http://www.wctcam.com/listen/

December 28, 2011 at 2:20pm

Dr. Russell Ashinoff will be on 1450am WCTC The Voice of Central Jersey to discuss an amazing story of saving a New Jersey boys hand.

“I figured this is as good as it gets,” thought Kaelen Green at age 16, after six long years of therapy for a nearly paralyzed right arm and hand. But then, at age 28, she was inspired by a spiritual teacher to “take action and achieve more healing” in her life. She Googled paralysis treatment and The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction popped up. She had found the place, and the man, who would change her life: Dr. Andrew Elkwood.

Green’s story starts in Santa Fe, New Mexico when at 10 years old she lost control of her bicycle. Thrown from the bike, she suffered a massive brain hemorrhage that paralyzed the right side of her body. The damage was so severe that she had to re-learn how to walk and talk. Her parents dismissed the doctors’ claims that Kaelen would be in a wheelchair, and instead began what would be a steady stream of consultations with a slew of both traditional and alternative therapy practitioners.

Green, who was right-handed before the accident, also had to adapt to using her left hand—a tall order considering that at that young age she already was inclined toward drawing and painting. “’Necessity is the mother of invention’,” she says of her ordeal. “My right hand and arm were limp and floppy in the beginning, and then my hand balled up into a solid fist with my wrist bent forward. I spent six years in physical therapy and a good portion of my adolescence in hospitals.” By 16, Green figured she had reached the limit of what could be done, stopped her therapy, and went to art boarding school.

She ultimately majored in painting in college and went on to develop an artistic style she calls magical realism—an all-pencil approach she does left-handed. Seventeen years after her fall and countless sessions of physical therapy, her life took a turn.

“I went to the (Institute for Advanced Reconstruction) site and read about the amazing things they were doing for paralysis and that Dr. Elkwood was on the cutting edge in this area. I was hesitant to resort to surgery, so I wanted the very best doctor and had the gut instinct that he was ‘the one,’” says Green, right then deciding to fly across the country from Santa Fe to New Jersey to see him.

Her instinct proved correct. Thirty seconds into her consultation with Dr. Elkwood, he offered his expertise, theorizing that a muscle in her arm was confused neurologically and in a perpetual spasm causing her hand to close. He proposed a complex reconstructive surgery on her right hand and forearm that would excise the muscle spasm, fuse joints, and cut and lengthen tendons and re-attach them to different muscles. Green underwent the two-and-a-half-hour surgery on October 26, 2010 at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. After a tough bout with pain medications following her procedure, she returned home to recover and begin six months of physical therapy. The results since then have been what she describes as “miraculous.”

“I can open my hand for the first time in 18 years and have a lot more function overall. I also have better balance, and my fine motor skills and dexterity have improved,” reports Green, who now swims twice a week and is once again fully involved in her art. “I feel really grateful to have my hand back in a way I never thought I would, and am constantly surprised at what I can accomplish.”

Says Dr. Elkwood, “Kaelen is inspirational to me as a surgeon in many ways.  Her drive, determination, and spirit have no peer, and clearly, attributed strongly to her final result.  Her case also brings up a great frustration.  There are so many patients out there with similar medical circumstances that can be helped, if only they and their caregivers knew about further options.  Too often patients with certain types of paralysis are maximally rehabbed, then given a pat on the back and a pep talk; yet, sometimes more can be done.  Our goal is not to give patients false hope but rather, to maximize their potential function.  Sometimes that means small gains, sometimes -as in Kaelen’s case- the gains can be life-altering.”

Green is considering a second surgery, but in the meantime she is concentrating on a writing and drawing project and enjoying the community of artists with whom she recently hosted an open house at the New School Studios on Upper Canyon Road in Santa Fe. Of her experience with Dr. Elkwood and the staff at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, she says “They were great to me–always my ally and constantly advocating on my behalf with my health insurance.  As for Dr. Elkwood? I trust him implicitly and know that I’m in very good hands.”  Hands that now function on a whole new level, thanks to Dr. Elkwood.

For many years, Richard Kress had trouble walking and difficulties with balance. He was unable to stand on his feet for long stretches of time and needed hand rails when using stairs. With such restrictions on his mobility, his basic life activities took a lot of planning. Kress had peripheral neuropathy, a chronic condition that develops from nerve compression or damage, and causes tingling and decreased feeling in the extremities. But that all changed this past November, after he underwent nerve decompression surgery performed by Dr. Rose.

Kress’s peripheral neuropathy was deemed idiopathic, meaning it could not be linked to a definitive cause. The 61-year-old retired lawyer and family man from Mountainside, NJ now a part-time financial and liability consultant, and adjunct professor in forensic accounting and fraud law, had surgery eight years ago to remove benign tumors from his pancreas. When he began experiencing the telltale tingling associated with peripheral neuropathy a few years later, his doctors thought it may have resulted from his post-surgery medications, but they weren’t certain.

What was certain was the progressive loss of feeling and shooting pain Kress experienced in both feet—pain that caused him to reach his breaking point this past June. Says Kress, “I went to see some of the top neurologists in the country, but was told that nothing could be done and that I’d most likely wind up having to use a cane and even a wheelchair.”

Fortunately, he knew Dr. Rose, who had successfully treated his identical twin brother, Ken, several years ago. Dr. Rose is specially skilled in treating peripheral neuropathy with nerve decompression surgery, and is among a small number of surgeons worldwide trained in the technique. Outpatient and minimally invasive, the procedure takes less than an hour and requires only a few small incisions to relieve pressure on an affected nerve. The vast majority of his patients recover quickly and are relieved of symptoms.

Said Dr. Rose, “When Richard came to see me, I saw, as I always do, a patient who was desperate to hear the words, ‘Yes, I can help you.’ Fortunately, Richard was a great candidate for the surgery, and like a majority of well-selected patients, he has had a phenomenal result and his life has already been immeasurably improved.”

Kress’s nerve decompression surgery to address his right foot took place on November 1 at Jersey Shore Hospital, with the left side surgery following exactly one month later. He is now in the midst of two to three months of physical therapy.

“I couldn’t be more pleased. The pain went away immediately–even my sleeping improved,” says Kress. “Dr. Rose and his staff are so caring and knowledgeable. My experience with them was 100% positive, 11 on a scale of 1 to 10.”

“Now I can walk and do the things that I love, like fly fishing, my favorite pastime. Before my surgeries, I didn’t have the ability to feel the bottom of the stream when I stood , so I stopped fishing. I’m really looking forward to putting back on my waders!”

Last Saturday at Point Pleasant, Richard Kress could kick off his shoes and walk on the deck. “I’m too young and active” to have lived with the increasing disability caused by his neuropathy. Dr. Rose concurs.

Nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM) involves the removal of the breast tissue while leaving the breast skin and nipple areola complex, which includes the nipple and darker pigmented circle of skin that surrounds it. The incision is usually make on the edge of the areola, to camouflage the scar.  The breast is usually reconstructed at the time of mastectomy. In the past, there was concern that leaving the nipple intact increased the risk of local cancer recurrence.

To examine the effectiveness of NSM, surgeons conducted a review of patient records for all women receiving the surgery at Georgetown University Hospital (GUH) between 1989 and 2010 including surgeries to either prevent or treat breast cancer. The results are published in the November issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Of the 162 surgeries performed, doctors found no cancer recurrences and no new cancers in those receiving NSM. However, careful selection of appropriate patients for NSM is important for the success of this procedure.

To read more about this study, go to http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111027083037.htm

The Center for Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery, located at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, New Jersey, recently hosted the second annual Compelling Hope Symposium on Saturday, November 5th, 2011 at the Heldrich Hotel in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The symposium, led by Andrew Elkwood, M.D., Course Director, Center for the Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, exposed health care providers to the most advanced new thought processes and procedures in evaluating and treating  peripheral nerve injuries, including chronic and catastrophic conditions.  Global expert speakers included Dr. Shaocheng Zhang, M.D. Professor, Chief Surgeon, Changhai Hospital, The 2nd Military Medical University, China and Wise Young, Ph.D, M.D., W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Topics discussed included:

• Stem Cells and Spinal Cord Injury
• Surgical Treatments for Brachial Plexus and Spinal Cord Injury
• Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
• Surgical Treatment for Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
• Surgical Treatment of Lower Extremity Neuropathy
• Surgical Interventions for the Paralyzed Diaphragm
• Overview of Peripheral Nerve Anatomy, Mechanisms of Injury, Principles of Surgical Treatment, Facial Nerve Reconstruction

Additionally, the physicians referenced ground-breaking surgical cases, including the story of Australian Don Bird, 48, who traveled to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for a pioneering procedure – phrenic nerve transplant – performed on November 4th, 2011, by Matthew Kaufman, M.D., of The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction.

Worldwide experts in nerve and spinal cord research and procedures gathered for the special symposium for medical professionals, Innovative Solutions for Spinal Cord Injury, Paralysis and Neuropathy, on November 5, 2011. The event included the physicians of The Institute for Advnced Reconstruction. Pictured are the presenters, with their topic, from left to right: Michael Rose, MD (Surgical Treatment of Lower Extremity Neuropathy); Matthew Kaufman, MD, (Surgical Interventions for the Paralyzed Diaphragm); Wise Young PhD,MD; (Stem Cells and Spinal Cord Injury); Shaocheng Zhang, MD (Surgical Treatment for Chronic Spinal Cord Injury); Andrew Elkwood, MD (Surgical Treatments for Brachial Plexus and Spinal Cord Injury); Russell Ashinoff, MD (Research Update CPRNS); Tushar Patel, MD; (Overview of Peripheral Nerve Anatomy, Mechanisms of Injury, Principles of Surgical Treatment, Facial Nerve Reconstruction)

A note from a symposium participant
“There are times in life that you know you are in the presence of greatness and that is how I felt.”

