First-of-its-kind dog bite study may lead to prevention efforts
A CHOC-led team of researchers recently published a five-year, comprehensive study stratifying the injury severity of dog bites based on the type of surgical treatment required. Based on nearly 1,000 CHOC patients, the study concluded that young children are the most at risk, and pit bulls are the most likely to inflict the worst injuries. The CHOC team hopes this study can lead to more in-depth research and prevention efforts. Read more.
Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) shows promise for treating young patients with epilepsy
CHOC now offers responsive neurostimulation (RNS), a newer therapeutic treatment that offers potential relief for patients with refractory epilepsy. This therapy has been successful for 11-year-old CHOC patient Bryce, who experienced breakthrough seizures following complete tumor resection. Moving forward, CHOC plans to expand access to RNS therapy to more pediatric epilepsy patients. Learn more.
Learn more about Dr. John Crawford, CHOC’s medical director of neurology and co-medical director of the CHOC Neuroscience Institute
Dr. John Crawford, an accomplished neurologist, neuro-oncologist and physician leader, recently joined CHOC to lead alongside Dr. Suresh Magge at the Neuroscience Institute. Hear more about Dr. Crawford's background and what he hopes to accomplish in his new role. Meet Dr. Crawford.
How the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act will help providers
The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, named after the emergency medicine physician who died by suicide in April 2020, was recently signed into law by President Joe Biden. The law will establish grants and require other activities to improve mental and behavioral health among healthcare providers. In an interview with Dr. Breen's brother-in-law, he speaks on the law’s passage and how he hopes it will positively impact the healthcare community. Read more.
Child life offers tips for providers to help put nervous patients at ease
A trip to the doctor’s office or hospital can cause stress and anxiety for many kids. To combat that fear, CHOC child life specialists offer several tips to providers for positively relating to patients and their families. Get tips.
Neurologist to lead first-ever study of the possible link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease
CHOC is beginning to enroll 50 patients with Down syndrome in a study to determine if biochemical markers in their blood show a likelihood of them developing Alzheimer’s disease in adulthood. Investigators hope that this study can lead to early prevention measures in pediatrics. Learn more.
10 strangers involved in a kidney donation chain at a Texas hospital
A 10-person kidney donation chain recently took place at a Houston Methodist Hospital; it was the longest chain the hospital has seen thus far. A 19-year-old man wasn’t a match for his friend, but he was for a different patient — starting the chain that would finally end with his friend receiving her kidney donation from a stranger. Now, these strangers will forever share a special bond. Read or listen to the story here.