BRIDGING ENERGY MEDICINE WITH IMAGING

Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya Integrates Ultrasound into Functional Women’s Health

Introduction:
Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya (recognized as "Dr. Leslie"), a rising leader in bioenergy medicine, is charting new territory in functional diagnostics by integrating advanced ultrasound technology into her clinical toolkit. Under the mentorship of renowned cancer imaging expert Dr. Robert Bard, Dr. Leslie is mastering the Terason 3200T system—unlocking the power of live, high-definition visualization to enhance her personalized treatment protocols. With a special focus on her Perimenopause Program, this addition marks a pivotal evolution in her approach to women’s health, merging traditional diagnostics with frequency-based, regenerative therapies.

A Partnership in Innovation: Learning from a Master

As a practitioner deeply committed to personalized care, Dr. Leslie recognized a critical gap in her diagnostics—until she met Dr. Robert Bard. Known for his expertise in ultrasound imaging and cancer surveillance, Dr. Bard has become a mentor and clinical guide to Dr. Leslie. “I need his interpretation in the world of radiology,” she noted. “His validation of what I’m seeing builds the credibility and accuracy of what I deliver to my patients.”

Their collaboration is opening doors for real-time, non-invasive imaging that offers functional medicine providers like Dr. Leslie the ability to go beyond symptom tracking and into the anatomy itself. “Ultrasound lets me monitor tissues live. I don’t have to send samples out and wait. I can see nodules, vascular flow, soft plaque development—it’s a whole new layer of insight,” she explains.

Perimenopause Reimagined: A Holistic Protocol

At the heart of Dr. Leslie’s clinical focus is her Perimenopause Program, an integrative suite of therapies designed to help women navigate hormonal transition with resilience and insight. The program includes frequency medicine, red light therapy, binaural beats, infrared sauna, and heart rate variability tracking—all aimed at reducing stress, cortisol, and systemic inflammation.

Every protocol is tailored to the individual, with special emphasis on glandular and cardiovascular health. One recent patient, Elena, underwent an ultrasound of the thyroid and carotid artery as part of her initial diagnostic intake. The scan revealed a 1cm thyroid nodule and early plaque formation—key findings that guided both immediate treatment decisions and long-term monitoring strategy. “Nobody’s thinking to scan the thyroid in women going through perimenopause,” says Dr. Leslie. “But it’s an essential step if we’re serious about personalized medicine.”

Technology Meets Intuition: The Role of Ultrasound

What sets Dr. Leslie apart is her ability to harmonize advanced medical technology with subtle energy medicine. She sees ultrasound as a powerful complement to the non-invasive, frequency-based tools she already uses, including PEMF therapy, Bioenergy neurostimulation, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and near-infrared sauna. “Ultrasound is the icing on the cake,” she says. “It allows us to see the tissue we’re treating—whether it’s glandular abnormalities, vascular changes, or inflammatory markers. We’re not just relying on symptoms or lab results anymore—we’re watching the healing in real time.”

Her use of Doppler flow analysis is a particularly valuable addition, allowing her to assess blood supply to potential lesions, nodules, or soft tissue changes. “If there’s no blood flow to a thyroid nodule, we can rule out certain types of malignancy and follow it more conservatively,” she explains. “But we’ll scan again in six weeks, not six months—because we want to see what’s changing.”

Image A: Structural Ultrasound Scan of the Thyroid. This grayscale ultrasound image captures the thyroid gland in cross-section, highlighting its anatomical structure. The scan allows clinicians to evaluate the shape, size, and texture of the thyroid lobes, and to detect the presence of nodules, cysts, or other irregularities commonly associated with thyroid dysfunction or disease.  Image B: Doppler Blood Flow Imaging of the same Thyroid. This image uses color Doppler technology to assess blood flow within the thyroid gland. The red and blue hues represent the direction and velocity of blood circulation—critical in evaluating thyroid vascularity, inflammation, or suspicious nodules. Doppler imaging is often used to differentiate between benign and malignant thyroid lesions based on blood flow patterns. Image C: Doppler Blood Flow Imaging of the Carotid Artery. This Doppler scan of the carotid artery showcases robust arterial blood flow in real time. The rich red coloration indicates forward-moving blood through the artery, helping detect narrowing, plaque buildup, or vascular abnormalities. This is a vital assessment tool in cardiovascular and stroke prevention protocols.

