fbpx

What is Home Health Care Service?

With old age, your body may become increasingly weak. It may be difficult to walk and even go to the bathroom, let alone doing your own chores anymore. For this reason, your family members may check on you more often and try to help you with some chores. However, family members may be living far away, they may have work responsibilities or a child to take care of. In this case, it becomes increasingly difficult for a person to create time. In another case, you or a relative may have had an accident and have temporary or permanent difficulties in taking care of themselves. Even if a relative offers to help you, caring for a patient is not easy and may require some professional knowledge.There are some care centers for people who need care. But many people do not want to give up the comfort of their own homes. Both old age and the healing process involve similar stress. And in this process, being in an environment where the person feels comfortable is among the situations that improve the general health status. As a result of this situation, the necessity of home health care services has emerged.

Although home healthcare has been provided by the family or local community for many years, this service has also started to be provided by health professionals trained in patient care with the developing period. This service, which was quite expensive and accessible only to the rich at first, has changed over the years and has become a service that everyone can access.

Home health care means the care provided in their own homes to people who cannot carry out their own care for any reason, who have medical treatment that needs to be applied for a long time (such as IV drip administration, injection). Home healthcare can cover comprehensive care that includes health professionals such as a nurse, a physical therapist, and a language and speech therapist. In addition to medical care, it may also include patient caregivers within the scope of chores or social services who help with the personal care of the patient.

This service is often confused with home care service. Although both mean a home-based care service, in home health care, the person performing the care is a licensed health professional and is separated from the home care service in this aspect. For this reason, health care also covers diseases such as postoperative care or the treatment of chronic health conditions.

Home health care is a unique service not only because it is provided at home, but also because it is as comprehensive, curative and more convenient as the health care provided in any hospital or care center. 

Who Receives Home Health Care?

There are many conditions covered by home health care, and it is not possible to mention them individually. Chronic diseases usually require regular monitoring and regular use of medications. Treatment of chronic diseases such as HIV/AIDS, and thyroid may require regular medication use, careful diet, and follow-up with a hospital appointment. In general, if you have any of the following conditions, you may want to consider taking advantage of home health care:

  • In the presence of surgical wounds or pressure sores
  • Intravenous injections or injections containing nutritional therapy
  • Serious diseases such as cancer
  • Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart failure
  • Newborns at risk
  • Having an unstable health condition that requires follow-up
  • The postoperative healing process

What is Included in the Home Health Care?

Home health care refers to the care provided by licensed medical personnel in a person’s own home. The general purpose of the service is to improve their health by providing the necessary care to people who are injured or have an illness. Thanks to the service provided, you can recover, regain your former independence, extend your life span, and maintain your current condition. In addition to health, that also provides an opportunity for patients to be independent. In this context, you can expect the following in home health care:

  • Personal care: Taking a bath, going to the bathroom and eating are among the daily activities that a healthy person can do alone without difficulty under normal conditions. However, it may be difficult to perform even these activities in illness or old age. In this case, the person who cares for you will help you provide your personal care.
  • Monitoring of vital signs: Criteria such as blood pressure, respiratory rate, body temperature give information about people’s vital activities. It is necessary to ensure regular follow-up in case of a serious illness, after surgery or in elderly people.
  • Medical treatment: People who benefit from home health care often have medications that they need to consume regularly. These medications might be taken orally, as well as intravenous administration may be required. In addition, some patients may not be able to be fed orally. In this case, a patient might be fed by various ways such as nasogastric, gastrostomy, or intravenous. In these and similar cases, a medical staff trained on the subject will support you in the implementation of the treatment planned by the doctor.
  • Chores and garden work: It is not enough just to receive good medical care for the improvement of health. The cleanliness of the environment you are in, your healthy and balanced diet are also effective in this process. For this reason, a care personnel who will support you in maintaining your social life such as cleaning, cooking, washing the laundry, or gardening, and paying bills may be included among the person or persons who will provide care within the scope of home health care.
  • Social life: The definition of health is defined by the World Organization as a state of well-being both physically and mentally. It may not be enough to implement your medical treatment properly and well at home. Mental health is also very important during the stressful recovery process. It may be good for you to spend time with family members and friends during this process. However, in some cases, there may not be someone constantly next to the patient. The formation of a bond of trust with the person providing your care during this process may make the patient feel that their need for sociability has been met.

Where to Apply for Home Health Care?

