INTERVIEW WITH DR. MANUEL TORNERO VILLEGAS- Excellence in Gynecology in Tijuana Baja California

¨Medicine has interested me since childhood, because I discovered that I could help people.¨- Dr. Manuel Tornero

In this ever increasingly materialistic world it´s quite interesting, and actually gratifying, to find a person who is selflessly interested in helping others, and even more so if that person is a doctor. That´s what I discovered when I went for my interview with Dr. Tornero. Upon entering his impeccable office in Tijuana´s Zona Rio neighborhood, I was greeted by his assistant and also by a soothing background of classical music, which permeated every corner of the office creating an atmosphere of peace and equilibrium. His first words gave him away. ¨Medicine has interested me since childhood, because I discovered that I could help people.¨ This feeling has not diminished with time, on the contrary, it has been a motivation that has driven him to discover shortcomings in the practice of medicine. In addition, it has helped him to create a practice that provides patients with a professional, personal and affordable service that everyone deserves.
A graduate of the school of medicine at the Universidad Veracruzana in his hometown of Jalapa, Veracruz, he later decided to move to Mexico City. He specialized in gynecology at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, and finally in laparoscopy and colposcopy interventions where he became known as a leading physician in the field of gynecology.

Why did you decide on this specialty?Laparoscopy surgery, at the time, was the latest thing and lead to an upsurge in the practice of non-invasive surgery (surgery that does not require large incisions as in traditional surgery). With the laparoscopy technique, three to five small incisions are made in the abdomen where laparoscopic instruments are inserted, such as a video camera, a microscope and other fine delicate surgical instruments. This type of surgery tends to greatly reduce the risk of hemorrhages and other complications because the incisions are very small and manipulation is at a minimum. I studied this sub-specialty for six months and later decided to study colposcopy in relation to uterine and cervical cancer, the Human Papilloma Virus and all pre-cancerous lesions.

Have you seen many cases of cancer while studying this specialty?One sees life very differently when you are only a gynecologist as opposed to being colposcopy gynecologist because as a gynecologist you are given a brief introduction to cervical and uterine cancer, the Human Papilloma Virus, etc. However, when you see and treat so many patients, sometimes 40 or 50 per day, one can see the many different realities in this country, and one of them is the poor practice of medicine. The Papanicolau (pap smear) test is free, yet there continue to be so many cases of cervical cancer, which in fact is the leading cause of death for Mexican women. I have my theories on this subject. To begin with, the person administering the test often is not well trained. If the test sample is taken to a laboratory with insufficient capabilities then the test results may show normal because in general they don´t take the test samples where the lesion is located. Improperly taking a test sample and poor laboratory conditions are all factors that can affect results. Another important factor is the person interpreting the test results. If it´s a good pathologist they can see when there is a problem. If it´s a bad pathologist; or if things are done very quickly; or if they are overwhelmed with work, they can overlook results which can be fatal over time. Unfortunately, since colposcopy is also in fashion, many doctors call themselves colposcopist, but the only thing they do is fool their patients and don´t really know how to do a proper diagnosis. And, if the diagnosis is poor then that can adversely affect the work of the pathologist, as well.

What can a person do to assure early detection of cancer?This is a point against the “colposcopist” because by the time cervical cancer shows symptoms it usually means that it´s at an advanced stage. Symptoms are pain and bleeding when the person has sexual relations, foul odor, tumors, a heavy feeling in the pelvic area. All these symptoms cause the patient to come see us, but more often than not, it´s too late.
Pre-cancerous lesions that are called dysplasia and they do not have symptoms. Only a colposcopist will be able to determine after taking and examining a Papanicolau (pap smear) if the patient has something more. In fact the Pap smear and the colposcopy can work together. It would be ideal for all women to do a colposcopy, however it´s an expensive procedure. The cost can vary between 1000 and 3000 pesos (about $80 - $243 USD), and not everybody can afford to pay that kind of money. That price includes the visit, the Pap smear and the colposcopy. It´s recommended to do this study because it´s very precise. The microscope allows us to see lesions that otherwise might go undetected.

Why don´t gynecologists generally do this type of study?Mostly out of ignorance. In the ideal world, both the patient and physician would have better knowledge of what a colposcopy is and how it is done. In addition, Social Security, ISSSTE and other state health facilities would have specialist that do colposcopy procedures free of charge.

It occurs to me that you learned all of this while in Mexico City. How is it that you decided to move to Tijuana?I first came to this city many years ago and it was very interesting to me how easy it was to have patients from both sides of the border. I´m coming from Jalapa, Veracruz, which did not seem like a good place to grow professionally. I was offered a good job in Mexico City, where I had studied, but it seemed like an overly stressful city to live in. So, I decided it would be better to move to Tijuana. That was seven years ago.
Do you also believe the recession has affected the behavior of your patients over those seven years?
Yes, but I believe there is a lack of awareness on health issues in general. The majority of people go to the doctor when things have gotten pretty bad. There´s no awareness about having a periodic checkup. And now, with people so economically tight, it´s really difficult. A clear example would be the vaccine for the Human Papilloma Virus. A patient who is given the vaccine is protected from the virus for eight years. But, if this patient develops a pre-cancerous lesion or cancer, you´d have no idea how much money they could spend on surgery, chemotherapy, medical studies, etc. And, that´s not even counting the lost days of work.