Click to see complete review on PHASE ANGLE / Bioenergy Metrics

Expanding the Vision: The Future of Women’s Health

Though still early in its rollout,  Dr. Leslie’s Perimenopause Program is already attracting attention for its depth and innovation. Yet she acknowledges that growth will take time—and education. “There’s a cost to advanced diagnostics, and not everyone understands the value yet,” she says. “But I see a future where women demand this level of insight and care.”

By combining radiologic imaging with energetic therapeutics, Dr. Leslie is creating a new model of women’s health—one that honors both the measurable and the intuitive, the anatomical and the energetic. “We’re moving from symptom-chasing to total systems analysis,” she explains. “That’s where real healing happens.”

Conclusion: A New Diagnostic Era in Functional Medicine

Dr. Leslie’s work represents the forefront of a paradigm shift—one where ultrasound imaging is no longer confined to radiology suites, but integrated seamlessly into functional, bioenergetic, and preventive medicine practices. Through mentorship, advanced training, and an unwavering commitment to patient empowerment, she is redefining what it means to support women through hormonal transition. With every scan and every session, she is building a future where diagnostics are as personalized—and powerful—as the therapies they support.

 

Afterthought by Dr. Robert Bard

on the Evolution of Imaging in Functional and Private Practice Medicine

As someone who has dedicated decades to advancing diagnostic imaging in clinical care, I find it both inspiring and affirming to witness professionals like Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya embrace these technologies within a truly innovative therapeutic framework. Her willingness to integrate high-resolution ultrasound into a functional medicine environment reflects a growing shift among private practices that are not only thinking outside the box—but building entirely new models of personalized, precision health care.

Click to see: Smoking Cessation Program

Dr. Leslie represents a new kind of practitioner—one who understands that healing is not just about symptom relief, but measurable transformation. By adopting ultrasound as a routine part of her perimenopause protocol and wellness assessments, she is elevating her standard of care to include objective monitoring, real-time insights, and ongoing evaluation of treatment efficacy. This is the kind of forward-thinking application that makes a powerful case for bringing imaging out of the hospital and into the hands of those on the front lines of lifestyle and integrative medicine.

Her practice is a blueprint for what’s possible: combining the energetic and the anatomical, the intuitive and the evidence-based. I applaud Dr. Leslie’s commitment to mastering this technology and commend all private clinicians willing to go the distance in bringing new tools to their patients. In this era of patient-driven care, imaging must be more than a diagnostic—it must be a compass guiding smarter, safer, and more validated outcomes.

—Dr. Robert L. Bard

Diagnostic Imaging Specialist, NY Cancer Imaging Group

 

 

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:

This article was developed with the valued contributions of Dr. Robert L. Bard of Bard Diagnostics, the Women’s Professional Health Network (Women’s Health Digest), and Terason Ultrasound, whose commitment to imaging innovation enhances patient care and diagnostic precision. Additional supporters featured in this initiative include: the Integrative Cancer Resource Society, BrainWave Wellness Institute, the Integrative Pain Healers Alliance (IPHA), New York Cancer Resource Alliance, Foundation for Angiogenesis Research and Education, First Responders Health Resource. Special thanks to Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya for her visionary integration of ultrasound diagnostics into functional therapies and perimenopausal care.

 

A Diagnostic Partnership: The Synergistic Power of Thermography and Ultrasound Imaging

In today’s evolving landscape of diagnostic medicine, the integration of complementary imaging technologies is redefining how clinicians detect, assess, and monitor disease. Two non-invasive modalities—medical-grade thermography and diagnostic ultrasound—have individually proven their worth in clinical settings. Yet, when these tools are combined, their collective diagnostic power offers a more comprehensive understanding of physiological and anatomical conditions, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of patient care.

This article highlights the valuable alliance between thermography and ultrasound imaging, illustrating how thermography’s functional, heat-based data guides targeted, structural evaluation through ultrasound. Additionally, we explore how Doppler ultrasound’s capability to assess vascular patterns aligns with thermographic readings, offering a dynamic, multi-dimensional perspective of pathology. Together, these technologies support early detection, monitoring, and integrative care strategies across a range of clinical applications.

Thermography: Capturing the Body’s Thermal Signals
Medical thermography operates by detecting and mapping infrared heat emissions from the body’s surface. Because changes in circulation, inflammation, and nerve activity affect skin temperature, thermography can identify subtle physiological changes that may indicate developing disease, often before structural abnormalities are detectable by other imaging modalities.

