Pediatric Rheumatology

UT Pediatric Rheumatology is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Rheumatology provide patient care.

Representing the best in their fields, UT pediatric rheumatologists diagnose and treat a broad range of rheumatic diseases including the many forms of arthritis, connective tissue diseases (such as scleroderma, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis), tendonitis and bursitis. UT Pediatric Rheumatologists are renowned for their expertise in lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, vasculitis and spondyloarthropathies (such as ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and reactive syndrome).

Appointments

For appointments, please call 832-325-6516 or request an appointment online.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 832-325-6516 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 832-325-6516.

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 832-325-6516 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day.

For after hours care, please call 832-325-6516 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 832-325-6516.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

UT Physicians is a preferred provider for most managed care plans. We will verify your insurance coverage prior to your office visit.

We will file your insurance claim for you. You will be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. If you do not have medical insurance, payment in full is due at the time of the visit.

For billing questions, please call Patient Services at 713-500-3500.

Nurse Line and Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 832-325-6516 to speak with a nurse. The nurse will relay information to your physician.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.

Test Results

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Prescriptions

For prescription refills, please call your pharmacy.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Pediatric Specialty Clinic at Memorial City

UT Pediatric Specialty Clinic at Memorial City is where physician faculty members of  The University of Texas Medical School at Houston provide pediatric specialty care in the fields of pediatric gastroenterology, pediatric cardiology and pediatric pulmonary medicine, which will be conducting sleep clinics.

Pediatric Surgery

UT Pediatric Surgery is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Pediatric Surgery provide patient care.

Representing the best in their fields, UT pediatric surgeons bring special expertise to their patients and treat an array of conditions, including hernias of all types, appendicitis, pyloric stenosis, swelling, bumps and lumps, abscesses, masses and cysts, hemangioma, lymph node diseases, abnormalities of the intestines such as malrotation and necrotizing enterocolitis, gastroschisis, pancreatitis, phimosis, esophageal stricture, ulcerative colitis, Wilms’ tumor, trauma, fecal impaction and undescended testicle. UT pediatric surgeons are respected pioneers in minimally-invasive procedures.

Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery

UT Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery provide patient care. UT pediatric cardiovascular surgeons treat a variety of congenital heart defects including the following: single ventricle physiology (including Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome), Tetralogy of Fallot, Transposition of the Great Arteries, Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return, Aortic Stenosis, Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects, and Coarctation of the Aorta. UT pediatric cardiovascular surgeons also treat adults with congenital heart defects.

Appointments

For appointments, please call 713-500-7324 or request an appointment online. If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 713-559-5200 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 713-500-7324.

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 713-500-7324 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day. For after hours care, please call 713-500-7324 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization before visiting our specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Nurseline at Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 713-500-7324 to speak with a nurse. The nurse will relay information to your physician.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.

Test Results

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Prescriptions

For prescription refills, please call your pharmacy.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Cardiology

UT Cardiology is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Cardiology provide patient care. UT cardiologists bring their patients specialized expertise that centers on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of heart disease. Within the UT Cardiology clinic, the UT Cardiovascular Imaging and Arrhythmia Diagnostic Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for early non-invasive detection for heart disease including sophisticated echo, nuclear studies, stress testing, vascular and carotid ultrasound, Holter monitoring and event recorders.

For Medical Records: 832-325-6543

For Billing: 713-500-3500

For Continuity of Care: 832-325-7211

www.UTCardiovascular.com

Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery

UT Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery provide patient care. UT cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons specialize in aortic aneurysms, cardiac coronary bypass, aortic and mitral valve repair, ascending aorta, transverse arch, descending thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm, and infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Surgeons also treat peripheral vascular disease, distal occlusive disease, carotid endarterectomy angioplasty, renal vascular hypertension, venous disease. They provide endovascular treatment of aneurysms, treatment of thoracic outlet syndrome and thoracic surgery.