There are several ways to apply for home health care. The first step is always for the doctor to evaluate the situation. After listening to your various examinations and medical history, your doctor prepares a home health care plan. You can apply to an insurance company with a doctor’s prescription or get detailed information by contacting the institutions that provide home health services. Whichever way you prefer, make sure that you have detailed information about what the service covers, how the quality is provided, and the fee and payment plans of the fee. Before applying for a home health care service, you can check whether it meets the eligibility criteria for services. 

How Much Does Home Health Care Service Cost?

There are many situations in which home health care service is applied. You may have difficulty continuing your life on your own, or you may need support for your treatment. In this case, you can receive home health care services from an institution. There are various scopes of the service you receive. For example, in some cases, it is enough to visit your home every few days, while in some cases, the care provider may need to stay overnight. In some cases, it is sufficient to check your medical treatment, while sometimes you can request a service that includes personal care. Given all these changes, the scope of care you want or the person providing the service (such as a nurse, or a patient caregiver) may cause differences in the fee for the service. For this reason, you can get information about your insurance coverage and details about the fee and payment plan by contacting an institution that provides the service for more accurate information about home health care.

What is In-Home Physical Therapy?

Some individuals may experience problems such as pain or loss of functional mobility. These individuals can get help from a physiotherapist who is an expert in their field. Physical therapy care can be performed in different environments according to the wishes and needs of the individual. Some patients want to undergo physical therapy in the hospital, while others may not want to leave their houses. In such cases, physiotherapists can go to the homes of individuals and perform physical therapy care at home for them. What is in-home physical therapy? You can read the rest of the article to learn more comprehensive answers to questions such as who can benefit from this service and how to do physical therapy at home.

What is In-Home Physical Therapy?

In-home physical therapy method is when patients, who need physical therapy for any reason, receive this service in their own homes. This method is designed to enable patients to access the physical therapy program in a comfortable environment at home. In-home physical therapy can be applied when patients do not leave the house arbitrarily or compulsorily, usually as a result of illness, injury or other conditions. Thanks to this method, patients can receive treatment comfortably in their own homes. In addition, in-home physical therapy can help patients improve their daily living activities while supporting the healing process. 

Who Can Benefit from In-Home Physical Therapy?

Various people can benefit from in-home physical therapy services. Here are some examples:

  1. Postoperative Patients: Physical therapy may be needed after surgical operations. In-home physical therapy service can help patients in the rehabilitation process after surgery. It can support wound healing, increase mobility and speed up the process of returning to daily activities.
  2. Those Experiencing Muscle and Joint Problems: Individuals with muscle and joint problems may benefit from in-home physical therapy services. This service can increase muscle strength, improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
  3. Sports Injuries: Athletes or individuals who have had sports injuries can benefit from home physical therapy services. This service can support the rehabilitation of sports injuries, help restore mobility and guide the preparation for sports again.
  4. Neurological Conditions: Neurological conditions, such as post-stroke or Parkinson’s disease, can be supported with in-home physical therapy. This service can help individuals improve muscle and balance coordination. It can also improve walking skills and the quality of life.
  5. Those with Chronic Pain: Individuals with chronic pain can benefit from in-home physical therapy services. This service can help manage pain, increase muscle flexibility and make daily activities more comfortable.

These are just some examples and in-home physical therapy services can be applied for a wide range of conditions and ailments. Individuals who want to benefit from in-home physical therapy can consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their situation. 

How Can In-Home Physical Therapy Be Received?

In-home physical therapy may be the best option for patients with a condition that limits their ability to move. Most patients who receive in-home physical therapy are referred to this method by their doctor. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a local physical therapy service or sign documents stating that in-home physical therapy is required. This medical report states that the patient cannot leave the house due to certain conditions, so they need to have the physical therapy service at home. 

How is In-Home Physical Therapy Performed?

You can follow the following steps to benefit from in-home physical therapy:

