such as Lasik Surgery complications and benefits associated with the procedure. Your sight could depend on it.

As with any surgery, there are risks when undergoing LASIK eye surgery. There is a possibility that you could be under-treated or over-treated, requiring additional treatment or the need for glasses or contacts after surgery. In addition, side effects of LASIK can include dry eye, glare, or halos with night vision, and in rare cases, permanent vision loss.

However, in the majority of cases, LASIK eye surgery produces excellent results in patients. Many individuals who undergo the LASIK procedure experience 20/20 vision or better and eliminate their need for contact lenses or glasses. This freedom allows patients to swim, play sports, enjoy a day at the beach, and participate in a range of other activities, with no restrictions. The procedure is considered both safe and effective, with more than a million people undergoing LASIK eye surgery each year.

Get more information about the risks and benefits of LASIK. Find a LASIK surgeon for more information This LASIK information is intended to provide a brief overview of the procedure. Contact a qualified ophthalmologist for more LASIK eye surgery information specific to your case, or to learn about other laser vision correction treatments that may be right for you.

Since LASIK is surgery, it is important that you choose your LASIK surgeon with care. Extensive research and visits to several LASIK surgeons are recommended. Camden Medical Centre, Gleneagles Medical centre & Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre provide Lasik Surgery services.

Five Common Questions About Cosmetic Surgery

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:42:59 PDT

Five Common Questions About Cosmetic Surgery

* What makes someone a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?

The answer to this question has several elements. Most importantly, you need to be in reasonably good health without any medical conditions that preclude you from undergoing an elective surgery. Next, you need to have realistic expectations about how cosmetic surgery will improve your appearance. You need to accept that your cosmetic surgery will change a feature of your body – not change your body into someone else's body. You need to approach cosmetic surgery with the goal of making yourself happier with your body and not expect other people to see or treat you differently.

* How painful is cosmetic surgery?

Pain is limited or entirely avoided during a cosmetic surgery procedure with local or general anesthesia. During your recovery however, you would typically experience a range of feelings from mild discomfort to some pain, which would be managed with pain medication. The extent of the cosmetic surgery will determine the potential for pain and the time it will take you to recover. A tummy tuck for example, is a cosmetic surgery that affects a larger portion of the body compared to a brow lift. You should also note that pain is typically controlled immediately after surgery with long lasting anesthetics at the surgery site. This process will ease you into recovery. Because of long-lasting local anesthetic commonly used during the procedure and pain medicines taken after the surgery, most people don't complain much about pain.

* What age should people be to get cosmetic surgery?

Although some procedures are only applicable to individuals approaching or experiencing middle age, such as a facelift, this does not mean that younger people never get cosmetic surgery. Younger people often get rhinoplasty, breast augmentation or other procedures to change a body feature as opposed to alleviating the effects of aging. As long as you are over age 18, you can freely pursue cosmetic surgery but it would be important for you to seriously consider your motivations and not change something about your body lightly.

* What anesthesia is used during cosmetic surgery?

The type of cosmetic surgery you have generally determines the type of anesthesia used but you can discuss your preferences with your cosmetic surgeon. For less-invasive procedures, a local anesthetic that blocks nerve impulses at the site of the surgery combined with a sedative to calm you would be used. General anesthesia, in which you are made completely unconscious and oblivious to pain, is necessary for more extensive surgeries.

* Does insurance cover cosmetic surgery?

Usually medical insurance policies do not cover cosmetic surgery. It is an almost universal exemption from insurance coverage. Such procedures as Beverly Hills breast enlargement are simply considered cosmetic and discretionary in nature. However, select policies may pay for plastic surgery costs if the surgery corrects a birth defect that interferes with healthy functioning or to repair the damage left by an injury. For example, there are nasal breathing difficulties that can be corrected with nose surgery, and your insurance policy may cover it. Examining your policy and checking with your insurance company is advised because you can never assume that insurance will cover a cosmetic procedure.

During a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon, it is important that you ask whatever questions you like and have all your concerns addressed. You will be investing time and expense into the process, and you need to make sure that you are comfortable with what will be happening.

Be Informed About Liposuction

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:23:05 PDT

Be Informed About Liposuction

Lipoplasty, popularly known as liposuction, is a kind of operation one is always anxious about before undergoing the same. Also called suction lipectomy, this surgery calls for the finest skills in the trade. The more you know about finding a good doctor, the better your chances for a positive outcome. The doctor performing this operation should not only be qualified, he should be gifted with the finer details of sculpting. It is therefore important to be aware of many things before the start of the operation.

The budget you have available may determine in part, your selection of a doctor. But that will not have any bearing on the other factors like communication, aesthetic sense, mannerism, reputation, etc. It is important that your doctor possesses the best skills for communication to acquire proper and adequate answers to your questions in an easy and professional manner. Your doctor should be at ease while communicating with you about various aspects not clearly understood by you. It is better to have a clear understanding about procedures and expectations beforehand, rather than be dissatisfied with the end results.

