Understanding Palmar Hyperhidrosis and Sympathetic Nervous System Differences
Inquiry about "palmar hyperhidrosis" and "sympathetic nervous system" (forwarded from the Director's mailbox)? Hello, I inquired about the differences between "palmar hyperhidrosis" and "sympathetic nervous system" on December 31. I wo...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, I am a neurosurgeon. Since hyperhidrosis is within the specialty of neurosurgery, please allow me to provide you with an explanation. Palmar hyperhidrosis, commonly referred to as hand sweating, is characterized by excessive sweating of the palms, with some patients experi...[Read More] Understanding Palmar Hyperhidrosis and Sympathetic Nervous System Differences
Understanding Post-Surgery Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Distressing abdominal bloating issue? Hello, Dr. Lin. A year ago, I underwent surgery for intestinal volvulus due to severe abdominal pain (there was no visible bloating). After the surgery, the doctor informed me that the cause was volvulus, and my mother, who was in the operati...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Hello: The following information is extracted from the website of the Department of Colorectal Surgery at Tri-Service General Hospital, and it is quite detailed for your reference: Volvulus refers to the twisting of an organ around its axis, which can occur in the stomach, spleen...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Can I See a Plastic Surgeon for a 1cm Cyst on My Lip?
A 1-centimeter diameter sebaceous cyst has developed at the corner of the mouth? I have a 1 cm sebaceous cyst on the corner of my mouth. Should I consult a plastic surgeon for the procedure, or is a general surgeon sufficient? If there are noticeable scars after the surgery, what...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Facial tumors can be managed by a general surgeon; however, if you have higher expectations, it is advisable to consult a plastic surgeon. The wound healing may be better, but postoperative scarring will need to be evaluated later.[Read More] Can I See a Plastic Surgeon for a 1cm Cyst on My Lip?
Understanding Hemorrhoid Surgery: An Overview of Options and Anesthesia
Regarding hemorrhoid surgery? I believe my hemorrhoids are at grade 3 – they protrude during bowel movements and cannot be pushed back in, requiring sitz baths for cleaning before applying medication to push them back. I have consulted with hospitals such as Taipei Medical Univer...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Hello: There are various anesthesia methods for hemorrhoid surgery (local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, general anesthesia, etc.), depending on the practices of different hospitals and physicians. With current anesthesia techniques, it is quite safe and rarely results in complic...[Read More] Understanding Hemorrhoid Surgery: An Overview of Options and Anesthesia
Post-Surgery Care for Stage 4 Breast Cancer: Managing Wound Healing Issues
Post-mastectomy care for breast cancer? My mother underwent breast cancer surgery (stage 4) at Chi Mei Hospital in September of this year. Since the surgery, she has had six rounds of chemotherapy, and everything has been going well. However, there is a small wound at the surgica...
Dr. Zhang Zhenxiang Reply:
Dear Judy, If it is stage IV breast cancer, it is very difficult to completely remove the tumor with surgery alone. Therefore, if the postoperative wound condition is not good, it is sometimes necessary to differentiate between cancer cell recurrence and a simple wound infection...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care for Stage 4 Breast Cancer: Managing Wound Healing Issues
Understanding Intestinal Adhesions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Intestinal issues? What is intestinal adhesion? Is it related to the biliary system? How should intestinal adhesions be managed?
Dr. You Bailing Reply:
Intestinal adhesions commonly occur after abdominal surgeries, such as laparotomy and gynecological procedures (including cesarean sections or other obstetric surgeries). However, not every abdominal surgery results in this complication. The main symptoms include intermittent abd...[Read More] Understanding Intestinal Adhesions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Hepatic hemangioma A hepatic hemangioma measuring 8.8 cm is located in the left lobe. The physician initially recommended surgery as a necessity, but during the second consultation, stated that the decision is up to the patient and that there would be no pressure, only concern ab...