Is there much awareness about the importance of getting the Papilloma vaccine? Is anybody a candidate to get the vaccine?
There´s still a lot of bad information displayed by the media regarding medicine, because they have not had the power to speak the truth. Three years ago, I attended the first conference about the beginning of the vaccine to protect against this virus. Only 50 gynecologists from Tijuana attended. At that time they said that the vaccine was only for women between 18 and 25 years old, but I wasn´t so convinced of this. I spoke with those who were promoting the vaccine and with the doctors who brought the vaccine to ask them about why only women in this age bracket. They told me that it all had to do with marketing because the studies were only done on women from 18 to 25 years old. The studies for both men and women from other age groups did not provide results nor did they have the proper permits that could validate the studies. With this in mind, I began to apply the vaccine to men and women of different ages. After three years we are continuing to have our meeting where the physicians can talk about their experiences. A year ago announcements started that the vaccine was for all ages and also for men, who are the principal carries of the virus.

What are the symptoms of the Human Papilloma Virus?Symptoms are similar to other viruses that cause cellular damage such as hepatitis. The Human Papilloma Virus tends to attack cells in the area of the cervix and the uterus. This is an area where cells are under formation and it´s here where cervical dysplasia can occur, which is a pre-malignant or pre-cancerous lesion in the cells of the uterus. There are three types of dysplasia; light, moderate and severe. Moderate and severe dysplasia are more dangerous and should be treated as a major risk which can transfer into cancerous lesions. Men are the principal carriers of this virus through sexual transmission. On the other hand, it´s rather difficult to attack the Papilloma Virus because to this date there are 120 known sub-types of the virus. When someone is vaccinated, the other sub-types of the virus are not affected. There is a vaccine which covers four types of the more common forms of the virus. Of these, two are the types that produce warts and two that produce cancer. People generally come to the doctor´s office when they realized that they have a wart because is very difficult for a woman to realized she´s infected with the virus, if there are no symptoms.

How can a person become infected?In 90 percent of the cases it is from sexual transmission, but it´s not the only way. Infection can also occur when there has been contact with the area around the genitals. For example, if a Pap smear is done with metal instruments that have not been properly sanitized, a patient can become infected. Also, infection can occur at a gymnasium, in a swimming pool or in a lavatory. Personal hygiene instruments should only be used by one person.

What is the treatment for someone who has become infected?There is no treatment for the Human Papilloma Virus. It can be brought under control, but it cannot be totally eliminated. We´ve seen that applying the vaccine not only can be used as a preventative, but also as a therapy. We´ve seen lesions disappear for patients who have 10 or 20 lesions when the vaccine is applied. Pre-cancerous lesions such as light to moderate dysplasia tend to disappear. The vaccine fortifies the immune system and blocks the virus´ development process.
So, this inspired you to form a group of physicians who would be more aware of their patients´ needs?
Yes, the idea came about to consolidate a group of physicians who placed the patient above just making money and who would practice medicine with the highest ethical standards possible. It has taken a bit of effort, but little by little, our group is coming together. Our goal is to have two or three doctors for each specialty, preferably a male and a female, to make things more comfortable for our patients. For example, in my case, I´m a gynecologics, but I´m not the only one. We have a female gynecologist, as well

What does this project involve?The project involves a group of physicians, laboratories, radiologists, hospitals and pharmacies all working together for the patients best interest so that they can have peace of mind that we are all ethically committed. All of us have official certifications and professional titles that correspond to our specialties. It´s a guarantee that we can provide to our patients. But it´s not just that. We also offer other services for the well being of our patients such as spas, restaurants, nutrition, beauty salons ad plastic surgeons.
What is the name of the group?
Grupo EME and it means medical excellence and ethics.