  1. Finding a Physiotherapist: You may first need to find an experienced physiotherapist to receive in-home physical therapy services. The physiotherapist manages the treatment process by creating a treatment plan that is suitable for you. You can get help from healthcare institutions, doctor’s advice or physiotherapist associations to find a physiotherapist.
  2. Evaluation and Planning: The physiotherapist firstly evaluates the patient’s condition. This evaluation is conducted by performing a physical exam, range of motion tests, and other appropriate tests.
  3. Treatment Sessions: According to the treatment plan determined by the physiotherapist, in-home physical therapy sessions are conducted. These sessions are usually held weekly. The physiotherapist shows you customized exercises and treatment techniques. Doing these exercises regularly can increase the efficiency of treatment.
  4. Monitoring and Progress: During the in-home physical therapy process, your physical therapist follows your progress. They communicate regularly between sessions and can change the treatment plan as needed.
  5. Practice at Home: During in-home physical therapy sessions, your physical therapist teaches you the right techniques and practices. It is important that you do these exercises regularly. You may need to use the appropriate equipment or procure the necessary supplies to continue physical therapy at home.
  6. Constant Communication: It is important to be in constant communication with your physiotherapist during the in-home physical therapy process. You should share your progress and provide information about any discomfort or problem you are experiencing. You should follow your physical therapist’s instructions and actively participate in the treatment process.

 

Prices for In-Home Physical Therapy?

The prices of home physical therapy may vary depending on various situations. These factors include geographic location, service provider’s level of expertise, length of treatment, and number of sessions required. In-home physical therapy prices may also depend on whether you are covered by health insurance, the insurance company’s policy terms and payment arrangements.
Prices for in-home physical therapy services are usually in the form of a first-session examination fee and then a separate fee for subsequent sessions. The level of expertise, experience and quality of service of your physiotherapist can also affect prices.
It is difficult to set an exact price, as prices differ from depending on the service provider. Therefore, when considering home physical therapy services, it is important that you first contact your physiotherapist or healthcare provider and get detailed information about prices. This way, you can get a clear agreement on treatment costs and payment options. 

What are the Benefits of In-Home Physical Therapy?

There are many benefits of in-home physical therapy:

  1. Comfort and Convenience: In-home physical therapy allows patients to receive treatment in their own home environment. Therefore, patients can receive treatment in a familiar and comfortable environment.
  2. Personalized Treatment: In-home physical therapy offers a customized treatment tailored to individual needs. The physiotherapist evaluates the patient’s physical condition and needs at home and arranges the treatment plan accordingly. In this way, the treatment is completely oriented to the personal needs of the patient and more effective results can be achieved.
  3. Mobility and Independence: Physical therapy at home can increase mobility and enable patients to perform activities of daily living more independently. 
  4. Postoperative Rehabilitation: In-home physical therapy plays an important role in the rehabilitation process after surgical operations. The physiotherapist supports the wound healing of post-operative patients, increases mobility and accelerates their return to daily life activities. In-home physical therapy can help patients complete this rehabilitation process more effectively in the comfort of their homes.

 

What are the Risks of In-Home Physical Therapy?

Although in-home physical therapy may seem useful and comfortable, it also has some risks. One of the most common risks is the risk of injury as a result of incorrect technique and practice.  However, most of the risks can be avoided with proper communication between patient and therapist.
In addition, it may sometimes be necessary to increase strength during physical therapy. Pushing these limits can exacerbate symptoms or cause the individual to fall. For example, if an individual with a cardiac problem overloads themselves during physical therapy, it may lead to increased blood pressure.  However, potential risks can be avoided as physiotherapists are trained to monitor vital signs such as blood pressure and pulse rate and reduce risks during each therapy session.

Physical therapy is a treatment method that can be applied in hospitals, rehabilitation centers or individuals’ own homes. You can apply to Enez Health Hospitals to benefit from in-home physical therapy facilities or to have more information about this topic.

 

What is Home Care Service?

Individuals can undergo various treatments in cases such as injury or illness. They can receive these treatments in hospitals, health centers or in their own homes. There are many advantages of home care service. Having individuals receive care in their own homes both allows them to be more comfortable and can help them recover faster. You can read the rest of the article to learn more comprehensive answers to questions such as what is home care service, what are the conditions for home care and what does home care service cover.

What is Home Care Service?

Home Care Service is a service that enables individuals to access health services in their own homes. This service is available for individuals who need home care, such as the elderly, those with chronic illnesses or those who need long-term care. The aim of home care service is to protect the health of individuals, increase their quality of life and support their independence. This service may include regular check-ups to monitor patients’ treatment progress, assess their health status and intervene when necessary. In addition, this service can reduce hospitalizations and reduce the cost of health services by enabling individuals to live independently in their homes for longer periods of time. In this way, the burden of the patient’s family in terms of care delivery can be alleviated. 

What Do Home Care Services Cover?