For Billing: 713-486-5100

For Medical Records:  713-486-5100

For Continuity of Care: 713-512-7220

Cosmetic Dermatology

About UT Cosmetic Dermatology

Dermatology is a specialized field of medicine that includes the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. On a daily basis, the UT Physicians deal with a variety of skin diseases ranging from the simple to the complex. No matter what problem you may be experiencing, the UT  Physicians will skillfully care for you. We continually strive to provide professional, courteous, and helpful medical care for your skin.

By choosing UT Physicians, you have access to nearly 500 healthcare professionals offering quality care at multiple locations in the Texas Medical Center and in neighborhoods throughout the metropolitan Houston area.

UT Physicians are not only practicing physicians; they are also medical school teachers with access to the most up-to-date information and research. Our philosophy is that prevention and education are essential to your overall wellness. Our experts can consult with you on virtually every type of medical problem, no matter how complex.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, the UT Physicians offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for skin disorders.  These range from treatment for common problems, such as acne and dermatitis, to skin cancer prevention and treatment.  From skin renewal to preservation, you can trust your skin care to the dermatologists at UT-Houston Medical School.

Services

The UT Physicians are committed to providing the highest quality dermatologic care available in a safe and friendly environment.  We utilize the latest state-of-the-art techniques and offer you the best aesthetic results possible.  You can trust us to employ the latest proven technological advances and count on our staff to be attentive and courteous.

We’re proud that most of our new patients are the friends and family members of satisfied patients. We look forward to serving your needs.

With today’s on-the-go lifestyle, our NEW cosmetic treatments give you the opportunity to improve your appearance safely, quickly, discreetly and affordably.  The procedures and services we offer include:

• PhotoFacial™ Intense Pulsed Light for Controlling Rosacea, Redness,  Flushing & Blushing
• Chemical Peel Treatments for Sun Damage & Acne
• Collagen Treatments to Improve Skin Texture
• PowerPeel® Microdermabrasion for Easing Fine Lines & Scars
• Botox Injections for Reducing Lines on Forehead & Around Eyes
• EpiLight® Intense Pulsed Light Treatments for Removing Unwanted Hair
• PhotoDerm® Treatments for Pigmented Lesions
• MoleMax II™ for Mole Mapping
• VascuLight Plus™ for Vascular Lesions & Varicose Veins

Appointments

For appointments, please call 713-500-8260 or request an appointment online.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 713-500-8260 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 713-500-8260

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 713-704-4828 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day.

For after hours care, please call 713-500-8260 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

UT Physicians is a preferred provider for most managed care plans. We will verify your insurance coverage prior to your office visit.

We will file your insurance claim for you. You will be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover.

If you do not have medical insurance, payment in full is due at the time of the visit.

For billing questions, please call Patient Services at 713-500-3500.

Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 713-704-4828 and ask for the dermatologist on call.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Test Results

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Prescriptions

For prescription refills, please call your pharmacy.

If you need a new prescription, please call 713-500-8273 and leave a message. Be sure to include the name and phone number of your pharmacy, your doctor’s name, and the spelling of the medication.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic

The UT Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic is where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Cardiology provide patient care for those ages 16 and older who have hereditary, acquired and congenital heart disease.   Care is coordinated with the Memorial Hermann Heart and Vascular Institute and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital.

This multi-faceted program provides a range of services for patients including:

• Treatment and ongoing medical management for patients age 16+ with both simple and complex congenital heart disease, and other acquired heart diseases in young adults.
• Evaluation of heart murmurs and arrhythmias in those with suspected congenital heart disease.
• Screening of athletes with suspected congenital heart disease.
• Transition of patients from pediatric to adult care.
• Diagnostic testing including echocardiography, cardiac MRI, Holter monitoring, fetal echo, cardiac CT and stress testing.
• Cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology testing and related interventional procedures.
• Management of congenital heart disease during pregnancy and while undergoing treatment for other medical conditions.
• Management of additional cardiac risk factors that may be seen in patients with congenital heart disease.
• Psychiatric care for adult congenital heart disease patients and their families.