I had to take a minute to thank you for coordinating this symposium. I was blown away! I feel very fortunate that I was able to attend and ask that I be put on your mailing list for any future seminars. I have a friend that has had the privilege of meeting many specialist from around the world and told him about this event. He said it so perfectly. There are times in life that you know you are in the presence of greatness and that is how I felt. Dr. Zhang is authentic and obviously his focus is to improve the quality of life for others. Dr. Young was also brilliant. I was impressed with all the speakers, of course who wouldn’t be. What I want to express the most is that these physicians and their commitment to their work and helping people transcends to all of us that are there listening and learning. Its not just informative but adds value to life in general to hear experts like this speak. It makes you think about what more you can be doing in your every day life to help others.

Thanks you so much!
Lisa Sanchez, RN
Concurrent Review Nurse

Visit http://bit.ly/sT1zGG to read the full article.

Dr. Matthew Kaufman of The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction in Shrewsbury, NJ celebrated his 40^th surgery for diaphragm paralysis—this one on his youngest patient to date, 25-year-old Heather Stutzman of Ravenna, Ohio. Kaufman, who is the only known surgeon to perform this surgery, conducted the procedure at the Jersey Shore Medical Center on September 30, 2011.

The phrenic nerve is a large nerve in the chest that controls the diaphragm, which is integral to breathing. Dr. Kaufman either corrects or transplants the nerve in order to restore function, a surgery, which he estimates is successful in 70-80 percent of his patients. While the causes of phrenic nerve injury may vary from accidents to injury during surgery for other conditions, in Stutzman’s case, it appears that radioactive iodine treatment for a thyroid condition likely caused her problem.

When Stutzman arrived for the procedure, she had been in despair. Not only had she been forced to quit the job working with the disabled that she truly loved, she faced the continuing risk of pneumonia and other medical problems, and suffered the discomfort and embarrassment of wearing a breathing device (oxygen tank). Also, she was so short of breath, she feared she could never have children.

Stutzman, who had been hospitalized with several bouts of pneumonia, was forced for the past year to carry the oxygen tank. As for so many of Dr. Kaufman’s patients, Stutzman’s diagnosis of phrenic nerve damage was a long time coming. Then, she was told by various doctors that there was nothing that could be done for that damaged nerve.

That’s when she went onto the Internet, and like many of his patients, found Dr. Kaufman. “I just wasn’t giving up,” said Stutzman. “I’m too young, and I’ve got my whole life ahead of me.” Her family and friends held a fundraiser spaghetti dinner and raised $7,000 for her expenses.

Following the surgery, Stutzman woke up and for the first time could take a deep breath, without struggling. By the second day, she went shopping in a nearby mall, her oxygen tank now a relic of the past. Denied bowling, dancing and her other activities, Stutzman will now happily begin a physical rehabilitation program to recondition her diaphragm muscle.

Stutzman’s mother, Michelle, and Heather’s boyfriend of nine years, Sean, accompanied her to New Jersey. The day following her surgery, with tears of joy in her eyes, Stutzman said to Dr. Kaufman, “I think I can be a mom.”

Her message, “If you’re told there is nothing that can be done, don’t give up. Dr. Kaufman saved my life.”

Dr. Matthew Kaufman is an award-winning cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon, board certified in both Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and he is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Dr. Kaufman embarked on his surgical training at one of the nation’s top training programs for Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at The Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. He continued his training in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the prestigious UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. Among his nerve surgery expertise which he performs together with his partners at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction in Shrewsbury, NJ, Dr. Kaufman  is the only known surgeon to perform specialized phrenic nerve surgery. As of  October, 2011, Australia will be his furthest patient; 25 is the youngest he has operated on for phrenic nerve problems, and early 70s the oldest.

Q: How much of your practice is devoted to phrenic nerve surgery?

Approximately forty percent and growing. Each case requires a lot of time. In addition to the actual procedure, there is extensive pre-surgery preparation since most of the patients are from out of town. There’s a tremendous amount of time that goes into preparing each one. To fly across the country, or from someplace else in the world, and have a unique surgery is overall quite complicated.

Q: How common is phrenic nerve injury and what are its causes?

It’s probably more common than most people think, but hard to know. For example, what percentage of those with this problem is finding us at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction?

I think there are some standard causes. If you break it down into broad categories you have a surgical injury (i.e. damage to the nerve while being operated on for other causes), an anesthetic injury (e.g. inadvertent damage by a needle passed into the neck), a manipulation injury (e.g. chiropractic), or some type of trauma (such as a fall from a horse, a car accident, or even a freak twisting the wrong way).

Q: What are the various factors among those requiring this procedure?

Age is a big factor for recovery; young patients regenerate better than older ones. Among our patients, the 25-40-year-olds do much better than the 50-70-year-olds in terms of recovery.

Two-thirds to three-four of the patients are men. Men have more injuries in general—so they undergo more surgery, and chiropractic, and more likely to get injured from it. Secondly, men are usually bigger and heavier—so if the neck and (big, heavy) arm twist, there is potentially more damage.

Q: How long have you been doing these surgeries, and do you consider 40 a landmark number of procedures?

I think that 40 is a lot for any procedure that’s never been done. I’ve been doing these surgeries since 2007, with the majority of them in the last year and a half. I specialized in phrenic nerve problems by accident. Our website was continually attracting patients with various rare nerve problems. I was challenged to figure out if I could do something for those with phrenic nerve problems requiring surgery.

It falls within my specialties—head and neck, and plastic surgery. The phrenic nerve is not commonly dealt with, unless it is neck or chest surgery, so thoracic or otolaryngology surgeons will encounter the phrenic nerve—but basically just to try to stay away from it. Until now, no one has attempted to actually get to the phrenic nerve—unless they inadvertently harm it– to do something positive with it.

I see the procedures I’ve done are just the tip of the iceberg. I still think the majority of the medical community that takes care of phrenic nerve injury patients has no idea yet, so the goal is to get the word out.

Q: How do you intend to spread the word of your work?

After our recent article in the CHEST Journal* and a well-received seminar in Hawaii**, I hope to expand my “doctor to doctor” outreach so that the medical community can become more familiar and comfortable with our treatment approach. It can be difficult to reach physicians, but now we are getting to more of them.

Q: How is your success rate with phrenic nerve surgery?

I’ve had a 70-80% percent success rate, which is consistent with other nerve surgeries that have been around for years.  No one has 100 percent success. We don’t know enough about the nervous system to be able to surgically achieve that kind of success rate. While we’ve had a remarkable number of positive life-changing results with phrenic nerve cases, we’ve had patients who’ve not gotten better, and those we are waiting on over time, and we don’t know what their ultimate success will be. It can take a long time.

I always want to make procedures better. You always aim for 100 percent success; obviously, no one gets that. That being said, full function (of the phrenic nerve) is the goal I hope for. But if someone gets even 50 percent improvement, his or her life is going to be better.

Over time, I’ve learned a tremendous amount.  I have a better understanding of how the nerve functions, and how it gets damaged. So with each case, the success rates are going to get higher.

Q: How do you determine your success rate?

Other than the patient telling you they feel better, there are really only several tests you can do. One would be a study of the nerves, but no one wants to come back and get needles stuck into them for this purpose; another is an x-ray to look for motion in the diaphragm, and the third is breathing tests–pulmonary function tests–which don’t always coordinate with patients’ symptoms.  Pulmonary rehab is also an important part of the recuperative process that can help improve outcomes.

Q: How have you been impacted by the psychological or emotional aspect of doing this procedure over time?

I’m more in tune with the emotional aspect, since previously I never fully realized the implications of this condition in someone’s life, and quality of life. Most physicians still believe phrenic nerve injury is a relatively minor problem and that most people can live with, and that they don’t necessarily need to be treated for it. But my patients have taught me otherwise. That’s what we’re trying to teach the medical community.

Q: What can the patient do to help his/her odds?

If patients have this surgery they have to exercise the muscle (diaphragm). There are two things that are damaged: the nerve and the muscle. We’re only treating the nerve. I can’t make the muscle better. The muscle has to rebuild itself by exercise, usually through a pulmonary rehabilitation program.

Q: Is every case different both physically and, psychologically?

Yes, each case is different. It’s never cookie-cutter. It’s not like gallbladder surgery. It keeps me on my toes. We always have a standard game plan going into surgery, but I never completely know what I’m going to find until I go in– for example, if a person will need an actual nerve transplant– or what the outcome is going to be. It’s hard to prepare patients; that’s why I tell them all scenarios, and proceed with cautious optimism. We also turn away a lot of people. Just last week I turned a man away. Although he is very symptomatic, he had inconsistent results on tests we require. His tests show motion in his diaphragm, so I’m not going to take a person with a functioning diaphragm into surgery. I’ve probably turned away as many patients as I’ve operated on.

Q: Do you get ‘performance anxiety’ before doing these surgeries?

