DR. MARC HOWARD GERTNER, M.D.

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This study looked at a new treatment called MRI-guided focused ultrasound for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Over two years, 91% of the 44 men had no detectable cancer at the treatment site, and 84% had no cancer throughout their entire prostate. Importantly, patients reported no decline in their quality of life related to sexual function or urinary symptoms after the treatment. Who this helps: This benefits men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer seeking effective treatment options that preserve their quality of life.

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Researchers studied how to effectively recruit and keep diverse children involved in genomics research, focusing on strategies that respect different backgrounds. They found that out of 1,656 eligible children, only 6.5% decided not to participate, and an impressive 87.3% of those who joined completed all study procedures. This is important because it shows that involving diverse families in research can lead to better scientific outcomes that benefit everyone, especially those who are often overlooked in medical studies. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

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This study looked at how multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) can be used to monitor prostate cancer after a treatment called focal laser ablation (FLA). Researchers found that early follow-up MRIs showed unclear scarring in most patients, and among those who had both MRI and biopsy tests, only 25% of patients with significant cancer were detected at early follow-ups, compared to 63-83% at later follow-ups. This is important because it highlights that while early MRIs are not very effective at finding recurring cancer, later MRIs can be much better at identifying it, which helps doctors manage patient care more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing focal laser ablation for prostate cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how the characteristics of patients with traumatic cervical spinal cord injuries changed over 18 years at a major trauma center. Among 1,420 patients, most were men (78.3%) with an average age of 51.5 years, and the leading causes of injury were falls (46.9%) and motor vehicle collisions (34.2%). The study found that more patients had incomplete injuries and better motor scores over time, while complete injuries decreased, highlighting improvements in treatment and injury prevention strategies. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from spinal cord injuries and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well a new method called laser thermal therapy works for prostate cancer patients who had their cancer return after being treated with high-intensity focused ultrasound. Researchers found that this laser treatment is doable and leads to promising results in the short term, meaning it might effectively target the cancer without causing major side effects. This matters because it offers an option for patients whose initial treatment didn't succeed and could help maintain their quality of life. Who this helps: This benefits prostate cancer patients facing treatment recurrence.

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This study tested a new device called iTEAR, which uses sonic waves to stimulate nerves outside the nose, aimed at helping people with dry eye disease. After 30 days of using the device twice a day, participants saw an increase in tear production, with an average improvement from a score of 9.4 mm on the Schirmer test, and their eye-related symptoms improved by an average of 14.4 points on a standardized scale. These findings are important because they show that the iTEAR device can safely and effectively help relieve dry eye symptoms, which can significantly affect people's daily lives. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from dry eye disease.

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This study looked at whether a non-invasive treatment called renal denervation using focused ultrasound can lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure that isn't controlled by medication. In a trial with 81 participants, researchers found no significant difference in blood pressure between those who received the treatment and those who received a fake (sham) treatment, although the safety of the procedure was confirmed. This matters because it indicates that the new technique may not be more effective than no treatment, highlighting the need for more research in this area. Who this helps: This helps patients with high blood pressure who are seeking new treatment options.

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This study looked at how effective a certain type of biopsy, guided by MRI, is in detecting aggressive forms of prostate cancer, specifically those that show intraductal carcinoma and cribriform patterns. The researchers examined data from 154 patients and found that the MRI-guided biopsy identified cancer in 93 cases, while a standard biopsy found it in only 76 cases. This matters because the MRI technique was better at finding more dangerous cancer types, which can lead to improved treatment options for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for aggressive prostate cancer.

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This study looked at how a lack of blood flow to the brain causes nerve cells in the hippocampus (a part of the brain important for memory) to die. The researchers found that when blood flow is cut off, a key protein called mTOR gets degraded, while a process called autophagy (which helps clean up damaged cells) increases. Specifically, they saw that mTOR levels dropped while signs of autophagy rose, indicating that promoting autophagy can protect brain cells from dying during a stroke. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have experienced strokes and may help doctors develop new treatments to protect brain cells during such events.

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Researchers looked at how a community board in Harlem helped shape a study on genetic risks for kidney failure, particularly focusing on people of African ancestry. They found that involving the community made a significant difference in guiding research, especially in explaining genetic risks and ensuring better communication between researchers and local residents. This work highlights the importance of continued collaboration with communities to ensure that research is relevant and considerate of their needs. Who this helps: This benefits patients, especially those with African ancestry at risk for kidney failure.