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Healthy Aging or Anti-Aging

By Elias Bemaras
Nov 25, 2010 4:57 PM • Topic: Health • Issue: 2010-11

Since the beginning of time, humanity has been searching for the
“Fountain of Youth” or some magic potion that offers an anti-aging solution. Until today, this “immortal elixir” was still just a mythical story or something seen in the movies. However, technology and research have evolved so drastically, that we now know the
mechanics of aging in the body as it grows older. This research and technology has taught us that, although we cannot stop the aging process, we can supply the body with the tools and elements needed to keep the physical and mental functions working efficiently, ultimately resulting in an aging process of very high quality.
Let’s be honest with ourselves, we cannot stop time, this element is beyond our control and we are going to age no matter what we do.One way of looking younger is getting plastic surgery, but this will only modify the way we look on the outside. Feeling and growing
healthy internally is a more realistic way to obtain youth within the aging process. This is not to say that confidence and satisfaction of the mind cannot be established with aesthetic surgery, but just fact that it is opposite of the internal youth that can be obtained.
In addition to cosmetic surgery, there are a large number of methods and treatments that are socially accepted in today’s anti-aging market,but few people know that these methods and drugs are not the most effective and powerful ways to obtaining youth and good health. So,
is there a safer and healthier way to control the elements of the body and use them to our advantage in order to look and feel young again? The answer is, “Yes” through Stem Cell
Therapy.
Stem cell therapy has been a controversial subject in the past with many people around the
world because of the confusion with embryonic stem cells.However, this type of stem cell
therapy is nowhere near those topics,because these stem cells are from bone marrow. We can repair and regenerate tissue, and ultimately rejuvenate our own bodies naturally. Our bodies do it every second of everyday through the release of stem cells from our own bone marrow into our bloodstream. We have found a way to increase the the number of cells in the bloodstream and speed up the healing power of these cells to create the, all desired, “magic youth potion”. The best part is, there are is no risk of rejection as this is not a transplant from someone else,and in addition, it can be done within a very short time frame of a few days. No anesthesia,no complications, just you, the specialist and your amazing stem cells!
As we grow older, we experience an in creasing number of major life changes that
effect the aging process greatly. Obviously,physical changes to the body due to aging
are among the most noticeable, but life itself can greatly increase the aging process. Changes in family matters, work matters and our social surroundings can rapidly
increase the aging process. How we handle these changes, as well as regular day-to-day
care, is the key to healthy aging:
There are four vital elements that allow our bodies to run effectively and efficiently: our
internal organs, our internal operating system (nervous, respiratory, etc.), our brain and pro-
per nutritional intake. Each one could have a positive or negative effect on our daily lives
depending on how we treat ourselves and/or our lifestyle.
Our internal organs wear out with use,same as a machine. If we maintain good maintenance of the parts, the machine will be in better shape and last much longer.Stem Cell therapy from bone marrow results in the regeneration of damaged tissue on a molecular level. This means that the stem cells taken from one’s own bone marrow will seek out, find and begin a process of duplication and will graft together to rebuild and repair the damaged tissue within
the body. Simultaneously with the grafting process, the cells transform into that exact type of tissue and take on it’s function. These stem cells can greatly increasing the working condition of organs and the metabolic function of tissue within the body.
In addition to excellent working parts,every machine has to have some sort of energy source to function. The better the energy source for that specific machine, the more efficient it will work. In our bodies,getting proper nutrition specifically for our personal condition, is the key to detoxification and the main source of energy.
In addition to a proper energy source (nutrition) and good maintenance of the parts
(our internal organs and systems), there are other elements that are needed in order for
our machine to function smoothly, such as oil or water in a car. In the body’s case hormones are essential and play a major part within the body. Dependent on age, hormone therapy can boost the production of specific hormones weakened by our everyday life and positively affect the normal aging process by providing a smooth ride.
Finally, there is always an operator of the machine, in this case the brain and state of mind. The brain has many functions that physically control the body, but our state of mind behind it can easily lose focus and become overwhelmed with complicated situations that it gets distracted, or forgets how to operate the machine properly. Family, business,social life, and many other factors contribute to increasing stress levels within the mind.These factors can lead our body off track and in many cases against our own will. Taking a pause for introspection could make a big difference. Gaining the tools to relax our mind and focus again on the important matters, as well as being conscious of what contributes to our stress levels will result in a more efficient body function and a more enjoyable life.
Every action has a reaction. Finding the ways to control the elements of action and reaction
in order to get the results that we wish has been challenging, but in terms of stem cell anti-aging methods, this is able to be done. Stem cell therapy from the bone marrow of one’s own body,combined with hormone therapy, good nutrition and stress control of the mind has demonstrated to greatly improve organ function, increase quality of life and evoke youth from the inside and reflecting on the outside.
There are many benefits of this healthy aging therapy! For example hormone therapy
combined with good nutrition can improves mineralization of the bones, increase muscle
mass, body movement and agility. In addition stem cells result in increased metabolism
reinforcement, reduction in fat tissues, and can produce efficient liver, kidney, lung and
heart functions. Furthermore, stem cell therapy combined with hormone therapy increases energy levels, daily activities, and even increases quality of hair and nail growth.
If the reasons above do not encourage you to research bone marrow stem cells, here are
few more: In women stem cell therapy can improve estrogen production resulting in easier menopause. In men, stem cells can result in increased testosterone levels which maintain a healthy energy level, healthy mood, fertility and increased sexual desire!

The Doctors of Stem Cells Therapy

By Brian Blackbum
Nov 25, 2010 12:58 PM • Topic: Health • Issue: 2010-11

Stem cell therapy is a very ‘hot topic’ these days with many issues, the July 2010 issue
of Frontier Doctors magazine contains a very informative article about this controversial
medical science. As background ... ProgenCell extracts stem cells directly from a patient’s bone marrow and subjects them to several processes before being transplanted back into that same patient to improve their health. The patient’s medical condition creates the appropriate immune environment in the body, resulting in a personalized therapy. Many years of research
and experience have resulted in substantial improvements in the health of patients battling various diseases, even when other treatments have failed.
ProgenCell offers patients with certain degenerative diseases an opportunity to improve their
health through cellular therapy, correcting adverse medical conditions at the source by regenerating the tissues and organs causing the ailments. Because the stem cells are from the
same patient, this therapy has no risk of tissue rejection and minimal secondary effects.

Ailments for which stem cell therapy has proven effective include arthritis, chronic fatigue,
diabetes, cardiology, optic nerve atrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s among others. Needless to say, these are very serious medical conditions to people of all ages.Frontier Doctors had the opportunity to ask a few questions to two of these dedicated doctors... Dr. Luis Romero and Dr. Jorge Gaviño.

FD: Tell us about yourself... where you grew up, parents, family, your early years as a child.
Dr. Romero: I was born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico. I come from a middle class
family with eight siblings, five sisters and three brothers; I am the sixth of the family.
My father was a civil engineer, my mother a housewife...of course with 9 kids, she was very
busy all the time! I did all my studies in Guadalajara including medical school, after that I went to Mexico City, where I made a specialty. From there,I came to Tijuana where I have worked as orthopedist/ spine surgeon in private practice since 1987.

Dr. Gaviño: I was born and raised in Mazatlan Sinaloa; my life is as common as many other
people, I have six siblings in total. My childhood days were not very significant, playing all the time as all children should.

FD: While you growing up, what did you want to be: fireman, teacher, fisherman, doctor, dancer, football player, singer?
Dr. Romero: I always wanted to be a doctor,since very young my dream was to play professional football, which did not happened because my parents would not let me. But I always wanted to be a doctor, since I can remember.Dr. Gaviño: I always believe that I was going to be what I am, a doctor.

FD: What subjects did you enjoy in school:writing, science, mathematics, recess?
Dr. Romero: I enjoyed science, especially biology and anything related to the human body,
those subjects always caught my attention.

