DR. DONALD L. SCHASSBERGER, M.D.

WATERVILLE, ME

Research Active
Plastic Surgery NPI registered 21+ years 1 publication 2009 – 2009 NPI: 1518960103

Practice Location

325D KENNEDY MEMORIAL DR
WATERVILLE, ME 04901-4530

Phone: (207) 873-4411

What does DONALD SCHASSBERGER research?

Dr. Schassberger studies gastrointestinal fistulas, specifically enterocutaneous fistulas that can occur as serious complications in patients who have experienced traumatic injuries. His research emphasizes the difficulties in managing these complications, which often require multiple surgeries and an extended hospital stay. By examining specific cases, he aims to improve the understanding of how to treat these complex injuries effectively and the necessary collaboration among healthcare professionals needed for successful outcomes.

Key findings

  • In a case study of a 49-year-old man with a gastrointestinal fistula, it took four months of multiple surgeries to manage the condition before ultimately closing the fistula.
  • The patient developed a serious complication after a car accident, which illustrates how traumatic injuries can lead to complex medical challenges.
  • The study highlights that managing GI fistulas results in longer hospital stays and higher medical costs, emphasizing the need for coordinated care.

Frequently asked questions

Does Dr. Schassberger study gastrointestinal conditions?
Yes, he focuses on gastrointestinal fistulas, particularly those that develop as complications from traumatic injuries.
What treatments has Dr. Schassberger researched?
He has researched multiple surgical interventions and management strategies for enterocutaneous fistulas.
Is Dr. Schassberger's work relevant to patients with traumatic injuries?
Yes, his findings are particularly relevant for patients who experience complications like gastrointestinal fistulas after traumatic events.

Publications in plain English

Managing complex, high-output, enterocutaneous fistulas: a case study.

2009

Ostomy/wound management

Hahler B, Schassberger D, Novakovic R, Lang S

Plain English
This study looked at a 49-year-old man who developed a serious complication called a gastrointestinal (GI) fistula after a car accident. He had a large open wound that produced a lot of fluid, and it took four months of multiple surgeries and treatments to manage it. Ultimately, the fistula was closed, but sadly, the patient died a week later from a heart problem. This matters because it highlights how GI fistulas complicate medical care, leading to longer hospital stays and higher costs, requiring the skills of many healthcare professionals. Who this helps: This helps patients with GI fistulas and their healthcare teams.

PubMed

Frequent Co-Authors

Barbara Hahler Rachel Novakovic Stephanie Lang

Physician data sourced from the NPPES NPI Registry . Publication data from PubMed . Plain-English summaries generated by AI. Not medical advice.