The range of health services that a patient will receive at home is quite wide. Provided that the individual meets the necessary conditions, he or she can receive care in almost any subject. Home care services cover the following:

  1. Healthcare services: Home health services include health checks such as doctor visits, medication follow-up, wound care, blood pressure measurement, and blood tests. A doctor or a nurse periodically reviews the individual’s needs and prepares a care plan for them.
  2. Personal care: These services include helping individuals meet their cleaning, dressing, eating and toilet needs.
  3. House cleaning: Within the scope of home care service, assistance with housework such as house cleaning, laundry and ironing can be provided.
  4. Nutrition services: Services such as preparing meals at home and providing foods suitable for special dietary needs are included in this category.
  5. Physical therapy and rehabilitation: In-home physical therapy and rehabilitation services aim to support individuals with mobility problems with exercises and treatment methods. In particular, some individuals may need help on how to return to their daily lives after injury or illness. An appropriate care plan is prepared for the patient, taking into account both the physical and mental health of the patient.
  6. Social support: Home care services include providing social support for individuals to maintain social ties. This support may include activities such as social activities, providing friendships and promoting community participation.

These services are often offered by healthcare professionals, caregivers, or private healthcare providers. 

What Are the Conditions For Home Care Services?

There are certain conditions to be able to benefit from home care services. Here are the conditions generally sought for receiving home care services:

  1. Medical requirement: In order to benefit from home care services, an individual must have a medical requirement. This may include conditions such as a chronic illness, disability, convalescence or  old age.
  2. Doctor’s approval: A doctor’s approval is usually required to receive home care services. The doctor assesses the individual’s health status and indicates that home care services are necessary.
  3. Need for home care: In order to benefit from home care services, the individual must really need home care. This includes situations such as experiencing difficulties in daily living activities, requiring care and support, or finding it difficult to live on one’s own.
  4. Family support: It is important that the individual has a family and support system to provide home care services. Family members or caregivers can help or provide support in meeting an individual’s daily needs.
  5. Economic condition: Home care services can often be costly. Therefore, the individual’s economic condition must be appropriate to cover home care services. It is also possible to get financial support from sources such as the government or health insurance.

Individuals who want to receive home care services usually contact healthcare institutions or related healthcare providers to determine the conditions and initiate the necessary processes. Each situation is individual and conditions may change according to the individual’s health status and needs. 

What are the Fees for Home Care Services?

The fees for home care services may vary depending on various factors. Institutions or healthcare providers that provide home care services usually have a specific pricing policy. Home care service fees can be determined depending on the following factors:
Home care services can be offered in a wide range and are charged depending on the type and duration of the service. For example, services such as healthcare, personal care, housekeeping or meal preparation may each have a different pricing policy. In addition,
The frequency of home care services can also affect the price. The frequency of service is determined depending on the needs of the individual. Service procurement in different periods such as weekly, daily or hourly services can be effective in pricing.

Home care services are adapted according to the individual’s health status and needs. This can affect prices, depending on the level of care an individual needs and the complexity of healthcare. However, the fees for home care services may vary according to regional differences. Price policies may differ in different residential areas, such as city centers or rural areas. Additional services and materials used may also be included in the pricing. For example, there may be additional costs such as medical devices, medicines or special nutritional products.
Pricing policies for home care services may vary depending on the service provider. Individuals can get detailed information on pricing, payment options and costs for services by contacting their home care service provider. 

What are the Benefits of Home Care Services?

Home care has many benefits for individuals. These can be listed as follows:

  1. Convenience and familiarity: Home care services allow individuals to receive healthcare services in their own homes. This allows individuals to stay in a familiar and comfortable environment and eliminates the need to stay in a hospital or care facility.
  2. Independence and freedom: Home care service allows individuals to lead their daily lives independently. While individuals continue to live in their own homes, they have the opportunity to carry out their daily activities, maintain their own routines and preserve their freedom.
  3. Personalized care: Home care services can be adapted according to the individual needs and preferences of individuals. The services are planned according to the individual’s health status, lifestyle and special needs. In this way, personalized and attentive care can be offered to individuals.
  4. Continuation of family support: Home care service relieves the burden of care for families and provides support. Working with professional caregivers, family members can contribute or play a supportive role in the care of the individual. This allows family members to spend time with their members and focus on their own needs.
  5. Improving treatment compliance: Home care services can improve individuals’ compliance with treatment plans. Health professionals can follow the treatment of individuals at home, ensure that they take their medications regularly, and closely monitor their health status. This in turn has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the need for hospitalization.
  6. A more economical option: Home care services are usually more economical option compared to hospitals or long-term care institutions. Home care can reduce the cost of health care and reduce the frequency of hospital admissions.