The UT Physicians Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program’s board certified cardiologists are specifically trained in all aspects of congenital heart disease and the complex anatomy and physiology of adults living with congenital heart disease.  Its facilities include capabilities for both noninvasive testing and other imaging studies.  The clinic’s cardiologists coordinate related care in various situations including high-risk pregnancy, genetics, liver disease, pulmonary medicine (lung disease), hematology (blood disease), heart failure and cardiac surgery.

The UT Physicians Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program is a member of the Adult Congenital Heart Association, and participates in the HEARTS athlete screening program.

Adult Congenital Heart Association

HEARTS - Houston Early Age Risk Testing & Screening

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

UT Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is the clinic where faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston provide psychiatric care to patients from infancy through 18 years of age. UT child and adolescent psychiatrists provide a wide range of diagnostic services and develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

Pediatric Orthopaedics

UT Pediatric Orthopaedics is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery provide patient care. UT pediatric orthopaedic physicians bring special expertise to their pediatric patients in all aspects of orthopaedic care. These areas include trauma and fracture care, spinal deformity, hip conditions, foot deformity, extremity deformity, congenital malformations of the extremities, muskuloskeletal infections, neuromuscular disorders, gait abnormalities, skeletal dysplasias and sports related injuries. Our goal at UT Pediatric Orthopaedics  is to provide the latest and most innovative treatment modalities to help our patients and their families recover from their orthopaedic ailments. We work closely with therapists and other ancillary services to ensure full recovery and return to healthy and productive lives.

CHOSEN Clinic

The UT CHOSEN Clinic is where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Pediatrics provide care and case management for children and young and adults, from birth to 21 years of age, with special health care needs.  Children with the following conditions are provided care: cerebral palsy; traumatic brain or spinal cord injury; neurological or developmental disorders, including epilsepsy, spina bifida and autism; chronic lung disease; congenital heart disease; orthopedic impairments; genetic syndromes or chromosomal abnormalities; have requirements for gastrostomy, tracheostomy, ventilator and/or total parental nutrition; complications of prematurity; or any other chronic illness or disabling condition.

Psychiatry

UT Psychiatry is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences provide psychiatric care to adults 18-70 years of age.  UT psychiatrists provide a wide range diagnostic services and develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

UT Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation server physically challenged patients by providing care in the areas of spinal cord injury, musculo-skeletal medicine, traumatic brain injury, and general rehabilitation.

Neuropsychology

UT Neuropsychology is the clinic where neuropsychologists working in The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Center for Clinical Neurosciences provide patient care.  UT neuropsychologists bring special expertise to their patients in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of conditions including learning or behavior problems thought to be related to a neurologic origin such as epilepsy or acquired brain injury, medical disorders which affect neurological functioning such as endocrine, cardiac, respiratory, neoplasms or neurotoxins and psychiatric conditions that would be more fully understood with in-depth examination of neuropsychological factors.

Appointments

For appointments at TIRR  please call 713-500-5876 or request an appointment online.

Medical Genetics (Cardiovascular)

UT Medical Genetics (Cardiovascular) is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Medical Genetics evaluate both adult and pediatric patients for a variety of cardiovascular-related genetic disorders.  this includes Marfan syndrome, Ehlers Danlos syndrome and other genetic predisposition to aortic aneurysm and dissection, premature stroke and other vascular diseases.

Note: You might also be interested in our Medical Genetics clinic.

Medical Genetics

UT Medical Genetics is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Medical Genetics provide patient care.  UT Medical geneticists bring special expertise to their patients with state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic care for patients with conditions of genetic origin such as autism, genetic birth defects, mental retardation and other genetic disorders.

Note: You might also be interested in our Medical Genetics (Cardiovascular) clinic.

Hyperbaric Medicine

UT Hyperbaric Medicine physicians provide comprehensive medical and surgical care of chronic wounds resistant to healing and hyperbaric oxygen for patients with carbon monoxide poisoning, cyanide toxicity and complications of diving. Indicators for hyperbaric oxygen include decompression sickness, gas embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning, cyanide intoxication and chronic wounds resistant to healing as a result of metabolic, ischemic, infective or traumatic injury.

