A significant stride in medical diagnostics has emerged from the field of optics, promising safer and more accessible monitoring for neurological conditions like stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Researchers have successfully developed an optical system that can precisely measure blood flow deep within the brain without requiring any invasive procedures. This technology, known as Speckle Contrast Optical Spectroscopy (SCOS) , represents a pivotal advancement in noninvasive brain blood flow monitoring . One of the primary hurdles in monitoring cerebral activity has always been isolating the signals originating from the brain from the dense vascular network of the scalp. The new SCOS system addresses this by differentiating blood flow signals originating from the brain and the scalp with high precision. Validation tests, including those involving artery occlusion, confirmed the system's ability to distinguish and measure these separate flow patterns effectively. The technology is built on sophisticated hardware, including one version which employs a seven-channel SCOS system specifically designed to assess human scalp and brain blood flow sensitivities. This capability to precisely measure sensitivities is crucial for clinical accuracy. Crucially, this precise measuring technology is now being translated into a practical, everyday application: a wearable device . The development of this wearable laser device  means that continuous monitoring of cerebral blood flow—a metric currently difficult to track outside of specialized hospital settings—is becoming feasible. The clinical implications of this SCOS wearable device  are vast, especially concerning stroke risk . The device can measure subtle changes in vascular stiffness and blood flow, which are key indicators of impending stroke. By providing continuous, noninvasive readings, physicians can better assess patient risk and intervene earlier. Furthermore, the system is designed to advance monitoring and assessment for patients recovering from traumatic brain injury or stroke, offering a clearer picture of recovery progress. Looking ahead, the utility of this new system is expected to increase further, with plans already underway to incorporate machine learning algorithms. This integration aims to enhance the predictive power and analytical capabilities of the device, making it an even more powerful tool for diagnostics and long-term patient care. The ability of this noninvasive brain blood flow monitoring  system to provide clear, differential readings of neural versus superficial blood flow marks a profound step forward, promising to make complex neurological monitoring safer, easier, and more readily available. 🔖 Sources Noninvasive optical system measures blood flow with precision Assessing human scalp and brain blood flow sensitivities via superficial temporal artery occlusion using speckle contrast optical spectroscopy Open Access Wearable Optical Device Distinguishes Blood Flow Signals From the Brain and Scalp New wearable laser device monitors brain blood flow to gauge stroke risk

The conversation surrounding Artificial Intelligence often centers on philosophical debates or future labor markets, but in the field of ophthalmology, AI is delivering concrete, life-saving breakthroughs right now. Recent findings underscore a powerful trend: Machine Learning  algorithms are not just assisting human doctors in detecting glaucoma risk—they are demonstrably outperforming them . The implications of this shift, particularly in AI Glaucoma Detection , are monumental, promising higher accuracy and vastly improved access to care, especially in regions currently underserved by specialists. A compelling study from University College London (UCL), reported in October 2025, confirmed that a machine learning algorithm exhibited superior performance compared to trained human graders. Analyzing 6,304 fundus images sourced from the extensive EPIC-Norfolk Eye Study, the AI achieved an accuracy rate of 88-90%. In contrast, the human graders scored significantly lower, registering an accuracy range of 79-81%. This superior performance was based on the AI's ability to estimate the vertical cup-to-disc ratio, a critical marker for assessing glaucoma risk. The data shows that the algorithm is capable of identifying the disease at crucial stages with a consistency and precision that current human resources struggle to match. But the revolution is not confined to high-tech university labs. The most exciting developments are those geared toward democratizing access through Remote Screening . In August 2025, the LV Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad validated a critical innovation: an offline AI tool  designed to function seamlessly with readily available smartphone cameras. This tool demonstrated a remarkable efficiency rate of about 92% in detecting glaucoma . Imagine the potential impact of placing a 92%-accurate detection tool into the hands of healthcare workers in primary care settings or low-resource regions—this bypasses the traditional requirements of expensive, specialized equipment and infrastructure. This push toward localized and accessible screening is gaining serious momentum and investment. In Australia, the Lions Eye Institute was awarded $5 million  to deploy an AI-powered retinal scanner . The explicit goal of this initiative is to improve glaucoma detection  specifically in the remote regions of Western Australia, where access to specialist ophthalmologists is often scarce. This funding, reported in October 2024, highlights the global recognition that technology, specifically AI-powered devices, is the most viable path toward closing health equity gaps. Whether evaluating complex retinal images in a research setting or enabling high-efficiency screening via a simple smartphone camera in the field, Machine Learning  is redefining the early detection standards for one of the world's leading causes of preventable blindness. The message is clear: the integration of AI Glaucoma Detection  methods is not just an incremental improvement; it is a fundamental leap forward in patient care, ensuring that highly accurate, life-changing diagnoses can reach everyone, everywhere. 🔖 Sources AI algorithm proves more accurate than experts in glaucoma detection Artificial Intelligence-Guided Glaucoma Screening Shows Promise AI retinal scanner wins Lions Eye $5m to diagnose blindness in Pilbara Feasibility of artificial intelligence in leading glaucoma care

Season 10 of Grey's Anatomy  opened in the chaotic aftermath of the superstorm, dealing with the immediate fallout and long-term recovery of its doctors, most notably Dr. Richard Webber. This season was defined by a powerful blend of cutting-edge medical innovation and deeply personal ethical dilemmas. The surgeons at Grey Sloan Memorial pushed the boundaries of modern medicine with groundbreaking research in 3D bioprinting and gene therapy, while simultaneously confronting rare genetic syndromes, devastating post-operative complications, and the limitations of their own abilities. As the hospital navigated a new normal, the season culminated in the farewell to a foundational character, Dr. Cristina Yang, whose final cases cemented her legacy as a brilliant and fearless cardiothoracic surgeon. Content ⁉️ 1️⃣ Episode 1 2️⃣ Episode 2 3️⃣ Episode 3 4️⃣ Episode 4 5️⃣ Episode 5 6️⃣ Episode 6 7️⃣ Episode 7 8️⃣ Episode 8 9️⃣ Episode 9 🔟 Episode 10 1️⃣1️⃣ Episode 11 1️⃣2️⃣ Episode 12 1️⃣3️⃣ Episode 13 1️⃣4️⃣ Episode 14 1️⃣5️⃣ Episode 15 1️⃣6️⃣ Episode 16 1️⃣7️⃣ Episode 17 1️⃣8️⃣ Episode 18 1️⃣9️⃣ Episode 19 2️⃣0️⃣ Episode 20 2️⃣1️⃣ Episode 21 2️⃣2️⃣ Episode 22 2️⃣3️⃣ Episode 23 2️⃣4️⃣ Episode 24 🔖 Key Takeaways Episode 1: "Seal Our Fate" Severe Electrocution Injury (Dr. Richard Webber) Dr. Richard Webber  was found unconscious after being electrocuted. He presented with a thready pulse, severe hypotension, and repeatedly went into V-tach. An echo revealed very little heart activity. Dr. Yang placed an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP)  at the bedside to support his failing heart. His lactate levels skyrocketed, indicating massive intra-abdominal tissue necrosis . He was rushed to surgery for debridement to remove the dead tissue. Traumatic Subdural Hemorrhage (Dr. Heather Brooks) Dr. Heather Brooks , found with Webber, suffered massive head trauma. Imaging confirmed a massive Subdural Hemorrhage . She required an evacuation of the hemorrhage, with surgeons considering a temporal lobectomy  to save her life, a procedure carrying a high risk of permanent motor and memory deficits. Traumatic Diaphragmatic Rupture and Sepsis Captain Lenny Shulte , a firefighter, was admitted with a diaphragmatic rupture  after aspirating mud in a mudslide. The diagnosis was confirmed when a chest tube released feces. The massive internal contamination led to a severe septic cascade, severe acidosis, and pulseless electrical activity (PEA). He ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Necrotizing Fasciitis Sasha , a crush injury victim from the mudslide, developed Necrotizing Fasciitis  (flesh-eating bacteria) in her leg lacerations from exposure to contaminated mud and water. She required immediate surgery. Other Conditions Mentioned: Open Book Pelvic Fracture:  A severe and unstable orthopedic injury. Liver Laceration with Hemorrhage:  A tear in the liver causing internal bleeding. Aspiration (of mud):  Inhaling mud into the lungs. Episode 2: "I Want You with Me" Necrotic Pancreatitis Richard Webber's  condition remained critical. He was in cardiogenic shock from suspected internal necrosis. An initial exploratory laparotomy was halted when his cardiac status destabilized. Acting as his health care proxy, Meredith Grey authorized a second exploratory surgery. Dr. Bailey discovered necrotic tissue hidden underneath the pancreas . The tissue was successfully removed, but his prognosis remained guarded as his organs were beginning to fail. Other Conditions Mentioned: Necrotizing Fasciitis (Nec Fasc):  A rapidly progressing bacterial infection. Rib Fractures with Lung Laceration:  A traumatic injury where broken ribs slice into the lung. Glioblastoma:  A highly aggressive malignant brain tumor. Episode 3: "Everybody's Crying Mercy" Post-operative Dysphagia and Malnutrition Seven days after his pancreatic debridement, Richard Webber  was suffering from dysphagia  (difficulty swallowing) and laryngeal edema, causing severe nutritional decline. A swallow study confirmed a high risk of aspiration. He actively resisted the placement of a Nasogastric (NG) tube  for feeding, viewing it as an affront to his dignity, but Dr. Ross eventually placed it to prevent starvation. Mitral Valve Failure in a Post-Infant Heart Transplant Recipient Michael (17) , who had received an infant heart transplant, presented with mitral valve failure  and an ejection fraction of only 25%. His parents opted for a high-risk mitral valve replacement to avoid the trauma of another transplant list. The surgery was aborted due to extensive scar tissue and escalating arrhythmias (V-tach), confirming he needed a new heart. Multiple Trauma Complicated by Coagulation Disorder Kathleen Kane , a "human pincushion," sustained puncture wounds from a shattered baseball bat. During surgery for a massive internal hemorrhage, she suffered a stroke and died . The cause was an underlying coagulation disorder  that led to rapid clot formation. Facial Scars Requiring Pro Bono Reconstruction Cara McAdams  was scheduled for pro bono facial reconstruction surgery to remove scars. The procedure was nearly canceled due to budget cuts but was saved when Dr. Avery prioritized paying procedures to cover the cost. Other Conditions Mentioned: Priapism:  A painful, persistent erection, discussed in a study session. Sickle Cell and Leukemia:  Noted as major causes of priapism. Subclavian Bleeding:  A life-threatening hemorrhage during Kathleen's surgery. Episode 4: "Puttin' on the Ritz" Endocarditis leading to Pericardial Tamponade Jake Doe , a trauma patient high on heroin, was diagnosed with endocarditis . He developed a pericardial effusion , and when his condition deteriorated, Dr. Ross performed an emergency pericardial window  in the ER. During the subsequent