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This study looked at a new, noninvasive treatment for high blood pressure (resistant hypertension) using focused ultrasound. In a group of 69 patients, systolic blood pressure dropped by an average of 24.6 mmHg after six months and stayed lowered by about 23.8 mmHg after one year. Importantly, 75% of the patients saw a blood pressure drop of more than 10 mmHg, and no serious side effects occurred, though some experienced temporary back pain. Who this helps: This benefits patients with resistant hypertension who struggle to control their blood pressure with traditional medications.

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This study tested a new machine designed to help doctors insert needles into the prostate more accurately during MRI scans for treating localized prostate cancer. In a group of 10 patients, the device made 37 needle insertions, with an average error of 3.5 mm and a typical insertion time of 9 minutes. This improvement in accuracy and efficiency can lead to better treatment outcomes and less damage to surrounding tissues. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing prostate cancer treatments.

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This study looked at how the hormone estradiol affects brain cells in female rats after a lack of blood flow, a condition called global ischemia. Researchers found that giving estradiol two weeks before the ischemia improved the ability of brain cells in the CA1 region to communicate properly, showing better synaptic functioning and long-term strengthening of connections. These findings are important because they suggest that estradiol could help protect brain function after serious blood flow issues and improve cognitive performance. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of brain injuries, especially women, by providing insights into potential treatments.

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This study looked at how a protein called Casein Kinase 1 (CK1) affects another protein known as REST in brain cells after injury, such as a stroke. The researchers found that when the brain is starved of oxygen (ischemia), CK1 decreases and REST increases in certain brain neurons, leading to cell death. By using a treatment that boosts CK1 levels right after the injury, they were able to protect the neurons and prevent their death, showing that CK1 could be a target for future therapies to help brain recovery after such incidents. Who this helps: This helps patients who suffer strokes or other brain injuries.

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The study looked at the effects of a single treatment with low-voltage X-rays at either 16 or 24 Gy combined with the medication ranibizumab on patients with a type of eye disease called neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) over the course of 12 months. Researchers found that both treatment groups experienced improvements in vision, with an average increase of about 8 letters on a vision chart (16 Gy group) and about 8 letters (24 Gy group), and no serious side effects from the radiation. This is important because it shows that this combined therapy is safe and can lead to better vision for patients with AMD. Who this helps: This helps patients with neovascular AMD.

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This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of a combination treatment using low-voltage x-ray therapy and a drug called ranibizumab for patients with a type of vision loss due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). After six months, patients showed an improvement in their vision scores from an average of 38.3 to 44.7 letters. Importantly, there were no harmful effects from the radiation treatment, such as damage to the eyes. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from neovascular AMD.

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This study looked at how targeted radiation affects pig eyes, specifically focusing on the retina's response to different doses of X-rays over 270 days. Researchers found that while 4 out of 12 eyes developed cataracts, the lower doses of radiation offered minimal harm and did not show significant problems in most cases. This is important because it suggests that this type of radiation treatment could be safe for use in similar human conditions without causing serious damage to surrounding eye structures. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors who treat eye conditions and patients who may need targeted radiation therapy.

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This study looked at a new treatment approach for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that combines low-voltage x-ray therapy with an eye injection medication called ranibizumab. Out of 13 patients, there were no serious side effects from the x-ray treatment, and 11 patients maintained their vision while some experienced improvements. This is important because it shows that this combination therapy can stabilize vision in AMD patients while potentially reducing the need for frequent injections. Who this helps: This helps patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

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This study looked at a new treatment system using low-voltage x-rays to help people with age-related macular degeneration, a condition that can lead to vision loss. The treatment delivers x-rays to specific spots in the eye, where each spot receives one-third of the total dose. Tests have shown this method to be safe and effective, paving the way for better options for patients to preserve their sight. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration.

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This study looked at a new method of delivering targeted radiation treatment to the retina in pig eyes to understand its safety and effectiveness. The researchers found that doses of 42 Gy and above caused noticeable damage to the retina, while lower doses (16 and 24 Gy) showed no harmful effects. This is important because it shows that controlled radiation can potentially be used to treat conditions that involve abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye, like age-related macular degeneration. Who this helps: This helps patients with eye diseases, especially those at risk for vision loss due to abnormal blood vessels.

