Developments in Care - changes for CT scans

A CT scan is a special kind of X-ray that makes cross sectional images of body tissues. Often IV contrast material is used. Given the advances in CT technology, most CT scans are now done with what's called a power injector to administer IV contrast. This gives better contrast images to help with the important information we get from CT scans.

One change that has occurred is that in order to use this important method of administering contrast, a peripheral IV must be placed.  We are starting to put in special ports, called "power ports." These "power ports" enable us to safely use the power injector and put the contrast directly into the port. We are also looking at “Power Hickmans” and hope to have these available in the near future.  Because many of our patients still have a traditional port or Hickman catheter, these patients will need a peripheral IV to safely administer CT contrast.

If this will cause too much trauma, then we can discuss what other options there might be. Hand delivery of contrast through a port or Hickman can be used in certain emergency situations when we are unable to insert a peripheral IV. These new guidelines apply only to CTs, not MRIs

Prevent the BOO that comes with the FLU!

It's time to get your flu vaccine! The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over 6 months of age. For patients with cancer it is particularly important everyone in the family gets the vaccine. Patients with cancer and sickle cell anemia need to get the Inactivated Vaccine (the shot) not the Live Intranasal (nasal spray). The Live Intranasal (nasal spray) vaccine is ok for family members. Research shows the vaccine coverage will "last" all season, so you don't need to wait to vaccinate. September is a great month to get the family vaccinated which will prevent serious illness.

We will vaccinate patients who are being seen in clinic for routine visits. If you don't otherwise need to come to the clinic and infusion center, we encourage you to get your flu vaccine at your primary care provider or at a community location. Many grocery stores and drug stores offer the vaccine for a reasonable cost.

You may hear news stories about how not all health care workers get the flu vaccine. We want you to know that last year Children's received an award because of the high number of our staff who received the flu vaccine. 100% of Cancer and Blood Disorders staff received the flu vaccine.

Please help us protect you by making sure your whole family gets the flu vaccine this fall!

What is the Clinic Visit Summary?

At your next visit you will receive a Clinic Visit Summary when you leave the clinic. This summary will outline your appointment, including all lab results that have been completed by the time you leave, an up-to-date medication, allergy and problem list, recommended follow-up instructions, as well as information on any future scheduled visits.

We will continue to add information that is valuable to you as we develop this communication tool. Please give any ideas you may have to improve this document to front desk staff. Beginning in October you will have the option to view this document in the My Children’s Portal.

We hope these summaries provide you with helpful information in managing your, or your child's, care.

Good Cancer – Fighting Foods YUM!

We are often told what foods are not healthy and what we should not eat. A different spin is to note that the foods listed below have some scientific evidence that will help us not only to fight cancer but may help to prevent cancer as well.  Think about some of these foods as you are making your shopping list this week.

Cabbage and other cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, brussel sprouts and cauliflower: may provide nutrients that protect cells and block the effects of some cancer causing substances

Garlic and onions: May have antibacterial activity and cholesterol - lowering effects

Soy: Contains anti-cancer compounds that may protect against certain cancers such as breast and prostate cancer.

Turmeric and its active ingredient curcumin: A spice that has anti-inflammatory properties and may help with digestion. May be added to vegetables and rice dishes

Green Tea:  Has anti-cancer properties called antioxidants specifically catechins

Berries: Including raspberries, strawberries, blueberries and cranberries are full of antioxidants that protect cells against damage from toxins known as free radicals

Omega-3s: Found in sardines, salmon, flax seed, soy and nuts. Anti-inflammatory properties

Tomatoes: Contains lycopene that is thought to be protective against certain types of cancer

Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits lemons and limes: not only a good source of Vitamin C but also thought to be anti - inflammatory and have cancer fighting properties.

Red Wine or grape juice: Contain antioxidants that protect cells

Dark Chocolate:  Supplies the body with substances called polyphenols that produce beneficial effects comparative to antioxidants.

Food to Fight Cancer by R. Beliveau & D. Gingras. 2007. DK Publishing, New York.

LLS Light the Night Walk

A number of our staff participated in the Light the Night Walk supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.