operation, Ross placed a risky but successful u-stitch  to repair a bleeding source in the heart, saving the patient's life. Advanced Metastatic Cancer Gene Steers  was diagnosed with widespread metastatic cancer. A PET scan confirmed surgery was no longer an option. The team shifted to palliative, end-of-life care. Post-Surgical Atelectasis Dr. Richard Webber , recovering from his surgery, developed atelectasis  (a partial lung collapse) from his refusal to use an incentive spirometer. This put him at risk for pneumonia and RDS. He was placed on CPAP  and confronted by Dr. Bailey about his refusal to fight for his recovery. Other Conditions Mentioned: Heroin Use/Toxicity:  The underlying factor in the trauma presentation. Pericardial Effusion:  Fluid around the heart, leading to risk of tamponade. Tibia Impalement of the Foot:  A severe traumatic injury where a woman's tibia pierced her own foot. Episode 5: "I Bet It Stung" Familial Hypercholesterolemia Samantha Calder , who had a history of multiple heart attacks, was scheduled for a simultaneous heart and liver transplant  due to familial hypercholesterolemia . She went into heart failure again just before the procedure. The complex transplant was performed entirely under cardiopulmonary bypass. Symptomatic Pancreatic Leak James Evans (57)  was six days post-op from a tricuspid valve replacement. He developed epigastric tenderness, abdominal distension, and an elevated white count, leading to a diagnosis of a symptomatic pancreatic leak . Treatment required unclogging his surgical drain with a Fogarty catheter. Kidney Avulsion Complicated by Aplastic Anemia History Reese Woods (22)  was admitted after a hang-gliding accident. She had a history of aplastic anemia and was a "donor baby" for her sister. Surgery revealed the superior pole of her remaining kidney was almost completely avulsed  (torn away). Surgeons were unable to repair it, meaning she would require dialysis and a new kidney. Bladder Rupture Secondary to Masochism Mr. Samuels  presented with urinary retention from severe penile swelling, which he claimed was from hornet stings but was revealed to be self-inflicted masochism. The inability to place a catheter led to a burst bladder , requiring emergency surgery. Other Conditions Mentioned: Endocarditis:  The infection that necessitated James Evans's valve replacement. Aplastic Anemia:  Reese's past medical history that complicated her family dynamic. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS):  A serious, acute skin reaction. Episode 6: "Map of You" Left Ventricle Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) Ben Bosco  was diagnosed with a "huge tumor in his heart," identified as a left ventricle AVM . The condition was deemed inoperable and terminal. Dr. Yang proposed a novel treatment: liquid embolization with specialized glue , a technique never before used on a beating heart. The high-risk procedure was successful, saving his life. Pancreatic Pseudocyst Dr. Webber  complained of chronic left shoulder pain. Dr. Wilson correctly diagnosed it as referred pain from a pancreatic pseudocyst  that was irritating his diaphragm. Glioma (Brain Tumor) Mickey Wenschler , a quadriplegic in a BCI research project, was diagnosed with an inoperable glioma  deep in his brain. He refused to allow the experimental BCI sensors to be removed unless Dr. Shepherd also attempted to remove the tumor. Dr. Shepherd agreed, but during the high-risk operation, the patient suffered a catastrophic decline and loss of brain activity. Other Conditions Mentioned: Referred pain:  How the pancreatic pseudocyst presented as shoulder pain. Brain-Computer Interface (BCI):  The experimental technology Mickey was using. Diaphragmatic Irritation:  The underlying cause of Webber's referred pain. Episode 7: "Thriller" Situs Inversus A patient referred to as "the biter" survived being shot twice over the heart because he had Situs Inversus , a rare congenital condition where his major organs, including his heart, are mirrored on the opposite side of his body. His victim, Victor Brown , suffered damage to his carotid artery , which was repaired with a synthetic graft. Adrenal Insufficiency and Adrenal Crisis Taryn (8)  was diagnosed with Adrenal Insufficiency , meaning her body wasn't producing enough adrenaline. When she was frightened during a Halloween event in the hospital, she went into an adrenal crisis/shock . She was treated with aggressive fluids and IV hydrocortisone and was expected to recover. Myiasis Marge Walker  was admitted for a leg wound she believed was an infected bug bite. It was found to be infested with maggots ( Myiasis ). The maggots had inadvertently saved her leg by consuming the necrotic tissue. Pancreatic Pseudocyst Dr. Webber  required a cystogastrostomy  for his pseudocyst, a procedure where the residents competed to perform the surgery. Other Conditions Mentioned: Situs Inversus:  The rare condition where internal organs are reversed. Adrenal Crisis:  A life-threatening condition resulting from insufficient adrenaline. Myiasis:  An infestation of live maggots in a wound. Post-LASIK Complications:  Mentioned as a cause of chronic facial pain. Episode 8: "Two Against One" Aggressive Sarcoma Will , a teenager, was diagnosed with Stage Four sarcoma  with 15 tumors covering his abdomen. During an "all-or-nothing" surgery, surgeons were unable to resect the final tumor, which was deep in his liver, because it would leave him with insufficient functioning liver tissue. The cancer was expected to spread, requiring further treatment. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Nathan Glazier , an infant with HLHS , was rejecting his synthetic conduit. The team planned to use a 3D bioprinter  to create a biological conduit from his own cells, but needed compassionate release from the FDA. Esophagectomy and Bowel Reconstruction Duncan  underwent an esophagectomy  for a tumor, with his esophagus being replaced by a section of his colon. A complication occurred when the bowel was cut, leading to spillage and risk of fatal sepsis. A small leak was found and repaired. Hemifacial Spasm Harvey , a salesman, had a persistent facial "twitch" for 20 years. The cause was a tortuous vertebral artery compressing his facial nerve . A minimally invasive nerve decompression successfully eliminated the spasm. Other Conditions Mentioned: Two-challenge rule:  A surgical protocol invoked to stop a risky procedure. 3D bioprinter:  The cutting-edge technology used for the HLHS conduit. Methylene blue test and bubble test:  Used to check for leaks in the anastomosis. Tortuous vertebral artery:  The anatomical cause of the hemifacial spasm. Episode 9: "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" Post-Operative Septic Arthritis and Infective Endocarditis Travis Reed , an Olympic snowboarder, underwent a hip replacement with a specific implant he requested. The surgery was complicated by a suspected pulmonary embolus (PE) , forcing a rapid closure and leading to a retained surgical sponge . Two weeks later, he was readmitted with a severe post-operative infection  that had spread to the prosthesis. The infection then traveled to his heart, causing infective endocarditis  with vegetations on his aortic valve. The infected heart began throwing emboli  into his extremities, causing acute limb ischemia . Despite an embolectomy, his legs turned black from necrosis, requiring a double amputation . It was later discovered the implant itself was contaminated with pseudomonas bacteria. Other Conditions Mentioned: Retained surgical sponge:  Left in the patient due to the emergent need to close during the initial surgery. Infective endocarditis:  The severe heart infection caused by the contaminated implant. Acute limb ischemia:  Loss of blood flow to the limbs from emboli. Pseudomonas bacteria:  The contaminant found on the Peterson hip joint. Episode 10: "Get Up, Stand Up" Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) The infant, Baby Nathan , who needed a new conduit for his HLHS , deteriorated, desaturating to 60%. He was stabilized on an oscillator  to buy time for the successful printing of a replacement 3D-printed vascular graft/conduit . Advanced Pancreatic Tumor (Palliative Care) Donna Kaufman  was diagnosed with an advanced, inoperable pancreatic tumor . The treatment plan shifted to palliative care, including a procedure to relieve the obstruction and block the nerves to alleviate her pain. Supracondylar Femur Fracture Ella Holmes (6)  was hit by a car and sustained a supracondylar femur fracture  that was bleeding heavily into her thigh. Surgeons performed a definitive fixation of the femur using an external fixator . Post-Cardiac Injury (Dr. Webber) Dr. Webber , during an unmonitored stress test, fell off a treadmill and sustained a broken rib  and chest wall bruising. Other Conditions Mentioned: 3D-printed conduit:  The cutting-edge graft for Baby Nathan. Oscillator:  The machine used to stabilize the baby's oxygen saturation. External fixator (ex-fix):  The device used to stabilize Ella's femur fracture. Episode 11: "Man on the Moon" Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome Treated with 3D-Printed Conduit Baby Nathan  underwent the groundbreaking surgery to implant the 3D-printed portal vein/conduit  for his HLHS. The procedure was granted compassionate use approval from the FDA. Though the conduit was slightly smaller than anticipated, Dr. Yang successfully adapted it with a patch. Post-operatively, Nathan was placed on an oscillator but eventually stabilized and was successfully weaned to a normal ventilator. Other Conditions Mentioned: Robotic Prosthetic:  Used to restore hand function via implanted sensors. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):  A doctor exhibited compulsive behaviors that prevented his clearance for surgery. Heroin Addiction and Withdrawal:  A former patient returned seeking help for acute withdrawal, which was causing physical symptoms and hallucinations. Episode 12: "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away" Traumatic Burst Fracture at C6 Cody  was run over by a tractor, sustaining a burst fracture at C6  and significant internal bleeding. Surgeons fused C5 and C6 to avoid paralysis. Post-operatively, the lack of nerve response suggested a potential diagnosis of quadriplegia , though it was hoped this was due to temporary swelling. Recurrent Laryngeal/Bronchial Tumors Elliot Hooks (20)  suffered from recurrent bronchial tumors that required laser removal every 7-10 days, resulting in 312 surgeries since age four. Dr. Bailey proposed a new plan: culturing his tumor cells to custom-design a drug  to stop their growth medically. Zenker’s Diverticulum Dalton , a patient with chronic bad breath, was diagnosed with Zenker’s diverticulum , a sack in the esophagus where food gets caught. After an open surgical repair, he suffered a massive post-operative stroke  that left him unable to speak. Myocardial Infarction Leading to Ventricular Perforation During an urgent operation on Mr. Evans  for an MI, Dr. Ross's attempt to stitch a ventricular perforation  resulted in the heart wall tearing and disintegrating, requiring an immediate bypass. Other Conditions Mentioned: Zenker’s diverticulum:  The esophageal pouch causing bad breath and risk of pneumonia. Post-operative stroke:  The devastating complication after the diverticulum repair. Acute Mitral Regurgitation (MR):  Identified during the MI surgery. Episode 13: "Take It Back" Sepsis and Multi-Organ Failure Jimmy Evans , Alex Karev's estranged father, was dying from terminal sepsis and multi-organ failure . His decline was exacerbated by a previous botched heart surgery. With a DNR in place, his treatment focused on comfort care as Alex brought his family to say their goodbyes before he passed away. Traumatic Injuries Complicated by Extreme Body Modification Robert Fischer , "The Cat Man," was admitted after being hit by a car. He had undergone 15 surgeries to achieve a feline appearance but expressed profound regret, having become severely isolated. Dr. Edwards suggested that Dr. Avery should fix his appearance pro-bono. Other Conditions Mentioned: Pontine Bleed:  A severe brain hemorrhage from 30 years prior that left a patient unable to move