March 4, 2014

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An article in the March 3 edition of Time magazine titled “Young Kids, Old Bodies,” raises the issue of obese children aging too quickly, and the dramatic health decline some are seeing as a result.

Dr. Siripoom McKay, a professor of pediatric endocrinology at Texas Children’s, and Dr. Sanjiv Harpavat, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Texas Children’s, were both quoted in the article, after noting the many health issues plaguing (and aging) this generation’s obese children.

“I am thinking that we will have people in their 30s, 40s and 50s who should be at their most productive,” said McKay, “who will be on dialysis or have had several heart attacks.”

Researchers are starting to see signs of accelerated cellular aging at the molecular level in obese children. The extra pounds on children can affect the body in multiple ways, including early signs of puberty, high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver and cirrhosis.

In order to combat the problems, many doctors are prescribing medications that were originally only intended for adults (typically over the age of 40). Unfortunately, these drugs can present side effects in children such as stomach pains, muscle weakness and fatigue. But without the medication, some children may face worse alternatives such as heart attacks or liver transplants.

Hoping to stop (or at least slow down) one obese patient’s liver decline, Dr. Harpavat has plans to put the boy on a drug trial that’s testing whether cystamine can improve the symptoms of fatty liver. If it works, the patient may be saved from an early downward spiral in his health.

Top gastroenterologists, endocrinologists and other specialists at Texas Children’s are constantly researching improved ways to treat symptoms of child obesity and fight the signs of premature aging in this generation’s obese boys and girls. But for now, beyond medications, lifestyle strategies like a healthier diet and more exercise are still among the best ways to improve health in obese children.

February 25, 2014

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Texas Children’s child life specialists are finding creative ways to ease a child’s anxiety before their procedures, and the specialists’ efforts recently received national attention on NBC’s Today.com.

Texas Children’s has one of the largest child life programs in the country with more than 30 professionals on staff. Child life specialists focus on the psychosocial needs of children, doing everything they can to ensure our young patients feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible during their hospital stays. For patients who come to the hospital for surgery, child life specialists help diminish fears before entering the operating room.

This starts with providing age-appropriate information to alleviate misconceptions, minimize fears and provide each child with a sense of control before they enter the unfamiliar world of the operating room (OR).

“Every child is different, and they cope best if we individualize treatment based on their developmental and psychological needs,” said Child Life Specialist Diane Kaulen.

For example, child life specialists may take young children in a red wagon on their way to an OR or give an older child the chance to see a mock-up of the OR so they can touch and play with medical supplies in a calm setting and even choose their anesthesia “flavor.”

“We use a variety of techniques, including distraction and relaxation methods and engaging in play activities to create a sense of normalcy and control,” Kaulen said. “I think the most important element in preparing a child for surgery is meeting the child where they are. Some children like to know a lot of information and some do not.”

Child Life helps children effectively manage stress, which reduces the need for potentially dangerous sedatives and pain medications and helps children heal faster with fewer long-term psychological effects.

“Most children have a set of coping skills they already draw on to help them cope effectively in difficult situations,” Kaulen said. “We’re able to evaluate potential situations that would create anxiety for that child and then develop a plan to help that child cope with those potential stressors. Parents can be a great resource for us when we individualize the plan of care.”

The latest issue of IS Technology News is now available online. Click here to view important technology news and helpful information such as:

  • How IS protects Texas Children’s against cyber security threats (and what you can do at home!)

Recent data breaches by major retailers exposed security vulnerabilities, and put millions of consumers at risk for spam, phishing and malware. Texas Children’s faces similar threats, so Information Services (IS) uses a combination of programs, policies and practices to protect both the organization and its individual employees and patients. In fact, many information security best practices can also protect you at home!

  • The IS Customer Support Portal has a fresh look and helpful new features. Check it out!
  • Enhance security and access to your favorite web sites with an (easy) update to Internet Explorer 8
  • Locked out of your computer? Never again with Password Reset!
  • Windows 7 migration benefits – they’re for everyone!

Please visit the Information Services Connect site for more helpful technology tips, updates and information.

Eight to 10 year-old African American girls and their parents are needed to participate in an eight-week online program promoting healthy eating and physical activity.

Requirements for participation:

  • Must speak and understand English
  • Access to high-speed internet
  • A personal email address
  • A parent willing to participate

There are no meetings to attend. Participation can be from the comfort and convenience of your home. A stipend is available.

This program is conducted by the Children’s Nutrition Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine. Email Marilyn or call 713-798-7002 to register or for more information.

February 18, 2014

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On February 7, West Campus was awarded the top honor at the Houston West Chamber of Commerce’s 16th Annual Economic Development Summit and Star Awards. Michelle Riley-Brown, president of West Campus, accepted the 2014 Pillar Award which recognizes a business or organization that consistently and tirelessly supports the business community, exemplifies the determined spirit of the Houston West Chamber and promotes a superior quality of life in our community.

“I was truly honored and humbled to receive the highest award on behalf of Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus,” said Riley-Brown. “We have grown tremendously since we opened our doors three years ago, and we look forward to continuing to treat children and families in the West Houston community.”

The Pillar Award is voted on by the Star Award Events Committee. West Campus also served as a sponsor of the event.

