DR. STEVEN M. FENDLEY, M.D.

Plain English
This study looked at a new surgical method called single-port-access (SPA) cholecystectomy, which is a way to remove the gallbladder through just one small incision. The researchers reviewed data from the first 297 successful surgeries performed by 13 different surgeons and found that the average surgery took 71 minutes, patients generally stayed in the hospital for 1-2 days, and there were very few complications. This is important because it shows that SPA cholecystectomy can be done safely and has cosmetic benefits, like fewer scars, when compared to standard multi-port surgeries. Who this helps: This helps patients needing gallbladder surgery, as it offers a less invasive option.

Plain English
Researchers studied a dental problem called infant feeding caries, which affects about 5% of children in Simcoe County. They found that if their prevention program can keep six children in Simcoe County and two in Muskoka-Parry Sound from developing this condition each year, the money saved on dental treatments would exceed the cost of running the program. This is important because preventing tooth decay not only saves money but also improves the overall dental health of children. Who this helps: This helps young children and their families in the community.