MedStaff Update: August 2015

Core Decompression with Cell Grafting Gives New Life to Dead Bone

For years, orthopaedic surgeons have used core decompression, the act of drilling small holes into dead bone, to replenish blood flow to dead, osteonecrotic joints. But its success has been highly variable. A new decompression technique, one which introduces bone-forming stem cells into pre-drilled channels, has been shown to repair early stages of bone death, thus delaying the immediate need for a full joint replacement.

New Program Targets At-Risk Skin Cancer Patients

Patients who are post-transplant or immune-suppressed have a 60- to 100-fold increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that can invade and metastasize, especially in high-risk individuals. A new High-Risk Skin Cancer Clinic offers intensive surveillance and advanced, individualized treatment to this unique patient population.

Decoding Cancer: New Program Uses Genetics to Target Cancer

The Stanford Cancer Institute has launched a Cancer Genetics Program to apply the power of genomic analysis to the understanding and treatment of cancer. The multifaceted program integrates gene-sequencing technology with innovative treatment strategies, genetic counseling services and an ambitious research effort to increase treatment options and improve outcomes for cancer patients.

Patient Safety: Lessons Learned

Alexis Reeves, RN, CPHRM, CLNL, the Interim Director of Patient Safety Operations, discusses medication reconciliation errors and the importance of effective medication reconciliation to improve medication safety and reduce patient harm.

The New Normal: Hospital Crowding Requires Re-Thinking Workflows
Featured Guest Contributor: Mark Lane Welton, MD, Chief of Staff

Mark Lane Welton, MD, Chief of Staff, speaks to the challenges of coordinating patient care with hospital crowding, and discusses an exciting pilot patient flow study in Orthopedic Surgery, in which each step of the patient experience is characterized and evaluated.