HIV Clinic

UT HIV Clinic is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s division of General Medicine provide patient care for those living with HIV.  our Specialists manage all the health issues that people with HIV face.  We specialize in HIV/AIDS, primary care, clinical trials and HIV pregnancy care.  Our clinicians are certified by or are members of the American Academy of HIV Medicine, the American Board of Internal Medicine and the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care.

Hematology

The physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Division of Hematology provide both outpatient and inpatient consult services.  Outpatients are seen at the Memorial Hermann Cancer Center/Hematology Services Clinic.  Representing the best in their field, our physicians specialize in malignant and non-malignant disorders of red cells, white blood cells and platelets including acute and chronic leukemias, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and myelodysplasia.  Additionally, our specialists treat patients with coagulation disorders including congenital or acquired bleeding and thrombotic states.

Important numbers:

• Appointments: 713-704-3961
• Fax: 713-704-5816
• Billing: 713-500-3500

Gulf States Hemophilia and Thrombophilia Center

The UT Gulf States Hemophilia and Thrombophilia Center serves patients with bleeding and clotting disorders including factor deficiencies, Von Willerbrand’s disease, platelet abnormalities, venous thromboembolism and thrombosis related to pregnancy and autoimmune disorders.

Important numbers:

• Appointments: (713) 500-8360
• Billing: (713) 500-8630
• Medical Records: (713) 500-8360

Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Texas Center for Maternal and Fetal Treatment

UT Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Texas Center for Maternal and Fetal Treatment

Visit us at www.texasfetalcenter.org

The Texas Center for Maternal and Fetal Treatment is a multi-specialty clinic that provides comprehensive health care for pregnant women with high-risk medical complications and fetuses with congenital anomalies and genetic conditions. Representing the best in their fields at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, the Center is a team of adult, pediatric and fetal specialists that work with referring obstetricians to provide the best possible care for high-risk expectant mothers and women expecting babies with significant medical problems.

Through our affiliation with Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center Hospital and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, the Center offers the highest quality of convenient and coordinated maternal-fetal services at a single location. Our maternal-fetal team provides a personalized approach dedicated to mothers and their babies from the initial evaluation, throughout the entire pregnancy and after the baby is born. The Center works closely with mothers and their families to provide support, counseling and education about their conditions, and the highest quality health care and treatment.

Appointments

For appointments, please call 832-325-7133 or request an appointment online.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 832-325-7133 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 832-325-7133.

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 832-325-7133 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day.

For after hours care, please call 832-325-7133 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

UT Physicians is a preferred provider for most managed care plans. We will verify your insurance coverage prior to your office visit.

We will file your insurance claim for you. You will be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles at the time of your appointment.

We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. If you do not have medical insurance, payment in full is due at the time of the visit.

For billing questions, please call Patient Services at 713-500-3500.

Nurse Line and Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 832-325-7133 to speak with a nurse. The nurse will relay information to your physician.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.

Test Results

If you have an urgent need, please call 832-325-7133 to speak with a nurse. The nurse will relay information to your physician.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.

Prescriptions

For prescription refills, please call your pharmacy.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Bariatric Surgery

An American Society of Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence

Representing the best in their fields, UT bariatric surgeons bring special expertise to their patients to treat obesity by modification of the gastrointestinal tract to reduce nutrient intake and/or absorption. For individuals who have been unable to achieve significant weight loss through diet modifications and exercise programs alone, bariatric surgery may help to attain a more healthy body weight. Our surgeons are respected pioneers in minimally-invasive procedures.  UT bariatric surgeons provide a comprehensive bariatric surgery program and perform more than 700 laparoscopic bariatric procedures each year.

The American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS) has designated Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center’s Bariatric Program as a “Center of Excellence” in the United States.  The Memorial Hermann program is a partnership with The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.  Bariatric surgeons Erik B. Wilson, M.D. and Brad Snyder, M.D. are assistant professors of surgery at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.