Artifical Bladder Protects Social Life

Urinary bladder tumors and bladder cancer, the fourth most common type of cancer in men, are malign tumors originating from the tissues of bladder wall. Its symptoms include frequent urination, sense of burning while urinating, bleeding, incontinence and sudden urge to urinate. In some types of bladder cancer, only treatment is the removal of the bladder. If the bladder should be removed, patients usually delay that surgery and the reason is the necessity of urinary bag use. However, if they know that urinary bag will not be necessary, then they decide for surgery earlier, increasing the likelihood of full recovery. Artificial bladder formed by reshaping the intestines is a method that allows patients to urinate normally and have a more comfortable life. The most important advantage is that this a socially acceptable method that does not lower quality of life. Prof. Dr. Karadeniz explained the treatment of bladder cancer.

What are the causes of bladder cancer?

Bladder is a sphere-like organ that sores the urine coming from both kidneys through urinary tracts (urethra). Malign tumors originating from the inner side of this organ is called bladder cancer. Bladder cancer is more common in men than women. Smoking and chemical substance exposure observed in some factories are among its known causes.

What are the symptoms?

The most important symptom is blood and clots in the urine without pain. In addition, depending on the type of the cancer, complaints like persistent pain during urination and sense of burning towards the end of urination are also reported. This bleeding may not be visible sometimes, but it will be detected in the urine analysis.

How is it diagnosed?

Usually, a mass in the bladder can be easily diagnosed with abdominal or urinary system ultrasonography, and upper and lower Computed Tomography with contrast agent can be used
for diagnosis as well. However, when these examinations are unable to provide a definitive diagnosis, that a method involving the insertion of a camera system through urinary meatus in order to visualize inside the bladder can be used. After diagnosis, Closed TUR Tm (Trans Urethral Resection Tm) operation is performed with an endoscopic camera.

How is TUR Tm performed?

Operation can be performed under general or local anesthesia. Bladder is accessed through urinary meatus and the cancerous section is completely removed and samples are collected from all layers of the bladder by using a special electrical device. The patient can stand up the next day, urinary catheter is generally removed on second or third day and the patient can be discharged.

When is radical cystectomy required?

In this operation; bladder, prostate, portion of the lower urinary tract, seminal vesicles, and lymph nodes around the major surrounding vessels are removed. It takes for 6-8 when performed fully, patient is taken to intensive care for at least 24 hours if needed, and then transferred to the ward. Patients can return home 10-14 days after the operation.

Why the removal of lymph nodes and its number is important?

This is probably the most important part of radical cystectomy operation. Removal of lymph nodes requires special training and experience. However, the more lymph nodes removed the longer the life expectancy of the patient. And in case of cancer in lymphatic tissues, than the actual progression of the disease can be determined for proper planning of additional chemotherapy.

How do patients urinate after the bladder is removed?

The most frequent method is called “ileal conduit”. Both urinary tracts (urethra) are connected to one end of 12-15 cm portion of small intestines and the other end of the intestines is attached to outer abdominal wall. Urine coming to this intestine part via urethra fills into a bag adhered to the skin and the bag is drained by the patients. The urinary bag should be replaced in every 2-3 days. This is artificial bladder (neobladder) method called “orthopedic bladder” which is an important alternative to the old method.

What are the advantages of forming a bladder with intestines?

If the removal of bladder is required, it is not easy for patients to make the decision and such delay negatively impact their life. The most important advantage of artificial bladder (neobladder) is that “it does not lower quality of life” and
it is “socially acceptable”. This operation is performed to allow patients to urinate normally in order for them to have a more comfortable life. A portion of the small intestines is reshaped into a sphere and both urinary tracts coming from the kidney are attached to this; one end of this new bladder is then connected to the urinary tract inside the penis. 15-18 days after the operation, the urinary catheter is removed and patients are trained to urinate with their new bladder. Learning to urinate usually takes 4-5 days, and at the end of this period patients become able to fully empty their bladder.

Scalpel-Free Treatment for Brain Aneurysms

Protruding, bubble-like formations in the brain vessels are called aneurysm and has high death and disability risk if ruptured. Therefore, detected aneurysms must be treated. Today, thanks to advanced medical technologies, aneurysms can be treated by inserting a catheter from the groin area, without scalpel and open surgery. Neuroradiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Minareci explains aneurysm and current treatment method.

