Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.

Guests: Christopher Francois, M.D.

The risk of thoracic aortic dissection increases as the diameter of the aorta widens. A diameter greater than 5 cm is associated with an increased risk of dissection in the general population. Patients with Marfan Syndrome have defective connective tissue and dissection commonly occurs with diameters less than 5 cm. Other health conditions associated with aortic dilation and potential dissection include Ehlers Danlos and those with bicuspid aortic valves. It therefore becomes extremely important to accurately assess the aorta. Fortunately, we now have a variety of imaging tools available and several of these tools are relatively new. My guest for today’s podcast is Dr. Christopher Francois, from the Department of Diagnostic Radiology at the Mayo Clinic and he’ll bring us up to date regarding the most recent imaging techniques as we continue our series on vascular medicine. We’ll discuss who’s at risk for an aortic aneurysm, when some of the more traditional imaging is indicated and when we should consider some of the newer imaging tools.

Mayo Clinic Talks: Vascular "What's Circulating" | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development

Connect with us and learn more here: https://ce.mayo.edu/online-education/content/mayo-clinic-podcasts

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.

Guests: Thais D. Coutinho, M.D., and Kristen A. Sell-Dottin, M.D.

Genetic factors predispose selected individuals to hereditary aortic aneurysms leading to aortic dilation and potential dissection. They can be seen in a variety of known genetic syndromes, and they differ from aortic aneurysms associated with aging and chronic, uncontrolled hypertension. Early recognition is critical in the management of these patients in preventing serious, often life-threatening aortic dissection. How common are hereditary aortic aneurysms? When and how should we screen patients for this condition? Is a genetic consultation recommended? When should we involve a vascular surgeon when at risk patients are identified? These are some of the questions I’ll be asking my guests, Thais D. Coutinho, M.D., a cardiologist and cardiac surgeon, Kristen A. Sell-Dottin, M.D., both from the Mayo Clinic. We’ll be discussing “Hereditary Aortic Aneurysms and Dissection” as part of our podcast series on “Peripheral Vascular Disease”.

Mayo Clinic Talks: Vascular "What's Circulating" | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development

Connect with us and learn more here: https://ce.mayo.edu/online-education/content/mayo-clinic-podcasts

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.

Guest: Jacob K. Dey, M.D.

Bell’s Palsy is the most common cause of 7th cranial nerve dysfunction and clinically, it has a relatively abrupt onset resulting in unilateral facial paralysis. Fortunately, the majority of patients recover completely without treatment. Unfortunately, in some cases, the facial paralysis is persistent, and surgical intervention may be indicated to help restore facial symmetry. When do patients reach maximum improvement in their facial asymmetry? What is facial synkinesis? What are the various surgical options and how is it determined which one is best for the patient? The topic for this podcast is “Correcting Facial Paralysis Associated with Bell’s Palsy” and these are some of the questions I’ll be asking my guest, facial plastic surgeon, Jacob K. Dey, M.D., from the Division of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the Mayo Clinic.

Connect with us and learn more here: https://ce.mayo.edu/online-education/content/mayo-clinic-podcasts