or communicate. Aortic Aneurysm:  A severe cardiovascular condition requiring upcoming repair. Episode 14: "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away" Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) Rory (16) , a brain cancer survivor, was diagnosed with two new malignancies: osteosarcoma  and a giant mass in her chest. Genetic testing revealed Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) , a rare mutation in the P53 gene that suppresses the body's ability to fight tumors. During surgery, the chest tumor ruptured, tearing into her aorta , and she died on the table. Her sister was then informed she also carried the mutation. Other Conditions Mentioned: Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS):  The rare genetic syndrome causing recurrent cancers. P53 gene mutation:  The cause of LFS. Aortic Rupture:  The fatal event caused by the tumor rupture. Episode 15: "Throwing It All Away" Shone's Complex An abandoned baby, "Oscar," was diagnosed with Shone's Complex , a "trifecta of congenital heart defects" consisting of a coarctation of the aorta , a supravalvular mitral ring , and a parachute mitral valve . His condition became acute when his mitral valve "blew," leading to flash pulmonary edema and V-fib. He was stabilized with cardioversion, and a mitral valve repair was scheduled. Byler's Disease Jared Cole , a young boy with Byler's disease , was suffering from increasing jaundice and edema. To avoid a liver transplant, he required a biliary diversion. Dr. Karev proposed an innovative revision: using the appendix  instead of the intestine to create the stoma, a simpler approach with a quicker recovery. Other Conditions Mentioned: Shone's Complex:  The rare combination of three specific congenital heart defects. Byler's Disease:  A progressive liver disease. Arthrogryposis:  A condition causing severe joint contractures and pain. Episode 16: "We Gotta Get Out of This Place" Fetus in Fetu Greg , a patient with chronic pain, was diagnosed with fetus in fetu , an extremely rare condition where he had absorbed his undeveloped twin in utero. The "massive" mass contained a leg, a spinal column, a lung, and a tooth. He initially refused surgery due to an emotional attachment but consented after Dr. Webber promised he could keep the removed fetus in a jar. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Dr. Yang's clinical trial for HLHS  focused on creating a printable conduit  from a re-engineered portal vein. Sheryll Jeffries (17) , who was pregnant and had a failed conduit, was deemed too old for the pediatric trial criteria. Other Conditions Mentioned: Fetus in Fetu:  The rare condition of an absorbed twin. 3D-printed conduit:  The focus of the HLHS clinical trial. Transoral fundoplication:  A minimally invasive procedure for reflux. Episode 17: "Do You Know?" Catastrophic C3/C4 Spinal Cord Severance Jason Castor , an MVC victim, was diagnosed with a severed spinal cord  after his C3 and C4 vertebrae were obliterated. This resulted in quadriplegia , leaving him dependent on a ventilator. Years later, as part of a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) trial , he developed rhabdomyolysis and renal failure . Other Conditions Mentioned: Severed spinal cord:  The injury that led to quadriplegia. Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) trial:  The research study Jason was enrolled in. Rhabdomyolysis and renal failure:  Complications developed years after his initial injury. Pulmonary Atresia:  A serious congenital heart defect requiring unifocalization. Episode 18: "You Be Illin'" Complicated Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Syndrome (SCID) Braden Morris , a "Bubble Boy" with SCID , developed an infection that penetrated his brain, causing an intracranial abscess  and a cerebral spinal fluid leak . His T-cell count was zero, as he had developed antibodies to his enzyme injections. He required immediate surgery to drain the Pott’s puffy tumor  on his face. Cluster of Cardiomyopathy Ivy McNeil (15)  was awaiting a heart transplant for dilated cardiomyopathy . On the day of her surgery, her younger sister, Francesca , was admitted with the same condition. Doctors suspected viral myocarditis  as the cause. Francesca required the implantation of a pacemaker . Other Conditions Mentioned: Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Syndrome (SCID):  The "Bubble boy disease." Pott’s puffy tumor:  A rare frontal sinus abscess. Viral Myocarditis:  The suspected cause of the sisters' cardiomyopathy. Tetanus:  A bacterial infection requiring toxoid and immunoglobulin. Episode 19: "I'm Winning" End-Stage Heart Failure/Cardiomyopathy Link McNeil (9)  was suffering from end-stage heart failure  and was on ECMO awaiting a transplant. When his ECMO circuit clotted, Dr. Yang secured compassionate release from the FDA for a drug-eluting cardiac pump , an experimental artificial heart still in animal testing. The device was successfully implanted, stabilizing him. Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) Braden , the "bubble boy," had a T-cell count of zero. Dr. Bailey's research focused on a genetic cure, involving genome sequencing  and gene therapy  using virus vectors. HIV-Positive-to-Positive Kidney Transplant A groundbreaking procedure was performed: the state's first HIV-positive-to-positive kidney transplant . Other Conditions Mentioned: Drug-eluting cardiac pump:  The experimental artificial heart. Genome sequencing and gene therapy:  The cutting-edge research for SCID. Protein S Deficiency:  A blood clotting disorder that complicated a pediatric case. Episode 20: "Go It Alone" Gene Therapy for ADA Enzyme Deficiency Braden , the boy with severe immunodeficiency, underwent experimental gene therapy . Dr. Bailey used a genetically disabled HIV virus  as a vector to deliver the missing ADA enzyme via a bone marrow extraction and re-injection. Pediatric Cardiac Failure and Allograft Rejection Three children were placed on the heart transplant list. Ivy , a previous recipient, was rejecting her heart . Frankie  was diagnosed with heart failure and received an LVAD . Surgical Correction of Seizure Disorder via Hippocampectomy Nova Jenkins  suffered from debilitating seizures. Her treatment was a hippocampectomy , a rare and delicate procedure to remove the hippocampus, which was successful. Complication of Gastric Bypass: GI Bleed A patient suffered a GI bleed  from a stretched gastric bypass connection. The massive transfusion protocol was activated, and he later went into V-fib . Other Conditions Mentioned: Gene therapy:  The experimental treatment for Braden's ADA deficiency. LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device):  Implanted in Frankie for heart failure. Hippocampectomy:  The rare procedure to treat Nova's seizures. Episode 21: "Change of Heart" End-Stage Heart Failure and Complex Heart Transplantation The twins, Frankie and Ivy McNeil , were both in critical need of a heart. When a single donor heart became available, Dr. Yang faced an ethical dilemma. She allocated the heart to Ivy , who was more stable. Ivy's transplant was a success. Frankie  was fitted with a total artificial heart (TAH) , but he developed catastrophic ventricular pressure issues and a fatal rupture on the table. Targeted Gene Therapy for Severe Immunodeficiency Braden , the "bubble boy," was scheduled for his gene therapy  injection using a deactivated HIV virus. His mother, terrified of the experimental treatment, withdrew consent  at the last minute. Other Conditions Mentioned: Total artificial heart (TAH):  The device Frankie received after losing the donor heart to his sister. Triad of death:  The combination of acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy Frankie was at risk for. Spinal Schwannoma:  A tumor of the nerve sheath near the spine. Episode 22: "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" Craniopagus Conjoined Twins Adult twins, Annie and Liz Cooper , were conjoined at the head , sharing brain matter and a single sagittal sinus. Liz was in high-output cardiac failure, making separation urgent. During the procedure to create a new sagittal sinus from a saphenous vein graft , Liz developed a clot . The team was forced to separate them quickly. Annie  survived, but Liz  did not. Severe Immunodeficiency Treated with Gene Therapy Braden Morris , the "bubble boy" whose parents withdrew consent, received the deactivated virus injection  from Dr. Bailey against their wishes. The treatment was a "miracle," and his T-cell count soared overnight. Other Conditions Mentioned: Craniopagus conjoined twins:  The rare condition of being joined at the head. High-output cardiac failure:  The life-threatening condition forcing the twins' separation. Perforation of the Subclavian Vein:  A severe complication from a central line wire being improperly removed. Episode 23: "Everything I Try to Do, Nothing Seems to Turn Out Right" Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) Braden Morris's  unauthorized gene therapy  using a deactivated HIV vector was a success, and he was discharged from isolation. The controversial treatment led to legal repercussions for Dr. Bailey and Dr. Edwards. Post-Rectal Cancer Fecal Incontinence Monica Zarr (27)  suffered from fecal incontinence  as a result of her rectal cancer surgery. A novel solution was proposed: adapting a magnetic ring device normally used as an esophageal sphincter  and implanting it at the anorectal junction  to provide passive control. Other Conditions Mentioned: Deactivated HIV as a viral vector:  The innovative method used for Braden's gene therapy. Magnetic esophageal sphincter:  The device adapted for Monica's fecal incontinence. Ruptured Omphalocele:  A critical complication of a birth defect where exposed organs break through their protective sac. Episode 24: "Fear (of the Unknown)" Pediatric Heart Transplant and Mass Casualty Trauma A gas-main explosion at a mall sent a wave of trauma patients to the hospital. Link McNeil's Heart Transplant:  Amid the chaos, a donor heart became available for young Link McNeil . The pediatric heart transplant went perfectly. Internal Blast Injuries:  Victims of the explosion presented with delayed symptoms of internal blast injuries , including peritonitis  from a perforated bowel and a hemothorax . Obstetric Emergency:  A 31-week pregnant surrogate suffered trauma, and her baby went into distress, necessitating an emergency C-section . Skin Reactions:  Blisters and rashes on multiple victims were not from radiation but from prolonged exposure to dry-cleaning fluid . Other Conditions Mentioned: Orbital compartment syndrome:  Required surgical release of blood behind the eye. Left frontoparietal subdural hematoma:  A severe traumatic brain injury. Transradial amputation:  Loss of a limb below the elbow. 🔖 Key Takeaways The Aftermath of the Storm:  The season premiere dealt with the devastating injuries from the previous season's superstorm, including Dr. Webber's electrocution injury  leading to necrotic pancreatitis and the tragic death of Dr. Heather Brooks from a subdural hemorrhage . Groundbreaking Research and 3D Printing:  A major storyline focused on Cristina Yang and Shane Ross's research into treating Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) , culminating in the innovative use of a 3D-printed conduit  to save a baby's life. Meredith Grey also pursued her own research using 3D printing for portal veins. Rare and "Zebra" Diagnoses:  The doctors were challenged by a host of rare and difficult-to-diagnose conditions, including the genetic disorder Li-Fraumeni Syndrome , the congenital heart defect Shone's Complex , and the parasitic infection Fetus in Fetu . The "Bubble Boy" Case:  Dr. Bailey's high-stakes and controversial treatment of a boy with Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)  using a deactivated HIV virus for gene therapy highlighted the ethical conflicts between parental consent and a doctor's duty to save a life. A Farewell to a Legend:  Cristina Yang's final episodes featured some of her most complex cardiac cases, including a "domino" heart-lung transplant and the treatment of three siblings with cardiomyopathy , solidifying her expertise as she prepared to leave for Zurich.