For more about Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, visit our web site: www.UTMIST.com.

*Download our Weight Loss Surgery Patient Guide

• Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader (free download)

Learn about our Fellowship opportunities

Obesity

Defining Morbid Obesity
Obesity is a serious disease with symptoms that build slowly over an extended period of time. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) define morbid obesity as:1

- Being 100 pounds or more above your ideal body weight

- Or, having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater

- Or, having a BMI of 35 or greater and one or more co-morbid condition

The disease of morbid obesity interferes with basic physical functions such as breathing or walking. Long-term implications of the disease include shorter life expectancy, serious health consequences in the form of weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and a lower quality of life with fewer economic and social opportunities.

Obesity is a serious public health issue in the U.S.

- 24 million U.S. adults are living with morbid obesity and may qualify for bariatric surgery based on NIH guidelines.

- By 2010, it’s projected that there may be 31 million U.S. adults living with morbid obesity who may qualify for bariatric surgery based on NIH guidelines.

Co-morbid Conditions

The presence of obesity increases the risk of a number of medical conditions, including cancer. A co-morbid condition is a health condition related to a primary disease such as obesity.
There are many health conditions related to morbid obesity, but some of the most common are:

- Type 2 diabetes, which can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, amputation of the feet or legs, and nerve damage

- Heart disease, such as hardening of the arteries, heart attack, and angina

- High blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss

- High cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure

- Obstructive sleep apnea has been associated with high blood pressure

- Acid reflux/GERD, which can lead to esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer (adenocarcinoma) 8

- Cancer

- Depression

- Osteoarthritis and joint pain, which can lead to loss of mobility

- Stress urinary incontinence

- Asthma

- Sleep Apnea

- Gallstones

- Osteoarthritis and gout

- Low back pain

- Immobility
- Skin infections

- Venous/stasis ulcers

- Intertrigo

- DVT and thromboembolism

- Female reproductive health disorder, which can lead to infertility,  sexual dysfunction and obstetric complications

- Mortality rates from many of these conditions are also higher among people with morbid obesity.

Body Mass Index  (BMI)

- Calculated as follows: Weight/Height2

- Lowest mortality = BMI less than 25 kg/m2

- Highest mortality = BMI greater than 40 kg/m2

- BMI greater than 40 = approximately 100 lbs. over ideal body weight

Procedures

Gastric Bypass Surgery
The most common form of gastric bypass surgery is Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery uses a combination of restriction and malabsorption. During the procedure, the surgeon creates a smaller stomach pouch. The surgeon then attaches a Y-shaped section of the small intestine directly to the pouch. This allows food to bypass a large portion of the small intestine, which absorbs calories and nutrients. Having the smaller stomach pouch causes patients to feel fuller sooner and eat less food; bypassing a portion of the small intestine means the patient’s body absorbs fewer calories.

The gastric bypass is the most commonly performed operation for weight loss in the United States. Furthermore, since the gastric bypass has been performed for almost 50 years, surgeons have become very comfortable with the understanding of the risks and benefits of the procedure. By sheer volume of cases combined with the volume of scientific research, the gastric bypass has become the “gold standard” operation for weight loss in the U.S. An emerging factor in the success of gastric bypass surgery is following an established gastric bypass diet after surgery

Excess Weight Loss

Gastric bypass patients typically lost 61.6 percent of their excess weight.

Health Benefits

Studies found that gastric bypass:

- Resolved type 2 diabetes in 83.8% of patients and often resolved the disease within days of surgery

- Resolved high blood pressure in 75.4% of patients

- Improved high cholesterol in 95% of patients

Quality of Life

One meta-analysis stated that for bariatric surgery patients who experienced significant weight loss:

- Overall quality of life improved greatly

- They experienced improved physical functioning and appearance

- They experienced improved social and economic opportunities

Recovery

One study found that gastric bypass patients were able to:

- Leave the hospital after two days

- Return to work after 21 days

Potential Concerns of Gastric Bypass

- A condition known as dumping syndrome can occur from eating high-fat, high-sugar foods. While it isn’t considered a health risk, the results can be very unpleasant and may include vomiting, nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness, and diarrhea.