Dr. Huang Kaiwen Reply:
Hello, an 8.8 cm hepatic hemangioma is considered a larger tumor, which generally does not become malignant. However, the decision to undergo surgery depends on the presence of symptoms and the tumor's location among other objective factors. Therefore, it is advisable to con...[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Understanding Post-Surgery Fluid Accumulation After Hernia Repair
Hernia Dear Dr. Wang, I would like to inquire why, after my hernia surgery (performed at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital using a synthetic mesh for repair), I am experiencing fluid accumulation that requires frequent aspiration with a syringe. Will this fluid accumulation persist i...
Dr. Wang Zhitang Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: You recently underwent hernia repair surgery using a synthetic mesh, and you are feeling troubled by the fluid accumulation in your abdominal wall post-surgery. The approach to hernia surgery has evolved; previously, the tendency was to use the surrounding tissue t...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Fluid Accumulation After Hernia Repair
Post-Appendectomy Pain: Is It Normal 23 Days After Surgery?
It has been 23 days since the appendectomy, and there is still pain at the incision site when walking? Hello, Dr. Hsieh: I have a question. I underwent surgery for suppurative appendicitis at the end of September and was discharged on October 2nd. On October 7th, my wound was sw...
Dr. Xie Wenhuai Reply:
I'm sorry for only seeing your question now. Based on your description, you are likely suffering from severe appendicitis, possibly with a perforated purulent appendicitis, which is why a drainage tube was placed postoperatively. If the doctor is considering removing the sut...[Read More] Post-Appendectomy Pain: Is It Normal 23 Days After Surgery?
Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Lower back pain? Hello, I apologize for taking your time. I would like to ask you about a sudden onset of lower back pain I experienced a few days ago. Initially, it was just a simple ache in my lower back, but the next day I began to feel discomfort behind my knees, and later, t...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Sciatica is essentially a symptom that relies on clinical diagnosis. As for whether the cause is a herniated disc, it is certainly a possibility. The diagnostic tools commonly used are computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is also possible for sciatica ...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Liver Transplant Risks and Options for Patients
Confusion about liver transplantation? I would like to consult a physician regarding my mother, who is suffering from cirrhosis and liver cancer. Since I am living abroad, I am unable to fully understand her condition. Among my five siblings, only I share the same blood type as m...
Dr. He Zhenming Reply:
Hello: Most liver cancer cases are caused by cirrhosis. In Taiwan, 80% of liver cancer cases are due to hepatitis B and C leading to the progression of cirrhosis into liver cancer. Currently, cirrhosis cannot be improved. If liver cancer develops after cirrhosis, the prognosis af...[Read More] Understanding Liver Transplant Risks and Options for Patients
Understanding Anal Fistulas and Colostomy Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Anal fistula, colostomy? My father was hospitalized for a neurological issue and underwent surgery. Postoperatively, he experienced bowel problems and has four anal fistulas, so we were advised to consider a colostomy. It has been two weeks since the surgery, and he had not had a...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... Based on your description, your father's artificial anus is likely a loop colostomy. It is not uncommon for stool to occasionally pass from the distal end in this type of colostomy. Colostomies can be classified into complete diversion ...[Read More] Understanding Anal Fistulas and Colostomy Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Do You Really Need Surgery for a Herniated Disc? Exploring Options
Is surgery always necessary for a herniated disc? One day, I suddenly experienced mild pain in my lower back, which made it difficult to exert myself while using the restroom and caused significant inconvenience during bowel movements. I took pain medication and muscle relaxants ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If a herniated disc is mild, physical therapy (rehabilitation) may be appropriate. However, as you mentioned, surgery seems necessary. Generally, the surgical options are: 1. Microsurgery 2. Endoscopic surgery, which typically involves incisions no larger than 3-4 centimet...[Read More] Do You Really Need Surgery for a Herniated Disc? Exploring Options
Choosing the Best Hospital for Breast Reduction Surgery: Key Considerations
Which hospital is better? Hello~ Which hospital is better? Is breast reduction surgery going to require a stay of three to four days? Is this considered major or minor surgery? Will the cost of the breast reduction be known before or after the surgery? Are there any potential sid...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
1. It is advisable to have a board-certified plastic surgeon perform the procedure. 2. Breast reduction surgery typically requires a hospital stay of three to four days, or even longer. Postoperatively, patients need to wear a compression garment for two to three months. 3. I...[Read More] Choosing the Best Hospital for Breast Reduction Surgery: Key Considerations
Becoming a Doctor: Insights on Medical School Paths and Specializations
Regarding physicians? Hello Dr. Wang, I have some questions I would like to ask you, as you are a post-baccalaureate medical graduate. I am currently a student in a specialized engineering program, and I aspire to become a doctor in the future. I understand that you took the ent...