Mark Cuban, founder of the online pharmacy Cost Plus Drugs, announced that his company will partner with the federal TrumpRx initiative, elaborating on the plan during a CNBC  interview at HLTH 2025 in Las Vegas. The federal website, set to launch in 2026 (or early next year), is intended to connect consumers with prescription drugs at discounted prices, though it will not sell or distribute the medications directly. Instead, TrumpRx will act as a "referral site" or "search engine". Cost Plus Drugs is deeply involved in the initiative, sharing access to its application programming interface (API) so TrumpRx can pull real-time price data. Mr. Cuban stated that CPD is "feeding [TrumpRx] daily updates". Cuban explained that this partnership increases Cost Plus Drug’s visibility, which is beneficial because as their volumes increase, their costs go down, consequently lowering the price for patients . He expressed excitement about the collaboration. The partnership signals an alignment on principles concerning drug costs. President Trump has already secured agreements with companies like Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and EMD Serono to introduce a “most-favored-nation” drug pricing model on the site. Under this model, drugs would be available in the U.S. at similar costs as in other wealthy nations. Mr. Cuban emphasized aligning thoughts on this most-favored-nation pricing, which President Trump advocated for over the summer. Cuban, a long-time critic of the current system, used his keynote address to excoriate Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). He contends that PBMs are the “biggest difference” between how drugs are bought and sold in the U.S. compared to every other Western nation. Cuban blames these powerful middlemen for high drug prices, arguing that the model favors drugs offering large rebates over those that are most affordable for patients. In a push for greater transparency, Cost Plus Drugs committed to posting its Cost Plus Wellness Direct contracts online, something Cuban has criticized PBMs for failing to do. While working closely with the administration, Cuban offered mixed sentiments regarding the overall impact of the TrumpRx program. He acknowledged the administration’s effort, stating, "Credit where credit is due,"  and noting they "are trying their best to reduce the cost of prescriptions and of healthcare and of insurance". He also praised the people working on TrumpRx as "great" and deserving of "all the accolades". However, Cuban remains skeptical about the initiative’s transformative potential. He called the effort “a good start” but was dismissive of its ultimate impact, arguing that while it "will help," it is "just superficial" . Cuban does not believe the program is the kind of solution that will "change the game and change everybody's lives". This aligns with his previous assessment, where he gave TrumpRx a "B" grade because PBM stock prices were not crushed, suggesting no one expected significant disruption for the PBM industry. The Trump administration is also working with other platforms like GoodRx Holdings and pharmacy chains to support the website. 🔖 Sources Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs to partner with TrumpRx Mark Cuban Isn't Convinced TrumpRx Is Going To 'Change The Game' But He's Giving Them 'Credit For Trying' Mark Cuban says Cost Plus Drugs will partner with TrumpRx

Image credit: YouTube / The Resident . Fair use. The Resident  had a successful run, spanning six seasons and captivating audiences with its medical drama. However, as is often the case in modern television, the conclusion of the series was less about creative exhaustion and more about complex corporate maneuvering and high-stakes contract negotiations. While viewers often assume low performance is the sole reason for a show’s demise, the cancellation of The Resident  reveals a deeper, more complicated narrative involving profit margins and network ownership. This retrospective examines the factors leading to the show’s end, focusing particularly on the crucial role of network politics and studio ownership, while also addressing the subsequent fate of the show in the digital streaming landscape. Content ⁉️ 1️⃣ The Shocking Truth Behind The Resident Cancellation 2️⃣ Understanding Network Politics and Contractual Deadlocks 3️⃣ Beyond the Airwaves: The End of Streaming Availability 4️⃣ The Legacy of Six Seasons 🔖 Key Takeaways Image credit: Soaps.com / The Resident . Fair use. The Shocking Truth Behind The Resident Cancellation In March 2025, Yahoo Entertainment provided an overview of why The Resident  concluded its successful run after six seasons, detailing the network decisions that led to the series finale. While the show delivered performance details that might suggest renewal, the eventual cancellation decision stemmed from challenges external to the storylines and ratings performance itself. The crux of the issue lay not with the viewers, but with the complicated relationship between the network and the studio. The Ownership Divide and Profit Margins The cancellation narrative was significantly clarified in a July 2025 TV Insider interview with co-creator Amy Holden Jones and executive producer Andrew Chapman. They candidly explained that the end of The Resident  was largely influenced by complicated politics  and detailed contract negotiations. The fundamental obstacle was a matter of ownership and subsequent profitability. The key dynamic was that the show was owned by the ABC-owned studio, but it aired on the Fox network. When a network does not own a show it broadcasts, its ability to generate significant profit is limited. Despite the show reportedly having good ratings, Fox, the network airing it, did not profit enough from it  because they were not the owners. This lack of financial incentive became the dominant factor in the decision-making process, ultimately leading to the cancellation, overriding the appeal of otherwise positive viewer engagement. Understanding Network Politics and Contractual Deadlocks The complexities described by Jones and Chapman illustrate a major hurdle in contemporary network television: the internal financial calculus driven by vertical integration. The television industry thrives on content ownership, as owning the content allows networks to reap substantial revenue from syndication, international sales, and, critically, streaming licensing deals. When a network relies on content licensed from an outside studio—in this case, Fox relying on an ABC-owned studio’s production—the profit potential is greatly diminished, especially after successful runs lead to increased production costs. The interviews confirmed that the contract negotiations  became excessively difficult due to this structural divide. The network’s decision, detailed in the overview of the cancellation reasons, was a calculated business move reflecting the reality that hosting a highly-rated but externally-owned show was financially unsustainable in the long term compared to a show the network owned entirely. Image credit: TV Insider / The Resident . Fair use. Beyond the Airwaves: The End of Streaming Availability Once a show concludes its run, its second life often begins on streaming services, providing accessibility for new and existing fans. However, the complicated ownership structure that led to The Resident ’s cancellation also impacts its post-air fate. Even after the network run ended, the accessibility of the series itself began to wind down. In August 2025, What’s On Netflix reported critical news for fans: The Resident  would be leaving Netflix  in September 2025. This removal from one of the world's most popular streaming platforms signaled a significant shift. The Impact of Losing Widespread Access The departure from Netflix signifies the official end of its widespread streaming availability . For many viewers globally, Netflix serves as the primary gateway to catch up on or rewatch popular series. The loss of this widespread platform means that access to all six seasons will become significantly more limited or fragmented across various smaller platforms, potentially requiring different subscriptions or shifting access points for international viewers. This development further compounds the finality of the show's conclusion, as both its run on network television and its broad digital availability are coming to an official close. The Legacy of Six Seasons The six-season history of The Resident  stands as a testament to its quality and popularity, but also serves as a sharp reminder of the power of behind-the-scenes business considerations. The sources collectively underscore that while performance was often "good," the network decision was ultimately driven by political and financial necessity. Co-creator Amy Holden Jones and executive producer Andrew Chapman highlighted that it was the structural complications and financial politics, rather than dwindling audience interest, that sealed the show's fate. The overview of the cancellation confirms that while performance was part of the calculation, the network decisions prioritized internal economics. The impending end of its widespread streaming availability marks a new era for the show, transitioning from easily accessible hit to a piece of content governed by complex distribution rights. This entire saga—from the cancellation rooted in ownership politics to the final departure from major streaming platforms—provides a sobering look at how network politics  shape which beloved shows survive, regardless of their ratings success. 🔖 Key Takeaways The end of The Resident  was influenced by a confluence of critical business factors, not merely audience decline. The main points drawn from the sources are: 🗝️ Political Cancellation:  The show’s demise was primarily attributed to complicated contract negotiations  and politics  between the ABC-owned studio and the airing network, Fox. 🗝️ Profit Over Ratings:  Despite maintaining good ratings, Fox, the non-owner of the series, did not profit enough  from the program, making its continuation economically undesirable for the network. 🗝️ Creator Insight:  Co-creator Amy Holden Jones and executive producer Andrew Chapman confirmed that the financial and contractual deadlock was the overriding factor in the cancellation decision. 🗝️ The Streaming End:  Following its network conclusion, The Resident  will face the official end of its widespread streaming availability  when it leaves Netflix in September 2025. 🌐 External sources After 6 Seasons, Why Was ‘The Resident’ Canceled? ‘The Resident’ Bosses Explain Why Series Was Canceled After 6 Seasons ‘The Resident’ Is Leaving Netflix Throughout 2025 Starting With The US