I wouldn’t say anxiety, but you get your “game face” on; you get into the zone. You have to plan, think, prepare. One of my mentors said, you have to do three things for surgery: study it, know what you’re going to do; envision the entire process in your head; finally, realize that process.

*Reinnervation of the Paralyzed Diaphragm: Application of Nerve Surgery Techniques Following Unilateral Phrenic Nerve Injury

And while that surgery was successfully completed, it turns out it was among the most challenging procedure to date. Dr. Kaufman, who is the only surgeon he knows of to do this procedure in the U.S., and perhaps in the world, ranks this as the most complicated. The four-hour-procedure was his longest of the 40 phrenic nerve procedures he has done. “This case has been among the most difficult,” he said.

The amount of damage Dr. Kaufman found in the patient–something that can only be determined once the surgery takes place–necessitated a nerve transplant. The most difficult and time-consuming aspect of the surgery was finding the two locations above and below the area of injury among all the scar tissue to which to attach the transplanted nerve, taken from Bird’s ankle.

“It may likely take the better part of a year until he notices some improvement,” said Dr. Kaufman following the surgery. “That’s how long it can take for a nerve graft to regenerate.” This is unlike those of Dr. Kaufman’s phrenic nerve patients–who don’t require an actual nerve transplant–who sometimes feel an immediate improvement.

Part of the difficultly of Don Bird’s case may have to do with the extent of time from the original trauma until the onset of phrenic nerve-related difficulties (Bird had eight cases of pneumonia within the past two years). Bird had a neck procedure for removal of a melanoma at the age of 17. That original trauma was 32 years ago. Dr. Kaufman’s patients usually average a year or two from the onset of the original trauma to the phrenic nerve surgery.

Perhaps the best endorsement of Dr. Kaufman’s surgery was the comment by guest observer Dr. Shaocheng Zhang, Professor, Chief Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics, Changhai Hospital. Dr. Zhang is the special invited guest who traveled from China to be part the November 5th symposium, Solutions for Spinal Cord Injury, Paralysis and Neuropathy with the doctors from The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction.

Following the surgery, Dr. Zhang, a world leader in his area of his specialty told Dr. Kaufman, “You did a good job under the circumstances.”

Concludes Dr. Kaufman, “With this surgery, we have given Don Bird a chance to recover from his injury. My sense of the result is cautious optimism that in the months and years to come, Don Bird will see some improvement.”

Dr. Kaufman will next see the patient on Sunday morning, with subsequent appointments to make sure Bird is stable before returning to his native Australia.

Bert Baron, host of New Jersey Today! on WCTC 1450 am, featured Australian Don Bird and his surgeon, Dr. Matthew Kaufman, for an hour live broadcast on his show on Wednesday, November 2, fewer than 48 hours from Bird’s phrenic nerve surgery. Baron asked all the right questions, leading to a subsequent flood of interest from those with issues and questions on the various nerve surgeries performed by Kaufman and the physicians at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction. Baron concluded the interview by telling Don Bird that in all due respect to his native Australia, the radio host once tried Vegamite, and couldn’t hack the taste of that famous Aussie staple. To listen to the full interview, click onto the podcast at http://media.wctcam.com/Podcasts/1597/donbird.mp3

The past two days consisted of media appearances by both patient and physician, Dr. Matthew Kaufman, and to watch and listen to the two of them was nothing short of both heartening and inspiring.

Often those of us not intimately involved with illness or medical procedures are not privy to what underlies this journey. At the conclusion of the hour-long on air interview on WCTC Radio, and less than 48 hours before his surgery, Don Bird said: What I haven’t expressed yet is that if nothing more comes of this, my family and I are glad we made the journey.

For Bird and his wife, an apparent “pit bull” who never took “no” for an answer from Don’s Australian physicians and searched the Internet to find Dr. Kaufman, the quest has brought out the best in their community: from their 14-year-old son bike riding over 1,000 kilometers in ten days for fundraising for his dad (that netted $13,000); to the three schools his children attend each waiving the year’s tuition on behalf of his Don Bird Foundation—as Bird said on the air, “Sometimes saying thank you just doesn’t seem like enough.”

I Knew I’d Found Our Man
It takes an enormous amount of time, testing, phone consultations with fellow physicians, and plain old paperwork to arrange for any patient to undergo surgery. Imagine how complicated all that is with connections between New Jersey and Don Bird’s native Australia. (Kudos to Heather O’Neill, who assists Dr. Kaufman, and was the “lifeline” connection between Bird and The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction and Dr. Kaufman).

Considering the time difference, Bird and his wife at one point awaited a scheduled call from Dr. Kaufman—at 4 am Austrailian time. “I’m sorry for waking you up,” Dr. Kaufman said to Bird. “What doctor says something like that?!” Bird told us as he related the story. He then added that after that gesture and comment by Dr. Kaufman, “I knew I’d found our man.”

Divine Luck
Don Bird made it out of Australia one day before Qantas Airlines, his scheduled carrier, went on strike and shut down operations. He made it with one day to spare before the sudden East Coast snowstorm shut down local airport operations.

Welcome to New Jersey
The Jersey Shore Medical Center left Bird, his 16-year-old daughter and his mother-in-law who escorted him, a few “provisions” in their hotel when they arrived: a humidifier, some coconut cream cakes, and a double album of Bruce Springsteen.

Dr. Kaufman & Co.
Among those observing Don Bird’s surgery will be Dr. Shaocheng Zhang, of Changhai Hospital. Dr. Zhang has rerouted peripheral nerves to restore function in hundreds of patients with spinal cord injuries, a procedure not currently done in the United States. Dr. Zhang is part of the symposium on November 5, Innovative Solutions for Spinal Cord Injury, Paralysis and Neuropathy: A Multispecialty Approach.

Listen to them live at http://www.wctcam.com/.

Dr. Zhang is a featured guest at the symposium Innovative Solutions for Spinal Cord Injury, Paralysis and Neuropathy, which takes place on November 5th at the Heldrich Hotel, New Brunswick, NJ. The symposium is being hosted by The Center for the Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

The symposium provides a global forum for the world’s most renowned paralysis and nerve surgical specialists to discuss and explore the newest, most innovative approaches to nerve and paralysis injury treatment.

The symposium includes Andrew Elkwood, M.D., Russell Ashinoff, M.D., Michael Rose, M.D., Matthew Kaufman, M.D., Tushar Patel, M.D. of The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction in Shrewsbury, NJ. Dr. Elkwood is also Course Director, Center for the Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. He will expose health care providers to the most advanced new thought processes in evaluating treatment of peripheral nerve injuries, including chronic and catastrophic conditions. Global expert speakers include Dr. Shaocheng Zhang, M.D. Professor, Chief Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics, Changhai Hospital, The 2nd Military Medical University, China and Wise Young, Ph.D, M.D., W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Topics discussed will include:

• Current research trends for Spinal Cord Injury treatments that have been presented around the globe.
• Algorithms that determine the appropriate choice of prosthetic in patients with Spinal Cord Injury, various forms of paralysis and nerve injuries.
• Secondary treatments for Stroke, Spinal Cord Paralysis, Bells Palsy, Diaphragm Paralysis and Phrenic Nerve Injury and why these neurologic issues are frequently under treated.
• The importance of interdisciplinary communication between the surgical and non-surgical specialties in helping to improve patient outcomes.

Additionally, the physicians will reference ground-breaking surgical cases, including the story of Australian Don Bird, 48, who is traveling to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for a pioneering procedure – phrenic nerve transplant – to be performed by Matthew Kaufman, M.D., of The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction on November 4th, 2011.

The symposium is open to practicing physicians and clinicians. If you would like more information about the symposium or are interested interviewing one of the featured physicians, please contact Katie Kranz at kkranz@pointsmedical.com, 973-998-8008, Ext. 101. Further information on the symposium can be found on http://www.advancedreconstruction.com/?post_type=event&p=1310

COMPELLING HOPE SYMPOSIUM AGENDA
Heldrich Hotel, 10 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, New Jersey
Saturday, November 5th, 2011
8:30am – 4:30pm
8:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.: REGISTRATION AND BREAKFAST

8:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.: Opening Remarks, Andrew Elkwood, M.D. Course Director, Center for Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ

9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.: Introduction of Invited International Nerve Surgeons, Wise Young, Ph.D., M.D., & Guest Shaocheng Zhang. M.D. Wise Young, Ph.D, M.D., W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ & Shaocheng Zhang, M.D. Professor, Chief Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics, Changhai Hospital, The 2nd Military Medical University, China

9:15 a.m. – 10:10 a.m.: Stem Cells and Spinal Cord Injury, Wise Young, Ph.D., M.D.

10:10 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.: Surgical Treatments for Brachial Plexus & Spinal Cord Injury, Andrew Elkwood, M.D.

