Dr. Steven P. Shikiar

Health Tip

Tip #1: The best chance for cure of breast cancer without the need for disfiguring surgery is with early detection. Every women should have their first mammogram at age 35 and then annually after age 40. Self examination should be performed every month at the same time during the women’s cycle and an annual exam should be performed by a physician. Any changes should be brought to the attention of a specialist.

Tip #2: Minimally invasive treatments for Varicose Veins include VNUS Closure, Trivex, and Sclerotherapy. These treatments have excellent results, performed in an outpatient setting and have very rapid recovery times. However, the best time of the year to have them done is during Autumn and Winter so that any bruising or discoloration that normally occurs after these procedures will disappear by the time warm weather returns and you are one again wearing short clothing.

Tip #3: Gallstones are very common and may result in recurrent attacks of abdominal pain particularly after eating. It is best to have gallbladder surgery as soon as gallstones become symptomatic so as to avoid the risks of severe infection from the gallbladder or pancreas.

Tip #4: A hernia is essentially a hole in the abdominal wall through which abdominal contents may protrude and become trapped. It is much easier and safer to repair a hernia before the abdominal contents become trapped within, which can result in severe complications. Laparoscopic Hernia repair results in much less post-operative pain and rapid return to normal function.

Tip #5: Gastro-Esophageal reflux is the most common Gastrointestinal disorder diagnosed in the United States. However, with available medications, surgery is rarely required. Surgery may be indicated for patients not completely relieved on medication or for those who simply do not wish to be dependent on lifelong medications. Laparoscopic Anti-reflux surgery is safe and results in 80% complete cure while the remainder require much less medication to control symptoms.

Tip #6: Laparoscopic Surgery for the colon and intestines is extremely safe and results in much smaller incisions, much more rapid recover with less pain. It may not be appropriate for everyone depending on the underlying diagnosis which requires surgery. Elective procedures are much more likely to be amenable to the Laparoscopic approach than are emergencies.