Category: Blog

Thyroid cancer is a prevalent medical challenge faced by patients and healthcare professionals alike. At Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, we are dedicated to providing innovative and effective treatments, such as Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection for patients with thyroid cancer and lymph node metastasis.

Understanding Lymph Node Metastasis in Thyroid Cancer

Lymph node metastasis occurs when cancer cells from the thyroid gland spread to nearby lymph nodes. These small, bean-shaped structures are part of the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in immune function and fluid balance in the body. The implications of lymph node metastasis are critical for the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of thyroid cancer.

Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection: A Paradigm Shift

Conventional surgical procedures can be daunting for patients. However, our groundbreaking Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection technique offers numerous benefits, including reduced incision size, quicker recovery, and aesthetically-pleasing results. Here are some advantages of this innovative approach:

• Swift Recovery: Accelerate your recuperation process.
• Reduced Discomfort: Experience less pain and discomfort after surgery.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Minimized scarring for improved self-confidence.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: By minimizing damage to nearby tissues, potential postoperative complications are significantly reduced.

Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection at Burjeel Hospital: What to Expect

Our multidisciplinary team of experts employs a meticulously planned process to ensure a smooth and successful surgery. The procedure at Burjeel Hospital includes the following steps:

• Patient Evaluation: Our team carries out thorough preoperative assessments to develop a bespoke treatment plan based on the extent and location of the cancer.
• Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia is administered for comfort and pain management during the surgery.
• Small Incisions: Strategic incisions (usually 1-1.5 inches) are made to access the affected area, minimizing scarring.
• Endoscopic Tools & Neuromonitoring: Utilizing specialized endoscopic tools and intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM), our surgeons visualize and remove cancerous tissue with precision, while preserving vital nerve functions.
• Indocyanine Green (ICG) and Near-Infrared (NIR) Imaging Technology: This cutting-edge approach uses ICG, a fluorescent dye, to enhance visualization and precision during surgery, potentially improving patient outcomes.
• Closure: The incisions are closed with minimal scarring, and no sutures need to be removed post-surgery.

Evidence of Success: Published Research & Patient Testimonials

At Burjeel Hospital, we are proud to be at the forefront of medical advancements in thyroid cancer treatment. Our research on Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection has been published in distinguished medical journals, showcasing its promising potential. Patient testimonials also attest to the life-changing impact of this novel technique.

Read our published research here.

Conclusion

At Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, we understand the challenges faced by patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Our mission is to provide state-of-the-art treatments such as Minimally Invasive Neck Dissection, ensuring a higher quality of life and improved patient outcomes. Together, let’s revolutionize thyroid cancer treatment and foster a better future for all. To learn more about the treatment, contact Burjeel Hospital today.

Hydrotherapy, also known as aquatic therapy or water therapy, is a form of physiotherapy that takes place in a pool or specially designed tank. It utilizes the therapeutic properties of water, such as buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, and temperature, to facilitate healing and rehabilitation. The controlled aquatic environment allows for a wide range of exercises and therapeutic activities that may not be possible on land.

Benefits of Hydrotherapy

There are numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for patients seeking rehabilitation and recovery:

1. Pain Relief

• The buoyancy of water reduces the effects of gravity on the body, providing immediate pain relief.
• It is particularly beneficial for patients dealing with chronic pain, arthritis, or those in the early stages of post-surgery recovery.

2. Increased Range of Motion

• It promotes increased range of motion, particularly for patients with limited mobility.
• The controlled resistance of water makes exercises easier and less painful to perform, helping to improve flexibility.

3. Muscle Relaxation

• The warm water used in hydrotherapy sessions has a soothing effect on the muscles.
• It is especially beneficial for patients dealing with muscle spasms, stiffness, or tension.

4. Strength and Endurance

• It enables patients to engage in resistance exercises in a controlled manner.
• Water’s natural resistance provides a challenge for muscles, helping to build strength and enhance endurance.

