Announcing our new Gynecologist — Alexandra Kidd, MD

We are thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Alexandra Kidd to our staff of Gynecologists. Dr. Kidd was trained at Kaiser San Diego in a program with a strong emphasis on advanced laparoscopic surgery. She enjoys and excels in all aspects of Gynecology. She has been in practice in Arizona for the last 5 years, and is looking forward to building a practice in Scottsdale.

We are often asked about uterine artery embolization when discussing the treatment of fibroids. The following is an explanation of uterine artery embolization:

Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), also called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), is a procedure currently being promoted as an alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy as a treatment for uterine fibroids. This surgery uses a technique called embolization: a mass of microspheres (tris-acryl gelatin) or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) material (an embolus) is injected into the uterine arteries in order to block the flow of blood through those vessels. The microsphere gelatin or PVA remains permanently in the uterine arteries. UAE attempts to shrink fibroids by cutting off their blood supply.

A review of the potential adverse consequences of UAE are as follows:

• Death - from embolism, or septicemia (the presence of pus-forming or other pathogenic organisms, or their toxins, in the blood or tissues) resulting in multiple organ failure
• Infection - from tissue death of fibroids, leading to endometritis (infection of the uterus) resulting in lengthy hospitalization for administration of intravenous antibiotics
• Misembolization - microspheres or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles flow or drift into organs or tissues where they were not intended to be, causing damage to other organs or other parts of the body
• Ovarian damage - resulting from embolic material migrating to the ovaries
• Loss of ovarian function Infertility - loss of ability to conceive
• Loss of orgasm
• Failure of embolization surgery - continued fibroid growth, regrowth within four months
• Menopause - iatrogenic, abnormal, cessation of menstruation and follicle stimulating hormones elevated to menopausal levels
• Post-Embolization Syndrome (PES) - characterized by acute and/or chronic pain, temperatures of up to 102 degrees, malaise, nausea, vomiting and severe night sweats
• Foul vaginal odor - coming from infected, necrotic tissue which remains inside the uterus
• Hysterectomy - due to infection, pain or failure of embolization
• Pain - severe, persistent pain, resulting in the need for morphine or synthetic narcotics
• Hematoma - blood clot at the incision site
• Vaginal discharge - containing pus and blood
• Bleeding from incision site
• Bleeding from vagina
• Fibroid expulsion - fibroids pushing out through the vagina
• Unsuccessful fibroid expulsion - fibroid trapped in the cervix causing infection requiring surgical removal
• Life threatening allergic reaction to the contrast material
• Uterine adhesions

We have now performed a number of laparoscopic hysterectomies on women who have had prior UAE procedures. In speaking with them, the universal opinion is that the recovery from UAE is much more painful than recovery from a hysterectomy.

When compared to a total abdominal hysterectomy through a large incision in the abdomen, UAE may be a good alternative. But compared to a laparoscopic hysterectomy, the advantages are not as significant.

Surgery certainly has its risks too, but laparoscopic hysterectomy is generally a very straightforward surgical procedure with minimal post-operative pain and a short hospital stay. Complications can and do occur, but they are rare. One thing is true — we can guarantee no more bleeding after a laparoscopic hysterectomy!

DHEA — A new idea for relief of vaginal atrophy after menopause.
~ Dr. Debra Wickman

There is good news for many women who suffer from vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. A study published in the journal, Menopause (Volume 16, Sept/Oct, 2009), explores the idea of treating this condition with vaginal inserts containing DHEA.

DHEA is produced by the adrenal cortex, and serum levels peak around the age of 30 years, declining by an average of 60% by the time of menopause. DHEA is an inactive molecule alone, and is transformed into estrogens and androgens only in tissues that possess certain enzymes required for the conversion. As a result, there is minimal or no release of active hormones into the blood. The estrogens and androgens are inactivated in the same cells in which they are formed, and released in the blood in the inactive form to be eliminated.

The authors performed a large, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial in which postmenopausal women suffering from vaginal atrophy were given daily DHEA or placebo in a vaginal insert for 3 months. A rapid improvement of all symptoms and signs of vaginal atrophy was seen, with no change in circulating estradiol or testosterone. An added benefit was the finding of a significant improvement in sexual function – desire, arousal, and orgasm. No negative side effects were observed.