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.: Coffee Break & Research Update CPRNS, Russell Ashinoff, M.D. Center for Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center

11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.: Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation (PM&R), Michael Armento, M.D. Spinal Cord Rehabilitation, Cerebral Palsy, Neuromuscular Diseases, Children’s Specialized Hospital, Mountainside, NJ

12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: LUNCH

12:45 p.m. – 1:35 p.m.: Surgical Treatment for Lower Extremity Neuropathy, Michael Rose, M.D. Center for Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center

1:35 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Surgical Interventions for the Paralyzed Diaphragm, Matthew Kaufman, M.D. Center for Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center

2:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.: Prosthetic Rehabilitation after Limb Amputation, Heikki Uustal, M.D. Director of Prosthetics and Orthotics Team, JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, Edison, NJ

3:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Surgical Treatments for Facial Paralysis, Tushar Patel, M.D. Center for Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center

4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.: QUESTIONS/ADJOURN

The symposium is open to practicing physicians and clinicians, and select media are invited to attend. If you would like more information about the symposium or are interested interviewing one of the featured physicians, please contact Katie Kranz at 973-998-8008, Ext. 101. Further information on the symposium can be found on http://www.advancedreconstruction.com/?post_type=event&p=1310

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Q: You trained in breast cancer reconstruction at the prestigious MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. What has this experience enabled you to provide your patients in terms of advanced techniques and aesthetic expertise?

The MD Anderson Cancer Center is the largest cancer hospital in the country. They have a large department that deals with breast reconstruction. What I benefitted from in training and rotating in that center is seeing how they use a multidisciplinary approach to treating breast cancer. From the start with being diagnosed, having biopsies done, meeting with oncologists, plastic surgeons, social workers and psychologists all in one center, I was exposed to the entire aspect of that multidisciplinary approach. The Cancer Institute of New Jersey, where I am involved, is also an NIH-funded facility where they closely mimic the approach of MD Anderson. The patients can meet most of their healthcare professionals and have their treatments performed at one institution.

This is rare. There are similar centers across the country, but most places don’t have a comprehensive center like this. The main benefit is convenience, because when a patient gets diagnosed with breast cancer there are lots of questions and issues that may arise. There are so many physicians she has to see–ranging from the breast surgeon to the radiation and medical oncologist to the reconstructive surgeon. This involves the psycho-social aspects as well, including meeting with psychologists and genetic counselors. If you’re telling a patient she has to see five or six different specialists, and they are all located in different places, it’s tough to navigate through all that. It’s nice having a comprehensive center where most of those facets are contained in one place.

Q: You offer various options for breast cancer reconstruction: pedicled TRAM flap, free TRAM flap, latissimus dorsi flap, DIEP flap and implant reconstruction. What factors determine which approach you would recommend to a patient?

It’s all individually patient-based, and there are a number of factors involved—such as smoking, diabetes, other illness, the age of patient, along with the need for post-operative radiation therapy. One thing often not sufficiently taken into account is the psychological well-being of the patient. She’s been diagnosed with cancer; she has multiple different doctors to see, and she may not be ready to discuss and ultimately undergo some of the more involved types of breast reconstructions. I take all this into account, and then offer the patient the most reasonable reconstructive option for her.

Q: Can you outline the basic details of breast reconstruction surgery?

The different types of breast reconstruction are basically broken down to a minimum of three procedures. The first surgery is at the time of the mastectomy, which may include placement of a tissue expander/implant or reconstruction with a flap. Once the patient has healed from this initial surgery, then the next stage involves placing permanent implants, when appropriate, along with symmetry procedures on the cancer-free side if needed. The third stage involved is creating a nipple and subsequent areola around the nipple. The first is the most comprehensive, while the final two are usually done in an outpatient setting.

There are two main categories for breast reconstruction. One is using synthetic compounds, such as implants and tissue expanders. The other is using the body’s own tissue. Within those two categories, there are different available options. The implant procedures are the easiest to recover from, as they involve the least amount of surgery with a quicker overall recovery. However, we do sometimes compromise symmetry and more natural results with the synthetics. Also, if the patient is going to receive radiation afterwards, implant-based reconstruction may not fare well. The benefits of one’s own tissue are a more natural looking breast, and one that will tolerate radiation better when needed. The down side is that these are more involved operations. The surgery takes longer, as does the recovery.

There is probably a 50/50 percent division between the two main types of surgery I perform. Sometimes there is a combined approach, such as a latissimus dorsi flap with an implant underneath one’s own tissue to reconstruct the breast.

Q: What makes a patient a good candidate for breast cancer reconstruction, and why are some patients better suited for immediate vs. delayed reconstruction?

In my practice, roughly 80 percent of the time I try to do immediate reconstruction. The benefit of immediate reconstruction is being able to salvage one’s own native breast skin which often will maintain sensation. Also, when women wake up from anesthesia they have a breast mound present, which is psychologically very important. In the delayed option, a patient wakes up with no breast, and over time that skin shrinks and is not able to be utilized as efficiently for the reconstruction. In these patients, we must take skin from the belly or the back, which will be insensate.

Those who undergo delayed reconstruction are often not psychologically prepared to absorb all the reconstructive options to make informed decisions at the time of their cancer diagnosis. Others have very aggressive breast cancers whom we know will need radiation and chemotherapy afterwards; we tend to concern ourselves with doing reconstruction later. With each reconstructive procedure, there is a four to six week recovery time, during which a patient cannot receive chemotherapy or radiation.

Obviously, taking care of the cancer comes first (such as chemotherapy and/or radiation); therefore,  the reconstructive procedures sometimes may be delayed until the cancer is treated fully and effectively.

Q: Breast cancer reconstruction not only has a great physical impact on the patient, but an emotional one as well. How would you describe your treatment approach?

The office visit is where it all starts, and at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, we don’t put a restriction on how much time we spend. Sometimes it is a half-hour, sometimes an hour or 90 minutes, and often multiple consultations are needed before all the questions are answered and all options explored. The main goal from my viewpoint is to make the patient feel comfortable. As a reconstructive plastic surgeon I am usually the last on a patient’s list of doctors to see. By that time, she is fairly exhausted—from the shock of her diagnosis to seeing all her physicians. I try to make it simple for her. I explain the main types of reconstruction available, and the pros and cons of each. And I recommend an option based on her individual case.

Overall, nationally, studies show breast reconstructive surgery is underutilized. Statistics show that almost 70 percent of women who are eligible for breast reconstruction following cancer surgery aren’t well informed of their options for it.

In our practice, the number of women who at least explore reconstruction is fairly high, because at facilities like the Cancer Institute of New Jersey, every woman undergoing breast cancer surgery is informed of her breast reconstructive options.

Q: What is on the horizon in terms of innovations in breast reconstruction?

The implants are improving. We have silicone (as opposed to saline) implants which provide better aesthetics (they look and feel more natural); they may tolerate radiation a little better. We have various techniques that make the flap surgeries more elegant. There’s a whole area of fat grafting, in which we use fat from different parts of the body to help give the reconstruction a more uniform, asthetically pleasing appearence. Although fat grafting is not entirely where we want it yet, it is evolving.

Q: What’s the end goal of breast reconstruction surgery?

I’ve been performing these surgeries for many years. I tell all my patients that the main goal of breast reconstruction at the very minimum is to be able to look and feel as normal as possible in clothes.

Q: What inspires you about breast reconstruction surgery?

What really stands out is the younger patients in their early or mid-30s, who have breast cancer or have the genetic mutation for breast cancer requiring the removal of their breasts. They are early in their adulthood, with a lifetime ahead of them. These are patients for whom we are providing a service they will appreciate for the rest of their lives.

Questions to ask your plastic surgeon

It is very important that you get all of your questions answered by your plastic surgeon before having breast reconstruction. If you don’t understand something, ask your surgeon about it. Here is a list of questions to get you started. Write down other questions as you think of them. You may want to record your talks with your surgeons or take notes. Some people bring a friend or family member with them to the doctor to help remember what was said. The answers to these questions may help you make your decisions.

• Can I have breast reconstruction?
• When can I have reconstruction done?
• What types of reconstruction could I have?
• What is the average cost of each type? Will my insurance cover them?
• What type of reconstruction do you think would be best for me? Why?
• How many of these procedures have your (plastic surgeon) done?
• What results can I expect?
• Will the reconstructed breast match my other breast?
• How will my reconstructed breast feel to the touch?
• Will I have any feeling in my reconstructed breast?
• What possible problems should I know about?
• How much discomfort or pain will I feel?
• How long will I be in the hospital?
• Will I need blood transfusions? If so, can I donate my own blood?
• How long it take for me to recover?
• What will I need to do at home to care for my incisions (surgical wounds)?
• Will I have a drain (tube that lets fluid out) when I go home?
• How much help will I need at home to take care of my drain and wound?
• When can I start my exercises?
• How much activity can I do at home?
• What do I do if my arm swells (this is called lymphedema)?
• When will I be able to go back to normal activity such as driving and working?
• Can I talk with other women who have had the same surgery?
• Will reconstruction interfere with chemotherapy?
• Will reconstruction interfere with radiation therapy?
• How long will the implant last?
• What kinds of changes to the breast can I expect over time?
• How will aging affect the reconstructed breast?
• What happens if I gain or lose weight?
• Are there any new reconstruction options that I should know about?

(Source: American Cancer Society)

About Dr. Russell Ashinoff

Dr. Russell Ashinoff provides special expertise in reconstructive microsurgery, particularly for breast cancer reconstruction and traumatic injuries.

Dr. Ashinoff earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science at the University at Albany, graduating with honors and receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Research. He was awarded his Doctor of Medicine degree from the State University of New York at Syracuse. Dr. Ashinoff was then chosen to continue his training in General Surgery at the renowned New York University and Bellevue Hospital program in Manhattan. While there, he spent an additional year conducting research in the Laboratory for Microvascular Research and Vascular Tissue Engineering. His work was featured at several national and international meetings, and was published in numerous medical journals.