There are certain questions you should ask your surgeon before going in for a liposuction procedure:

Location – Where are you going to be operated? Will it be a major hospital with all the facilities or the one owned by the doctor?

Duration – You need to know the time taken before, during and after the operation. This helps in making decisions about your leave from work and for any transportation help you may need.

Goal setting – It is very important to set a goal before the commencement of the procedure. The patient and the doctor should reach an agreement about the practicality of the end result. It is better to avoid being dissatisfied. You should also be aware of the tolerance for such situations and result. It is important to know whether the doctor will correct the mismatch between the set goal and actual achievement. Look for their policies about this.

Costs – This is one area which almost always leads to lot of dissonance. It is better to enquire with your doctor about various costs involved during the process. These costs may constitute hospitalization charges, consultation fees, medicines, food, etc. Also enquire about any finance options available with the facility.

Post liposuction – Liposuction operations also involves post procedures as well. Are these applicable to you as well? Also, don't forget to get details about the post procedures if they are applicable for you.

Anesthesia – Liposuction always requires the patient to be kept under anesthesia. You should know the type of anesthesia being prescribed to you.

Fluid balance – It is important to have a proper balance of fluids in the body. Enquire with the doctor about the methods followed for this.

Recovery – Operation alone is not sufficient, but the post operation times are more challenging to the patients. Don't forget to ask about the side effects, the duration of full recovery and special care to be taken.

Evidence – Has the doctor performed such operations in the past. Ask for the evidence. He may have some case studies, videos or slides to display. Peruse those closely. You may come to know more about the doctor through these evidences. You may even consider attending a real time surgery being performed on other patients.

Past history – Ask the doctor about the major complications faced by other patients in the past. This will help you build a scenario ranging from an ideal one, to a worst one.

Referrals – Try to meet some patients who have undergone similar surgery under the doctor. Try to meet them and assess their level of satisfaction with the doctor.

Post operation care – Ask all the questions related to the life immediately after the operation. Will there be bearable pain? What about soreness? What will be the duration of these two? Inquire about the medicines to be taken afterwards and also the ideal way of living life afterwards.

Team – Is the doctor going to perform the surgery alone with no other qualified assistants or will he/she be supported by other surgeons?

These are but some of the indicative types of questions you should always raise with your doctor. If your doctor is open on all of these and responding to you in a friendly manner, you've got the right doctor. If not, check with some other doctors.

This information is not meant to replace medical advice. If you need medical advice, it is best to talk to a qualified physician.

Nursing Education and Training

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:29:02 PDT

Nursing Education and Training

Over the last decade or so the nursing industry has developed into and is become recognized worldwide as a specialized profession. It's an industry in which there are many, many different nursing positions available. Like most of the healthcare industry there is currently great need for nurses. Someone entering the field should consider that there is great need for full time nurses, part time nurses, hospital staff nurses, clinical nursing positions, and many others.

Nursing educational training involves extensive study. Schools provide curriculums covering nursing theory and practice as well as providing clinical skills training. Along with the other big changes within the health care industry, the responsibilities of a nurse also continue to grow and evolve. These days nursing goes way beyond hospitals. Those who have a degree in nursing are able to get jobs in the fields of public health, research, policy work, and even consulting.

There are a few points you should considering If you're thinking about choosing a nursing career. If you are you should be willing to work nights and weekends. Especially in the beginning of your career. Those who are assertive and confident seem to do well in this field. In addition, you must be able to handle the responsibility of dealing with the treatment of life-threatening emergencies in a wide range of health care settings. Also, you should be ready to relocate in order to get your nursing career off the ground.

Many nursing agencies are now available offering job opportunities and nursing jobs. In addition, there are several websites that specialize in recruiting nurses for a wide range of nursing related opportunities. You'll find quite a wide variety of nursing jobs in virtually every specialty. These opportunities are posted by prospective employers from all around the world. They also list nursing jobs by area so that the nurses can search for jobs by specific state and region.

A Closer Look At Radiology Technician Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:24:07 PDT

A Closer Look At Radiology Technician Jobs

Are you interested in the field of radiology? Have you ever considered becoming a radiology technician? If you're looking for information on radiology technician jobs, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all the information you need to know regarding this job, including what will be required of you and what types of jobs are available. Let us help you decide if it's the right career choice for you.

Job description

What exactly is a radiology technician? If you've ever gotten an X-ray or an ultrasound at the doctor's office, then you've dealt with a radiology technician. Radiology techs are trained to use X-ray machines, ultrasound machines, positron emission scanners and various other types of machines to view the inside of the human body. The information gathered from these scans is put into image form and the tech is in charge of developing the images. The physician then uses them to help diagnose any illnesses the patient may have.

Some radiology technician jobs are highly specialized, dealing with certain types of equipment and scans. All radiology technicians are expected to deal directly with the patient; in fact, part of the job description is to prep the patient for the scan and make sure they are comfortable.