5. Improved Circulation

• The hydrostatic pressure exerted by water promotes improved circulation, aiding in the healing process.
• Better circulation helps transport vital nutrients and oxygen to injured tissues, accelerating recovery.

6. Reduced Stress and Anxiety

• The calming and soothing nature of water reduces stress and anxiety during hydrotherapy sessions.
• The serene aquatic environment contributes to a sense of well-being, helping patients cope with the challenges of recovery more effectively.

7. Enhanced Balance and Coordination

• The natural resistance of water challenges patients’ balance and coordination.
• This aspect of hydrotherapy is highly beneficial for individuals who are in the process of recovering from injuries or surgeries.

Customized Hydrotherapy Treatment Plans and Safety

At our Physiotherapy and Advanced Rehabilitation Center at Burjeel Medical City, we offer customized treatment plans to maximize the therapeutic potential of hydrotherapy. Our experienced physiotherapists work closely with each patient to create personalized programs based on their specific needs and goals.

Safety is a top priority in hydrotherapy sessions. Hydrotherapy pools or tanks are equipped with safety features, such as railings and non-slip surfaces, to minimize the risk of accidents. Additionally, patients are always accompanied by certified physiotherapists who provide guidance, support, and encouragement throughout the session.

Hydrotherapy for All Ages

Hydrotherapy is a versatile and powerful approach to physiotherapy that can benefit patients of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from surgery, managing a long-term condition, or looking to improve your physical well-being, hydrotherapy is worth considering. It’s not just a physical therapy; it’s a journey to improved health, well-being, and a better quality of life.

Discover the benefits of hydrotherapy, a form of aquatic therapy that uses water’s therapeutic properties for healing and rehabilitation. Learn about how hydrotherapy can help you regain mobility and improve your overall well-being.

Achilles Tears is a common foot and ankle injury that requires proper treatment for a successful recovery. Dr. Roger Haene, an expert in Adult Foot & Ankle Surgery at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, specializes in treating this condition with expertise and advanced techniques.

Causes and Symptoms of Achilles Tears

Achilles Tendon Rupture can occur due to various reasons such as sudden movements, excessive strain, or direct trauma to the ankle. Common symptoms include a popping or snapping sound at the time of injury, severe pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tears

Dr. Roger Haene offers a comprehensive range of treatment options for Achilles Tears. The initial approach involves non-surgical methods such as immobilization, physical therapy, and using orthotic devices to support the foot and ankle. In cases where surgical intervention is necessary, Dr. Roger Haene performs advanced procedures to repair the ruptured tendon.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Proper rehabilitation is crucial for the successful recovery of Achilles Tears. Dr. Roger Haene follows a standardized protocol of Accelerated Functional Rehabilitation, ensuring patients follow a structured program to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. With the guidance of our expert team, patients can expect a smooth recovery and return to their daily activities.

Dr. Roger Haene is a highly experienced consultant orthopedic surgeon specializing in Adult Foot & Ankle Surgery. With a focus on patient-centric care, Dr. Roger Haene ensures personalized treatment, advanced facilities, and a compassionate approach to healing. Trust Dr. Roger Haene and the dedicated team at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi for effective treatment and optimal outcomes.

If you are seeking expert treatment for Achilles Tears, trust Dr. Roger Haene, an expert in Adult Foot & Ankle Surgery at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi. Benefit from his specialized expertise, advanced techniques, and personalized care to regain mobility and live a pain-free life.

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us spend a significant portion of our day sitting, whether it’s at work, while commuting, or during leisure activities. Prolonged sitting can lead to various health issues, including back pain, neck strain, and poor posture. To help you maintain good health and comfort, this blog article will guide you through the ideal sitting posture and offer tips on selecting the right chair for your needs, while also shedding light on the adverse effects of prolonged sitting, with insights from our experienced physiotherapists.