Dr. Ashinoff was then invited to train as a Fellow in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Emory University in Atlanta. While there, he worked alongside pioneers in the field of plastic surgery, learning the most innovative and advanced techniques in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. During this time, he also published scientific articles on Eyelid Rejuvenation and Breast Reconstruction, as well as authoring a book chapter on the treatment of pediatric craniofacial trauma.

Dr. Ashinoff is Double Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and The American Board of Surgery. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS).

Wednesday, October 19th at the following times and stations:

7:00pm-NJTV
11:30pm-NJTV
12:30am-WNET

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Following a serious bout of pneumonia in August 2010, Don suffered paralysis of his phrenic nerve, a large nerve in the chest that controls the diaphragm, which is integral to breathing. The condition also caused his right lung to deflate and other internal organs to shift, leaving him chronically short of breath and at great risk for recurring pneumonia, infection and inflammation. Without Dr. Kaufman’s surgical intervention, Don’s lungs will become too scarred and future episodes of pneumonia will be untreatable.

Phrenic nerve transplant is not available in Australia. Here in the United States, Dr. Kaufman pioneered the innovative procedure and is currently the only known surgeon in the country to perform it. To date, he has done approximately 40 of these operations, with an 85% success rate in reversing the paralysis. He feels strongly that Don is a good candidate for phrenic nerve transplant, which will increase Don’s lung function and allow him to lead a normal, more active lifestyle. Don’s wife, Kylie, learned of Dr. Kaufman and his life-saving surgery while researching treatment options for Don on the Internet.

According to Dr. Matthew Kaufman, “Cases of phrenic nerve paralysis like Don Bird come to The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction from around the country and the world. I am proud of the fact that our reputation is international, and that I have personally been privileged to make a positive impact on so many people’s lives. Our team of physicians and health care professionals is dedicated to treating individuals with breathing difficulties due to phrenic nerve paralysis, and also offers groundbreaking treatment for many other types of paralysis and nerve injuries.”

To raise funds for Don’s trip and treatment, family and friends have established The Don Bird Foundation (www.donbirdfoundation.org.au <http://www.donbirdfoundation.org.au/> ). Through various events and raffles, the foundation has raised approximately $53,000 toward its goal of $100,000 by October 2011. It’s truly become a family affair, with Don’s 13-year-old son, Rylan, and father-in-law, Ray McNamara, cycling 1000 km from Sydney to Geelong to assist with fundraising. Don is scheduled to come to the United States on October 30, accompanied by his 16-year-old daughter, Remingtyn, and mother-in-law, Kerry McNamara, and have Dr. Kaufman perform the surgery on November 4.

“I cannot go untreated, as I continue to have pneumonia and chest infections every six to seven weeks due to my reduced lung capacity and function,” says Don, just released from the hospital after yet another bout of pneumonia. “I’m so grateful to everyone who has helped me and my family. I am looking forward to the operation, as I have missed out on lots of activities I did prior to this illness and want to return to work as soon as I am able.”

Dr. Andrew Elkwood of The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction is a renowned expert in the treatment for brachial plexus injury. In his nearly 20 years of medical practice, he has successfully treated countless patients with brachial plexus injuries, including the most complex cases. Dr. Elkwood is the founder and Chairman of the Center for the Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at the Jersey Shore Medical Center, which was established to deal with brachial plexus and other nerve injuries. Dr. Elkwood and his colleagues at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction are among the few or only experts nationally and worldwide to perform all aspects of reconstructive procedures.

In addition to conducting both surgical procedures and research, the mission of the Center is to apply these same techniques to other nerve injuries, such as those to the spinal cord and those resulting from stroke.  Physicians at the Center also perform Bell’s palsy treatment, radial and ulnar nerve surgery, foot drop treatment, and an entire range of other nerve reconstruction procedures.

What is brachial plexus injury?

The brachial plexus (brachial means arm; plexus means communication or meeting point) refers to the nerves that exit the cervical spine and pass down to the shoulder and arm. This network of nerves conducts signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm and hand. Brachial plexus injuries are caused by damage to those nerves. These injuries are not uncommon in adults, and are mostly due to trauma. However, there are other injuries similar to, but not necessarily to the brachial plexus. Brachial plexus is the procedure for which we have received the most attention, but my focus is all peripheral nerve injuries—from the face down to the toes.

Can you explain the various procedures you do for brachial plexus treatment?

Depending upon the seriousness of the injury, treatments for brachial plexus injury range from a “wait and see approach,” with physical therapy, to complex surgical reconstruction. At the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, we also perform nerve transplant surgery to help patients who have suffered massive injuries to the brachial plexus, or other types of paralysis.

Can you clarify the various procedures?

Technically, transplant is transferring something from one place to another. (In reality, the medical profession considers transplant taking from one person to another.) Taking something from within the body and putting it somewhere else actually is considered grafting. A transfer is taking a nerve from the general locale and using it within that locale, without completely disconnecting that nerve. I perform all of these procedures.

A patient’s surgical treatment regimen needs to be personalized, as it is often a complex, multi-step undertaking. Some patients are not candidates for nerve surgery, and some patients have maximized the benefits from nerve surgery, but if necessary, the plan should not end there. There are many procedures that can be undertaken to help. Muscle transfers, tendon transfers, muscle flaps, and joint fusion are some of the procedures that may also benefit patients with paralysis.

What advice would you give to those seeking treatment for brachial plexus injury?

As with any illness or injury, the type of treatment selected is potentially a very emotional topic. Because of the complexity of the treatment, I believe the most important aspect of a search for care is to consider a complete approach to a solution, rather than a solely compartmentalized one.

Using a true team approach to care is the hallmark of our practice. You need a team to integrate all the modalities I have described. There are very few institutions that truly use this approach. I consider myself a “soloist” in brachial plexus and peripheral nerve surgery procedure. I personally perform all of these procedures with my team’s support. By being the lead surgeon in each of these modalities, I can best integrate an overall care plan for the patient. This is very critical and counter to those who advertise the “team approach,” but merely hand the patient off from one team member to another.

You call yourself a “soloist” of brachial plexus surgery. What exactly do you mean?

I know of no other surgeon that performs all aspects of this type of surgery. There are a number of steps and surgeries I explore with every patient, and I don’t quit until every treatment or surgical option has been considered and, if relevant, performed.

You referred to the various surgeries you perform for brachial plexus injury. What are they necessary?

There is a hierarchy of care. Ideally, I want to get the patient as close to the way God designed him or her as possible. Sometimes, additional nerve surgeries are necessary. Often I do muscle transfers, tendon transfers, muscle flaps, and joint fusion.

In the majority of cases, I have to go beyond the first and most obvious step to ensure the best possible results. One procedure results in improvement, but to maximize results, a patient often requires a multi-faceted approach. It’s a process, not an event. There are multiple goals: One goal is to return movement; then, another goal is to restore feeling.

The most important goal, which is often overlooked, is to decrease pain. Paralysis can be very painful.  Most patient complaints aren’t the paralysis, it’s the pain. You know the feeling when you hit your funny bone and that initial pain takes your breath away. Imagine hitting your funny bone and living with that initial pain 24/7. Alleviating that agony alone is huge.

With so many possible procedures, how do you define success?

The way I define success is that patients are happy they had surgery. If they don’t need to take narcotics for pain, if they gained movement—they’re happy. If there is an improvement in their quality of life—they’re happy.  I am proud to say that the vast majority of my patients are glad that they had surgery and would do it again.

Can you give a specific example of what sets you apart in your approach to brachial plexus surgery?

I treated a college student from North Carolina with a gunshot wound who had previously undergone a vascular reconstruction of his right arm. The fact the doctors kept his arm alive was fantastic. However, his arm was limp, basically useless. His doctors, who had after all saved his arm, doubted there was anything else that could be done. Unfortunately, this is what often happens. He was referred to me through his neurologist. I did an initial surgery and about 80% of the nerve damage was improved. But I realized more could be done (he still did not have the use of his hand).  I went through the hierarchy, and performed several surgeries. He got back the use of his hand. This was a young man who need not have “settled” for a partial cure, or get sent on his way because a surgeon couldn’t advise him beyond that person’s specialty.

Why did you take on the aspect of multi-level care of this injury?

I see, and treat, these procedures from “soup to nuts.” It’s just the way I see the world.  That’s why, for example, in addition to my medical training, I went to Columbia University to get my MBA—to perfect my understanding of health policy issues. As remarkable as it may seem, nerve surgery can be unsophisticated in a certain sense. These days, medical professionals tend to be specialized, so often the care is not particularly integrated. Very few want to take on complex, multi-layered procedures. My interest is in system accessibility: filling the gaps.

Is there a final message you want to communicate?

From the least to most complicated cases, I am dedicated to return patients to the best quality of life possible. I have devoted my career to this specialized surgery, and hope that this explanation will assist those who require brachial plexus treatment. I particularly pride myself in taking care of patients who have been told that nothing can be done, or that they have maximized their treatment, but I can take them to the next level. It’s rare that I see someone that I say there is nothing I can do. I’m going to get them better than they were—that’s my obsession.

When breast tissue is removed during surgery, it is analyzed by a pathologist. In Kathy’s case, this proved life-saving. Breast cancer was detected in the samples.