Watch a video about West Campus.

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Dr. Daniel Penny, chief of Cardiology and section head and professor of Pediatrics-Cardiology at Baylor College of Medicine, will present the 12th Annual William J. Rashkind Memorial Lecture in Pediatric Cardiology at Cardiology 2014, the 17th Annual Update on Pediatric and Congenital Cardiovascular Disease. The conference, hosted by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, will take place in Lake Buena Vista, Florida February 19 through 23.

“I am honored to be delivering the keynote address at this year’s Cardiology conference,” says Penny. “This is a great opportunity to showcase the cutting edge techniques and thought leadership we practice at Texas Children’s Heart Center.”

Cardiology 2014 is a comprehensive post-graduate course for pediatric cardiologists, neonatologists, surgeons, nurses, intensivists, anesthesiologists, sonographers, perfusionists and all those involved in the care of neonates, children and young adults with cardiovascular disease. This year’s theme is “Innovations: What We Know. What We Need to Learn. Where We Need to Be.” Penny’s speech, The Quest for the Ultimate Team, will discuss the importance of assembling a comprehensive team of specialists and experts to deliver the best possible care to pediatric cardiology patients.

In addition to the keynote address, Penny also will serve as a panelist during a discussion about the management of aortic valve disease and represent Team Houston during a quiz bowl which will test his knowledge against experts in the field from around the United States. Other Texas Children’s Heart Center experts who will be giving presentations or attending the conference include:

  • Dr. Carrie Altman, medical director of Pediatric Cardiology at Texas Children’s and associate professor of Pediatrics at Baylor.
  • Dr. Paul Checchia, medical director of the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at Texas Children’s and professor of Critical Care Medicine at Baylor, will present: Maximizing Success in the Coming Age of Values-driven Healthcare: Turning Things Upside Down to Get Them Right Side Up and will also represent Team Houston during the quiz bowl.
  • Dr. Silvana Lawrence, medical director, community and program development at Texas Children’s and associate professor of Pediatrics-Cardiology at Baylor.
  • Dr. Keila Lopez, pediatric cardiologist at Texas Children’s and assistant professor of Pediatrics at Baylor.
  • Dr. Kristen Sexson Tejtel, pediatric cardiologist, Center for Preventive Cardiology at Texas Children’s and assistant professor of Pediatrics-Cardiology at Baylor.

Visit the conference’s website for more information on Cardiology 2014.

February 11, 2014

 

21214arnoldcollage640As director of Texas Children’s Simulation Center and a neonatologist at Texas Children’s Newborn Center, Dr. Jennifer Arnold is a respected health care professional. But she’s no stranger to the patient side of health care, having dealt with complications from dwarfism throughout her life.

Last year, Arnold became pregnant, and the pregnancy turned into a rare but aggressive type of cancer of the uterus. In September, Arnold was diagnosed with stage 3 choriocarcinoma. The diagnosis suddenly sent her back into the world of receiving care, rather than giving it.

“I have a unique perspective in that I’ve been a patient so many times before,” Arnold said. “But having cancer leads to a little more trepidation and uncertainty. I was in that rare position of being vulnerable and knowing all the things that can go wrong.”

Due to her short stature, Arnold’s case made it somewhat challenging for doctors to determine the correct chemotherapy dosage. Her small airway meant further complications, all of which may have been tough for an adult hospital to manage. Because of her special circumstances, Texas Children’s Physician-in-Chief Dr. Mark W. Kline decided that although Arnold is an adult, Texas Children’s should take her case.

Dr. Diaz-Arrastia of Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women and Dr. Chintagumpala from Texas Children’s Cancer Center teamed up to develop a plan that included chemotherapy and removing the primary tumor. They researched intensely to find the proper dosage and ensured there was always someone on-call who could manage Arnold’s airway. Texas Children’s Drs. Nancy Glass, Jodi Muscal, David Poplack and Kim-Phuong Thi Nguyen also played key roles in her care.

“I felt so much better than I would have at an adult hospital, because I’m a different circumstance,” Arnold said. “If I wasn’t at Texas Children’s I would have been 10 times more scared. But I know the doctors and nurses here, and I know how much they care. They were so on top of things, and I’m very appreciative of how everyone came together to help.”

The perk of being surrounded not only by family and friends, but by her work family, too, delighted Arnold. Colleagues came to visit her during treatment, dropping by to show support, and even had meetings during Arnold’s hospitalization to keep her updated on projects in the Simulation and Newborn Centers.

“I’m so blessed to have a lot of friends and colleagues at the hospital,” Arnold said. “It made me feel more connected to my life.”

Arnold also notes that it was the support of her husband, Bill, two adopted children, Will, and Zoey, and her parents, who helped keep her smiling and energized during her treatment. With six rounds of chemotherapy and the surgery behind her, Arnold is rejoicing in the news that her cancer has gone into remission. She is beginning to regain her stamina and looking forward to coming back to work in early March.

“Taking care of babies is the most physically exhausting part of my job, and I can’t wait until I’m ready for that again in a few weeks,” she said. “There are so many exciting projects that we were in the middle of when I got the diagnosis, and I’m really eager to pick up where I left off. Overall though, I’m just definitely looking forward to getting back to normal life.”