Dr. Wang Zhitang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Jie: I am glad to receive your letter! You mentioned the differences in difficulty between the post-baccalaureate medical program and the general medical program, whether there are fewer applicants for the post-baccalaureate program, and if graduates are generally ol...[Read More] Becoming a Doctor: Insights on Medical School Paths and Specializations
Is Swelling Normal After Rhinoplasty? Understanding Post-Surgery Recovery
Is it normal for the nose to be swollen after rhinoplasty? Hello Doctor: I am someone who just had rhinoplasty four days ago. Today, I removed the tape from my nose and noticed that it is swollen and enlarged, and the shape has changed. Additionally, there are bruises and swellin...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Unless there is redness accompanied by abnormal pain, there is a possibility of infection; therefore, your current condition is indeed a normal postoperative recovery period.[Read More] Is Swelling Normal After Rhinoplasty? Understanding Post-Surgery Recovery
Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: Risks, Scarring, and Surgical Insights
Sebaceous cyst Hello, doctor... I have a sebaceous cyst that has been present for two to three months. I have seen a doctor about it... I'm wondering if there are any potential complications from this type of surgery? Will there be any scarring? What are the risks associated...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Sebaceous cysts that have formed for 2 to 3 months indicate that they are well-developed. Surgery is generally not very difficult, and the associated risks are minimal. To minimize scarring, it is advisable to seek a plastic surgeon and to focus on postoperative care.[Read More] Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: Risks, Scarring, and Surgical Insights
Post-Thyroid Surgery: Managing Recovery and Cold Symptoms Effectively
Thyroid gland Hello Dr. Hsieh~~^^ I had thyroid surgery in mid-July and subsequently caught a cold. After a few days without significant improvement, I sought medical attention, which provided some relief. Following the surgery, the doctors advised me to consume cold foods to red...
Dr. Xie Wenhuai Reply:
In mid-July, I just underwent thyroid surgery, which was necessarily performed under general anesthesia. General anesthesia is mostly administered through endotracheal intubation. Postoperatively, patients often feel discomfort in the throat, and may even experience hoarseness. S...[Read More] Post-Thyroid Surgery: Managing Recovery and Cold Symptoms Effectively
Pros and Cons of Sitting vs. Lying Position in Neurosurgery
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using sitting and supine positions in neurosurgical procedures? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using sitting and supine positions in neurosurgical procedures?
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
I don't quite understand the question you are asking. If it pertains to the surgical position, it is determined by the area of the body being operated on. For example, in cases of lumbar disc herniation, the prone position is used, while for frontal lobe tumors, the supine p...[Read More] Pros and Cons of Sitting vs. Lying Position in Neurosurgery
Which Specialist Should I See for Neurofibroma Treatment?
Hello, doctor. I would like to ask which specialty I should see for neurofibromas? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask which specialty I should consult for neurofibromas? Thank you. I have a tumor on my palm, and I have already undergone three surgeries at Taichung Veterans Genera...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
The treatment for neurofibromas falls under the category of plastic surgery. If there is a single tumor, it can typically be excised; however, if there are multiple tumors, it may be related to genetic factors. Regarding skin grafting on the palm, it is generally possible if ther...[Read More] Which Specialist Should I See for Neurofibroma Treatment?