“It’s kind of hard to describe. If my sister wasn’t with me to also hear it, I wouldn’t have believed it,” says Kathy of her diagnosis. While she does have a family history (her now deceased paternal grandmother had a mastectomy 20 years ago), Kathy has had regular mammograms, none of which detected any cancer. “My breast reduction was a blessing that saved my life. My oncologist told me that if I hadn’t had it, by the time my cancer would have been found, it would have been Stage 4.”

Things moved swiftly, and one week after receiving her diagnosis she underwent a bilateral mastectomy with Dr. Jarrod Kaufman, followed by immediate breast reconstruction. She has since completed the second stage of the reconstructive process with Dr. Ashinoff and expects to complete the third, and final, stage by spring 2012. She sees Dr. Ashinoff every six weeks for monitoring to ensure she is healing properly.

“Today I’m feeling great and my shoulders and back feel fine,” remarks Kathy, whose treatment and recuperation period were strained by the loss of her father to rectal cancer and her nephew in an automobile accident. “Sometimes I get a little emotional. I’m a single parent with an 18-year-old daughter, so I’ve had to focus on keeping my job and health insurance. It definitely has been hard, but I’m grateful to be alive.”

“Kathy is one of my favorite patients. She brings a smile to my face every time I see her,” says Dr. Ashinoff. “Her bravery in the face of a number of very difficult trials this year has impressed and inspired me. She is a great example for other patients in similar situations.”

“Dr. Ashinoff called me personally the night after he told me I had cancer,” Kathy says. “Every single time I’ve had surgery, he’s been phenomenal. I’ve seen him just before having anesthesia and he’s always made me feel relaxed, comfortable and confident that I’d be fine.

“I’ve recommended him and his staff at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction to so many people. I can’t say enough how special and caring he is. I’ve never felt this way about a doctor before. He’s really touched my life.”

The Kentucky resident, now 58, suffered a paralyzed diaphragm. Following chronic pneumonia and extreme shortness of breath resulting from her condition, she was told there was no treatment and she should get her affairs in order. “I was given just six to 12 months to live,” remembers Julia, who had seen a host of doctors.

Through Internet research, she learned about Dr. Kaufman and the microsurgical phrenic nerve decompression that would ultimately save her life. In May 2010, she had the procedure and today feels great, breathes better and leads a normal, active life. “Before it was hard for me to function. My oxygen level at the time of my surgery was only 37%,” Julia says. ”Now it’s 98%. All my doctors are amazed and my family is very relieved. It’s remarkable.”

A retired high-school teacher and author, Julia has penned a book about her miraculous experience with diaphragm paralysis entitled Till Breath Do Us Part. It specifically mentions Dr. Kaufman and the integral role he played in saving her life. Julia currently is editing the copy and looking for a publisher. Her wish is to find one soon so that her future readers, some of whom may be facing serious health problems of their own, can draw hope and faith from her story.

“I’ve had my difficulties, but I still have a life and a lot of hope,” offers Julia. Of Dr. Kaufman, she says, “I have the utmost respect for him. I’ve never met anyone as encouraging, calm and patient. It’s a real gift that he has. And his staff is the same way.”

“We are extremely excited about Julia’s successful results, as the procedure has proven to be life-changing for people with diaphragm paralysis who were previously told nothing can be done,” says Dr. Kaufman, who presently is the only known surgeon in the United States to perform this innovative surgical procedure. “Additionally, this represents a significant opportunity for patients with breathing difficulties due to diaphragm paralysis, an uncommon condition most often caused by surgical or anesthetic complications, chiropractic manipulation, spinal cord injury, or trauma.”

No doubt about it, migraine headaches can run—read ruin—someone’s life. That’s why a new procedure is getting a lot of publicity lately.

Some doctors are using plastic surgery as a way to relieve the pain associated with migraine headaches. In one study, two neurologists and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons investigated the effects of a brow lift procedure that included the removal of the migraine-triggering nerve areas. Of the 49 patients who had this procedure, 83 percent said that they were suffering from migraines half as frequently as they did before. More than half of the patients reported that their migraines had been completely eliminated.

The study appears in the August issue of the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

The surgery works like Botox <http://www.webmd.com/skin-beauty/guide/cosmetic-procedures-botox>  injections now widely used, though not approved, for the treatment of migraines. At the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, we treat migraine suffers with Botox, as well as in some cases, a “minimally invasive procedure” – no visible scarring, which involves releasing one or more of the “trigger points” involved in the inflammatory process resulting in migraine.

According to Dr. Matthew Kaufman of The Plastic Surgery Center and The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction in Shrewsbury, NJ, “Botox has been clearly demonstrated as a potentially effective treatment for migraine headaches.  It was recently FDA approved for this purpose, and for many patients, it provides headache relief when other medical therapies have failed.  We perform hundreds of Botox injections per year for migraine sufferers at our practice, most of whom have found it to be amazingly successful.

“Surgical treatment for migraine headaches has been available for the last five years, and is usually reserved for patients who have previously benefited from Botox.  The results of this minimally invasive procedure have been promising.  In our own series of patients who have undergone migraine relief surgery, we have a 75-80% rate of success in reducing or eliminating headache symptoms.”

“A browlift procedure is a cosmetic surgery intended to elevate the brow position, and reduce the lines and furrows of the forehead.  The techniques involved in a browlift do overlap with some of the same steps as those undertaken in migraine relief surgery.  Therefore, it is not surprising that patients undergoing browlifts may also find some relief from migraine symptoms.  Whether a browlift procedure can be touted as a treatment for migraine headaches remains to be seen.”

About Dr. Michael Rose

Dr. Michael Rose is an expert in reconstruction following cancer surgery or deforming accidents. He is particularly skilled in nerve decompression surgery for diabetics with peripheral neuropathy, and is one of only 15 surgeons worldwide trained in this technique.

Dr. Rose received his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine. He performed research throughout his medical school years and published several papers and book chapters during that time. He also presented at national and international meetings and received a national award for his research.

Dr. Rose then completed a five-year general surgery residency at New York University Medical Center, where he was selected as executive chief resident and won the award for Best Surgical Educator for that year. During his residency, he did a one-year fellowship in the plastic surgery laboratories at New York University Medical Center.
Dr. Rose completed his training with a plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. While at Emory, he published research on the safety of cosmetic surgery.

Dr. Rose is double board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is also a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
For six consecutive years since 2006, Dr. Rose has been recognized as a peer-determined Castle Connelly Top Doctor for the New York Metropolitan area. He has been widely published in medical journals, and featured in major local and national media.

Dr. Rose is a board member of The Cancer Support Community of The Wellness Community of the Jersey Shore since 2008.

“Let me be abundantly clear – my ability to function effectively has never been impeded by migraines and will not affect my ability to serve as commander in chief,” Bachmann said in a statement issued through her campaign. She also read the prepared remarks aloud during a campaign stop in South Carolina.

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction could likely offer Ms. Bachmann some assistance. Botox treatment for migraines, available at our practice, has proved successful enough to have gained approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

According to migraine treatment expert Dr. Matthew Kaufman, “We perform hundreds of therapeutic botox injections for migraine sufferers, most of whom report anywhere from moderate to significant improvement in both the frequency and intensity of their headaches.  All of our patients are also under the care of a neurologist or other headache specialist to coordinate other forms of therapy.

Botox relaxes muscles around the face and neck.  There is a theory that migraine headaches are caused by inflammation in the small nerves and blood vessels in different parts of the head, and so by reducing pressure around the nerves, there is less inflammation in those blood vessels, and less headaches occur.”

In addition, in selected cases, and those who have been successful with Botox, we perform minimally invasive surgical procedure for “trigger point site release.”

“Trigger point release is a procedure that permanently may reduce or relieve migraine headaches.  It is basically the surgical equivalent of what botox does on a temporary basis – relieving pressure on the small nerves in the areas where the headaches occur.  The surgery is minimally invasive and done on an outpatient basis.”

We have now treated between 10 and 20 patients with various types of migraine headaches, including a condition called occipital neuralgia. The vast majority of those treated have experienced some benefit, usually manifesting as a reduction in the intensity and frequency of headaches.  A few patients have actually been completely cured of their headaches altogether.”
We care about pain management, and understand the desire for migraine suffers to explore relief. That’s why we employ these cutting-edge procedures when possible.

Dr. Elkwood was sought out for his expertise nationwide and even worldwide in various advanced reconstructive surgery procedures and transplants. He discussed the world’s first double leg transplant, performed by Dr. Pedro Cavadas in Valencia, Spain on July 11. The patient is a young man in his 20’s who suffered an accident, causing amputation of both his legs above the knee. Doctors tried artificial legs but they did not work because the patient’s amputation was so far above the knees.

In his 15-minute interview, Dr. Elkwood elaborated on the implications of such a surgery. While acknowledging this pioneering procedure, he pointed out, “It is widely accepted that even transplanting one’s own leg is controversial, let alone two donor legs.”

The complex, 14-hour procedure means it will be at least a month before doctors know if it has been a success. However, as Dr. Elkwood pointed out, “The key question is the body’s ability to withstand the powerful immuno-suppressant drugs that this transplant patient will have to take for the rest of his life.

