Expert Commentary
Hernia surgery: What to know and when to seek care
Devon Hawkins, MD, is a board‑certified general surgeon. Her clinical interests include minimally invasive and robotic surgery and advanced laparoscopic procedures for hernias, gallbladder disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. She sees patients in Fairfax, Virginia. Hernias are common, but there are still many misconceptions about what they are, how they develop and when treatment is…
Read MoreNutrition nuggets: hydration
With new research published every week and the endless stream of nutrition information and opinions on social media, it can be hard to know what to believe. Tune into this column as Sheila and Stephanie explore another nutrition nugget. Fact or fiction? All adults need to drink exactly eight glasses (64 ounces) of water per…
Read MoreThree tools to tackle treatment-resistant depression, from an Inova psychiatrist
Eric C. Alcera, MD, MBA, DFAPA, DAACAP, is the President of the Behavioral Health Service Line at Inova. He is double board certified in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry and has more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health. His particular specialties include pediatric psychopharmacology and the treatment of depression, anxiety and…
Read MoreNew study shows AI alerts help more heart patients get life-saving valve disease care
A major new national study led by Inova cardiologist Wayne Batchelor, MD, MHS, MBA, shows that artificial intelligence (AI) can help doctors find and treat serious heart valve disease sooner – especially for patients who are frequently undertreated, despite availability of effective valve therapies. Dr. Batchelor, an interventional cardiologist and President of Inova’s Medicine Service…
Read MoreInova marks major milestone in Eastern Region expansion with topping out of Alexandria and Franconia-Springfield Campuses
Fairfax, VA — Inova is celebrating a major milestone this week with two “topping out” ceremonies for the new Inova Alexandria and Inova Franconia-Springfield hospital campuses. These events mark the completion of the structural framework for both state-of-the-art facilities, bringing Inova one step closer to simultaneously opening two hospital complexes that will transform healthcare access…
Read MoreA snapshot of cardiovascular health in the Hispanic population
The Hispanic population is extraordinarily diverse, with individuals whose heritage spans many countries across Latin America and the Caribbean. It is the largest, and fastest growing, ethnic group in the country – and as with all Americans, cardiovascular health is a top concern. What do we know about cardiovascular risk among Hispanic populations in the…
Read MoreBuilding strength and resilience: Your foundation for healthy aging
Madhu Henry, MD is a primary care physician board certified in internal medicine. Dr. Henry is dedicated to the prevention of disease, focusing on diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol management and their cumulative risk on the cardiovascular system. She integrates Western and Eastern medicine to expand access to care and improve patient outcomes. She sees patients in the Inova…
Read MoreInova’s severe COPD program gives patients more options
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a disease that combines chronic bronchitis and emphysema, deal with persistent shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 16 million Americans have COPD, and many more probably have the disease but don’t know it. There is no cure for…
Read MoreInova introduces minimally invasive tricuspid valve replacement to the region
Inova’s Structural Heart and Valve Disease Program is among the region’s first to offer transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR). This exciting milestone expands the range of minimally invasive cardiac procedures available at Inova to now include not only tricuspid valve repair but also replacement of the valve. “This is the first replacement technology alternative to…
Read MoreThe health benefits of social relationships: Cognitive and mental health perspectives
By Siva Ambalam, DO, MPH Human beings are social by nature, and the relationships we form throughout our lives play a crucial role in keeping our minds healthy. More and more research shows that having meaningful social connections isn’t just good for our emotional wellbeing – it’s also essential for protecting our brains and preventing…
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