When X-rays and other potentially hazardous machines are involved, radiology technicians must set up the machines properly and ensure that the room is arranged safely. Lead screens and shields must be arranged at a certain distance from the X-ray and the room must be properly sealed. Radiology technicians are well-trained in all of the aspects of handling X-rays and other machines.

Techs work closely with physicians and health care practitioners who are in charge of analyzing the images produced by the X-rays or other procedures. Most general physicians will set up appointments for their patients with radiologist techs and specify what types of procedures need to be performed. The radiology technician is in charge of getting clear and correct images as specified by the physician.

Some radiology techs, such as sonographers, work specifically with a certain type of procedure. Sonographers for example, work with machines that produce images by sending sound waves through the body. In these cases, the tech is also trained in how to interpret the results and they will often assist the physician in reading the results as well as diagnosing and treating the patient's illnesses.

Requirements of the job

Radiology technician jobs are plentiful in today's medical world, and those with the proper training shouldn't have any trouble finding a job. Techs are required to have a high school diploma or its equivalent. They must then attend and graduate from a training program that specializes in radiology. Training programs generally last from two to four years and can be found either through schools or through hospitals and clinics.

Types of Radiology Technician jobs

Radiology technicians work under a wide range of conditions. Traveling radiology techs go around to various hospitals that do not have trained techs on staff and stay for a few months in each location. Radiology techs may also work in clinics, laboratories, nursing homes or in private homes. The type of job you choose to pursue is entirely up to you.

The field of radiology technician jobs is advancing quickly and there's never been a better time to get involved. With a shortage of radiology techs in the field, finding a job is easy and many hospitals are eager to hire and help train newly certified techs. Learn valuable skills with true opportunity for advancement and give yourself the chance to really make a difference with a radiology technician job.

Hot Stone Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:19:18 PDT

Hot Stone Therapy

Hot Stone Therapy - throughout history various cultures of the world have used hot and cold rocks for healing.

The European cultures used hot rocks to heat their saunas, and applied hot stones to tired and sore muscles to alleviate tension and muscle pain. Native Americans also used hot rocks in their traditional sweat lodge ceremony, large rocks were used to heat the sweat lodge while smaller hot rocks were passed around to place on specific areas of tension.

Various cultures also used cold rocks to slow bleeding after labour, women also held the stones during labour believing it would add to their strength and endurance.

The Chinese history dating back four thousand years to the Shang Dynasty also shows the use of hot stones to relieve stress, tension and pain. In Oriental Medicine hot stones are used in conjunction with the Meridian channels to promote a better flow of energy around the body.

In Ayurvedic medicine in India, the hot stones were used in conjunction with their knowledge of the Marma points.

The Japanese used hot stones in Anma, the oldest form of East Asian Massage. The Japanese hot stone therapy techniques create similar effects to moxibustion, in that heat penetrates and stimulates the tsubo, or acupoints.

The Hawaiians also used lava rocks in their Lomi-Lomi. Rough stones were used to exfoliate after a massage, while smooth lava rocks were either placed on the body in ti-leaves or used to massage. At times two stones were tapped together against the body to allow deep tissue vibrational healing. The lava stone was used as a symbol for healing and protection.

Hot rocks have also been used in Ancient Egypt, Africa and South America playing an important part in the healing rituals of these ancient cultures.

The healers and bodyworkers used tools to assist the healing process, including crystals, essences, flowers and stones. The hot stone therapy evolved as stones from river beds were warmed in the hot sun, in hot coals or hot water, they were then laid directly on the body, on a cloth on the body or used to massage with (depending on the temperature of the stone).

This tradition continues today as the knowledge of the ancient stones is rediscovered and used more and more. People are once again realising the benefits of this special and unique healing therapy.

We can see this by the growing popularity of hot stone therapy treatments in spas and clinics around the world.

In fact, here in Australia hot stone therapy / hot stone massage is fast becoming one of the most requested treatments with many establishments listing it on their menus as their 'signature' treatment.

So what is it that makes hot stone therapy so popular?

Well, a common response from those who have experienced this specialized treatment is how deeply relaxing it is and how it feels like they've had a really deep, thorough massage, without the discomfort often experienced with deep tissue massage.

This effect is due to the fact that, 'heat is healing' and when you have a hot stone therapy treatment the eminating heat from the stones is gently, yet continually penetrating into your muscle fibres and literally melting away layers of tension.

As tension is the root cause of illness, when tension is alleviated, the body quickly returns to it's natural state of wellbeing, promoting a sense of inner peace in the recipient.

Keeping this in mind, it should come as no surprise why more and more people are turning to the healing power of hot stones to relieve the stresses of their modern day lifestyles.

This growing popularity has lead to an increase in demand for skilled hot stone therapy practitioners and presents an excellent opportunity to existing massage therapists to add an amazing treatment and invaluable asset to their massage and healing repetoire.