Widely known for its role in breast health assessments, thermography is valued for its radiation-free, non-invasive nature and its capacity to detect abnormal heat patterns related to increased vascular activity or inflammation. Beyond breast imaging, thermography is increasingly applied in vascular screening (such as carotid artery assessments), thyroid dysfunction evaluations, and musculoskeletal and nerve-related conditions.

  

Primary advantages of thermography include:

    * Detection of early physiological changes that precede structural issues.

    * Non-invasive, radiation-free imaging suitable for regular monitoring.

    * Identification of heat patterns associated with abnormal vascularity, inflammation, or nerve irritation.

    * Ability to perform comparative, sequential imaging to monitor physiological trends over time.

Although thermography is not intended to replace anatomical imaging, its sensitivity to functional abnormalities makes it a valuable tool in proactive and complementary diagnostics.

Ultrasound Imaging: Anatomical Insight and Dynamic Evaluation
Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal tissues and structures. Its versatility allows clinicians to visualize soft tissue anatomy while also assessing movement and blood flow using Doppler technology.

Ultrasound is routinely used for evaluating breast, thyroid, vascular, abdominal, pelvic, and musculoskeletal health, among other applications. Doppler ultrasound adds a critical dimension by enabling clinicians to observe blood flow patterns, vessel integrity, and abnormal vascular activity such as tumor angiogenesis or inflammatory hyperemia.

Notable strengths of ultrasound imaging include:

    * Immediate, real-time visualization of anatomical structures.

    * Functional assessment of blood flow with Doppler imaging.

    * Safe, non-invasive, and adaptable for various anatomical regions.

    * Guidance for needle biopsies and interventional procedures.

Ultrasound’s ability to combine structural detail with dynamic functional data makes it an ideal counterpart to the physiological information captured through thermography.

Thermography as a Guide for Targeted Ultrasound Evaluation
The value of pairing thermography with ultrasound lies in how thermal imaging can direct more precise, focused ultrasound assessments. Thermography highlights areas of abnormal heat distribution, which often correspond to regions of increased blood flow, inflammation, or nerve activity beneath the skin. These thermal findings can then inform where ultrasound should be applied, ensuring that subclinical or early-stage concerns are investigated further.

In clinical scenarios such as:

    * Breast health assessments: A localized heat anomaly on thermography may indicate increased vascular activity. Focused ultrasound imaging, supplemented with Doppler studies, can then examine the area for masses or abnormal vascularity.

    * Carotid artery evaluation: Thermal asymmetries along the neck may signal vascular irregularities or inflammation. Doppler ultrasound can assess blood flow velocities and vessel patency at these flagged locations.

    * Thyroid screening: Thermal patterns suggestive of hyperactivity or inflammation can prompt targeted ultrasound evaluation to visualize nodules, cysts, or vascular changes.

This coordinated approach improves diagnostic accuracy by combining thermography’s sensitivity to functional changes with ultrasound’s structural and functional imaging capabilities.

Aligning Vascular Data: Doppler Ultrasound Meets Thermography
Doppler ultrasound’s role in measuring blood flow dynamics aligns naturally with the vascular insights offered by thermography. Both modalities offer distinct, yet complementary, information about circulation and tissue metabolism.

For example:

    * Tumor-related angiogenesis often results in increased local blood flow, creating areas of hyperthermia on thermography and detectable vascular proliferation with Doppler ultrasound.

    * Inflammatory processes generate heat due to increased blood flow and metabolic activity. Thermography can map these hotspots, while Doppler ultrasound confirms hyperemia and assesses the involved vessels.

    * Peripheral vascular disease may appear as cooler regions on thermography due to impaired perfusion. Doppler ultrasound can then quantify blood flow reduction or identify vascular obstructions.

    * The alignment of these two data sets provides clinicians with a thorough understanding of both functional vascular health and anatomical vessel status.

Broadened Applications: Established and Investigational Uses
While thermography holds FDA clearance as an adjunct for breast health evaluation, practitioners have extended its use into several investigational areas where early physiological changes are clinically relevant.

Examples include:

    * Neuropathy and pain syndromes: Thermography can detect altered heat patterns associated with nerve irritation or dysfunction in the back, feet, and pelvic areas.

    * Inflammatory arthritis and rheumatic conditions: Localized heat increases can identify active inflammation sites.