People with aneurysm in their family history are at high risk

Aneurysm, ballooning of a weakened blood vessel in the brain, may remain without causing any complaints, however, can cause death or serious paralysis if ruptured suddenly. Therefore, aneurysm must be treated immediately after diagnosis. People with cerebrovascular disease history in their family, aneurysm in a close relative or patients with high blood pressure are at even higher risk. The bleeding risk of an aneurysm is higher in smoking patients than non-smokers.

Only a catheter insertion from the groin

Previously, aneurysm treatment was limited to open brain surgery. In recent years, with the advanced methods in medicine, aneurysm treatment is possible without open surgery; a catheter is inserted from the groin area and guided up to the affected vessel. The duration required for this treatment is significantly less than open surgery and patients can return their normal daily lives within a few days. This treatment method, called embolization, is performed by using state-of-the-art imaging devices and highly specialized materials. The physician must be specially trained (interventional neuroradiology) and experienced in order for a successful treatment.

Recommendations for Fatigue During Cancer Treatment

Fatigue of cancer treatment may last long

Fatigue can be seen as a result of anemia, endocrine changes (changed operation of glands), and respiratory distress that are induced by cancer, and can also be seen in advanced cancer patients receiving cancer treatment. Cancer treatment-related fatigue is seen in 14-96 percent of patients receiving cancer treatment and 19-82 percent in post-treatment patients. Just like pain, fatigue is also associated with personal perception. Patients can describe “fatigue” as exhaustion, laziness, pain, lack of energy, consumed, weary. Fatigue related to cancer treatment is different than the fatigue experienced by healthy individuals during their daily life. Healthy fatigue is a sudden fatigue that resolves with sleep and rest. However, cancer treatment-related fatigue is classified as chronic fatigue as it lasts long, not completely resolves with sleep and rest, and it adversely affects body functions. All functions are negatively affected by fatigue: mood, physical functions, work performance, social relations, family care, cognitive performance, school study etc. The form of cancer treatment-related fatigue varies based on treatment schedule and type. For example, patients who receive frequent (two or three times a week regularly) experience peak fatigue in the days following the treatment, and they feel less fatigue until the next treatment. But fatigue increases with the treatment in radiotherapy.

Recommendations of cancer treatment related fatigue

  • Rest but not too much: Plan our day and take short breaks (30 minutes or less). Have 7-8 hours of night sleep. Consult your doctor if you have any problems with sleeping.
  • Be as active as you can: Regularly exercise at a moderate intensity, and walk. Especially walking has been proved to be the best way to beat fatigue.
  • Plan your daily tasks: Keep a journal where you record how you feel each day. Your doctor or nurse will ask you to evaluate your fatigue with a 0-10 scale and ask the type and what makes this pain good or bod. Keeping records about these questions will make it easier to answer.
  • Reserve your energy: Determine your priorities and plan accordingly. Spread your activities throughout the day and take breaks. Do not engage in activities that require you to stand for long periods of time. Hot showers and baths consume your energy when they last long.
  • Ask for help: Ask for help from your family members and friends. Domestic work, preparing food, running errands… Do not force yourself to do more than you could.
  • Get support: Join a support group. Sharing your feelings with others may decrease the burden of fatigue. You can consult your doctor or nurses or related institutes and persons to reach a support group.
  • Have good nutrition: Drink plenty of water and fruit juice. Eat as good and healthy foods as you can cook. Try to eat at least 2.5 bowls of fruit and vegetables every day. Intake sufficient protein and calorie for your health.
  • Call your doctor: Call your doctor if you feel too weak to get out of the bed, feel disoriented, lose your balance or fall, feel dizzy, experience problems with waking up or if your fatigue gets worse.
  • It will take time for you to feel like your old self, however, if you can achieve to stay active, you can restore your energy quicker.

Don’t be Afraid of Lymphoma Cancer!

Lymphoma, known as lymph cancer in the general public, is a cancer of the lymph nodes. It manifests by enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are not palpable and their growth is unnoticeable in the absence of a harmful stimulant in the body. Lymph nodes form a system that surrounds neck, arm pits, groin and vessels. Hematology Specialist Prof. Dr. Yenerel said ‘’40 years ago only 40% of the patients survived with lymphoma treatment, however, this rate is well above 85% today’’.