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This study looked at a new treatment approach for patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), where low-voltage x-ray therapy was used first, followed by injections of a medication called ranibizumab as needed. After 6 months, all 13 patients lost 15 or fewer letters in a vision test, indicating that they maintained mostly stable vision, and some even improved slightly. This approach shows promise in stabilizing vision for people with wet AMD, which is important since maintaining vision can significantly affect daily life. Who this helps: Patients with wet age-related macular degeneration.

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This study looked at the effects of a single session of low-voltage x-ray treatment combined with a medication called ranibizumab for patients with a vision-destroying eye condition called neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Over six months, patients showed an improvement in their vision scores, with an average increase of about 9.5 letters on a standard vision chart, and no serious side effects were reported from the radiation treatment. This finding is important because it suggests that combining these two treatments may help many patients maintain or even improve their vision without the risk of harmful effects from radiation. Who this helps: This helps patients with neovascular AMD seeking better vision outcomes.

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This study looked at the effects of a specific gene mutation (Slc25a12) in mice, which is linked to autism and other developmental disorders. The researchers found that mice without this gene developed normally at first but stopped growing properly and died about three weeks later. Their brains were smaller than normal and showed problems with the protective covering around nerve fibers, which could lead to disturbances in brain function. This research is important because it helps us understand how changes in certain genes can lead to brain development issues and increase the risk of conditions like autism. Who this helps: This helps patients with autism and their families, as well as researchers studying developmental disorders.

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This study examined how accurately a new treatment system called IRay can target and deliver radiation to the part of the eye affected by age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers tested the system using ten human cadaver eyes and found that the targeting was very precise, with an average distance of just 0.6 millimeters from the intended treatment area. This precision, along with the effective matching of the delivered dose to what was prescribed, shows that IRay can reliably treat most AMD lesions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with age-related macular degeneration who are seeking effective treatment options.

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This study looked at a new radiation treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a serious cause of blindness in older adults. The researchers found that even when the eye's position changed slightly, the treatment effectively delivered the correct radiation dose to the affected area with less than a 6% variation, while keeping surrounding tissues safe and receiving much lower doses. This is important because it means patients can receive effective treatment with a reduced risk of damaging healthy eye tissues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with age-related macular degeneration.

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Researchers developed a new 2-day water maze test for mice to study memory issues, particularly related to Alzheimer's disease. They found that the mice with three Alzheimer's-related genes (3xTG mice) took significantly longer to escape in the memory test compared to normal mice, showing they had worse memory. This testing method is more reliable and can help better identify memory problems in mice, which is crucial for developing treatments for Alzheimer's. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and researchers studying Alzheimer's disease and potential treatments.

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This study focused on using a specific radiation technique called kilovoltage stereotactic radiosurgery to treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects vision in older adults. Researchers looked at how the treatment impacts nearby organs, particularly the optic nerve, and found that the radiation doses were safe, with a total effective dose estimated at 0.28 mSv—similar to a regular X-ray and significantly lower than a CT scan. This matters because it indicates that this treatment may be a safe option for patients with AMD, helping them maintain their vision. Who this helps: Patients with age-related macular degeneration.

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This study looked at how different factors—like the height of surgical staples, whether they were supported by buttresses, and if the staple lines overlapped—affected the failure of staple lines in surgery. Researchers tested various heights of staples on pig intestines and found that shorter staples (2.5 mm) held pressure better than the tallest ones (4.1 mm), with pressures reaching up to 108 mm Hg for the best performing staples. The results showed that using buttresses significantly improved staple performance, raising leak pressures by an average of 28 mm Hg, but overlapping staple lines did not have a clear effect. Who this helps: This benefits surgeons and patients who require surgical procedures, particularly those involving the gastrointestinal tract.

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This research focused on a new radiation treatment for age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), a leading cause of vision loss. They found that using specific beam angles and x-ray energies can effectively target the affected part of the eye (the macula) while minimizing exposure to other tissues. Notably, when using higher energy beams (120 kVp), they could deliver the same therapeutic dose using 14% less radiation than lower energy beams. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration.

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This study explored how turning a good idea into a useful medical product often depends more on the steps taken afterward than on the original idea itself. It found that many doctors' promising concepts fail to improve patient care because they don't clearly understand the clinical needs they are addressing. The research highlights that understanding these needs and navigating issues like patent laws, regulations, and funding is crucial for successful innovation in healthcare. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare innovators looking to transform their ideas into effective treatments for patients.