This treatment has major implications for all post-menopausal women, and especially those who have had breast cancer, as the vaginal atrophy may be addressed without the risk of increasing exposure to estrogen. This is also good news for those with a uterus, as there seems to be no increased risk of endometrial exposure to estrogen with this therapy. This is a new idea, and oncologists must approve DHEA administration on a case-by-case basis for those with a history of breast cancer, but it is an exciting concept. Please talk to us if you are interested.

Visit us on-line at www.skintiquemd.com or call 480.860.9383 for a free consultation!

We have a new skin care line, Rhonda Allison, a professional line of cosmeceutical products designed especially for aesthetic use.

Rhonda uses only pure, fresh, natural, quality-driven ingredients that deliver results! They use no dyes, artificial coloring, or artificial fragrances – essential oils and the scent of the plant extracts are the aroma of the product. All preservatives are essential oils, plant derived.

Rhonda Allison skin nutrition blends the best of active, natural ingredients with highly beneficial, scientifically developed compounds to create superior treatments that will transform the condition of your skin, bringing it to its optimum potential for health and beauty.

We will be introducing new corrective facials and chemical peels.

Peels & more.

What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel is a technique which involves the application of a variety of chemical solutions to remove the damaged outer layers of dead skin cells from the skin's surface. It is extremely beneficial for many skin conditions such as hyper pigmentation, rosacea, acne, sun damage, and photo aging. By removing the build-up of dead skin cells and stimulating the regenerative process, you will notice marked improvements in the formation of wrinkles and fine lines, texture and tone of the skin, hydration, reduced pore size, clearing of blemishes and more balanced oil production and an overall healthier skin appearance.

What are the different types of peels?

All Rhonda Allison treatment procedures are considered superficial; they do not penetrate beyond the epidermis or papillary dermis. They are not to be confused with medical or physician-strength peels that affect the reticular dermis.

PROGRESSIVE
This refers to a treatment that does not usually cause immediate exfoliation and only removes the outer layer of skin or the stratum corneum. As treatments are repeated, the skin will experience a mild sloughing.

MID-DEPTH
These peels affect the intra-epidermal layer, and exfoliation occurs within two to three days after application. The skin goes through very little down time. Peeling consists of light flaking similar to a sunburn peel.

DEEP
These peels affect the deepest intra-epidermal layers. The skin becomes brown and crusty then undergoes considerable peeling, which occurs three to four days after application. The skin peels in large segments as opposed to flaking. The entire process takes about seven to ten days.

What type of home care should I use after my chemical peel?

There are specific instructions to be followed after your skin peel – this is as important as the peel itself. Post care will include occlusive healing balms, epidermal growth factor (cell renewal and wound repair), calming, soothing topicals to reduce itching and inflammation, and always sunscreen!

When the skin peel is completed and your professional has determined the skin is healed, daily skin care is essential. The most important part of a home care routine is a cleanser and a sun block. Next in importance is a supportive cell rejuvenator. These are the basics. Additional specialty products, such as pumice and buffing washes, antioxidants, eye serums, nighttime moisturizers, AHAs, ascorbic acid, retinol, enzymes, masks, and topical correctives may be added to enhance and maintain results.

May's featured peel is the Apple Wine Peel — brilliant and robust — it is a full-bodied "cosmeceutical-acid" promising an intoxicating, firming, toning and anti-aging finish. Special discount price of $105 (standard price is $175) through May 31, 2010.

Dr. Debra Wilson is very happy to add our new Signature Facial for all of you ladies that may have some down time after a procedure to come in and treat yourself.

Dr. Wilson's Post-Op Rejuvenation Facial— $100

This treatment will soften and lift away any dry skin and begin strengthening while building up skin with antioxidants and nutrient. Using a goat's milk cream gommage and a Maui peel with pineapple enzymes. Alternating with hot and cold application this will give you the polish glow you deserve.

Current Specials

• Corrective Facials $85
• Dermaplane $80
• IPL Hands $40
• Skin Tightening (eyes or smile lines) $75
• Laser Hair Removal (under arms) $65

Please call today for a free consultation: 480-890-9383

Hormone pellets — Why are they so popular?
~ Dr. Deborah Wilson

I first became aware of hormone pellets 12 years ago when one of my patients moved to Phoenix from Australia, came in for her 1st exam with me, and requested that I give her pellets. She told me that hormone pellets were very popular in Australia and she could not imagine life without them.