FD: What about math, recess?
Recess of course! I didn’t dislike mathematics,however what most caught my attention were
nature sciences.Dr. Gaviño: Well, I always enjoyed recess, what I didn ́t like was social sciences; I liked everything about the technical sciences.

FD: Who were your heroes while growing up?
Dr. Romero: well ... my father, some athletes, several who were easy to identify with.
Within the professional area I’ve always admired Albert Einstein and Nicolas Tesla. I
found them great and they have changed the world. Dr. Gaviño: Superman, Batman, as usual.

FD: When did you decide to become
a doctor?
Dr. Romero: I decided at very early age, I never saw myself practicing any other profession, nothing else caught my attention, just being a doctor.Dr. Gaviño: From the earliest years of elementary school. I don ́t remember an accurate date,but since then.

FD: Why do you became a doctor?
Yes, I had an uncle who had polio and when occasionally talking with him in those years, the
idea came into my mind and it never left me since.

FD:Wwhere did you study medicine?
Dr. Romero: in Guadalajara, Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara; I completed my studies there.Dr. Gaviño: at the Autonomous University of Baja California in Tijuana, in the faculty of medicine.

FD: When did you decide to study the
science of stem cell therapy?
Dr. Romero: about the year 2000 when I was working with patients with traumatic spinal
cord injury, I started to read about stem cells in journals of scientific research ... the properties of stem cells and applications in the future.There was a need to stimulate the spinal cord so we selected stem cell therapy and began at that time.
Dr. Gaviño: about 10 years ago, we were conducting a study of traumatic spinal cord injuries
and this project research lead us to investigate many treatments, one of which is autologous
stem cell therapy.

FD: Tell us about your personal experiences being involved in such a cutting-edge technology.
Dr. Romero: I have many experiences, because each patient is a unique experience. I have
in my memory some cases where patients had extraordinary & dramatic responses, seemingly miraculous! That encouraged me, seeing patients with such distressing diseases with no apparent hope of any improvement, who have improved their condition through stem cell therapy. And of course when you see such responses, it encourages the medical team to go ahead... of course there are also disappointments but what matters most are the good things, not the bad things.
Dr. Gaviño: I love to see the important benefits that have been achieved in some patients.
And generally, these are patients with few options of therapies or treatments; they have
very complicated diseases so this treatment gives them hope and results, leaving me with
plenty of satisfaction.

FD: What do you see as the future of stem cell
therapies?
Dr. Romero: I think the future has yet not caught a glimpse of how far this science will get; we are at the beginning, at the tip of the iceberg of stem cell technology.
I believe there will be a twist on the concept of pharmacological treatments because stem cell
therapy is more natural, less harmful and possibly even cheaper than drugs. Stem cells are the source to build more treatments because growth factors will complement and create new therapies using this science.
Dr. Gaviño: We must change the point of view of how medicine will be applied in the future
by using many treatments based on regenerative therapies, instead of offering some control of the disease with medication.

FD: Is there anything else you want to add?
Dr. Romero: I hope that as we learn more about stem cell treatments and more patients have improvements, we will see the benefits of our efforts. We ask for patience and trust from our patients because these are serious matters and the treatments will influence the future.
Dr. Gaviño: To the patients, one of the most important aspects is to always have the best
attitude possible, not only to keep looking for new options or to find better options but also
from the functional point of view. This attitude allows the body to function better so the best
recommendation for patients is a good attitude, do not lose the optimism or the intention
to get well.

Dr. Romero and Dr. Gavino are members of the Medical Committee of ProgenCell (stem cell technologies) to whom we express our gratitude for their dedication and commitment.
Frontier Doctors thanks Dr. Romero and Dr.Gavino for these insights into their personal
and professional lives. I hope this information shows the human nature of the professionals
who look into the future for remedies of some of today’s worst diseases and give a glimpse of what generations to come can look forward to in healthcare.

Plastic Surgery Gone Wrong

The importance of finding a board certified specialistBy Dr. Francisco Bucio
Nov 25, 2010 10:40 AM • Topic: History • Issue: 2010-11