The Ideal Sitting Posture:

1. Chair Placement:

• Choose a stable, adjustable chair with good lumbar support. Make sure your feet can rest flat on the ground or on a footrest.
• Sit at the back of the chair, so your lower back is supported by the lumbar curve of the chair.
• Maintain a small gap between the edge of the chair and the back of your knees.

2. Body Alignment:

• Keep your feet flat on the ground or footrest, with your knees at a 90-degree angle.
• Your hips should be positioned slightly higher than your knees, promoting proper lumbar curvature.
• Maintain a neutral spine position, avoiding excessive arching or slouching.

3. Armrests and Desk:

• Adjust armrests so that your forearms are parallel to the ground when typing or using a computer mouse.
• Ensure your desk is at the right height to prevent hunching or overreaching.

4. Monitor Placement:

• Position your computer monitor at eye level to reduce neck strain. Use a monitor stand if needed.
• Maintain a distance of about 20-24 inches (50-60 cm) between your eyes and the screen.

5. Breaks and Movement:

• Take regular breaks to stand, stretch, and walk around, promoting blood circulation and reducing muscle fatigue.
• Consider using a standing desk for part of your workday to vary your posture.

Selecting the Perfect Chair:

1. Lumbar Support:

• Opt for a chair with adjustable lumbar support that fits the natural curve of your lower back. This helps maintain the ideal posture.

2. Seat Depth and Cushioning:

• Choose a chair with a seat depth that allows you to sit back with your feet flat on the floor while keeping a small gap behind your knees.
• Ensure the cushioning is comfortable and supportive.

3. Adjustability:

• Look for a chair with multiple adjustment options, including seat height, armrest height, and backrest tilt. This allows for customization to your body’s needs.

4. Material and Breathability:

• Consider the material of the chair upholstery. It should be breathable to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort.

5. Test Before You Buy:

• If possible, try out different chairs before making a purchase to ensure comfort and suitability.

Understanding the Adverse Effects of Prolonged Sitting:

Prolonged sitting can have several detrimental effects on your health, including:

• Musculoskeletal Issues: Back pain, neck strain, and poor posture can result from improper sitting habits.
• Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow in the legs can increase the risk of blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and varicose veins.
• Weight Gain: A sedentary lifestyle often leads to weight gain and obesity.
• Cardiovascular Health: Sitting for extended periods can contribute to heart disease and cardiovascular issues.
• Metabolic Issues: Insulin sensitivity decreases with prolonged sitting, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Muscle Weakness and Imbalance: Prolonged sitting can lead to muscle atrophy and imbalances.
• Digestive Problems: Sitting for too long can slow down digestion and lead to digestive discomfort.
• Mental Health Impact: Prolonged sitting can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Reduced Lung Capacity: Sitting improperly can restrict lung capacity and lead to shallow breathing.
• Postural Deformities: Over time, sitting with poor posture can result in permanent postural deformities.
• Increased Risk of Injury: Poor sitting habits can increase the risk of injury during physical activities.
• Impact on Longevity: Several studies suggest that sitting for prolonged periods is associated with a shorter lifespan, even among those who exercise regularly.

Conclusion:

Maintaining the ideal sitting posture and choosing the right chair are essential for preventing musculoskeletal issues and promoting overall well-being. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and being aware of the adverse effects of prolonged sitting, you can create a comfortable and ergonomic workspace or leisure environment. Remember that your body is unique, so don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional or physiotherapist for personalized advice if you experience persistent discomfort or pain while sitting. Your health and comfort should always be a top priority

Introduction:

Swallowing difficulties, medically known as dysphagia, can be a challenging condition affecting individuals of all ages. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms such as coughing, throat clearing, breathing difficulty during feeding, or the sensation of food getting stuck in the throat, it’s crucial to seek professional help. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of swallowing assessments, how they are conducted, and the available instrumental assessments, with a focus on the Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)

The Importance of Swallowing Assessments

If you suspect you have swallowing difficulties, the first step is to consult your doctor. They will likely refer you to a speech therapist for a swallow assessment. Swallowing assessments are essential for several reasons:

1. Accurate Diagnosis: A thorough assessment helps pinpoint the exact nature and severity of the swallowing difficulty, ensuring appropriate treatment recommendations.