To watch the full program visit:

http://www.ntn24.com/videos/cst-todo-un-exito-el-primer-trasplante-de-piernas-en-el-mundo-012961

I was speaking with a friend whose close family member suffered a C2 injury (refers to the location, the second cervical vertebrae) twenty years ago.  He has been following the Eric LeGrand story very closely and commented how twenty years ago, when his relative was going through the same thing, the treatment options and rehabilitation methods were far less sophisticated than they are currently.

The team of doctors and healthcare professionals that I work with at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction are also committed to advancing treatments for spinal cord patients.  We offer surgical therapy to reverse many of the consequences of spinal cord injury.  Although we cannot yet restore walking ability to a paraplegic, we may be able to restore sensation to the buttock area to prevent pressure sores, or be able to reverse ventilator dependency for a patient with a high cervical spinal cord injury.  Some of the surgical treatments on the horizon include: restoring bladder and/or bowel control and providing the ability for some upper extremity function in quadriplegics.

Congratulations to Eric LeGrand, and may he continue to make steady progress on his road to full recovery, just as treatment options for all individuals with spinal cord injury continue to advance at a slow, but steady pace on the path to an ultimate cure.

Matthew Kaufman, MD, FACS

(Shrewsbury, NJ-June 20, 2011) — Tis’ the season for skin care. And while summer skin cancer prevention is universally preached, teens and young adults are not getting the message. No one knows that better than Dr. Matthew Kaufman of the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction and The Plastic Surgery Center in Shrewbury, New Jersey. Kaufman, whose charity work includes cancer screening of teens and young adults, says, ”This is the demographic that least appreciates the fact that sun damage is cumulative.” Dr. Matthew Kaufman has the rather rare distinction of achieving board certification in both Plastic Surgery and Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery. This gives him the added expertise necessary to deal with complex cosmetic and reconstructive problems of the head, face and neck.

In addition to his other duties, Kaufman is the volunteer Medical Initiative Director for FM World Charities, a worldwide organization whose goal is to increase awareness of common, treatable illnesses among all populations. In the organizations’ Vans Warped Tour in 2008, for example, which targeted their efforts to the 16-25-year-old age group, it screened 6,500 youth for skin cancer, 700 of whom needed follow up. Dr. Kaufman serves as one of the medical experts evaluating the screenings, done by innovative new technology.

Dr. Kaufman stresses the importance of these skin cancer screenings, and of taking steps for skin cancer prevention. While early detection results in an estimated 99% survival rate in skin cancers, a small lesion in a 20-year-old is likely to be ignored for years before becoming symptomatic and life threatening.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. More than 3.5 million skin cancers are found in over two million people diagnosed annually. In addition to sun exposure, 2.3 million teens practice indoor tanning, another skin cancer risk. Follow these recommendations from Dr. Kaufman and the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction and The Plastic Surgery Center:

• Avoid sun exposure when possible; seek the shade.
• Wear sunglasses, a hat and other gear to protect against harmful rays.
• Generously apply sunscreen, and reapply as needed.
• Avoid burning and tanning.
• Skip indoor tanning; apply sunless self-tanning products instead.
• If you participate in outdoor sports or other activities, apply sunscreen year round (harmful rays can penetrate even on cloudy days).
• Reapply sunscreen during breaks in activity, especially if you have been sweating or swimming.
• Make a habit of carrying sunscreen with you to all activities. Keep sunscreen out of direct sun.

Adults including parents, teachers and coaches, can do a lot for protecting young people by teaching important healthy lifestyle habits. Start by spreading the word and following the recommended tips above. Concludes Dr. Kaufman, “From my patients to my own children, protecting the skin–the largest organ of the body–is a top priority.”

Shrewsbury, N.J. – May 25, 2011 – The Plastic Surgery Center today announced that a rare, complex surgery was performed to repair the critically injured right hand of a 15-year-old boy, after it was nearly severed by the wheels of a train on April 4th. As a result of the procedure, which was performed by Dr. Russell Ashinoff of the Plastic Surgery Center, the teenager from Elberon, NJ, has avoided amputation and is expected to regain function of his hand.

The initial surgery took place at the Center for the Treatment of Paralysis and Reconstructive Nerve Surgery at the Jersey Shore University Medical Center on April 4, 2011. As part of the procedure, Dr. Ashinoff used advanced microsurgical techniques to repair the arteries and restore blood flow to the hand, decompress the damaged nerves, and repair the broken bones and severed tendons. The process required five surgical procedures over two weeks to remove all of the non-viable tissue. Once the wound was controlled, a skin flap from the lower abdomen and skin grafts were used to replace the damaged tissue and cover the exposed arteries, nerves, tendons and bones.

“This young boy experienced an unfortunate and unique trauma to his hand, which could have certainly led to amputation,” said Dr. Ashinoff. “We are very pleased that we could help save his hand. And, given his young age, we are confident that with the addition of physical therapy, he should be able to regain the use of his hand.”

Dr. Ashinoff is a part of the medical team at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at the Plastic Surgery Center, which is comprised of a group of surgeons who are highly skilled in nerve transplantation and advanced reconstruction. They perform a number of unique operations to help patients suffering from life-altering medical conditions who are often told there are no treatment options available. Some of these conditions that the Plastic Surgery Center treats include:

• Paralysis resulting from accidents and strokes
• Lymph node transplant for lymphedema
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Paralyzed diaphragm/ventilator-based breathing
• Facial reanimation
• Nerve decompression for migraine headaches

About The Plastic Surgery Center
Located in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, The Plastic Surgery Center’s team of doctors has more than 50 years of combined experience performing facial, skin, and body cosmetic surgery. They offer cutting edge cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and have developed a number of innovative surgical techniques offered at few other facilities in the world. The Plastic Surgery Center doctors are committed to excellence providing exceptional, personalized care in a friendly, comfortable setting using the most advanced equipment available. For further information, please visit www.advancedreconstruction.com, www.facebook.com/ThePlasticSurgeryCenter, www.twitter.com/PlasticSurgNJ.

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Dr Tushar Patel

Prior to his accident on June 18, 2009, Robert worked for a large telecommunications company. Although his injuries prevented him from returning to his previous employment, by August of 2009, Robert had already rejoined his modern rock band. The injuries he sustained to his left hand, in combination with his blindness, posed a great challenge to continuing his musical career. However, Robert now relies on muscle memory to play guitar.

“This accident has forced me to relearn simple things most people take for granted,” said Robert. “But I have Dr. Patel to thank for giving me a new lease on life.  He repaired my hand and face so I could play the guitar again and feel more confident and comfortable every day.”

“We are thrilled to be able to help Robert,” said Dr. Patel. “I’ve operated on him about ten times within the past year, and we are pleased with the success of the reconstructive surgeries we’ve performed on his face and hand. We wish him the best of luck as he pursues his career in music.”

About The Plastic Surgery Center

Located in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, The Plastic Surgery Center’s team of doctors has more than 50 years of combined experience performing facial, skin, and body cosmetic surgery. They offer cutting edge cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and have developed a number of innovative surgical techniques offered at few other facilities in the world. The Plastic Surgery Center doctors are committed to excellence providing exceptional, personalized care in a friendly, comfortable setting using the most advanced equipment available.

Connect with the Plastic Surgery Center on Facebook and on Twitter.

*The name of the patient has been changed for confidentiality reasons.

Dr. Russell Ashinoff

During the procedure, Dr. Ashinoff constructed a base, taking cartilage from Mr. King’s ribs and carving it into the shape of his missing right ear.  The base was then placed under the surrounding scalp skin, in order to let the body generate a blood supply to the cartilage.  The surgery was performed on February 24, 2011 at Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township, NJ.  In approximately six weeks, it is expected that the base will have healed and the cartilage will be elevated from the side of the head.  At that time, Dr. Ashinoff will then perform the second procedure, where he will place a skin graft behind the new ear to complete the reconstruction.

“We are very pleased to be able to help Jimmie by reconstructing a new ear,” said Dr. Ashinoff. “Importantly, by using Jimmie’s own cartilage and skin, we were able to avoid having to replace the ear with a prosthetic, which would need to be constantly replaced.  This procedure will allow Jimmie’s ear to permanently look and feel like it did prior to the incident.”

“It was fate that Dr. Ashinoff was on call at the hospital the morning of my accident,” Mr. King noted.  “I cannot wait to see the end result and to finally be able to put on a pair of sunglasses again.”

NJ Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr. Ashinoff is a part of the medical team at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at the Plastic Surgery Center, which is comprised of a group of surgeons who are highly skilled in nerve transplantation and advanced reconstruction. They perform a number of unique operations to help patients suffering from life-altering medical conditions who are often told there are no treatment options available. Some of these conditions that the Plastic Surgery Center treats include:

• Paralysis resulting from accidents and strokes
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Paralyzed diaphragm/ventilator-based breathing
• Facial reanimation
• Nerve decompression for migraine headaches
• Treatment of Lymphedema

For more information, please visit www.advancedreconstruction.com

The Plastic Surgery Center, a leading New Jersey plastic surgeon center, announced that it is expanding its operations with a new office located at 561 Cranbury Road in the Robert Wood Johnson Surgical Center Building in East Brunswick.  The 2,090 square-foot space will be used to house office hours for Dr. Matthew Kaufman and Dr. Tushar Patel, which began in January. The office will not be used for any surgical procedures.