    * Post-surgical surveillance: Thermography may help track vascular integrity and inflammation following operative procedures.

    * Sports injuries and overuse syndromes: Subtle thermal changes can signal early-stage tissue stress or inflammation, while ultrasound evaluates tissue integrity and guides treatment.

In each scenario, ultrasound enhances the diagnostic process by confirming structural pathology or assessing blood flow in areas identified by thermography, allowing for more precise intervention planning.

Illustrative Example: Integrating Imaging for Breast Health
Consider a clinical case in which thermography reveals a localized area of elevated heat in the upper outer quadrant of the left breast. This finding prompts a targeted ultrasound examination, which identifies a small, hypoechoic mass with notable vascularity on Doppler imaging. The combined results offer a compelling clinical rationale for further investigation, such as biopsy or additional imaging.

In situations where breast tissue density limits mammographic accuracy, thermography and ultrasound together improve the likelihood of early detection, providing valuable information in risk assessment and management planning.

Conclusion: A Forward-Thinking Diagnostic Model
The combined use of medical thermography and ultrasound imaging represents a progressive, integrative model in diagnostic medicine. By coupling physiological heat mapping with real-time anatomical and vascular imaging, clinicians can detect early, often subclinical changes that may signal the onset of disease. This dual-modality approach offers a safer, non-invasive, and highly informative option for proactive health monitoring and early intervention.

As diagnostic medicine continues to evolve, the partnership between thermography and ultrasound promises to play an increasingly significant role, particularly in breast health, vascular screening, thyroid evaluation, and investigational applications in pain, inflammation, and sports medicine. Future research and clinical protocols will further refine and expand these applications, advancing the goal of truly personalized, precision-based care.

__________________________________________________________________________________

RELATED ARTICLES

ADVANCED THERMOLOGY FOR THYROID AND CERVICAL DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION

THE THYROID GLAND, situated anteriorly in the lower neck, is uniquely accessible due to its superficial anatomical position and rich vascular network. This makes it an ideal candidate for assessment through high-resolution infrared thermographic imaging. Thermology offers a non-invasive, radiation-free adjunctive modality that complements traditional diagnostic methods in evaluating thyroid function and pathology. By detecting subtle temperature variations on the skin surface above the thyroid and surrounding cervical tissues, infrared thermography reflects the gland’s underlying metabolic activity. This technique is especially valuable in the early detection and functional assessment of thyroid disorders, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, nodular goiter, and thyroid malignancies.

___________________________________________________________________________________

THE ROLE OF NEOANGIOGENESIS IN BREAST CANCER DETECTION

One of the core principles of medical thermography is detecting physiologic changes associated with cancer. Neoangiogenesis—the formation of new blood vessels—is critical for tumor growth. Without it, cancerous cells would be unable to obtain the nutrients they need to proliferate. The abnormal structure of these new blood vessels was not well understood until the late 1980s, when studies revealed their unique porous nature.

Unlike normal blood vessels, which have a structured, three-layered composition, neoangiogenic vessels are disorganized and resemble a natural sponge, with an erratic, unregulated flow. Lacking smooth muscle and autonomic nervous system regulation, these vessels exhibit excessive and uncontrolled blood flow. As a result, areas of neoangiogenesis appear as "hot spots" in thermal imaging. Because breast tissue is located in the outer shell of the body, where body heat is regulated to maintain a stable core body temperature, these hot patterns can indicate malignancy, setting medical thermology apart as a functional imaging modality distinct from structural imaging techniques like mammography, ultrasound and MRI.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HEAD AND NECK: QUANTITATIVE THERMAL MEASUREMENT & A MEDICAL COMPLETEMENT TO THE ULTRASOUND

The patient is a 65-year-old military veteran who sustained a fall, leading to a concussion that required a three-day hospital observation period. Upon discharge, he reported persistent shoulder pain. Ultrasound imaging of the shoulder revealed an inflamed biceps tendon, which was appropriately treated with physical therapy or targeted injection—avoiding unnecessary rotator cuff surgery, which had initially been planned. Given the patient’s recent concussion, ultrasound assessment was extended to the optic nerve, which was imaged within minutes and confirmed as normal, ruling out increased intracranial pressure.