‘’Wait- watch strategy’’

Highlighting that lymphoma has 30 sub-types, Prof. Dr. Yenerel states that, in some cases, lymphoma is only followed-up without any necessity for treatment. Prof. Dr. Yenerel said “Disease progresses rapidly for cases. 40 years ago, approximately 40% of the patients survived with lymphoma treatment, today our we can have very successful results in 85%, even 100% of the cases”. In addition to lymph nodes, lymphoma can also be seen in tonsils, spleen, liver and intestines. Lymphoma can have slow, moderate and rapid progression, and it is classified based on disease progression rate. Lymphoma types with rapid progression can manifest with lymph node growth, as well as sweating, weight loss, fever and fatigue. Slow progressing lymphoma types can be closely monitored with a “wait and watch strategy” for years until the lymph nodes cause compression on organs.

Highly successful results with lymphoma treatments

Although the main cause is not clear, lymphoma is known to be affected by contact with pesticides, radiation and environmental conditions, and also has a direct relation with AIDS. However, today, lymphoma treatment can provide extremely successful results. Lymphoma is no longer a terrifying disease thanks to early diagnosis and personal treatment methods. Target-oriented smart drug therapies gradually increases the recovery rates.

Ablation, Freezing and Electric Treatment for Cancer

Cancer is the second most common cause of death in developed countries and there are many modern treatment methods available. Most of the cancer patients are afraid of surgery as much as fear the cancer itself. Image-guided treatment is one of the most important steps of cancer treatment; it provides valuable advantages in terms of patient comfort while destroying the cancerous cells in the most effective way. Liver, kidney, lung and some bone tumors are treated through destruction with ablation method. Radiology Clinic, Interventional Radiologist Prof. Dr. Ucar explained.
For liver, kidney, lung, soft tissue and some bone tumors, in patients who are ineligible for surgery or cannot be operated, the tumor area can be treated by heating, freezing or electrical current without surgical incision. Patients can be discharged one day after the procedure and return their normal life in a few days.

Which specialists decide interventional treatment?

All these treatments are decided by multidisciplinary approach with not only the interventional radiology specialist, but also with a group of doctors who diagnose and regulate the treatment such as medical oncologist radiation oncologist, general surgeon, nuclear medicine specialist, urologist, chest diseases and gastroentrology specialists.

What methods are used?

These methods can be classified in two: ablation and embolization. Ablation methods include radiofrequency, cryo, microwaves and electroporation. By using digital image-guided tomography or ultrasonography, special needles are placed inside the tumor tissue. Tumor tissue is completely destroyed by heating (in radiofrequency and microwave techniques) or by freezing (in cryoablation technique). And in electroporation procedure, a recent method, electrical current is applied to the tumor by using needles. Electrical current damages the tumor tissue by destroying the cell membranes. This treatment is especially used for cancers that are adjacent to vital tissues. The tumor can be completely destroyed while preserving the vessels, bile ducts and urinary canals. These ablation methods are performed in major cancer centers in the USA and provide similar results with surgical operations in tumors less than 5 cm in diameter.
There are embolization methods that extend the life expectancy and quality of life of liver cancer patients who are not eligible for surgery. Embolization is the process of slowing or stopping the tumor growth by occluding the vessels that feed the tumor. This method can be combined with chemotherapy drugs and its efficiency can be increased. In addition, life expectancy can be increased by combining with locally irradiating atoms in patients who are not responsive to chemotherapy. This method is very well tolerated.
It can be performed as ambulatory, without hospitalization.

How is it performed?

In ablation procedure, after local anesthesia and pain drugs are administered, a needle is placed to the tumor location by using tomography or ultrasonography and the tumor is destroyed. Embolization procedure is performed by entering from the pelvic artery in angriography room and finding the portion that feeds the tumor inside the liver artery by using thin tubes. Occluding particles, chemotherapy drugs or locally irradiating atoms are injected.

What should patients expect after the procedure?

The patients are followed up at the hospital for one day. And they can return their daily activities in a few days.

Which patients are eligible for this procedure?

It can be used for liver, kidney, lung, soft tissue and some benign bone tumors (Osteidosteoma etc).

Who are most suitable for the treatment?

Approximately 15-20% of liver cancer patients can be operated. This is due to the fact that the size or number of tumors is too high for surgery, or conditions that prevent surgery such as cirrhosis, lung, heart disease. Ablation methods are used for up to 5 tumors less than 4 cm in diameter, however, larger tumors require embolization methods. Tumor can be destroyed in these treatment or shrinked to a size that is suitable for surgical operation.

What are the advantages of these methods?

