What’s happening at Augusta University next week? Story ideas for Sept. 8-11

Next week at Augusta University, learn how magnetic stimulation is helping fecal incontinence patients manage their symptoms, and see how respiratory therapists are treating adult COVID-19 patients with a new treatment program. Below are a few of the news stories to consider next week at Augusta University.

Respiratory therapists go above and beyond to manage new adult ECMO program

Respiratory therapists at Augusta University Health have helped launch an adult Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) program, a cardiopulmonary bypass treatment for patients with respiratory or cardiac failure. Four patients within five weeks were recently treated with ECMO — two of whom were COVID-19 patients. Schedule an interview with a member of the adult ECMO core team to learn how they have gone beyond the call of duty to help extend the life of critically ill patients during the global pandemic. Read full story here.

Magnetic stimulation helps patient cope with fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence (FI), is a condition affecting millions of Americans, predominately women and the elderly, but most patients don’t report this problem or seek remedies, so it often remains a silent affliction. However, researchers at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University recently found that magnetic stimulation improves nerve function to the anus and rectum and significantly reduces the episodes of bowel or anal incontinence in patients. Learn more about this innovative treatment by speaking with Dr. Satish S.C. Rao, the J. Harold Harrison, MD, Distinguished University Chair in Gastroenterology and the director of neurogastroenterology/motility and the Digestive Health Clinical Research Center at MCG. Read full story here.

New clinic at Children’s Hospital of Georgia offers expertise for complex patient care

The Children’s Hospital of Georgia has launched a new complex care clinic to care for NICU discharge babies, along with children who have had cardiac surgeries, those with genetic abnormalities and others with complex needs. Children from as far away as south Georgia are receiving care at the clinic and being treated by a variety of specialists, such as a dietitian and an outpatient pharmacist. Dr. Rebecca Pierce, a pediatric specialist at Children’s, helped start the clinic and is available to speak on how the staff is helping patients overcome challenging illnesses. Read full story here.

Teleconferencing and phone interview opportunities are available for these story ideas. Call 706-522-3023 to schedule an interview on any of these topics. Also, check out the Augusta University Expert Center to view a complete list of our experts.