Optic nerve swelling is also another a critical indicator of elevated intracranial pressure and is widely used in emergency medicine for concussion assessment. While hospital concussion screenings may clear a patient, they do not eliminate the risk of delayed-onset intracranial bleeding. Subdural hematomas, for example, can develop over days, weeks, or even months post-injury, gradually increasing intracranial pressure. Early detection using noninvasive imaging techniques is therefore essential and timely.

Advanced Thermology for Thyroid and Cervical Diagnostic Evaluation

Written & Edited by: Lennard Goetze, Ed,D, Robert Bard, MD and Gina Adams

THE THYROID GLAND, situated anteriorly in the lower neck, is uniquely accessible due to its superficial anatomical position and rich vascular network. This makes it an ideal candidate for assessment through high-resolution infrared thermographic imaging. Thermology offers a non-invasive, radiation-free adjunctive modality that complements traditional diagnostic methods in evaluating thyroid function and pathology.

By detecting subtle temperature variations on the skin surface above the thyroid and surrounding cervical tissues, infrared thermography reflects the gland’s underlying metabolic activity. This technique is especially valuable in the early detection and functional assessment of thyroid disorders, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, nodular goiter, and thyroid malignancies.

Thermal imaging of the cervical region provides visual insight into patterns of vascular and inflammatory activity, which often correlate with clinical signs and symptoms. In autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’, thermographic patterns may reveal hyperthermic or hypothermic zones that correspond to inflammatory or degenerative processes, long before significant hormonal changes appear in bloodwork.

Additionally, thermology serves as a practical tool for distinguishing between benign thyroid nodules and suspicious masses. While it does not replace fine needle aspiration or ultrasound imaging, thermal mapping can identify abnormal heat signatures that suggest angiogenesis or metabolic upregulation typical of malignant processes—prompting further targeted investigation.

From a procedural standpoint, thyroid thermography is entirely passive. It requires no contact with the patient and involves capturing a series of thermal images of the anterior neck and cervical spine region in a controlled environment. This makes it particularly appealing for routine screening, follow-up monitoring, and patients for whom radiation exposure is contraindicated.

Importantly, cervical thermology extends beyond the thyroid itself. It provides a broader view of the lymphatic drainage, muscular asymmetry, and neurovascular responses in the cervical area, offering a systemic perspective that complements localized thyroid imaging. This integrative view helps clinicians evaluate the physiological interplay between the thyroid and nearby anatomical structures, including the parathyroids, cervical lymph nodes, and upper thoracic inlet.

Moreover, thermography can be used to monitor the effectiveness of thyroid treatment protocols—whether pharmacological, dietary, or integrative. Serial imaging allows practitioners to track shifts in vascular activity and thermal symmetry as patients respond to interventions, offering an additional layer of objective feedback alongside lab results and symptom progression.

HealthTech Reporter and the AngioInstitute would like to thank Therma-Scan Reference Laboratory and Dr. Phil Hoekstra for sharing comprehensive studies and samples of thyroid imaging: 

---

SCANNING THYROID CANCER
Thyroid tumors are common but can be hard to diagnose by touch alone. Sonography is the primary method for detecting and monitoring suspicious nodules. Areas with calcium deposits are especially concerning and often require biopsy under ultrasound guidance. Parathyroid masses, which can cause significant health issues like bone loss in women or kidney stones in men, may also be detected. Ultrasound can also identify cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes, which can be biopsied with imaging guidance.

THYROID CANCER FAQ's

Q: Why is a sonogram important if I visit my doctor annually?
Blood tests often miss thyroid tumors, which can be difficult to detect through physical examination, especially if they are deep within the gland.

Q: What happens if a tumor is found?
Many benign conditions, like cysts, can be differentiated from cancer without a biopsy. Ultrasound can assess calcium content, which may indicate cancer, requiring further tests.

Q: Does every suspicious area require a biopsy?
Ultrasound screening and other tests can reduce unnecessary biopsies. Small suspicious areas are typically monitored for growth every 3-6 months before considering a biopsy.

Q: How far can thyroid cancer spread?
Most thyroid cancers grow slowly and spread locally. Metastasis is rare and can be evaluated using MRI scans.

Q: Can ultrasound detect parathyroid tumors that cause osteoporosis?
Parathyroid adenomas are typically benign but can lead to significant physical effects due to hormonal imbalances. These tumors can often be diagnosed with 3-D Power Doppler Histogram .

