On the beaten path

By Harry  C. Sax, MD, MHCM, FACS
Professor and Vice Chair, Department of Surgery

Surgeons at Cedars-Sinai are involved in humanitarian work throughout the world. Although we often recount our cases as a measure of our experience, it is often when we get away from the hospital that we truly learn about those we serve. I have been returning to Hospital Sacre Coeur, in Milot, Haiti, on multiple occasions since the 2010 earthquake. For this issue of Sutures, I'd like to show you the area surrounding the hospital.

Research Division sees marked increases in clinical trials, funding

In fiscal year 2007, the Research Division within the Department of Surgery was awarded almost $3 million in externally sponsored research funding, the bulk of which was contained in a few large federal projects. Five years later, the Research Division has increased its research funding three-fold, bringing in more than $9 million in fiscal year 2012.

Transplant patient to highlight need for organ donation at Rose Parade

Kevin Riepl arrived at Cedars-Sinai in October 2010, suffering from sudden heart failure that left him fighting for his life. Surgeons swiftly installed a heart pump and later transplanted a new heart, saving his life and turning him into an unexpected ambassador for organ donation. Now the 38-year-old Winnetka man is preparing to represent Cedars-Sinai's Comprehensive Transplant Center on the 2013 Donate Life Rose Parade float on Jan. 1.

Cedars-Sinai physician nominated by President Obama to National Cancer Advisory Board

Beth Y. Karlan, MD, director of the Women's Cancer Program at the Cedars-Sinai Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, was appointed by President Barack Obama to the National Cancer Advisory Board, a committee that advises the U.S. National Cancer Institute.

Presentations and publications

Gangi wins Sports Spectacular fellowship

Alexandra Gangi, MD, has been named the winner of the 2013 Sports Spectacular Endowed Fellowship Award.

FDA updates regarding Zofran, Chantix

Pharmacy focus

The 32 mg, single intravenous dose of the anti-nausea drug Zofran will no longer be marketed because of the potential for serious cardiac risks, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA also issued an updated safety review on the risk of cardiovascular adverse events with Chantix.

Circle of Friends honorees for November

The Circle of Friends program honored 137 people in November. Circle of Friends allows grateful patients to make a donation in honor of the physicians, nurses, caregivers and others who have made a difference during their time at Cedars-Sinai. When a gift is made, the person being honored receives a custom lapel pin and a letter of acknowledgement.