I researched the pellets, found a company to supply them, and ordered them for her. I did not think that anyone else would be interested. I was wrong.

Pellets are extremely popular now for a number of different reasons.

First, they provide levels of estradiol and testosterone that no other product on the market can provide. They actually eliminate symptoms instead of decreasing them.

The second reason is that they provide both estradiol and testosterone, which commercially available patches and pills generally do not. There are many estradiol products, but no commercially available testosterone. The only other method of administering testosterone effectively is through a cream applied to the skin. Absorption is variable and the creams are messy.

Convenience is another significant factor. Instead of being required to remember change a patch, apply a cream, or take a pill, the pellets are inserted under the skin in the office and the patient can forget about being menopausal for a few months. We are seeing women only needing their pellets once every 6 months.

Women in our practice fly in from other states to get their pellets. They feel great, enjoy great sex lives again, and find that they can function at high levels despite the fact that they are menopausal. They are thrilled that they no longer have hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, and mood swings.

We do not know with certainty that hormones are safe. The research indicates that non-oral bio identical hormones should be safe. We think that hormones started at menopause prevent heart disease. We know that hormones prevent bone loss. We know that women feel great. We do not know about long term effects on cancer rate, strokes, heart attacks, etc. because very little research is being done on bio identical hormones since they are not produced by the major drug companies.

For more information, please access our Web site at www.drwilsonobgyn.com.

Why have minor procedures done in the office rather than the outpatient surgery center?

We now offer a number of procedures that have historically been done in the outpatient surgery center in the the office! D&C, Essure (permanent birth control), uterine ablation to stop periods, labial reduction and other procedures are now available as office procedures in our minor surgical suite.

Why is this an advantage?

1. Efficiency - you can be in and out in an hour
2. Reduced cost
3. Convenience - you are accustomed to visiting our office, you don't have to learn the ropes at a new facility
4. Comfort - we have the same anesthesiologists we use at the hospital administer anesthesia at the office; you will be assured a pain-free procedure
5. Safety - we have all the same equipment available at the outpatient surgery center should you need it

Talk to your provider about utilizing our minor surgical facility if you need a procedure. Our patients have been very happy with their experiences!

Adoption event at Lucky Paws Shelter!

Adoption open houses are hosted every Saturday from 11-2 at 5130 East Thomas Road (located in the old Ingleside Veterinary Clinic, next to DiVito's Pizza).

Lucky Paws Shelter offers rescue dogs and cats for foster or adoption. These animals have been taken off of the euthanasia list at the county shelters. All dogs and cats are from Circle L Ranch Rescue.

Check out our adoptable animals on-line. For information or an appointment for another day, call 602.955.1414.

Volunteers needed.

We need dog walkers throughout the day, every day at our shelter — 5130 East Thomas Road. There is a sign-up board at the shelter — please choose your time slot and help us walk dogs!

These dogs have no other way of getting their exercise, they are dependent on us. If you are interested, please e-mail us at feathersfoundation@gmail.com. We also need donations of dog and cat food, toys and chews, leashes, collars, bowls, beds, cat towers, etc. New or used is appreciated!

Workday: Sunday, April 25th at Lucky Paws.
A wonderful crew of parents and children converged on Lucky Paws the morning of Sunday, April 25th to celebrate a Bat Mitzvah by giving back to the animals. They walked dogs, washed dogs, organized files, painted, cleaned, and loved on the animals. Dr. Wilson's sister Barbara was in town to teach us to groom dogs as well, and you can see what a transformation grooming can make in a dog. We had a wonderful morning! Thank you for all who participated. View photos from this terrific day.

It takes a long time to get this sweet.

You want a puppy? Aw, come on. Aren't you a little more discriminating?

Pets, like fine wine, improve with age.

When I think about all the dumb things I did as a puppy, I just want to howl with embarrassment! The chewing of shoes. The peeing on rugs. The unfortunate incident with that cat, which is best not discussed.

But now I'm older and wiser. I may be a little slower, but I'm also smarter and calmer and less likely to drive you crazy. I'm ready to be your friend and couch-mate, to share long walks and evenings in front of the fire.

I'll romp like a puppy sometimes, but not all the time. Believe me, that's something you'll appreciate at three in the morning.

So go check out the puppies and the kittens, and then, when you're ready for a mature relationship, come back to me—or one of the older cats. (They paid me to say that.)

I've got a lot of love left to give. Will you let me give it to you?