Image credit: CBR / House M.D. . Fair use. Few television shows have managed to combine medical procedural rigor with profound character study quite like House, M.D. . The series, centered on the brilliant but acerbic Dr. Gregory House, captivated audiences for eight seasons, transforming the standard ‘mystery-of-the-week’ format into a complex exploration of human nature, ethics, and the search for truth. While the show consistently delivered high-quality episodes, critical consensus points to a selection of House M.D. Masterpiece Episodes  that transcend the standard format, achieving the status of "masterpieces." These standout entries are frequently celebrated in critical lists and rankings for their powerful narratives, deep emotional resonance, and structural innovation. Recent critical analyses, such as those published by ScreenRant, Collider, and Looper, confirm that certain House M.D. Masterpiece Episodes  possess a unique staying power, driving renewed interest in the series’ most impactful moments. Content ⁉️ 1️⃣ Defining the House M.D. Masterpiece Episodes 2️⃣ Deep Dives: Episodes Praised for Emotional Impact 3️⃣ The Scope of Critical Ranking and Climactic Moments 4️⃣ Why These Masterpiece Episodes Endure 🔖 Key Takeaways Image credit: SlashFilm / House M.D. . Fair use. Defining the House M.D. Masterpiece Episodes What elevates a strong episode of House, M.D.  to the level of a masterpiece? According to critical commentary, the defining characteristics often revolve around two central pillars: superior storytelling and overwhelming emotional impact. These are the episodes where the medical mystery acts less as the plot driver and more as a catalyst for profound character development or moral dilemma. Critical Consensus and Recurring Favorites The sheer number of critically acclaimed episodes suggests a wealth of excellence throughout the series' run. While the total number of recognized masterpieces varies depending on the critical source—one list highlights 12 episodes, another focuses on 10 standout entries, and a third recently ranked the 15 best episodes overall—a core group of titles consistently appears across these evaluations. These shared favorites are often the episodes that dared to break the formula or delve deepest into Dr. House's psyche. The critical rankings collected by Looper, for instance, offered a recent comprehensive ranking of the 15 best episodes of the entire series. Meanwhile, Collider narrowed its focus slightly, identifying 10 episodes that specifically merit the label "masterpiece". ScreenRant also recognized a significant body of work, listing 12 episodes that they felt achieved this exemplary status, noted specifically for their high degree of storytelling prowess and ability to land an emotional punch. This overlap among varied lists confirms that there is a defined body of work within the series that has earned lasting acclaim. Image credit: CBR / House M.D. . Fair use. Deep Dives: Episodes Praised for Emotional Impact Several specific episodes are repeatedly cited across these sources as being crucial viewing, earning their status through exceptional emotional weight. These episodes often move beyond the diagnosis of a rare disease to tackle fundamental human experiences like grief, trauma, and identity. One highly regarded example is "One Day, One Room,"  which is explicitly highlighted by ScreenRant as a masterpiece. This episode is known for its intense focus on character interaction and deep emotional stakes, moving away from the typical medical investigation and focusing on a single, compelling encounter. Similarly, the episode "Three Stories"  is also listed among the critical masterpieces for its lauded storytelling complexity. These entries demonstrate the show's capacity to deliver narrative brilliance outside of its weekly diagnostic puzzle. Other critical darlings noted by Collider include "Broken"  and "After Hours" . These episodes often explore House’s vulnerability or his attempts to cope with his physical and emotional pain, leading to some of the most dramatic and unforgettable moments in the series. Such episodes are praised because they focus on the characters’ internal struggles as much as—if not more than—the patient's disease. Image credit: Collider / House M.D. . Fair use. The Scope of Critical Ranking and Climactic Moments The difference in scope between the critical lists—whether 10, 12, or 15 episodes—demonstrates the high overall quality of House, M.D. , making the selection process challenging. However, the inclusion of certain climactic episodes indicates a critical appreciation for major turning points in the series’ narrative arc. Key Endings and Climactic Moments A notable inclusion in the masterpiece category is the series finale, "Everybody Dies,"  which Collider names among its 10 masterpieces. Final episodes often carry immense narrative pressure, and "Everybody Dies" successfully capped the journey of Dr. House, offering a critically celebrated conclusion to a complex character arc. Its status as a masterpiece underscores the importance of resolution and narrative closure in determining an episode's lasting impact. Similarly, the recently published ranking of the 15 best episodes by Looper confirms a continued interest in evaluating the entire series run and recognizing its highest achievements in storytelling and character development. Why These Masterpiece Episodes Endure The collective acknowledgment of these standout episodes demonstrates a consensus regarding the narrative high points of House, M.D. . Whether critics focus on the raw emotional power of "One Day, One Room" , the structural ingenuity of "Three Stories" , the climactic finality of "Everybody Dies" , or the deep personal drama of "Broken"  and "After Hours" , these episodes are united by their departure from routine and their commitment to exploring the deeper complexities of humanity. The fact that ScreenRant specifically highlights episodes praised for storytelling and emotional impact confirms that mere medical intrigue is insufficient; the true masterpieces must resonate on a human level. These are the episodes that viewers return to, that fuel debate, and that cement the legacy of House, M.D.  as not just a successful procedural show, but a landmark drama. 🔖 Key Takeaways 🗝️ Critical Consensus Exists:  Multiple sources, including ScreenRant, Collider, and Looper, agree that a distinct set of House, M.D.  episodes qualify as masterpieces, though the precise number varies (10, 12, or 15 recognized entries). 🗝️ Defining Traits:  Masterpiece episodes are distinguished by their excellent storytelling and deep emotional impact, often prioritizing character study over standard procedural elements. 🗝️ Standout Titles:  Specific episodes frequently mentioned for their brilliance include "One Day, One Room"  and "Three Stories" , celebrated for their compelling structure and emotional resonance. 🗝️ Character Focus:  Other critical favorites, like "Broken," "After Hours,"  and the series finale "Everybody Dies,"  are highlighted for exploring Dr. House's complex nature and providing powerful climactic moments. 🗝️ Lasting Legacy:  The recent nature of these rankings confirms that the highest achievements of House, M.D.  continue to be analyzed and celebrated, securing the show's place in television history. 🌐 External sources 10 Episodes of 'House' That Can Be Called Masterpieces, Ranked The 15 Best Episodes Of House, M.D. Ranked 12 House Episodes That Are Considered Masterpieces

Northwestern University engineers have unveiled what is believed to be the world’s smallest cardiac pacemaker , a groundbreaking device set to revolutionize temporary heart care. Developed by bioelectronics pioneer John Rogers, PhD, and experimental cardiologist Igor Efimov, PhD, this new device is so minuscule—smaller than a single grain of rice, measuring just 1.8 mm x 3.5 mm x 1 mm—that it can be non-invasively injected into the body using the tip of a syringe needle. The motivation behind this extreme size miniaturization was primarily pediatric care. About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects, and many require temporary pacing for crucial periods (around seven days) after surgery until their hearts self-repair. According to Dr. Rogers, “There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries... the smaller, the better”. Conventional temporary pacemakers involve invasive or less-invasive surgeries and require wires that protrude from the patient’s chest, connecting to an external pacing box. When these traditional devices are removed, potential complications include infection, bleeding, torn tissues, or dislodgement, a risk underscored by the tragic case of Neil Armstrong, who experienced fatal internal bleeding when his temporary pacemaker wires were removed. In stark contrast, the new device is designed to simply dissolve  once it is no longer needed. All components are biocompatible and naturally resorb into the body’s biofluids, bypassing the necessity for a secondary surgical extraction procedure. To achieve such small dimensions, the Northwestern team innovated its power and control mechanisms, moving away from the near-field communication (NFC) protocols that limited the size of their previous dissolvable pacemaker prototype. The new, tiny pacemaker is wireless and paired with a small, soft, flexible, wearable device  that mounts onto the patient’s chest. When this wearable sensor detects an irregular heartbeat, it automatically shines short infrared light pulses through the skin and muscle to activate the pacemaker. The team utilized infrared light because it penetrates deeply and safely into the body. Furthermore, the device draws power from the body itself. It operates via a galvanic cell—a type of battery—formed by two different metal electrodes. Once implanted, the surrounding biofluids act as a conducting electrolyte  that forms the battery, allowing the device to deliver electrical stimulation pulses to the heart. Despite its size, the pacemaker delivers stimulation equivalent to a full-size device. Its miniaturization simplifies procedures, reduces trauma, and eliminates the risks associated with removal. The versatility of this technology is extensive. Physicians could distribute collections of the tiny pacemakers across the heart to achieve more sophisticated synchronization, or the devices could be integrated into other medical implants, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacements, to address immediate post-procedure complications. The concept of bioresorbable electronic medicine developed by Rogers’ lab also opens possibilities for future applications in helping nerves and bones heal, treating wounds, and blocking pain . The technology has been successfully tested in both large and small animal models, as well as human hearts from deceased organ donors. Dr. Rogers projects the device could enter clinical trials within approximately five years, marking it as potentially the first resorbable electronic device used in a clinical setting. 🔖 Sources Engineering the World’s Smallest Cardiac Pacemaker Researchers Develop the World's Smallest Pacemaker