Would you travel in a plane flown by a taxi driver? I don’t have anything against taxi drivers, it’s only that they have a different kind of skill; it has nothing to do with IQ. Certainly, with the adequate training they could surpass their counterparts that circle the skies.But what to think then of medical complications such as the one suffered by Mexican singer Alejandra Guzmán, who was intervened for an aesthetic procedure of buttocks augmentation, resulting in a serious complication because of the personal responsible for the procedure were not adequately trained and almost caused the death of the performer?
What if we mention that this was just a case of a celebrity and merely the “tip of the iceberg”, that cases like hers are counted by thousands? And if we also add the fact that a big portion of these cases have no solution and some are even fatal, then the issue is no longer a simple "medical trade" matter.
Malcolm Gladwell, in his book “Outliers. The story of success”, proposes that in order to succeed in any activity you require:
1.- OPORTUNITY
2.- LEGACY
In this specific subject of the correct practice of plastic surgery, the LEGACY is given by the accumulation of scientific and artistic knowledge provided by giants such as Tagliacozzi from Italy in the XVI century, Sushruta from India in the VI century and Buncke from USA in the XX century.The OPORTUNITY is given by being in the adequate place and ambiance to receive the training in PLASTIC SURGERY,THE MEDICAL RESIDENCY in a prestigious and certified program.
Furthermore, a basic element: THE PRACTICE.Gladwell proposes is not just a matter of having talent.Thousands of hours of practice are required.Mozart did not write his greatest masterpieces until he was 27 years old. The Beatles did not become The Beatles until
they played for several years 8 hours a day in a little Club in Berlin. Bill Gates programmed for years in one of his middle school computers before creating Microsoft. What all of
these legendary characters have in common is not just talent and opportunity but 10,000 hours of PRACTICE.
A Plastic Surgeon, when finishing the specialty, has already surpassed over 10,000 hours of accumulated practice, dedicated body and soul to give back the harmony of forms, proportions, beauty and function to the human body, treating genetically malformed patients like cleft lip and palate, trauma patients, hand and craniofacial malformations,
burned victims, post-mastectomy secuelae patients and of course aesthetic plastic surgery, all guided by the hand of their ancestors, heirs from the Gillies, Guerrero-Santos, Pintanguy and Ortiz-Monasterio tradition. It is not, let’s make it clear, practice without a foundation.
In the past years our specialty has been flooded by numerous advertisements especially over the internet by all type of offers from the miracle workers to the grotesque. The motive is monetary. The Panacea has been commercialized by charlatans throughout history without scruples and under no ethics to be ruled by.
A lot of these offers come from people that have received as minimal as two weeks training only and they call themselves specialists. It’s as if I were to take an electrocardiogram course and then consider myself a cardiologist!
When I was just starting medical school, I remember an Old doctor from my neighborhood that literally “did everything” and he did it well. Being his assistant I use to see him treat typhoid fever patients followed by an aplastic anemia, and to finish with a tuberculosis patient and then operating an ectopic pregnancy. Basically, medical specialties where somewhat recent. They were “Jack of all trades,masters of none”. There was no other option.
The year is 2010. Like the Darwinian evolution, doctors with a common medical path have differentiated into specialties. Like doctors, every organ of our bodies has a specific function, non-substitutable and SPECIALIZED that works collaborating with the rest of the systems. The heart is required to pump blood, but this could not happen without the nervous system and this one could not perform without the endocrine that also requires the digestive system etc.Without doubt the brain would not substitute the urinary system because of being more intelligent, but surely it needs it to purify the body they are sharing.
Shoemaker, to your shoes”.( “zapatero a tu zapato”) Anonimous.
In short, how to choose a Mexican Plastic Surgeon?
Verify that your surgeon is certified and re-certified by the CMCPER (Consejo Mexicano de Cirugía Plastica, Estética y Reconstructiva) at
http://www.cirugiaplastica.org.mx.

Mexico

Baby Boomers Retire to Mexico For A Better Health Care Experience

By Kim Wherley 

Affordable health care with a pleasant experience... Does such a thing exist? Yes! In Mexico, many retirees are sitting back and soaking up all the attention at the Doctor’s office. With bed-side manors still a trend, many dentists, general practitioners and specialists offer a warm smile; informative, direct communication and a sincere answer to all your questions. In addition, many of these doctors still do house-calls for a small additional fee. To top it all off, many health professionals in Mexico are English speaking and can offer alternative,but proven, methods of care that the average U.S. patient cannot gain access to.
“What kind of V.I.P. pass does one need to acquire for this kind of quality service?”, you ask. The answer is, “There’s no V.I.P. pass needed!” Anyone can enjoy the plush services of the health care industry in Mexico!
Very few people know that many doctors and dentists have received training not only in Mexico, but also in in the U.S. and/or Europe, making them world-class leaders in their field of medicine. In addition many clinics and hospitals offer some of the most progressive medicines, treatments and surgeries at the highest- quality standards. Mexico can offer both affordable healthcare, as well as alternative medicines and treatments that are not approved in the U.S., but have proven to repair some of the most prominent issues in the average retiree body,successfully. Hip and knee replacement surgeries, alternative, non invasive him and knee repair, as well as access to anti-aging, heart and eye specialists has put Mexico on the map of “health care giants” for the Boomer generation.
It is estimated that the average cost of healthcare in Mexico is between 50% and 70% cheaper compared to the U.S. . World-class surgeons, clinics, dentists, hospitals, even in-home care and anything else related to health care is less expensive and more accessible than in the U.S. . Many can argue that Canada offers comparable or better health care, however prescription drugs and out-of-pocket expenses are much less in Mexico.
Can you get health insurance in Mexico?
The answer is, YES. Anyone can get health insurance in Mexico for a very affordable price! The average price is one third or even less for full health care coverage for a family. In addition, many insurance companies are beginning to expand their coverage to Mexico, or
are teaming up with other companies already based in Mexico. In locations like Tijuana, Baja California, the Medical / Health Tourism industry has been in service for years with it’s many visitors from the Southern California areas. With this constant flow of traffic from California, this area has several health insurance companies that focus on providing health insurance for foreigners. Tijuana also attracts patients from all over the U.S. and the world with it’s close proximity to the San Diego airport about 20 minutes drive North. For many U.S. citizens, flying to San Diego and driving down for an appointment or treatment eliminates the headache of flying internationally.With the current economical conditions world-wide, many retirees are seeking a secret getaway with perfect weather, an affordable and comfortable lifestyle and, most importantly, affordable, high-quality health care. The simple fact of the matter is that Mexico has all the answers to the Baby Boomer’s everyday wants and needs. As more retirees decide on their next destination, Mexico will be there, ready to offer it’s warm weather, welcoming culture and affordable lifestyle to all who seek the good life. Saludos!

Biological Medicine

The Key of Helping patient’s with Cancer

By By José Ricardo Dueñas, M.D. 