“We are opening a new East Brunswick office as part of our recent expansion, which includes the addition of Dr. Patel, who joined our practice in September,” said Dr. Andrew Elkwood of the Plastic Surgery Center.”

Dr. Michael Rose of the Plastic Surgery Center continued, “We are very pleased to be opening our newest location, as it will enable us to continue to provide the highest level of services that our patients have come to expect.”

New Jersey Plastic Surgery Center Opens New Location

The East Brunswick location, recently opened by this New Jersey plastic surgeon center, represents the fifth office for the Plastic Surgery Center, which has additional locations in Shrewsbury, Freehold, Brick and Manhattan.

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction’s team approach to medicine ensures that patients receive the highest possible quality of care, and hence the most functional and natural-looking reconstruction possible.  The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction’s reputation for excellence is such that patients often travel considerable distances to take advantage of their expertise.

The Plastic Surgery Center’s team of doctors has more than 50 years of combined experience performing facial, skin, and body cosmetic surgery. They offer cutting edge cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and have developed a number of innovative surgical techniques offered at few other facilities in the world.

The Plastic Surgery Center doctors are committed to excellence providing exceptional, personalized care in a friendly, comfortable setting using the most advanced equipment available.  With the opening of a new location in East Brunswick, they will be committed to achieving this goal for all of their patients.

For further information, please visit the Plastic Surgery Center’s website at www.looknatural.com or call 866-263-9123

The Plastic Surgery Center announced that reconstructive surgeon Dr. Andrew Elkwood, a leading plastic surgeons in New Jersey, has completed a week-long medical mission to East Jerusalem, where he provided highly specialized treatment to underprivileged children with congenital malformations and injuries.

As part of the mission, Dr. Elkwood lent his unique expertise in complex procedures involving advanced reconstruction to train local doctors and nurses.

“I feel very fortunate to help so many children requiring advanced reconstructive care,” said Dr. Elkwood, a board certified plastic surgeon and the Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Monmouth Medical Center. “It was a very rewarding experience and I look forward to my next trip.”

Dr. Elkwood and pediatric surgeon Dr. Saad A. Saad co-led the mission, sponsored by the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF).

Top Plastic Surgeon Spearheads Medical Mission

Dr. Elkwood, one of the top plastic surgeons in New Jersey, is part of the medical team at The Plastic Surgery Center in Shrewsbury, NJ, which is comprised of surgeons who perform a number of unique operations to help patients suffering from life-altering medical conditions often unaware a treatment is available. Some include Paralysis resulting from accidents and strokes, diabetic neuropathy, paralyzed diaphragm/ventilator-based breathing, facial reanimation, and nerve decompression for migraine headaches.

The physicians of the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction are recognized as leaders in the field of nerve reconstruction and plastic reconstructive surgery.  With over half a century of combined experience, they can bring an impressive body of knowledge to bear on difficult cases.

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction’s team approach to medicine ensures that patients receive the highest possible quality of care, and hence the most functional and natural-looking reconstruction possible.  The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction’s reputation for excellence is such that patients often travel considerable distances to take advantage of their expertise.

For further information, please call 866-263-9123 or visit www.advancedreconstruction.com.

Dr. Andrew Elkwood, a top New Jersey plastic surgeons, is skilled in many of the newest plastic surgery techniques.  In addition to his expertise in cosmetic surgery, he is a regional, national and international expert in nerve reconstruction surgery for patients who have lost the use of a limb from nerve damage. Dr. Andrew Elkwood is skilled in microsurgery, limb replantation, and microsurgical cancer reconstruction.

Dr. Andrew Elkwood’s cosmetic and reconstructive surgery has been featured on many Television programs including; CBS News, The Learning Channel, The Discovery Channel, 20/20, The Rikki Lake Show and the Ali and Jack Show.  He has been written about in numerous newspapers and magazines including Forbes, The Asbury Park Press, and The Star Ledger.

Top Plastic Surgery Doctors in New Jersey

Dr. Michael Rose, one of the leading plastic surgeons in New Jersey, is double board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery.  He is also a Fellow of The American College of Surgeons (FACS).

Dr. Rose has trained with some of the original pioneers of eyelid and cheeklift surgery, and he brings those techniques to The Plastic Surgery Center.  The most modern and safe techniques for facelifts, cheeklifts, eyetucks, and browlifts are utilized by Dr. Rose.

He also specializes in breast augmentation, reduction and lifting, as well as body sculpting procedures such as tummy tucks, thigh, arm and buttock lifting and liposuction.

He has a special interest in body contouring after massive weight loss surgery and has been featured nationally and locally on WPIX News, Good Morning America, ABC News, CBS News, the Discovery Channel, News 12 New Jersey and in the Asbury Park Press.  Dr. Rose has been named a Castle Connelly Top Doctor for the last five consecutive years.

Stop in today for a top of the line consultation from some of the best plastic surgeons in the region.  For more information on the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, please call 1-866-263-9123 or visit http://www.advancedreconstruction.com.

Dr. Andrew Elkwood

Dr. Andrew Elkwood is skilled in many of the newest plastic surgery techniques. In addition to his expertise in cosmetic surgery, he is a regional, national and international expert in nerve reconstruction surgery for patients who have lost the use of a limb from nerve damage. Dr. Andrew Elkwood is skilled in microsurgery, limb replantation, and microsurgical cancer reconstruction. Dr. Andrew Elkwood’s cosmetic and reconstructive surgery has been featured on many Television programs including; CBS News, The Learning Channel, The Discovery Channel, 20/20, The Rikki Lake Show and the Ali and Jack Show. He has been written about in numerous newspapers and magazines including Forbes, The Asbury Park Press, and The Star Ledger.

Dr. Michael Rose is double board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is also a Fellow of The American College of Surgeons (FACS). Dr. Rose has trained with some of the original pioneers of eyelid and cheeklift surgery, and he brings those techniques to The Plastic Surgery Center. The most modern and safe techniques for facelifts, cheeklifts, eyetucks, and browlifts

Dr. Michael Rose

are utilized by Dr. Rose. He also specializes in breast augmentation, reduction and lifting, as well as body sculpting procedures such as tummy tucks, thigh, arm and buttock lifting and liposuction.  He has a special interest in body contouring after massive weight loss surgery and has been featured nationally and locally on WPIX News, Good Morning America, ABC News, CBS News, the Discovery Channel, News 12 New Jersey and in the Asbury Park Press.  Dr Rose has been named a Castle Connelly Top Doctor for the last five consecutive years.

Connect with the Plastic Surgery Center on Facebook and on Twitter.

Lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of fluid that causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs. The condition develops when lymph vessels or lymph nodes are missing, impaired, damaged, or removed.  Lymphedema typically develops in individuals who have had certain surgical procedures that remove a lymph node or radiation therapy to a lymph node region. The condition can occur within a few days, months, or even years after surgery.

The most common treatments for lymphedema include bandaging, proper skin care and diet, compression garments, exercises, and manual lymphatic drainage, a gentle form of skin stretching/massage.  Now, doctors at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at The Plastic Surgery Center are offering an alternate procedure that may provide patients with more relief.

Lymph Node Transfer

Microsurgical lymph node transfer uses cutting edge microsurgical techniques in which lymph nodes are transferred to the affected limb, resulting in an improvement in limb swelling and decrease in infection rate in most patients. Lymph node transfer surgery is a relatively new and exciting option for the management of lymphedema.

Please contact Dr. Ashinoff at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at The Plastic Surgery Center by calling 1-866-263-9123 to learn more about the treatment of lymphedema and to schedule an evaluation for a microsurgical lymph node transfer.

Connect With The Plastic Surgery Center on Facebook and on Twitter.

“Migraine headaches can be a debilitating condition, which is often difficult to treat with medication,” said Dr. Matthew Kaufman, of the Plastic Surgery Center.  “We have been very encouraged by patients’ success in receiving Botox for migraine treatment and believe the FDA’s approval for Botox has implications to help the hundreds of thousands of people who suffer chronic migraines.”

To treat chronic migraines and mitigate future symptoms, Botox is administered approximately every three months as multiple injections around the head and neck.  Certain types of migraines and headache conditions respond to Botox better than others.  Only a physician experienced in treating migraines with Botox will be able to determine if someone is a candidate for this type of treatment.  The Plastic Surgery Center advises patients speak with a doctor to determine if Botox is the right treatment.

Dr. Kaufman is part of the medical team at the Plastic Surgery Center, which is comprised of a group of surgeons who are highly skilled in nerve transplantation and advanced reconstruction. They perform a number of unique operations to help patients suffering from life-altering medical conditions who are often unaware that a treatment is available.  Some of these conditions that the Plastic Surgery Center treats include:

Paralysis resulting from accidents and strokes

• Diabetic Neuropathy
• Paralyzed diaphragm/ventilator-based breathing
• Facial Reanimation

About The Plastic Surgery Center

Located in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, The Plastic Surgery Center’s team of doctors has more than 50 years of combined experience performing facial, skin, and body cosmetic surgery. They offer cutting edge cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and have developed a number of innovative surgical techniques offered at few other facilities in the world. The Plastic Surgery Center doctors are committed to excellence providing exceptional, personalized care in a friendly, comfortable setting using the most advanced equipment available. For further information, please visit www.advancedreconstruction.com, www.facebook.com/ThePlasticSurgeryCenter, www.twitter.com/PlasticSurgNJ.