MDNews - Mid Hudson

COVER FEATURE Darren Rohan, M.D., AS Attacking GERD With Innovative Incisionless Surgery Develops New Thoracic Surgery Program at HealthAlliance By Jean B. Edwards THE NEW CHI E F of Thoracic Surgery at HealthAlliance, Da r r en Roha n, M.D., is bringing innovative diagnos- tic and surgical advances to the Mid Hudson region. “I’m very excited that we can now offer patients the most advanced, minimally invasive thoracic procedures right here in their own backyard,” he says. “What attracted me to HealthAlliance was the opportunity to build a first-class thoracic surgery program to help patients that suffer with gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD], thoracic problems and lung cancer. This move will also allow me to expand access to patients and provide them with greater support.” Dr. Rohan was in private prac- tice in Poughkeepsie before joining HealthAlliance and Hudson Valley Surgical Specialists in July. In 2007, Dr. Rohan started his surgical practice in Poughkeepsie; however, he also saw patients one day a week in Kingston. “As my practice grew, I realized there was an unmet need for a thoracic surgeon in the region who could offer minimally invasive procedures and also treat lung cancer patients,” he says. Dr. Rohan has performed more than 800 thoracic and general surgeries since last year. “I’m very eager to expand my rela- tionship with HealthAlliance, and I am confident that we will provide the highest-quality thoracic and lung cancer care in the Mid Hudson region,” he adds. GERD More than 20 million Americans suf- fer from the painful, burning symptoms 6 | Mid Hudson MD NEWS  MDNEWS.COM Dr. Darren Rohan performs an open thoracic case. of GERD. The disorder is caused by a weak lower esophageal sphincter that allows gastric acid to reflux into the esophagus. When the lower esophageal sphincter works correctly, it creates a flap that prevents reflux. Certain foods — such as chocolate, onions, peppermint, coffee and those high in sugar and fat — increase the production of stomach acid. In addi- tion, spicy foods, citrus and tomato products, alcohol, tobacco and cer- tain medications can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter and create reflux. Symptoms of GERD include: + Heartburn, chest pain, sore throat + Regurgitation or acid taste + Chronic ear and nose discomfort + Laryngitis + Dental erosions Physicians can treat GERD by encour- aging patients to make changes in their diets and lifestyles. Over-the-counter

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