In summary, ultrasound imaging plays a crucial role in evaluating thyroid health by providing a safe, non-invasive, and highly detailed view of the gland. When combined with pathology, it enhances diagnostic accuracy, guiding appropriate treatment decisions. This synergy between imaging and laboratory analysis ensures a comprehensive approach to identifying and managing thyroid conditions effectively.

---

The Essentials of Thyroid Imaging (part 2)

By: Dr. Robert Bard

When imaging detects a suspicious area, it can guide selective biopsies to obtain small tissue samples for further laboratory analysis (pathology). Combining imaging with pathology provides the most accurate information about the size, location, and aggressiveness of any issue detected.  In the case of thyroid imaging, use of an ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the thyroid gland in the neck. It is often used for this organ because it is a non-invasive procedure that does not use ionizing radiation. It’s commonly used to evaluate lumps or nodules detected during a physical exam or other imaging tests and requires minimal preparation.

 Thyroid nodule (tumor) - doppler ultrasound

The ultrasound helps doctors visualize the thyroid's size, shape, and potential abnormalities like nodules, cysts, or inflammation, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning. It’s typically performed when physical exams show:

 - A growth on the thyroid, known as a thyroid nodule (image - R).

- An enlarged or irregular thyroid (goiter).

- Abnormal lymph nodes near the thyroid.

THE ROLE OF THE THYROID GLAND: The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ in the endocrine system that regulates hormones influencing various bodily functions. These hormones affect both physical and mental performance, so unexplained symptoms may indicate a thyroid issue.

HYPERTHYROIDISM AND THYROID DISORDERS: Thyroid disorders can stem from various causes and affect the balance of hormones in the body. A range of treatments is available for managing thyroid issues, from medication to non-invasive procedures.

---

Friday, March 21, 2025

Treating Thyroid Disorders Non-Invasively

By: Dr. Robert L. Bard

Part 1: PEMF Therapy and Thyroid Health- A Natural Boost for Cellular Energy

Every cell in your body holds a natural electrical charge essential for proper function. When cells are stressed or damaged, that charge weakens. PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy uses gentle pulses to restore this balance, helping reduce inflammation and supporting ATP production—the energy molecule vital for all cellular processes. This is especially beneficial for those with low thyroid function, where energy production is already compromised.

While thyroid medications are common and often necessary, they can have long-term side effects. PEMF offers a non-invasive, drug-free complement that helps maintain hormonal balance. With regular use and medical supervision, it may even allow for reduced medication dosages over time.

One of the thyroid’s main jobs is to regulate oxygen use through hormone production. Low oxygen levels in tissues can increase health risks, including cancer. PEMF therapy improves oxygen delivery, enhancing the body’s repair and maintenance processes.

Additionally, PEMF may support the management of thyroid nodules—small growths on the thyroid that can disrupt function or become cancerous. Early use of PEMF has shown potential in shrinking or preventing these nodules, helping protect long-term thyroid health.

Modern Surgical Tools in Thyroidectomy: Ligasure vs. Harmonic Scalpel

Thyroid surgery, particularly thyroidectomy, has evolved significantly with the advent of advanced energy-based surgical tools designed to improve precision, reduce operative time, and minimize complications. Two of the most widely used medical devices in modern thyroid surgery are the bipolar energy-sealing system (Ligasure, Medtronic, Mansfield, MA) and the ultrasonic coagulation system (Harmonic Scalpel, Ethicon). These instruments have largely replaced traditional clamp-and-tie techniques, offering surgeons greater efficiency and safety.

Ligasure: Bipolar Vessel Sealing Technology

The Ligasure system utilizes advanced bipolar energy to permanently seal blood vessels and lymphatics. By applying controlled thermal energy and pressure, Ligasure denatures collagen and elastin within the vessel wall, creating a durable seal capable of withstanding high intraluminal pressures. In thyroid surgery, where delicate vascular structures and proximity to the recurrent laryngeal nerve demand careful dissection, Ligasure offers reliable hemostasis with minimal lateral thermal spread (typically <2 mm), reducing the risk of nerve injury or collateral tissue damage.

Advantages of Ligasure:

* Effective sealing of vessels up to 7 mm in diameter

* Low thermal spread, improving safety near nerves

* Reduced operative time and blood loss

* Consistent and reproducible performance

Harmonic Scalpel: Ultrasonic Dissection and Coagulation

The Harmonic Scalpel works through ultrasonic vibrations at a frequency of around 55.5 kHz, enabling simultaneous cutting and coagulation of tissue. It converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, allowing for a cooler operative field compared to traditional electrocautery. The device is especially effective in fine dissection due to its minimal thermal injury and precision in confined anatomical spaces. In thyroid surgery, the Harmonic Scalpel is prized for its ability to cut and seal tissue at the same time, providing a smooth workflow during gland mobilization and vascular division.