The biological or bio-regulation medicine; is a specialty focused on the restoration of health through self-healing capacity of the organism.
Is considered that diseases are originated by the accumulation of toxins in the body, due to bad nutrition, poor oxygenation and poor waste elimination. The disease is understood as the result of an imbalance of all body systems.
This aimed at seeing the patient in a holistic manner, as a unity of body, mind and spirit, is focused on correcting internal imbalances that trigger the conditions and pain. The Biological Therapies detoxify, balance and strengthen our whole system, do not produce undesirable side effects and can be combined with any conventional treatment. Every individual there is a tendency to health. Biological Medicine does nothing but strengthen the media them-selves at the disposal of the body to cope with the disease.
According to the developmental stage of the disease, is recommended the use of this medication, as unique or complementary treatment.One example is the case of cancer. As a complement this technique improves the quality of life, as it works with medicines that detoxify the body, reduces the side effects making the patients tolerate better the therapies, helping to reduce the burden on your mental and emotional environment.
The Bio Regulation is much more than just a detoxification therapy, is a comprehensive treatment plan to restore health and prevent degenerative tendency of organs and issues.There are three pillars of treatment that makes the most complete therapy of Biological Medicine regulating cell function, organs and system of the individual.
The Basic Three Pillars are:
• Detoxification and Drainage
• Immunomodulation
• Organic Support (cellularstrengthening) which prevents relapse.
The starting point that Biological Medicine utilize is Homotoxicology as to activate the immune system, the first thing to do is detoxify the body of waste coming from multiple sources (pollution, chemical drugs, food preservatives or hormonal substances). In parallel with the elimination of toxins is improved food nutrition preferably organic and healthy, also we used medicine for drainage which with pharmaceutical combination activates the body’s natural mechanisms to eliminate toxins. It improves the functioning of the lymph nodes by favoring the mobilization of toxins throughout the body, and reinforces the functions of the liver and kidneys to facilitate elimination.
The simultaneous activation of these organs is what produces a complete and deep DESINTOXICATION throughout the body. The toxicity occurs when more toxins enter the body that is capable to eliminate, favoring the accumulation of these in the space surrounding the cells called “Extracellular Fluid”. The toxins deposited there block the arrival of nutrients to the cells preventing them from carrying out the biochemical processes necessary to keep the body in optimum health.
When cancerous cells are destroyed for the chemotherapy effect, produce many free toxic substances (free radicals and other waste) that affect the metabolism of other cells in good
condition. The therapeutic biological procedures have the ability to interact at this level, favoring the production of anti-inflammatory substances and achieve a steady state of the immune system. (IMMONOMODULATION).
ORGANIC STTRENGHTENING AND SUPPORT; It is accomplish thanks to the response of the Homotoxicology Medicine that have the ability to act at the cellular level replacing the biochemical elements that the cell needs to work, it counts with different medicines that you will not find in conventional medicine or in homeopathy, all in order to increase the metabolism nutrition and cell oxygenation protecting organs and tissues of degenerative trend.
Every man and his illness need a personalized therapy. So in each patient are identified the organs more damaged and are indicated the medications that are going to strengthen them; the cells must maintain a perfect balance of molecular components such as minerals, vitamins, amino acids, etc... For which we use the application of biological serum, revitalizing the body’s individual response.
The speed of the results is not the only advantage of this medicine. It also shows other benefits, such a dose reduction and diseases. Because it attacks the problem at its root and recovering the immune system activity, people stop getting less sick every time, and needed lower doses of medication, the body begins to defend itself.
When I give a therapy, the body and the immune system respond according to their own needs. The results show an individualized bio regulation of the defense mechanisms,taking into account the degree of deregulation of each organism.
Bio Regulation therapies have been based on the search for the modulation for “homodynamic” to maintain its biological balance.