  • No anesthesia is used
  • No large surgical incision or wound
  • Short procedure time
  • Patients return their daily life after the procedure
  • No severe pain
  • Lower cost in comparison to conventional surgery

Robotic Era in Hip Prosthesis: Makoplasty

The average lifetime of human is increasing, and so are the diseases. It is mandatory to take precautions against arthritis (calcification) that occur as the people age. As hip joint is one of the main joints that bear the body weight, wear and disruption risks are higher. Stating that hip joint arthritis is more prevalent in women older than 40 years of age, Liv Hospital Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Prof. Dr. Erden Erturer explained the conditions for which hip prosthesis is used and the robotic method in hip prosthetics surgery.

How does hip calcification (osteoarthritis) start?

Hip osteoarthritis or coxarthrosis, known by the general population as the calcification of hip joint, is the most common cause of hip pain in middle aged and older people. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joint. There are many disorders that can cause inflammation and deformation in the joints, and these lead to arthritis by causing permanent damage on joint surfaces. Normally, joint cartilage has a smooth and slippery surface. Arthritis causes thinning, roughness, and fractures in the cartilage that extend down into the bones. As the deformation of the cartilage tissue worsens, contact and friction start between the bone surfaces. The joints lose their smoothness and pain occurs.

What are the symptoms of hip osteoarthritis?

The main complaint of arthritis patients is the pain. Initially, pain aggravates with activity and load, and generally decreases after rest. The pain around the hip may spread to femur and groin areas. As the disease progresses, it restricts joint movements and causes difficulties in walking. And pain does not go away even if the patient rests.

 Aside from calcification, what conditions cause hip pain?

The most frequent types of hip pain are caused by soft tissues like muscle and ligaments in this area. Standing for long periods of time, exercises and movements that are not routine can cause muscle pain. Directly bone-related cancers can be seen in the hip region, as well as cancers with different origins can spread to hip bones and cause pain. Nerves in the hip area originate from the back region.   Therefore, conditions like disc herniated and slipped disc can manifest with pain that extends.

Pacemaker Solution for Back Pain

Many people complain about back and neck pain. And there is this group of people, who can never get rid of pain despite having multiple herniated disk surgeries. Stating that spinal cord pain pacemaker can be a solution for these patients, Liv Hospital Algology Specialist Prof. Dr. Kader Keskinbora said “Some patients still suffer from pain despite multiple back and neck surgeries. If pain management methods, physical therapy and medication provides no pain relief, than the treatment method should be the spinal cord stimulation, a spinal cord pacemaker for pain. In this method, an electrode is placed into the spinal cord of the patient and its end is connected to a current generator (pain pacemaker). The current generated by the pacer is conducted to the spinal cord via electrode and prevents the pain signal from being transmitted to the brain. Patients can control their back and neck pains by activating the pacemaker.”

Depression can cause back and neck pain

Spine-related pains are especially felt at lower back as well as neck and back. These pains may start severely in a sudden way (within six weeks) or can continue at a moderate severity for years. Pain in the lower back and neck area can often be due to muscle spasms, calcification of various joints (facet joints) and disc herniation. These pains may start after an activity or trauma or may occur without an apparent cause. Especially the people with mental and emotional strain, weak low back and abdominal muscles due to sedentary work and lifestyle are at higher risk for lower back and neck pain. If the back and neck pain that are persistent or have sudden onset does not decrease after physical therapy or if surgical correction is not necessary, then interventional pain treatment options can be considered. Injection (cortisone) and radiofrequency treatment can be applied for the facet joint that causes back and neck pain or the nerve roots affected by herniation. In recent years, radiofrequency therapy applied to lower back and nck nerve roots has been considered as more effective than injection treatment and provides longer pain treatment and is preferred as it does not cause any tissue damage.

Pacemaker controls the pain

The other important group of patients are those who have undergone multiple back and neck surgeries but still suffer from pain. After lumbar and cervical herniated disk operation, some patients can have severe leg and low back pain due to some adhesions in the spinal canal.  These patients have to undergo multiple lumbar surgeries as the pain does not relieve after herniated disk surgery. Each herniated disk surgery can cause a new adhesion and therefore further increased pain. If pain management methods, physical therapy and medication provides no pain relief, than the treatment method should be the spinal cord stimulation. In this method, which is also called spinal pacemaker, an electrode is placed into the spinal cord of the patient and its end is connected to a current generator (pain pacemaker). The current generated by the pacer is conducted to the spinal cord via electrode and prevents the pain signal from being transmitted to the brain. With this highly effective method, patients can control their back and neck pains by activating the pacemaker.