Advantages of the Harmonic Scalpel:

* Precise dissection with minimal charring

* Reduced lateral heat dispersion (<1.5 mm)

* Improved visibility due to minimal smoke generation

* Less postoperative pain and faster recovery

Choosing Between the Two

Both devices are well-validated in endocrine surgery, and their use often depends on surgeon preference, institutional availability, and patient-specific factors. Some studies suggest that the Harmonic Scalpel may offer slightly shorter operative times, while Ligasure provides stronger vessel sealing, particularly for larger-caliber vessels. In many advanced centers, surgeons use both systems selectively based on the specific surgical step being performed.

Ultimately, these tools exemplify the technological advancements that continue to improve outcomes in thyroid surgery — promoting precision, efficiency, and patient safety.

---

Friday, March 21, 2025

Understanding Thyroid Health: Key Insights on Hormones, Longevity, and Wellness

Thyroid health plays a critical role in nearly every physiological process of the body, influencing metabolism, brain function, heart health, and more. Yet, despite its significance, the nuances of thyroid function remain elusive for many. As we age, maintaining optimal thyroid function is an essential component of overall well-being, and understanding the balance of thyroid hormones can help prevent future health challenges.

From an exclusive interview with Dr. Angela Mazza, Integrative Endocrinologist

The Essential Role of Thyroid Health

The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. However, its influence extends far beyond just energy production. Thyroid hormones affect growth, cognition, mood, and even the function of vital organs. Research indicates that every system in the body—whether it's the heart, the gut, or the brain—is impacted by thyroid hormone levels.

However, what constitutes "optimal" thyroid function is not always clear. The standard reference ranges used to assess thyroid health are based on large population studies, but these ranges do not necessarily account for individual variations. Moreover, as we age, our thyroid function can naturally change, raising questions about whether slight imbalances might, in fact, be beneficial. Long-term studies on centenarians suggest that slightly elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) may be associated with longevity. This highlights the complexity of thyroid health and the need for more research on how it influences aging and overall quality of life.  (See complete feature)

Regenerative Therapies and Photobiomodulation for Hair Growth

By: Lennard M. Gettz, Ed.D

The world of regenerative medicine is evolving quickly, and it's not just helping with chronic pain or injury recovery—it’s also opening new doors in treating hair loss. More and more people are turning to non-surgical, science-backed options to stimulate hair regrowth, with promising results. From stem cell-based treatments to light therapy, modern hair restoration is moving beyond shampoos and medications.

Special thanks to: Ms. Gina Adams /Dr. Robert Bard

One of the most exciting technologies in this space is photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or red light therapy. This treatment uses safe, targeted wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to boost cell energy production and improve blood flow in the scalp. By stimulating the hair follicles, PBM helps promote healthier and thicker hair growth. It’s painless, non-invasive, and often delivered through at-home devices like laser caps or combs.

Studies show that PBM therapy can significantly improve hair density and strength in people with androgenetic alopecia (a common form of hair thinning) [1]. The light stimulates cellular metabolism in the hair follicle and extends the growth phase of the hair cycle. With regular use over a few months, many users begin to notice a fuller head of hair.  

[L-Image: 2022- Dr. Bard conducted a 6-month performance test drive and validation study of the "HairMax".]

REGENERATIVE 2: MINIMALLY INVASIVE SOLUTIONS

Another regenerative approach that’s gained popularity is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. In this procedure, a small amount of your own blood is drawn, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into areas of thinning hair. Platelets are packed with growth factors that can help stimulate new hair growth, improve scalp health, and strengthen existing hair strands [2]. Since the treatment uses your own blood, it’s a natural and low-risk option.

Microneedling, often used alongside PRP, involves tiny controlled punctures in the scalp using fine needles. This process encourages collagen production and allows better absorption of hair-growth serums or exosomes. It also stimulates wound-healing pathways that may activate dormant follicles [3].

Exosomes, the next generation of regenerative therapy, are tiny messenger particles derived from stem cells. They carry powerful proteins and genetic material that support tissue repair and cell-to-cell communication. When used in hair restoration, exosomes can help reduce inflammation and reawaken sluggish follicles—potentially leading to visible improvements in density and texture [4].