Season 9 of Grey's Anatomy  was a season of profound loss, resilience, and rebuilding. Picking up in the devastating aftermath of the plane crash, the surgeons grappled with life-altering injuries, unimaginable grief, and the psychological trauma that would redefine their lives and careers. The season's medical storylines were deeply intertwined with this recovery, focusing on cutting-edge procedures to repair the irreparable, from nerve grafts to save a surgeon's hand to the agonizing decision of a life-saving amputation. As the hospital faced bankruptcy and an uncertain future, the doctors tackled bizarre medical mysteries, complex ethical dilemmas, and a terrifying superstorm that put their skills to the ultimate test. Content ⁉️ 1️⃣ Episode 1 2️⃣ Episode 2 3️⃣ Episode 3 4️⃣ Episode 4 5️⃣ Episode 5 6️⃣ Episode 6 7️⃣ Episode 7 8️⃣ Episode 8 9️⃣ Episode 9 🔟 Episode 10 1️⃣1️⃣ Episode 11 1️⃣2️⃣ Episode 12 1️⃣3️⃣ Episode 13 1️⃣4️⃣ Episode 14 1️⃣5️⃣ Episode 15 1️⃣6️⃣ Episode 16 1️⃣7️⃣ Episode 17 1️⃣8️⃣ Episode 18 1️⃣9️⃣ Episode 19 2️⃣0️⃣ Episode 20 2️⃣1️⃣ Episode 21 2️⃣2️⃣ Episode 22 2️⃣3️⃣ Episode 23 2️⃣4️⃣ Episode 24 🔖 Key Takeaways Episode 1: "Going, Going, Gone" Post-Traumatic Neurological Failure (Dr. Mark Sloan) The season opened with the emotionally devastating case of Dr. Mark Sloan , who was in a state of irreversible decline following the plane crash. As per his living will, life support was to be discontinued after 30 days with no signs of recovery. The medical intervention was purely palliative. After being sedated with morphine for comfort care, his life support was withdrawn, and he passed away. Other Conditions Mentioned: Hungry Bone Syndrome:  A potential complication of parathyroid surgery causing hypocalcemia. Iatrogenic Pericardium Injury:  A surgeon poked holes in a patient's pericardium during a bypass, preventing them from coming off the pump. Ripped Cecum:  A severe complication during an appendectomy. Status Post Leg Amputation:  A reference to Arizona Robbins's injury from the plane crash. Episode 2: "Remember the Time" Reactive Psychosis Dr. Cristina Yang  was diagnosed with reactive psychosis  as a result of the extreme exhaustion and trauma from being stranded for four days after the crash. She was unresponsive, silent, and occasionally violent. Resisting the use of antipsychotics, Owen Hunt took a leave of absence to provide support at home, allowing her to process the traumatic memories of her survival. Traumatic Median Nerve Damage Dr. Derek Shepherd's  surgical career was in jeopardy due to significant nerve damage  in his hand, a result of the crash. Rejecting a conservative repair that offered only 80% function, he opted for a high-risk nerve graft  using his own anterior interosseous nerve, performed by Dr. Callie Torres, in the hope of a full recovery. Osteomyelitis and Septic Shock Leading to Amputation Dr. Arizona Robbins  developed a severe infection in her crushed leg, leading to osteomyelitis  (bone infection). She adamantly refused amputation. However, her condition rapidly deteriorated into septic shock , with a fever of 104°F and a high serum lactate. To save her life, Dr. Callie Torres had to break her promise and order the urgent amputation . Meningioma Invading the Sagittal Sinus A 44-year-old patient had a Meningioma  located against the sagittal sinus. During surgical excision, the patient suffered a life-threatening air embolus , followed by acute hypertension and a venous infarction , and subsequently coded on the table. Short-Bowel Syndrome A pediatric patient, Stuart , required an intestinal transplant  for short-bowel syndrome . The surgery was successful. Other Conditions Mentioned: Air embolus and Venous infarction:  Life-threatening complications during the meningioma surgery. Septic Shock:  The life-threatening crisis that necessitated Arizona's amputation. Final surge of energy:  A temporary improvement in health often seen in terminally ill patients. Episode 3: "Love the One You're With" Severe Lower Extremity Trauma Emery (16) , a solo sailor, was rescued after her boat's mast crushed her leg. The injury was severe, with the foot nearly severed and no pulse. Dr. Torres opted for limb salvage  over amputation, a choice that required a series of major operations over several months to restore blood flow and achieve near-full function. Advanced Heart Failure Mr. Patel  was suffering from an enlarged heart and required a ventricular reduction surgery . Dr. Yang argued for a less risky LVAD, but Dr. Thomas, the surgeon, countered that it was merely a "band-aid." He successfully performed the high-risk reduction, suturing the myocardium with a double layer of vicryl to give the patient a chance at life without waiting for a transplant. Other Featured Surgical Conditions Roxie Meyers , a patient who lost 117 pounds, underwent elective excess skin removal  and repair of an umbilical hernia . Other Conditions Mentioned: Mitral Regurgitation:  A cardiac condition requiring mitral annuloplasty. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (J.R.A.):  A chronic pediatric autoimmune disease. Episode 4: "I Saw Her Standing There" Giant Scrotal Lymphedema Bryan  presented with giant scrotal lymphedema , a condition he had avoided treating for months. The surgery involved removing the massive excess lymphatic tissue to reduce the scrotum by 98%. The procedure was successful. Complex Retroperitoneal Tumor Mr. Mays  was diagnosed with a massive retroperitoneal tumor  that was adherent to his aorta and intertwined with multiple critical vessels. Dr. Grey used the Mattox maneuver , a trauma technique, to mobilize the kidney and gain "perfect visualization" to resect the tumor successfully. Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Janet , a patient with both a PDA  and blocked arteries, underwent a unique two-part surgery. Dr. Thomas first repaired the PDA via a side approach, then flipped the patient over to open the blocked arteries from the front. Other Conditions Mentioned: Amputation/Residual Limb Care:  Monitoring the healing of an amputated limb. Arterial Puncture:  A complication during central line practice. Small Bowel Obstruction:  A case that resolved before surgery. Episode 5: "Beautiful Doom" Complete Vascular Ring and Giant Aneurysm Katy , a young patient, had a massive aneurysm , the size of an apple, caused by a congenital heart defect known as a Complete Vascular Ring . During surgery to repair the aneurysm, it blew . Dr. Thomas skillfully cut out the aneurysm and interposed a graft in under 30 minutes, saving her life. A second surgery was later performed to correct the underlying vascular ring. Multiple Crush Injuries and Hepatic Laceration Melissa , a cyclist, was pinned under a car and suffered multiple crush injuries and massive internal bleeding. Dr. Grey performed damage control surgery, packing the liver. After Melissa was stabilized, Dr. Grey took her back to the OR and located and clamped a tiny tear in the external iliac artery , successfully stopping the bleed and saving her life. Other Conditions Mentioned: Gastropericardial Fistula:  An abnormal connection between the stomach and the pericardium. Ventricular Fibrillation (V-fib):  A cardiac arrhythmia that led to a surgeon collapsing mid-operation. Gallstones:  A patient was diagnosed with an unusually large quantity of gallstones. Episode 6: "Second Opinion" Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) A frequent patient known as "Santa Claus" was routinely dismissed as an alcoholic. Intern Jo Wilson, however, discovered his severe vomiting episodes were triggered by migraines . The final diagnosis was Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) , a condition characterized by recurring episodes of extreme nausea and vomiting. While incurable, treating his migraines helped lessen the CVS symptoms. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Secondary to Anabolic Steroid Abuse Brian Danziger (17)  was diagnosed with cancer  after presenting with jaundice, hair loss, and high blood pressure. He confessed to taking anabolic steroids  for two years. Pathologists confirmed hepatocellular carcinoma in a hemorrhaging mass on his liver. Surgeons successfully removed all of the cancer. Lemierre's Disease Jamie (13)  presented with a persistent sore throat and neck swelling three days after an appendectomy. Dr. Robbins suspected the rare and often overlooked Lemierre's Disease , a diagnosis supported by a pulmonary infiltrate and shoulder pain. Other Conditions Mentioned: Migraines:  The trigger for the patient with CVS. Aortic Dissection with an Aortobronchial Fistula:  A failed stent had torn through both the aorta and a bronchus. Myxoma:  A large cardiac mass in a pregnant patient's right ventricle. Episode 7: "I Was Made for Lovin' You" End-Stage Liver Disease and Valvular Heart Disease Graham Cunningham (65)  was diagnosed with both end-stage liver disease (ESLD)  and valvular heart disease . He required both a valve replacement and a liver transplant, but either surgery alone would have been fatal. The team planned to perform both procedures in one session. The valve replacement was successful, but his body rejected the transplanted liver . His prognosis was dire. Mesio-Orbital Frontal Lobe Tumor Mr. Freeman  was admitted after a fall, but his inappropriate and impulsive behavior led Dr. Grey to suspect a neurological cause. She noted a grasping reflex , a frontal release sign, and correctly suspected a frontal lobe tumor . A CT scan confirmed a mesio-orbital frontal lobe tumor , which Dr. Shepherd deemed operable. Other Conditions Mentioned: Wilms' tumor:  A diagnosis for a six-year-old patient. Nerve damage (Hand Injury):  Derek Shepherd's dying nerve prompted research into advanced surgical repairs. Transplant rejection:  The patient's new liver appeared "patchy" and failed. Episode 8: "Love Turns You Upside Down" Neonatal Cardiac and Respiratory Conditions Multiple critical neonatal cases required complex interventions. Rhys Rutstein  was born with a single-ventricle defect . After his condition deteriorated, he was moved to the top of the transplant list and successfully received a heart transplant. Samantha Morgan , a three-month-old with idiopathic neonatal cardiomyopathy , lost the available donor heart to Rhys and continued to decline while waiting. An infant born with a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH)  struggled to oxygenate and was placed on ECMO  to rest his heart and lungs. Pacemaker Lead Dislodgement Mrs. Crossley , who had just received a pacemaker for complete heart block , returned after passing out during a coughing spasm. It was diagnosed that the coughing had knocked the ventricular lead from her pacemaker loose . She required a follow-up surgery to reposition the lead. Other Conditions Mentioned: Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH):  A defect where abdominal organs herniate into the chest. Cardiac Tamponading:  A life-threatening complication from a suspected leaking central shunt. Single-ventricle defect:  A congenital condition where the heart has only one functioning ventricle. Episode 9: "Run, Baby, Run" Gastroparesis A patient known as Lefkowitz  was diagnosed with gastroparesis , preventing him from properly digesting food. The treatment was the implantation of a gastric neurostimulator , a device that "zaps" the stomach to help it push food down. The procedure was complicated by pre-existing adhesions but was ultimately successful. Median Nerve Injury Requiring Sural Nerve Grafting Dr. Derek Shepherd  underwent a nerve graft  to repair severe damage to his median nerve  from the plane crash. The procedure involved harvesting the sural nerve  from the leg of his sister, Lizzie, as a donor. To get enough nerve material, Lizzie agreed to have the nerve harvested from both of her legs. Other Conditions Mentioned: Gastric neurostimulator:  The device implanted to treat gastroparesis. Sural nerve graft:  The procedure used to repair Derek's median nerve. Unstable Uterus / High-Risk Pregnancy:  A diagnosis leading to concern about a potential miscarriage. Episode 10: "Things We Said Today" Primary Aortoduodenal Fistula Adele Webber  was rushed into emergency surgery. A CT scan revealed a massive aortic aneurysm  that had torn into her duodenum, a rare condition known as a primary aortoduodenal fistula . Her Alzheimer's disease had likely masked the symptoms, allowing the fistula to develop. During the challenging repair, the atherosclerotic plaque  in the aneurysm fractured. Following a crucial suggestion from Dr. Webber, Dr. Bailey divided the renal vein to get above the fracture and successfully repaired the aorta with a graft. Despite the successful surgery, Adele died shortly afterward from a heart attack. Other Conditions Mentioned: Alzheimer's Disease:  The underlying condition that complicated Adele's diagnosis. Atherosclerotic plaque:  The buildup in the aneurysm that fractured during surgery. Degloving injury:  A severe soft tissue injury on a trauma patient's arm. Episode 11: "The End is the Beginning is the End" Crouzon Syndrome James Leggett (16)  had Crouzon syndrome , a genetic disorder causing premature fusion of skull bones. After five previous operations, Dr. Avery recommended a risky monobloc advancement , moving the entire midface forward in one block to give him a "more normal appearance." The five-hour surgery was successful. Gastric Bezoar secondary to Trichotillomania Taylor (19)  was diagnosed with a bezoar , a