2. Personalized Care: Based on the assessment results, a speech therapist can develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include food modifications, specific head positions, or exercises to strengthen swallowing muscles.

3. Safety: Identifying swallowing issues can prevent choking episodes and enhance safety during mealtimes, reducing stress for both individuals and their families.

How a Feeding Assessment is Conducted

During a feeding assessment, a speech therapist will evaluate your swallowing patterns in a clinical setting. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

1. Food Consistencies: You will be asked to consume various food consistencies to assess how well you manage different textures.

2. Monitoring: The speech therapist will closely monitor vital signs, breathing patterns, and voice quality throughout and after the feeding process.

Instrumental Swallow Assessments

In some cases, further instrumental assessments may be necessary to gain a more in-depth understanding of swallowing difficulties. One of the most commonly used instrumental assessments is called VFSS.

Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS): VFSS is a moving X-ray examination of the mouth and throat conducted while eating and drinking. During this test, you consume foods coated with Barium, allowing healthcare professionals to:

• Observe whether food enters the airway instead of the esophagus.
• · Assess the functioning of different parts of the mouth and throat during swallowing.
• · Determine which food textures are safe for you to consume.
• · Explore whether different head positions aid in safe eating and drinking.

Who Can Undergo a VFSS?

VFSS is a versatile assessment suitable for individuals from neonates to pediatrics. However, it’s essential to note that VFSS involves radiation exposure. Therefore, your doctor and speech therapist will carefully consider whether it’s appropriate for your specific situation.

Conclusion

Swallowing difficulties can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial. If you suspect swallowing issues, consult your doctor, and they can refer you for a swallow assessment. Through assessments like the Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS), healthcare professionals can provide personalized recommendations and improve the safety and enjoyment of mealtimes. Remember that your healthcare team is there to support you on your journey to better swallowing health.

What is palliative care?

Palliative Care is an approach to care that helps people with a life-limiting illness to have the best possible quality of life. It is available for everyone – of any age, race, culture, background, and religion. Palliative care aims to prevent and treat serious health-related suffering that may occur because of the medical condition or its treatment.

A life-limiting illness is an illness that can’t be cured. You may hear this type of illness called ‘life-threatening’ or ‘terminal’. People might also use the terms ‘progressive’ (gets worse over time) or ‘advanced’ (is at a serious stage) to describe these illnesses. Examples of life-limiting illnesses include:

• Advanced stage cancer
• End-stage organ failure – e.g. heart failure, renal failure, liver failure
• End-stage dementia
• Acute traumatic brain injury
• Patients with multiple organ failure

When having palliative care, the patient and their family are always in control of decisions about their health, medical treatment, or well-being.

Depending on your needs, palliative care may include:

• Medicine and other therapies to help relieve pain and other symptoms.
• Support for your family members.
• Help to meet your spiritual, religious, or cultural needs.
• Help and equipment to live comfortably at home where possible.

When is palliative care applicable?

Palliative care can be used at any time in your illness, not just for people who are near the end of life. If there are difficult-to-control symptoms (e.g., difficult pain, nausea, breathlessness, itch) then palliative care may be able to help. Having palliative care does not mean there is no hope, you have ‘given up’ or your families don’t care. Palliative care is given alongside your usual medical treatments and there is always something that we can do to make our patients feel better.

What is end-of-life care?

End-of-life care involves treatment, care, and support for people who are nearing the end of their life and is an important part of palliative care. End-of-life care is for people who are thought to be in the last year of life, but this timeframe can be difficult to predict. Some people might only receive end-of-life care in their last weeks or days. 