Finally, Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are also being explored in early clinical research. These cells have regenerative potential and may help reverse follicular aging, though this field is still developing and not yet widely available for hair restoration.

Together, these therapies offer a more personalized, natural alternative to traditional hair loss treatments. While results may vary depending on your unique hair health and biology, many patients are finding real hope through these innovative methods. Always consult with a trained medical provider or hair restoration specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your needs.

---

Low-Level Light Therapy for Hair Loss: What You Need to Know   By: Diane Pinson (Editor of the House of Hair)

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), also known as red light or cold laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates hair growth by improving blood flow and energizing cells in the scalp. It helps reduce inflammation, reactivate dormant follicles, and promote healthier, fuller hair—especially when hair loss is caught early or triggered by stress or hormonal shifts.  LLLT works best when combined with other treatments like Selphyl PRFM, exosomes, topical minoxidil, and targeted nutritional support, helping these therapies penetrate deeper and work more effectively.

Important note: LLLT only works on areas with active follicles, including thinning or vellus hairs (fine, baby-like hairs). It will not work on fully bald, shiny areas where follicles are no longer viable.   Not all light therapy devices are created equal. The number of diodes and the strength of the light determine how well a device works. Handheld or inexpensive caps with weak output often fall short. The most effective systems have high diode density and clinical strength power for full coverage and consistent results.

Top-rated devices include:

    CapillusPro (at-home): 272 medical-grade laser diodes

    iRestore Professional (at-home): 282 lasers and LEDs combined

    LaserCap HD+ (in-office or prescription-based): 304 laser diodes

    Sunetics Clinical Laser (in-office): 272–650 diodes depending on model

Hair growth varies by hair type:

    Caucasian hair: ~½ inch/month

    African-American hair: ~¼ inch/month

    Asian hair: ~½–1 inch/month

Personally, when my hair fell out, LLLT was one of the key things that helped bring it back. It healed my scalp, reduced inflammation, and supported stronger regrowth when nothing else seemed to work. I used the Sunetics Clinical Laser system—and it made all the difference.

Another therapy that made a big impact for me was PUVA (Psoralen + UVA) therapy. Though it’s not commonly used today, PUVA helped calm inflammation in my scalp and promote regrowth when nothing else seemed to work. PUVA was originally developed for skin conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo, but has been used in some cases of alopecia areata (an autoimmune type of hair loss). It works by using a light-sensitizing medication (psoralen) followed by UVA light to modulate the immune response. It’s especially helpful when hair loss is linked to inflammation or immune triggers.

PUVA is less commonly used now due to newer treatments with fewer side effects, the need for frequent clinic visits, and long-term risks like premature skin aging. But for me, it was a key part of my healing journey and scalp recovery.

---

Inflammation, DHT, and the Biochemical Cascade of Hair Loss: A Scientific Overview: by Dr. Jordan Plews

Hair loss is a multifactorial condition influenced by genetic, hormonal, and inflammatory factors. Understanding the roles of DHT and inflammation provides insight into the pathogenesis of AGA and informs effective prevention and treatment strategies. Early intervention is crucial, as inflammation and follicular damage can progress unnoticed until significant hair loss has occurred, while genetic factors (such as expression of MMP genes) in some can lead to fibrosis and result in more difficult to treat hair loss. By focusing on inflammation as an early warning sign, treatment target, and significant factor to consider when diagnosing, tracking, and treating hair loss, existing methodologies can be greatly improved. Ongoing research continues to elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying hair loss, paving the way for more targeted and effective therapies. See Dr. Jordan Plews comprehensive overview on MENONEWS and the recent issue on the HOUSE OF HAIR

---

References

1. Avci, P., Gupta, A., Clark, J., et al. (2014). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) for treatment of hair loss. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 46(2), 144–151.

2. Gentile, P., et al. (2015). The Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Regrowth: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 4(11), 1317–1323.

3. Dhurat, R., Sukesh, M., et al. (2013). A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: A pilot study. International Journal of Trichology, 5(1), 6–11.

4. Kim, Y.J., et al. (2020). Exosomes in hair growth and alopecia. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(10), 3659.

5. Elmaadawi, I.H., et al. (2018). Stem cell therapy for androgenetic alopecia: A review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 29(3), 278–283.