giant hairball in her stomach, after presenting with nausea and abdominal distension. The underlying cause was trichotillomania , a condition compelling her to pull out and eat her hair. The bezoar was surgically removed, and she was set up with a therapist. Traumatic Diaphragmatic Injury Leonard Olsen (67)  was injured when his wife fell on him from a stripper pole. Scans revealed a rib had punctured his diaphragm , requiring surgical repair. Other Conditions Mentioned: Crouzon syndrome:  The genetic disorder causing craniofacial abnormalities. Monobloc advancement:  The high-risk procedure to correct James's midface. Trichotillomania:  The hair-pulling disorder that led to the bezoar. Vaginal Infection:  A painful consequence of sand exposure during a beach romance. Episode 12: "Walking on a Dream" Acoustic Neuroma Jimmy  presented with headaches, dizziness, and hearing loss caused by an acoustic neuroma  that had grown while he waited for Dr. Shepherd to recover from his hand injury. The surgery to remove the tumor, which was encasing the facial nerve, carried a high risk of permanent deafness and facial paralysis. Although monitoring indicated a loss of facial function during the operation, he ultimately recovered with both his hearing and facial symmetry intact. Acute Liver Failure Brie , a pregnant woman, was admitted with severe abdominal pain and progressed rapidly to acute liver failure . She was moved to the top of the UNOS list. After the first donor liver was damaged during recovery, a second was secured, and the life-saving transplant proceeded. Endomyocardial Fibrosis (EMF) Nyah , a child from the African exchange program, was diagnosed with Endomyocardial Fibrosis (EMF) , a rare condition where the heart appeared "floppy." The treatment was a highly specialized endocardial stripping of the left ventricle and papillary muscle , which was successful. Phantom Limb Syndrome Dr. Arizona Robbins  was suffering from Phantom Limb Syndrome , feeling excruciating pain where her amputated leg once was. When the pain flared during a surgery, Dr. Hunt ordered Dr. Karev to stab her prosthetic limb with a scalpel—a shocking anecdotal remedy that provided immediate relief. Other Conditions Mentioned: Pericarditis:  The initial diagnosis for Nyah. Pentalogy of Cantrell:  A rare, severe congenital syndrome. Patellar Dislocation:  An acute kneecap injury. Episode 13: "Bad Blood" Aortic Transection Complicated by Religious Refusal of Blood Transfusion Rich Campion , a teenager, was diagnosed with an aortic transection  after a skateboarding accident. The case was critically complicated because he was a Jehovah’s Witness  and could not receive blood transfusions. Surgeons attempted a "bloodless surgery," modifying the plan to an endovascular repair  and using a cell saver machine. Despite these measures, he lost more than half his blood volume, went into V-fib , and died. Deep Neck Laceration and Carotid Artery Repair A logger suffered a deep neck laceration  from a chainsaw, affecting his carotid artery . The injury was too messy for a primary repair. A shunt was placed to maintain blood flow, and a piece of saphenous vein  from his leg was used to patch the carotid. Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Simmi (13) , a competitive gymnast, required a double hip replacement. Post-operatively, she refused to move due to depression. Doctors warned this risked clots and contractures. She was eventually motivated to begin rehabilitation by Dr. Torres. Other Conditions Mentioned: Bloodless surgery:  The challenging protocol for the Jehovah's Witness patient. Endovascular repair:  The percutaneous technique used to minimize blood loss. Suicide Risk / Severe Depression:  The post-op hip replacement patient's emotional state. Episode 14: "The Face of Change" Gender-Affirming Surgery (Top Surgery) Brian Weston , a young transgender man, underwent gender-affirming chest reconstruction surgery . The procedure was highly significant for him, as he explained that living in his pre-transition body felt like "dying inside." The surgery was completed successfully. Polytrauma and Tension Pneumothorax A 10-year-old hit-and-run victim was brought to the closed ER. He had a locked airway, low oxygen saturation, and internal hemorrhage. During resuscitation, his trachea deviated, indicating a tension pneumothorax , which was treated with needle decompression. He ultimately underwent a lung resection and splenectomy and survived. Gastroschisis Maya Noel , a 13-day-old infant, was diagnosed with gastroschisis , a defect where her intestines were outside her body. The treatment was a staged silo repair , gradually compressing the organs back into the abdomen over time. The episode featured the final stage of her closure. Other Conditions Mentioned: Sub-Q Emphysema:  Air under the skin, a sign of severe internal injury. Pneumopericardium:  Air in the sac around the heart. Gastroschisis:  The congenital defect where intestines are outside the body. Episode 15: "Hard Bargain" Volvulus and Hemoperitoneum in a Neonate A newborn presented with vomiting and a distended abdomen, diagnosed as a Volvulus —a twisting of the bowels. During surgery, a hematoma on the liver ruptured , causing a hemoperitoneum. Instead of a risky repair, the team opted for conservative management, packing the liver and administering clotting agents. The bleeding stopped on its own, and the baby was expected to be fine. Progressive Cancer Requiring Genome Mapping A.J. , a patient with aggressive, spreading cancer, was proposed for genome mapping  by Dr. Bailey. This technique aimed to identify the tumor's specific DNA sequence to find targeted drug therapies. The hospital administration rejected the proposal due to cost. Frustrated, Dr. Bailey advised the parents to take their son to another hospital. Other Conditions Mentioned: Arteriovenous Malformation (A.V.M.):  A neurosurgical case requiring hypothermic arrest. "Parachute" device:  Implanted in a heart to block off damage from a heart attack. Hematoma on the liver:  The complication that ruptured during the volvulus surgery. Episode 16: "This Is Why We Fight" End-Stage Renal Disease Complicated by Septic Shock Melissa Keyser (28)  was admitted in septic shock  from complications of her ongoing dialysis. She had exhausted all viable veins for vascular access . The innovative treatment was to surgically create an artificial artery  to restore her ability to remain on dialysis while she waited for a kidney. Pediatric Tumor (Mass) Bobby Brinn , a young boy, underwent surgery to remove a tumor he had personified as an "evil little man" named "Phil." The surgery used a Morcellator  to fragment and remove the tissue. Post-Surgical Adhesions Andy  required his fifth surgery in two years to clear life-threatening adhesions  (scar tissue). The treatment involved placing novel adhesion barriers  to keep the internal tissues separated while they healed. Other Conditions Mentioned: Epilepsy:  A drastic surgical treatment involving severing the connection between brain hemispheres was mentioned. Viral glioblastoma:  The "Shepherd method" for treating this was mentioned. Scaffold-free cartilage fabrication:  An advanced research area Dr. Torres was an expert in. Episode 17: "Transplant Wasteland" Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (A.L.S.) and Donation after Cardiac Death (D.C.D.) Bradley Parker (31) , a former resident with end-stage A.L.S. , chose to undergo Donation after Cardiac Death (D.C.D.) . This involved disconnecting his ventilator, allowing his heart to stop, and providing a five-minute window for organ recovery. His decision facilitated several life-saving transplants. Complex Cardiopulmonary Transplantations (Domino Procedure) In a rare "domino transplant," Mr. Schulz  received a donor heart and lungs for his pulmonary hypertension. Subsequently, Mr. Schulz’s original heart , which was still 80% functional, was transplanted into Mr. Crump , who had severe cardiac failure. Other Conditions Mentioned: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (A.L.S.):  The 100% fatal neurodegenerative disease. Donation after Cardiac Death (D.C.D.):  The process Bradley Parker chose. Pulmonary Hypertension:  The condition necessitating Mr. Schulz's heart-lung transplant. Episode 18: "Idle Hands" Nonresectable Late-Stage Gallbladder Cancer Madeline Skurski , a teacher, was diagnosed with what was thought to be gallstones. During a laparoscopic procedure, Dr. Grey discovered a hard, calcified mass. The final diagnosis was nonresectable late-stage gallbladder cancer  that had spread to the liver and was encasing the hepatic artery. Her prognosis was grim. Other Noteworthy Cases A 16-year-old ATV collision victim, Susie Kramer , sustained an open depressed skull fracture . A hematoma was removed from Broca's area , putting her at risk for long-term speech and motor deficits. The episode also highlighted the Lotus Valve , a noninvasive device for aortic valve defects. Other Conditions Mentioned: Absorbed twin / Fetal Malformations:  Unusual congenital anomalies discussed as risks during a pregnancy. Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM):  A serious fetal lung lesion. Lotus Valve:  The new, noninvasive technology for aortic valve repair. Episode 19: "Can't Fight This Feeling" Kawasaki Disease Parker Hedges , a young boy with a persistent high fever and rash, was misdiagnosed with a virus and then strep throat. His mother's intuition led to further investigation. The final diagnosis was Kawasaki disease , a serious condition that can cause heart damage. An echocardiogram showed fluid around his heart. He received immediate Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)  within the crucial ten-day window to prevent permanent heart damage. Traumatic Brain Injury Presenting as Capgras Syndrome Rachel Dawson , a patient in a gas tanker pileup, sustained a closed head injury and developed a hematoma in her temporal lobe . This manifested as Capgras syndrome : she failed to recognize her own son, reacting with fear and confusion. The treatment was surgical evacuation of the hematoma. Other Conditions Mentioned: Kawasaki disease:  The serious illness causing inflammation in blood vessels. Capgras syndrome:  The delusional misidentification syndrome caused by the brain hematoma. Aortic Transection:  A severe cardiovascular trauma requiring dual-circuit bypass. Prolapsed Cord:  An obstetrical emergency where the umbilical cord presents before the baby. Episode 20: "She's Killing Me" Severe Post-Operative Septic Infections A cluster of aggressive post-operative septic infections  occurred in three of Dr. Bailey's patients. Joyce Basche , who had received a dialysis graft, developed a huge abscess, crashed, and died. Two other patients, Kathy Dong  and Seth Lepik , also developed severe infections. The investigation, which briefly focused on an intern, ultimately turned to Dr. Bailey as the common link between all three patients. Other Conditions Mentioned: Dialysis Graft:  The vascular access required for hemodialysis. Post-Operative Infection:  Characterized by fever, redness, and swelling at a surgical site. Genetic Markers for Alzheimer's Disease:  Testing to identify hereditary risk. Episode 21: "Sleeping Monster" Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) USA600 Outbreak The CDC identified the virulent post-op infection as MRSA USA600 . After two patient deaths, the investigation focused heavily on Dr. Bailey. The source was complex: Dr. Bailey was found to be an asymptomatic carrier of MRSA USA600 , and she transmitted it to her patients through defective surgical gloves  that had microscopic tears. The third patient, Seth Lepik , succumbed to the infection when an abscess eroded into his innominate vein. Other Conditions Mentioned: MRSA USA600:  The aggressive, antibiotic-resistant staph strain. Defective surgical gloves:  The mechanism of transmission for the MRSA. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS):  A severe congenital heart defect. Abscess Eroding into the Innominate Vein:  The fatal progression of the MRSA infection. Episode 22: "Do You Believe in Magic" Severe Abdominal Trauma and Abdominal Compartment Syndrome Kayla Wayne , a magician's assistant, sustained a severe open wound to her abdomen from a chainsaw. The trauma shredded her kidney, injured her large intestine, and caused massive bleeding, leading to a profound metabolic collapse. After damage control surgery, she developed Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (ACS) , with her intra-abdominal pressure skyrocketing. She required immediate surgical decompression. Gastric Rupture Due to Liquid Nitrogen Ingestion Kimmy , celebrating her 21st birthday, ingested a cocktail made with liquid nitrogen , which essentially blew out her stomach . The final diagnosis was a Gastric Rupture . The treatment was a Roux-en-Y , completely removing her stomach and reattaching her intestine directly to her esophagus. Moyamoya Disease Iris Kane (7)  was admitted for Moyamoya disease , a condition causing the narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, which had manifested as TIAs. The treatment was an omental flap surgery , where healthy tissue containing vessels from her abdomen was surgically placed on her brain to improve blood supply. Coma Following Inferior Myocardial Infarction Paul  was in a coma following a cardiac arrest from a post-op inferior M.I.  Dr. Bailey suggested a novel approach: administering zolpidem , a GABA agonist. Though a sleeping pill, studies indicated it could potentially reverse the coma effect in certain brains. Other Conditions Mentioned: Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (ACS):  The life-threatening pressure buildup in Kayla's abdomen. Moyamoya Disease:  The rare condition causing choked-off blood vessels in the brain. Transient Ischemic Attacks (T.I.A.s):  Mini-strokes experienced by the patient with Moyamoya. Episode 23: "Readiness Is All" Temporal Bone Fracture Complicated by Basilar Artery Thrombus Jason Myers  was admitted with a temporal bone fracture and an epidural hemorrhage . After nine days unconscious, a CT angio revealed a thrombus blocking his basilar artery . A precarious procedure to place a pipeline stent  was successful, restoring blood flow, and Jason woke up coherent. Congenital Craniofacial Anomaly A baby was born with a severe encephalocele and facial cleft —"his brain on his face." The treatment was an extensive reconstruction involving a calvarial graft  from the parietal bone to rebuild his face. Traumatic Impalement on Rebar Leon , a construction worker, fell four stories and was impaled on three bars of rebar . The removal was complicated by the risk of an explosion from sparks in the oxygen-rich OR. Using a dangerous manual ventilation technique, the rebar was cut, and the final injuries were surprisingly minor. Other Conditions Mentioned: Thrombus:  A blood clot blocking the basilar artery. Pipeline stent:  The device used to restore blood flow to the brain. Encephalocele and Facial Cleft:  The severe congenital anomalies. Hypoxia:  A risk during the rebar removal due to the manual ventilation. Episode 24: "Perfect Storm" Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) Secondary to Ruptured Spleen During a hospital-wide power outage caused by a superstorm, Dr. Meredith Grey  required an emergency C-section due to the baby's dangerous face presentation (mento-posterior) . Following the delivery, she began bleeding excessively. On the operating table, she self-diagnosed Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) , hypothesizing the cause was an internal injury from a fall the previous day. Before losing consciousness, she instructed a junior resident, Dr. Shane Ross, to perform a midline laparotomy. Dr. Bailey arrived and confirmed a ruptured spleen  was the source of the massive bleeding. A splenectomy  was performed in the dark, and Meredith survived. Other Conditions Mentioned: Face presentation (mento-posterior):  The dangerous fetal position necessitating the C-section. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC):  The life-threatening clotting disorder Meredith developed. Ruptured Spleen:  The source of Meredith's massive internal hemorrhage. Myocardial Infarction (M.I.):  A patient who fixed the hospital generator was to be worked up for a heart attack. 🔖 Key Takeaways The Aftermath of the Crash:  The season was dominated by the physical and psychological fallout of the plane crash. This included Mark Sloan's tragic death, Arizona's amputation and struggle with Phantom Limb Syndrome , Derek's high-risk nerve graft  surgery to save his hand, and Cristina's reactive psychosis . Financial Crisis and the New Hospital:  The hospital's impending bankruptcy and subsequent purchase by the surviving doctors (transforming it into Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital) created a new dynamic, where financial constraints directly impacted patient care and surgical decisions, such as denying funding for genome mapping . Diagnostic Challenges and Rare Diseases:  The season featured several "medical mystery" cases that tested the attendings and new interns. Notable diagnoses included Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome  masquerading as alcoholism, the rare parasitic infection Gnathostomiasis , and the often-overlooked Lemierre's Disease . Pushing Surgical Boundaries:  Despite personal and professional turmoil, the surgeons continued to innovate. Key procedures included a complex ventricular reduction surgery , the use of the Mattox maneuver  in a non-trauma setting to resect a retroperitoneal tumor, and the successful treatment of Moyamoya disease  with an omental flap. The Superstorm Finale:  The season culminated in a massive storm that caused a hospital-wide power outage. This crisis led to a dramatic in-the-dark C-section for Meredith, who then suffered a ruptured spleen  and DIC , forcing a junior resident to perform a life-saving splenectomy with limited resources.

For years, the psychological and physical benefits of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) have been widely observed. Now, new research provides a profound biological underpinning for these changes, demonstrating that feminizing hormone therapy doesn't just alter appearance—it fundamentally remodels the body's entire protein structure, known as the plasma proteome . The groundbreaking study, led by researchers from Melbourne and published in Nature Medicine , focused on analyzing over 5,000 blood proteins in 40 adult transgender women. The participants were studied before and after six months of Feminizing Hormone Therapy . The results were unequivocal: the therapy induces changes in dozens of proteins to align with those found in cisgender women. This molecular alignment is far more extensive than previously understood. Researchers found that the therapy alters sex-specific blood proteins to such an extent that they come to resemble those of cisgender women. The overall effect is that the plasma proteome  adapts toward a cis-female profile. The precision of this biological shift is striking. Scientists tracked ten key proteins known to differ distinctly between males and females; the study revealed that Feminizing Hormone Therapy  effectively changed seven of those ten key proteins, successfully aligning these critical protein biomarkers with the individual's Gender Identity . This rewriting of the body’s internal chemistry is far more than just a confirmation of physical transition; it holds significant health implications. Since proteins govern crucial biological functions, the realignment of these sex-specific proteins—including those associated with immunity and metabolic pathways—suggests deep, molecular-level impacts on health. Melbourne researchers highlighted that this transition may affect susceptibility to various health conditions. In essence, this work establishes that Feminizing Hormone Therapy  acts as a powerful biological agent, systematically altering the intricate network of the proteome . The findings provide tangible, measurable evidence that hormone therapy alters body proteins to match the affirmed Gender Identity . This study is a critical step in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind gender transition and offers valuable insights for health providers seeking to optimize care based on these profound biological shifts. 🔖 Sources Gender-affirming hormone therapy rewrites body proteins to match gender identity Hormone therapy alters body proteins to match gender identity, researchers discover Plasma proteome adaptations during feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy Hormone Therapy For Trans Women Shifts Dozens Of Proteins To Align With Their Gender Identity

The American Medical Association (AMA) officially launched its new Center for Digital Health  and AI  on October 7, 2025, marking a definitive commitment to steering the integration of artificial intelligence into medicine. This groundbreaking initiative signals that the medical community, led by the AMA , will not be a passive recipient of technological change but an active shaper of its implementation. The creation of the Center has been quickly covered by leading news outlets, emphasizing the AMA 's decision to wade directly into the turbulent waters of AI Regulation . The core mission of the Center is to embed physicians deeply within the entire AI lifecycle. This ensures that the design and application of these sophisticated tools adhere to a physician-centric  approach. The goal, according to interviews with AMA  CEO John Whyte, is clear: AI should serve to augment the capabilities of physicians, rather than attempting to replace them. This philosophy underpins the center's focus on physician-centric  design, ensuring that technology enhances clinical decision-making and patient care while maintaining the critical human element. The Center’s work is organized around four vital areas, demonstrating a comprehensive strategy for integrating Digital Health  tools effectively and ethically: 1. Policy and Regulatory Leadership:  The AMA  is setting out to lead the discussion on AI Regulation  to ensure the safe and effective use of AI in medicine. This political leadership is crucial as regulators attempt to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. 2. Clinical Workflow Integration:  Focusing on how these tools fit seamlessly into daily medical practice. 3. Education:  Preparing the current and future medical workforce to utilize AI  tools responsibly. 4. Collaboration:  Working with developers, policymakers, and other stakeholders. AMA Launches Physician  initiative, detailed in reports published shortly after the initial announcement in mid-October 2025, carries significant weight for the technology sector. It essentially pioneers a new era by demanding higher standards from AI companies. Developers must now prioritize ethical and physician-centric design, recognizing that the AMA is actively setting the standard for what constitutes safe and effective deployment in healthcare. By stepping forward so decisively, the AMA is aiming to guarantee that the promise of AI truly benefits patients and supports, rather than hinders, the critical work of healthcare providers. 🔖 Sources AMA wades into turbulent debate over AI regulation with new digital health center AMA creates new Center for Digital Health and AI  AMA launches Center for Digital Health and AI AMA Pioneers New Era: Center for Digital Health and AI Launched to Revolutionize Healthcare