Stem Cells 101

By Elias Bamaras, ProgenCell 

What are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are cells found in all multi cellular organisms. They are characterized by the ability to renew themselves through mitotic cell division and differentiate into a diverse range of specialized cell types. In other words, stem cells are cells that can travel from different parts of the body to organs or tissue that have been damaged.
What are the different types of stem cells?
When the stem cells come from your own blood or bone marrow, it is called an autologous transplant. When the stem cells come from another person, it is called an allogeneic transplant. The donor may be a relative or a complete stranger. The important thing is that the donor’s immune system markers are closely matched to yours. This is most likely when the donor is your brother or sister.
How are stem cells currently be
used to treat medical conditions?
There are now treatments to repair damaged organs and tissues and to produce growth factors and other substances necessary in the development of the body. Stem cells may create skin for burn patients or grafts and repair damaged tissues in patients with brain damage, spinal chord damage, and
other conditions. The most widespread use of such cells is in cases of some
types of leukemia and lymphomas, but stem cells have also been used to
treat heart disease, nervous system issues, diabetes, arthritis and more.
What is its origin?
The source of stem cells found in the first layers that form after an egg has
been fertilized (zygote), the zygote divides into 2 cells in these in 4 then 8, 16,32, etc.. until it became 3 layers, the outer ectoderm, from which it will derive the skin and nervous tissue, the mesoderm or middle layer, from which is derived muscles including the heart and blood vessels, bones, cartilage and ligaments of the body and the inner layer the endoderm, from which originated the abdominal organs and intestines. The tissue forms retain some of these stem cells for maintenance and repair used although an adult body. Stem cells from these layers have the characteristic of being pluripotent, which means they have the ability to become other cells and tissues.
What is its significance today?
As processing capacity in other types of tissue stem cells can be used for medical treatments to repair damaged organs and tissues and to produce growth factors and other substances necessary in the development of the body. In this way with stem cells may create skin for burn patients or grafts, to repair damaged tissues such as brain damage and spinal cord, pancreas, heart and so on.
Where did you get stem cells?
There are 2 types of sources of stem cells: embryonic and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells obtained from human embryos 8 weeks of gestation. On grounds,ethical, moral and religious use of such stem cells is prohibited in almost everyone. Adult stem cells, are concentrated in umbilical cord blood of newborns and in some tissues of the human body, such as blood, fat, skin and bone marrow in the latter there is a larger pool and gives the formation of new cells Adult stem.
In what cases are used stem cells?
Umbilical cord blood of newborns can be stored in specialized banks (whether public or private) that have special tanks that keep cryopreservación frozen at temperatures below 150 degrees C, this is done to preserve them for long periods of time without losing its characteristics prior to freezing. Of these umbilical cords obtained Ceulen mother that can be cultured to increase their numbers and used by the child or the person that was obtained, but can also be used by others that are compatible to prevent rejection reactions. It is noteworthy that in each process by passing the cells are lost in numbers and quality of them, since the administration of them can hurt and the cells are adhering to the walls of the instruments used, so that process quality is important to prevent cells lose viability and get healthy. The most widespread use of such cells is in cases of some types of leukemias and lymphomas, but have also been used in cases of heart diseases, nervous system, diabetes mellitus, arthritis and more. Stem cells obtained from bone marrow can be used for similar purposes, with the advantage of their collection on multiple occasions at different ages of the person as needed.
What are the risks of using stem cells?
In the case of non-autologous (from the same person, the donor is the same as the receiver), the main risks are, the tissue rejection by the immune system, allergic reactions due to incompatibility, antibody formation with stem cells and the possibility of transmitting diseases (viral or protein).
How do I manage treatment with stem cells?
Stem cells are administered intravenously like a blood transfusion, and in some cases can be administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously. Must be administered by physicians trained and experienced in handling these types of therapies, some of which must be performed in operating rooms and remain isolated in a special care unit.
What we do in Progencell?
In Progencell take stem cells from the patient’s own bone marrow for use as treatment in various diseases, ie use the technique of autologous stem cell treatment. The progencell special is that we use in most cases complete bone marrow. It is obtained by puncture, mixed in a closed system with a special solution that is prepared in advance to physical stimulation of stem cells and the patient can apply a lot of fresh cells, live, active, with as little handling as possible . The intention with immediate application, avoiding
the handling, freezing, and storage is not mistreat these cells in obtaining the properties of stem cells without damage, aging and high viability. Another advantage of using whole bone marrow is that it contains growth factors that are not only useful but necessary for growth and transformation of stem cells. Remove items from the bone like red blood cells, serum and platelets is not strictly necessary, when used intravenously. These elements will be selected by the body and eliminated as the need for it.
Is it better to use cells from a donor?
In patients suffering from chronic degenerative diseases, the damage is in the organs and processes that affect these organs. This damage may be impaired microcirculation, changes in pH, accumulation of free radicals, oxidative stress, cell death, cellular microenvironment, electrolyte distur-bances, production, transportation and disposal of various items, such as
hormones, proteins, enzymes , carbohydrates, lipids, etc.. In some cases the production of stem cells may be altered, but the stem cells are not altered in their function, ie, these cells always made processes of regeneration and re-pair damaged organs and tissues as it is the natural form of healing body.Stem cells from a person is completely healthy and has no limitation for autologous use (for the same person). There is no evidence to show that application of autologous stem cells perpetuate the disease. If this were real, the risk of using stem cells obtained from tissues of other people would be much greater, given that under this reason it would be transmitted to the recipient cells with all the features of the other person including his latent disease. Stem cell treatments safer, no doubt, are autologous treatments, such as those used in Progencell. So far, over 650 applications have not had any complications with any patient. All patients had a benefit with results ranging from complete cure to a slight improvement. The different responses in patients are because each has a different status, different habits, different production of stem cells and growth factors. However, we found that the factors influencing the results, are: the quality of the bone marrow, the patient’s general condition and his lifestyle, age, chronicity and severity of the disease.
Where does Progencell cells?
The sources of obtaining bone marrow aspiration is performed on the inside of a bone needle will reach the iliac crest (hip) or tibia (leg). The procedure is performed in adults with local anesthesia and is well tolerated by patients, few patients have reported slight discomfort at the site of aspiration for a few days after the procedure.
How Progencell cells infused?
In all cases intravenous application is made and in some cases we perform a local application, for example thyroid, spinal subdural retrobulbar, to go directly to the tissue repair is required. In the case of osteoarthritic knees is only performed intraarticular application, the intravenous application is not made in these cases not be necessary.
What is the future Progencell therapies?
Progencell is in the process of development of other therapies, including erectile dysfunction, alopecia (baldness), treatments for children and others. If the results that we remain positive and are favorable conditions could be expected availability of these therapies in late 2010.

Smile One Size Fits All

By By Dra. Georgina Carabarin
Oct 27, 2010 3:48 PM • Topic: Health • Issue: 2010-10
Your smile, perhaps more than any other facial feature, is one of the first things people notice about you. There is no doubt is our most important social bonding gesture, your smile is the total center of expression. It’s the best most natural make up Spending a few sessions in a dentist chair is fast becoming one of the least invasive and effective ways to change your look. Many dentist create a smile that works with your face,shape, your skin tone and look. Its not just a clinical treatment its an artistic process. Teeth can now be shaped, sculpted, whitening and created from scratch with the same precision and attention to the individual as designing a one of a kind dress. Now, We are in October, is the National

Dental Hygiene Month and we are focusing on Prevention, but it’s something that we need to be conscious every single day of our life; not just in October. We as a dentist or prosthodontist stress the value of workingto increase public awareness about the importance of preventive services in keeping good oral hygiene and to encourage others
to develop and continue with a daily oral health routine; like brushing, flossing, rinse,
and regular visit to the dentist or prosthodontist. Maintaining Optimal Oral Health while
leading a busy, active lifestyle and Living a life on-the-go can be difficult sometimes, but
keeping a healthy mouth shouldn’t be. ADHA is excited to announce that this year they are partnering with Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company, manufacturer of Orbit Gum, to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month (NDHM) in October! And the theme is “Healthy Habits are
Easier Than You Think”. Although people continue to score Smile and the way the teeth look as most important to their personal appearance and place a high value on oral health, more than 80% remain fearful to go to the dentist. It takes time and quality dental patient education, we need to have an effective dentist/patient communication in order to achieve our goal of Prevention.