End-of-life care aims to help you to live as comfortably as possible in the time you have left. It involves managing physical symptoms and getting emotional support for you and your family and friends. You might need more of this type of care towards the end of your life.

End-of-life care also involves talking to you and your family and friends about what to expect towards the end of your life. The people looking after you will talk to you about your needs and wishes, and make sure they consider what you want in the care they provide.

Where can I receive palliative care?

Depending on your needs and other requirements, you may receive palliative care at home, in a hospital, or in other care facilities. Many patients can be seen in the outpatient clinic but sometimes admission to the inpatient unit is required to optimize your symptoms, typically 1 to 2 weeks, before returning home.

It may be important for some patients and families to spend as much time as possible at home. In this case, we will work together with you to try and make this possible. We will work with your primary medical team and home care teams to try and facilitate care at home wherever possible.

Where can I see the palliative care team?

The palliative care team is based primarily at Burjeel Medical City in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi but clinics are also held at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi and Burjeel Specialty Hospital in Sharjah.

As the Holy month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims across the globe prepare themselves spiritually, mentally, and physically to cope with fasting. It is a time at which one refrain from food, drink, and general elements of inappropriate character. Fasting alone has a number of well-documented benefits which include glucose homeostasis, improved cardiovascular function, reduced cholesterol levels, blood pressure regulation, and enhanced immune system function.

So why would you want to exercise during Ramadan anyway? Well for those who lead active lifestyles, having to stop exercising can have negative effects on exercise capacities developed throughout the year. Additionally, research has shown that not exercising during this period could lead to a regression in exercise-induced adaptations, hence why maintenance is paramount. However, exercise during Ramadan poses a challenge to fasting individuals. The reduced caloric intake results in low fuel levels, which may have some adverse effects if the training program is not appropriately customized to the individual observing the fast. During this period, workouts will feel generally harder as a result of increased fatigue and perceived levels of exertion.

Workout Right During Ramadan

Whether to exercise or not during Ramadan is a personal choice as every individual may have their own fitness goals. Current research suggests moderate intensity exercise during Ramadan offers an ideal safe zone within which exercise capacities can be maintained, without adverse effects. This exercise intensity has also demonstrated a number of positive effects on the human body, which promote optimal immune function. In regards to resistance or strength-based training, the focus during this period is to ‘Deload’, which enhances general training capacities, as it facilitates recovery and promotes improved performance levels.  

Moderate Intensity Exercise

Moderate-intensity exercise is any exercise that increases your heart rate by at least 50-70% and lasts between 45-60 min. If you can hold a conversation while exercising, then you are in the correct zone. If you prefer a more scientific approach, then you can calculate your Target Heart Rate using the formula below

• Calculate your Resting Heart Rate (RHR), the heart rate when you first wake up
• Then calculate your Maximum Heart Rate(MHR)
  • 220 – (your age) = Maximum Heart Rate
• Then subtract your RHR from your MHR
• Finally, calculate your Target Heart Rate (THR)

Maximum Heart Rate: Resting Heart Rate x (Training Intensity Percentage) +RHR = THR

Example:

Yusrah, 30, wants to continue her cardio training 2-3 times a week after Iftar. She has an RHR of 70 BPM and wants to exercise at 65%  intensity for 45 minutes. Her THR is 133bpm
220 – 30 = 190 (MHR)
190 – 30 = 160
(160 – 70) x 70% + 70 =  133bpm (Target Heart Rate)

How to Deload a Resistance Training Program

The term ‘Deloading’ is often used in literature to refer to reduced volume training achieved either by reducing the volume of the workout, its intensity, or even both. Below is an example of a pre and Ramadan resistance-based program:

• Pre-Ramadan: 4-5 times weekly resistance training at high volume. 5-7 movements. 25-30 sets. 5-7 rep range.
• During Ramadan: 3-4 times weekly resistance training at a reduced volume. 2-4 movements. 8-10 sets. 5-7 rep range. Exercise intensity (weight being lifted) remains constant.