- Patients must supplement their diet with a daily multivitamin and calcium. Some patients must take vitamin B12 and/or iron

- The stomach, duodenum, and parts of the small intestine cannot be seen easily using X -ray or endoscopy if there are problems after surgery such as ulcers, bleeding, or malignancy

Gastric Banding

Gastric banding is a restrictive surgical procedure. During this procedure, two medical devices are implanted in the patient: a silicone band and an inj ection port. The silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach and molds the stomach into two connected chambers. The injection port is attached to the abdominal wall, underneath the skin. The port is connected to the band with soft, thin tubing.  The band is adjustable. Adjustments are made by your healthcare professional using a needle to inject saline solution into your band through the port. Adding saline increases the amount of restriction provided by the band, helping patients feel fuller sooner and with less food.

Excess Weight Loss

- Gastric banding patients typically lost 47% of their excess weight.

- Health Benefits
- Studies found that gastric banding:

- Resolved type 2 diabetes in 47.8 percent of patients

- Resolved high blood pressure in 38.4% of patients

- Improved high cholesterol in 78.3% of patients

Quality of Life

- One meta-analysis stated that for bariatric surgery patients who experienced significant weight loss:

- Overall quality of life improved greatly

- They experienced improved physical functioning and appearance

- They experienced improved social and economic opportunities

Recovery

- Your healthcare team will advise you when to return to work and when you are able to resume normal activities

Potential Concerns of Gastric Banding

- Gastric banding can help you feel satisfied sooner and with less food, but it won’t eliminate the desire to eat. You will need to follow your specific diet and exercise guidelines provided by your surgeon to achieve success

Gastric banding requires more intensive follow-up care than most other bariatric surgeries.This is mostly because the band is adjustable. Keep in mind that even after reaching and maintaining your success weight, you may still need to see your healthcare professional for further adjustments

Robotically-Assisted Minimally Invasive Surgery

The da Vinci® Surgical System is state-of-the-art robotic technology. The System allows your surgeon’s hand movements to be scaled, filtered and translated into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site. The magnified, three-dimensional view the surgeon experiences enables him to perform precise surgery in complex procedures through small surgical incisions.

Open vs. Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) allows physicians to perform many kinds of major surgery with less patient trauma and pain, minimal scarring, faster recovery and shorter hospital stays. Surgeries are performed through small incisions, which replace the large incisions needed for conventional open surgeries.

Robotically-Assisted MIS

The use of robotics takes minimally invasive techniques into a new era, further minimizing the physical and emotional impact of surgery on patients. Robotically-assisted MIS represents a third generation of surgery, one which builds upon the advances to open surgery introduced by MIS. Robotic technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand, introducing precise, versatile instrument movement combined with three-dimensional visualization of the operative site.

Benefits of MIS

The benefits of MIS are numerous. Traditional surgery often requires a lengthy hospital stay and weeks of recovery. With minimally invasive surgery, the goal is to accomplish internal repair while leaving the body surface as natural as it was prior to surgery. Many procedures require only several days in the hospital and promote reduced recovery time. Patients can often get back to their normal routines more quickly.

Audiology

UT Audiology and Hearing Aids is the clinic where faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery provide comprehensive care for patients with hearing difficulties.

UT audiologists are highly specialized board-certified health care professionals with master or doctorate degrees who diagnose, evaluate and treat hearing, balance and tinnitus disorders as well as balance and communication problems.

Representing the best in their fields, UT audiologists evaluate hearing, determine the extent of hearing loss and make recommendations for hearing health care. This may include a referral to a physician or recommendations for hearing aids or other amplifying devices or methods to modify the listening environment.

Visit UTHealth Audiology at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.

Appointments

For appointments, please call 713-486-5000 or request an appointment online.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 713-486-5000 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 713-486-5000.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

UT Physicians is a preferred provider for most managed care plans. We will verify your insurance coverage prior to your office visit.