If you have any suggestion of any topic or do you want me to do more research on something specific; please contact me at Dr. Georgina Carabarin
gcarabarin@hotmail.com and we will work and obtaining the information for you in our next issue. Any questions or suggestions:
Dr. Georgina Carabarin
Paseo de los Heroes # 10501-214
Zona Rio
Tijuana, Baja California.
Ph (619) 342-1386.
Email: gcarabarin@hotmail.com

Welcome to Frontier Doctors- Baja California's #1 Source for Medical Tourism

FrontierDoctors.com is very excited as we are going through some changes.  We will continue to post up stories and articles of the doctors in the Baja California peninsula, but in addition, we will be opening a personal consultation service!  This will launch on Saturday, December 11, 2010

We plan to make it easy for you to understand each doctor or clinic's services.  We will be posting biographies, videos, photos and more.  Our personal consultants will walk you through the process on how to access affordable, quality and secure health care in Baja California.  With the launch of Baja Medical Travel Consultant Team, Frontier Doctors will provide you with:
Finding the right specialist for medical or dental services
Scheduling your appointment
Arranging transportation
Booking accommodations
Help you plan a tour or additional events to attend while visiting Baja California.

Think of these consultants as your personal assistant for Baja California Medical Tourism and Health Travel.  FrontierDoctors.com  is here to help!  Enjoy Our services today!
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The Aging & Skin

By Jose Ricardo Dueñas M.D
Nov 25, 2010 10:27 AM • Topic: Health • Issue: 2010-11

The skin is the largest organ in the body and is composed of 3 layers.The epidermis is the outermost layer; the dermis also called skin,lies below the epidermis and contains a rich plexus of blood vessels, nerves, lymph vessels, sweat glands, fat cells and hair follicles. The
last layer of the skin is the sub dermis also called the subcutaneous tissue which contains fat, blood and lymph vessels and acts as a protective cushion. This layer serves many functions such as protecting against a variety of external agents such as chemicals and microorganisms. It is a selective barrier that protects us from various forms of energy such as temperature and solar radiation. It allows the skin to receive information from the external environment and also reflects possible internal diseases which may manifest themselves on our skin, such as jaundice, eczema, and is also associated with other allergic and systemic diseases.
It is fairly common, that crossing the barrier of 35 years of age; we begin to notice changes in our skin like the appearance of lines and wrinkles, age spots and increasing loss of skin tone and firmness due to the low level of hydratation.
For this very reason, medical science has to study and treat the aging process of the skin, some known main causes of the aging process are:
1. Dehydration: In addition to lowering water reserves, dehydration also reduces other key elements such as amino acids or proteins,causing the loss of liquid crystal structures, resulting in less luminous skin and more subdued.
2. Oxidation: We can affirm that the main cause of oxidation is molecular distortion. This process is related to a progressive weakening of the cell wall, caused mainly by the destruction of collagen and elastin by free radicals, which causes skin to lose elasticity and firmness. It also reduces the regenerative capacity of the skin and increases wrinkles.
3. A decrease in cell turnover: A problem that intensifies with age slowly decreasing the amount and quality of collagen and elastin fibers,resulting in reduced elasticity and firmness, which increases the number and severity of wrinkles.
4. Finally, disruption of the cellular metabolism; causing the cellular composition to become irregular, leading to the appearance of small spots and pigmentation changes.
The aging process is natural to life itself but it is possible to slow this process for a long time by utilizing biological medical concepts and treatments.
The rehabilitation of cells through biological medicine significantly stops the deterioration of cells. This rehabilitation is accomplished through in corporation of advanced biological changes in the body, through bio stimulation with growth factors and with many other resources that Bio regulation medicine has to offer.
Biological medicine provides us with basic cellular nutrients that aim to revitalize, energize and regenerate various treated organs of the body,including the skin.
Rehabilitation cellular therapy is provided via vaccine or tablets. These bioactive nutrients, called peptones, are of great importance in anti-aging treatments.
Peptones reconstituted collagen and elastin, prevent the formation of new lines; help reduce surface damage caused by exposure to UV rays and other environmental stressors giving back to our skin all its vitality.
Biological medicine has several branches
which lead to the following medical treatment:
Cellulotherapy
Anti-age Vaccine
Embryonic Vita Cell or Antiage Complex
Bio-stimulation with platelet-rich plasma
Bio-regulation Therapies
Induction therapy for cell regeneration
Good nutrition is essential in keeping the skin healthy and young.Essential fatty acids (omega 3 and omega 6) are essential nutrients for the skin. These fatty acids can be obtained in fish such as trout, salmon and Atlantic bluefin tuna, and also found in Flax seed oil or Flax seed,sesame and sunflower seeds. If the skin is deficient in these essential fatty acids, cells have less capacity to retain moisture; The lack of moisture is a major factor in hair loss.
Today, there are a number of products that should be part of our daily self-care habits of adults. It is common knowledge that skin that is well hydrated and protected from sun damage throughout life,are better prepared to face the inevitable consequences of aging
A good equilibrium can be achieved thanks to the available treatments for every type of skin; therefore it is advisable to conduct a study of the skin so that we can get enough data to know what cosmetic products to use so everyone can enjoy healthy and beautiful skin. This in combination with a healthy diet and treatments to help remove the toxic burden placed on our body will provide us all with the skin we desire as well as a much healthier body in general.
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