Important Note: For those focusing on resistance or strength-based training, you will likely lose some of your ‘gains’ achieved during the year, both size and strength. However, the extent to which this reduction occurs depends significantly on your training experience i.e the longer you have been lifting the less you are likely to lose, relatively speaking. Secondly, post-Ramadan, once you are able to return to your normal routine and intensities, these adaptations tend to return within a short period of time. However, caution must be exercised post-Ramadan when returning to baseline lifting volumes. Adopting a progressive approach to training load is essential in order to prevent injury.

Diet to Maximize Your Workout Potential During Ramadan

The fasting individual is only able to eat and drink between sunset and before the break of dawn. This window is further narrowed by the special 1-hour ‘Tarraweh’ prayers performed after the final prayer of the day (Isha). To optimize output and recovery, a focused nutritional approach must be adopted. Adequate consumption of high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals produces better outcomes for exercise recovery. Small portioned but frequent meals between Iftar and Suhoor can be achieved, with 1g of high-quality carbohydrate per kilogram of body mass at least an hour before and after the exercise session. Additionally, 20-25g of high-quality protein post-exercise has been demonstrated to restore amino acids, which are essential for protein synthesis.

Tips to Remember

• Plan your workouts carefully
• Focus on ‘maintenance’ of exercise capacity
• Follow a nutritious, energy-rich healthy diet
• Double down the hydration between Iftar and Suhoor
• Be gentle and kind to yourself

What are Congenital Heart Diseases/Defects (CHDs)?

Congenital Heart Diseases/Defects (CHDs) are heart abnormalities at birth. CHDs can impair the structure and function of the heart. It is the most prevalent congenital disability, affecting 1 in every 100 children. Before they turn one year old, at least 25% of these kids will need treatment or surgery.

Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) Awareness Week is observed internationally from the 7th to the 14th of February every year. It is observed to raise awareness and honor those affected by the disease.

The most common Congenital Heart Diseases include: 

• Bicuspid Aortic Valve  
• Ventricular Septal Defects  
• Atrial Septal Defects  

Early detection of cardiac problems can improve the prognosis for children with CHD.

Risk factors

Certain conditions might increase the risk of a child having a Congenital Heart Defect. These include:

• Rubella infection during pregnancy
• Diabetes in pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Drinking Alcohol
• Smoking 
• Family History and Genetics
• Genetic conditions, for example, Down syndrome, Turner’s syndrome

Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease

Trained Fetal Medicine Consultants and Fetal Maternal Specialists can diagnose almost 90% of congenital cardiac diseases or abnormalities at 20 weeks of gestation. In utero, diagnosis is vital to plan postpartum care and treatment. Critical congenital heart disease screening should be made available after a baby is born to compare and check the baby’s saturation in different limbs. This can help in the early detection of any critical heart defect. Healthcare providers, parents, or caregivers may suspect a heart defect in older children due to a fast or slow heart rate, fast breathing, pale skin, changes in temperature, or energy level. Children diagnosed with certain inherited (for example, Marfan’s syndrome) or genetic conditions are at risk for CHD, and a pediatric cardiology evaluation is recommended.

Treatments for Congenital Heart Diseases

The type and severity of CHDs determine the treatment. Some heal on their own or have no effect that requires intervention. Significant defects often require extensive treatment. 

Treatment could include:

• Medications
• Cardiac Catheter Procedures (interventional procedures)
• Open-Heart Surgery
• Heart Transplant

Children who need interventional procedures or surgery for their heart condition must remain under the supervision of a Pediatric Cardiologist or Adult Cardiologist for life. This ensures that any issues or complications can be identified early and that preventative measures are in place to safeguard them and ensure they live a full, happy, and healthy life.