We will file your insurance claim for you. You will be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover.

If you do not have medical insurance, payment in full is due at the time of the visit.

For billing questions, please call Patient Services at 713-500-3500.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Nurse Line and Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 713-486-5000 to speak with a nurse. The nurse will relay information to your physician.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 713-486-5000 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day.

For after hours care, Please call 713-486-5000 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Test Results

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Prescriptions

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Pediatric Dermatology

UT Dermatology is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Dermatology provide patient care.

Representing the best in their fields, UT dermatologists bring special expertise to their patients in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, as well as cosmetic dermatology.

UT dermatologists are highly-trained, offer unique expertise and treat common skin conditions as well as rare and challenging skin disorders, ranging from skin cancer therapy to cosmetic dermatology. As cosmetic dermatologists, we are specialists of the skin and experts on how different procedures affect appearance and skin healing.

Appointments

For appointments, please call 713-500-8260 or request an appointment online.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 713-500-8260 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 713-500-8260

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 713-500-8260 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day.

For after hours care, please call 713-500-8260 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

UT Physicians is a preferred provider for most managed care plans. We will verify your insurance coverage prior to your office visit.

We will file your insurance claim for you. You will be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover.

If you do not have medical insurance, payment in full is due at the time of the visit.

For billing questions, please call Patient Services at 713-500-3500.

Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 713-704-4828 and ask for the dermatologist on call.  Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day. Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists.  Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Test Results

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Prescriptions

If you need a new prescription, please call 713-500-8273 and leave a message. Be sure to include the name and phone number of your pharmacy, your doctor’s name, and the spelling of the medication.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.

Orthopaedics

UT Orthopaedics is the clinic where physician faculty members of The University of Texas Medical School at Houston’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery provide patient care.

Representing the best in their fields, UT orthopaedic physicians bring special expertise to their patients in all aspects of orthopaedic care such as bone fractures and joint dislocations, knee injuries including cruciate ligament tears and meniscal injuries, hip conditions such as developmental dysplasia and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, conditions of the spine such as scoliosis, kyphosis and spondylolisthesis, upper limb conditions such as syndactyly and bracchial plexus palsy, sports injuries, skeletal dysplasias including achondroplasia osteogenesis imperfecta, syndromes including marfan and neurofibromastosis, bone and joint infections and musculoskeletal tumors.

Visit our outreach location at UT Spine and Scoliosis Center and UT Katy Orthopaedics.

Appointments

For appointments, please call 713.486.7500 or request an appointment online.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please call 713.486.7500 and give us at least 24 hours notice.

In most cases, we cannot accommodate walk-in patients. The best way to see a doctor is by scheduling an appointment. If you have an urgent need, please call the Nurse Line at 713.486.7500

Urgent, After-Hours and Emergency Care

If you have an urgent medical need, please call 713.486.7500 and a triage nurse will assess your medical need. If medically necessary, you will be worked into a physician’s schedule the same day.

For after hours care, please call 713.486.7500 to reach the physician on-call.

In case of emergency, please call 911 or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Insurance, Payment and Billing

UT Physicians is a preferred provider for most managed care plans. We will verify your insurance coverage prior to your office visit.

We will file your insurance claim for you. You will be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance and deductibles at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards including American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. If you do not have medical insurance, payment in full is due at the time of the visit.

For billing questions, please call Patient Services at 713-500-3500.

Nurse Line and Routine Requests

If you have an urgent need, please call 713.486.7500 to speak with a nurse. The nurse will relay information to your physician.

Calls for routine requests are returned within 24 hours. Requests for urgent medical care are returned the same day.

Test Results

Unless otherwise specified by your physician, you will receive written notification by mail or the nurse will contact you with test results. Please allow 7-10 days for most test results.

Prescriptions

For prescription refills, please call your pharmacy.

Referrals

Your insurance plan may require referral paperwork or other authorization for visits to specialists. Please contact your primary care physician or insurance company for more information.