The following services are provided to meet the needs of certain specific groups of patients.
Early Cancer Diagnosis:
Deborah Heart and Lung Center remains the only hospital in the state to offer exciting technology that enhances the ability to detect and localize early lung cancer. Bronchoscopic imaging is used in combination with standard bronchoscopy to illuminate cancerous and pre-cancerous tissue. This procedure is most beneficial for individuals at high risk for developing lung cancer, including smokers, asbestos workers and individuals with previous lung cancers. Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women in this country. In New Jersey alone, there were an estimated 5,300 new lung cancer cases in 1997. Early symptoms of lung cancer include persistent cough, expectorating blood, unexplained fatigue, loss of appetite or weight, persistent chest, shoulder or back pain, repeated pneumonia or bronchitis and shortness of breath.
Multidiciplinary Thoracic Oncology Program
The Multidiciplinary Thoracic Oncology Program was developed to meet the needs of patients with a diagnosis of malignancy. Specialists from a variety of disciplines including oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology, thoracic surgery and pulmonary medicine gather to discuss treatment options and management issues. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatment options are discussed with our consulting radiation oncologist and medical oncologist. patients are encouraged to pursue treatment at a facility close to their home.
The Institue for Sleep Medicine:
Diagnostic sleep studies are performed using state-of-the-art equipment in our sleep laboratory. Diagnostic studies include polysomnography, CPAP/BIPAP titration, multi-sleep latency testing, maintenance of wakefulness test and nocturnal oxygen desaturation testing. insomnia, sleep disordered breathing, pediatric sleep disorders and the full range of sleep related conditions are evaluated. Cognitive behavioral therapy is available for individuals with insomnia. Staff are courteous and competent. The majority of our sleep technicians and respiratory therapists with specialized training in the area of sleep medicine. Our facility offers numerous amenities including free parking, free television, private showers and free morning breakfast. Preliminary sleep study reports are sent to our referring physicians within 24-48 hours of the completion of a sleep study.
Management of Non-Invasive Mechanical Lung Ventilation:
Non-invasive mechanical ventilation is provided for some patients in respiratory failure. Working along side the physician, respiratory therapists provide instruction, set up and monitoring of this specialized equipment.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation:
Exercise evaluations and individualized exercise prescriptions are available from our exercise physiologist and pulmonologists.
Oxygen Therapy:
The need for either intermittent or continuous oxygen therapy can be evaluated. Arrangements for home or portable oxygen can be made via our Social Service department. Transtracheal oxygen therapy is also available for individuals requiring high flow rate continuous oxygen therapy. A small catheter is inserted into the trachea during an outpatient visit. This catheter is connected to oxygen, thus eliminating the individuals need for nasal prongs. This type of oxygen administration system offers a more aesthetically pleasing system, in addition to reduced oxygen flow rates for most individuals.
High Altitude Simulation Testing:
This diagnostic test simulates pressures as they exist at high altitudes. Results from this test enable the physician to predict oxygen needs during air travel.
Disability Evaluations and Exercise Testing:
Detailed disability evaluations or exercise tests can be performed as needed.
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