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This study focused on a 2-year educational program designed to train surgeons and other professionals on how to create new medical devices. The program brings together teams of surgeons, engineers, and business graduates to work collaboratively on innovation in surgical technology. This matters because it helps ensure that advancements in medical devices meet the real needs of doctors and patients. Who this helps: Patients, doctors, and the healthcare industry benefit from improved surgical technologies.

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This paper looks at how surgical innovation has developed historically and how it can be improved moving forward. It found that while there have been impressive advances in surgery, such as the development of surgical endoscopy, there isn’t a strong framework to support or promote innovation effectively, which can hinder progress in medical care. Establishing dedicated surgical innovation centers is essential to ensure that new ideas can be developed, tested, and implemented systematically, benefiting both patients and health care providers. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving surgical techniques and outcomes.

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This study looked at whether Maryland hospital discharge records accurately represent the types and severity of injuries in trauma patients by comparing them to data from Maryland's trauma registry. Researchers found that while the hospital data correctly identified 95% of moderate to severe injuries across most body areas, it underestimated the severity of head injuries, showing a lower average severity score of 8.4 compared to 10 from the trauma registry. This matters because accurate injury data is essential for improving patient care and resource allocation in hospitals. Who this helps: This helps doctors and hospital administrators in better understanding and treating trauma patients.

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This study looked at how to effectively deliver and track a treatment called photodynamic therapy (PDT) using a drug called TOOKAD for patients with recurrent prostate cancer after other treatments, like radiation, have failed. The researchers tested various methods to ensure the right amount of light and medication reach the cancer while protecting healthy tissue. They found that improved delivery techniques and monitoring systems can help tailor treatments to individual patients, potentially increasing safety and effectiveness. Who this helps: This study benefits patients with recurrent prostate cancer.

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This study investigated how accurately Maryland's Hospital Discharge (MHD) data captures information about hospitalizations due to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). It found that MHD identified only 61% of TBI cases compared to a more comprehensive database, with MHD reporting 95 hospitalizations versus 144 when using both MHD and the Maryland Trauma Registry. This matters because relying on MHD data might lead to an underestimation of the occurrence and severity of TBIs, especially mild cases, impacting care and resource allocation. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare policymakers who need accurate data to treat and manage TBI patients effectively.

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A 16-day-old baby girl with gallstones was initially treated conservatively, hoping the stones would go away on their own. When further tests showed a large gallstone and signs of bile duct blockage, she had surgery to remove her gallbladder. After the surgery, she recovered well and was able to eat normally by the next day. This study is important because it documents the first known case of chronic gallbladder inflammation in a newborn and showcases a successful surgical approach in such a young patient. Who this helps: This helps doctors who treat newborns with similar conditions.

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This study looked at whether common medical imaging tests can detect widespread cancer in melanoma patients who only have cancer in their lymph nodes. Out of 185 patients studied, only one patient (0.5%) showed signs of having more extensive disease, and this patient was already experiencing symptoms. This is important because it suggests that routine imaging for these patients is mostly unnecessary and could save time and resources. Who this helps: This helps patients by reducing unnecessary medical tests and anxiety.

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This study looked at a case of a young woman who became infected with syphilis after being raped. Despite being treated with ceftriaxone, a common antibiotic, the infection continued to develop. This is important because it highlights the need for better treatment protocols for sexual assault victims, as relying only on standard treatments may not be sufficient to prevent certain infections like syphilis. Who this helps: This helps patients who are victims of sexual assault by highlighting the need for more effective treatments.

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This study focused on a ten-year-old girl with Turner syndrome who had abnormal chromosomes, including Y chromosome material. Doctors discovered a small tumor called gonadoblastoma in her affected ovary after using advanced DNA testing to identify Y chromosome pieces. These findings are important because they highlight the need for careful monitoring of girls with Turner syndrome who have male chromosome material, as they are at higher risk for developing these tumors. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients with Turner syndrome by improving awareness of potential health risks.

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This study looked at a child with von Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis who had a partial blockage in the colon caused by a 5 cm tumor. After surgery, the doctors found that this tumor was a type of nerve growth. Since gastrointestinal tumors are uncommon in children with this condition, it's important for doctors to check for such tumors in kids with vague stomach issues. Who this helps: This helps patients and their doctors by improving early detection of potential problems.