PhD , FRCSC , FACS , who completed a hand surgery fellowship at Mayo Clinic and specializes in wrist arthroscopy , reconstruction and general hand problems .
In Reagan ’ s case , and in so many others , a multidisciplinary medical and surgical care team is assembled to meet each patient ’ s needs . A patient being treated for breast cancer will need the expertise of an oncologist , a primary care physician and a plastic surgeon skilled in performing reconstructive surgery to give her a natural and aesthethically pleasing result .
The cleft / craniofacial team , led by Marcin Czerwinski , MD , FRCSC , chief of the Section of Cleft / Craniofacial Surgery , treats children affected by birth defects of the skull and face . The team also cares for children and adults who present with acute facial injuries as well as secondary post-traumatic deformities . Deformities at birth and after traumatic injuries are often functionally , aesthetically and psychologically disabling and require a team approach for optimal care . The Scott & White cleft / craniofacial team includes a full spectrum of specialists , including pediatric neurosurgeons , otolaryngologists , oral surgeons and dentists , speech therapists , counselors and social workers . Each focuses on the challenging treatment of these individuals . ( See the Spring 2009 issue of THE CATALYST to read more about Scott & White caregivers who travel abroad to repair cleft lips and palates , and provide other services to areas that do not have access to specialty surgical care . These surgical mission trips are made possible through philanthropy .)
Plastic surgeons also work closely with orthopedic specialists to replant amputated body parts . This incredibly complex procedure requires the use of microsurgical techniques to reattach soft tissue and tendons , and to repair blood vessels and nerves to optimize function .
Patients who encounter a number of specialists during the course of their treatment are often amazed that they are able to see multiple specialists on the same day . This kind of coordination is a testament to Scott & White ’ s commitment to make the treatment process as convenient as possible for each patient .
Research and education efforts help all patients Regardless of age , patients benefit from ongoing research focused on finding innovative ways to improve outcomes . Current projects include enhancing techniques in breast reduction to alleviate neck and back pain , decreasing pain in cleft palate surgery through the use of local anesthesia and determining the best form of incision for carpal tunnel surgery . These projects are funded by a number of agencies and donors . Unfortunately , funding for educating surgical residents and medical students has not reached the level that Dr . Verheyden has hoped for . A special fund called the Plastic Surgery Development Fund has been established to expand opportunities for surgical residents to train in the specialty .
“ We enjoy passing on expertise and knowledge to others ,” says Dr . Verheyden . He is grateful to Gill Clements , who has established a fund for residents to participate in mission trips to Third World countries where people are desperately in need of care .
The role of reconstructive plastic surgery continues to evolve , as advances in technology continue and patients seek heightened functional and aesthetic results . Each patient ’ s desire to look and feel good inspires the artistry and precision of the Scott & White team . ■
Dr . Mahabir also is an associate professor of surgery , Texas A & M Health Science Center College of Medicine .
Dr . Verheyden also is a professor of surgery , Texas A & M Health Science Center College of Medicine .
Reconstructive surgery services are available at many locations in Central Texas , thus ensuring that each patient receives the right care in the right place , depending on his or her need .
Left : Susan Pike , MD , FACS , is the medical director of the Cosmetic Surgery Center and director of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Scott & White Healthcare - Round Rock . Right : Neal Hoganson , MD , is the chief of the Section of Plastic Surgery at Scott & White Healthcare College Station .
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