Media inquiries: (804) 924-5679

U.VA. BRAIN AWARENESS WEEK OPEN HOUSE

The University of Virginia Health System Neurosciences Service Center is recognizing Brain Awareness Week (March 13-17, 2000) by hosting a public open house at the hospital on Thursday, March 16. The event will feature a live simulation of head trauma patient care at U.Va. as well as demonstrations of innovative technologies and interactive exhibits. Numerous experts will be on hand to answer questions.


U.Va. Brain Awareness Week Open House

Date: Thursday, March 16, 2000
Time: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Place: U.Va. Medical Center main lobby

Parking is FREE in the hospital garages.


Head Trauma Care Simulation
What happens to a patient with head or spine trauma? A paramedic will explain what happens on a flight during a tour of the Pegasus helicopter. Then, follow the path a patient would take to the ER, where an emergency physician will discuss how patients are assessed and cared for. Finally, see what it's like in the operating room as a neurosurgeon shows how an injured patient is treated.

Gamma Knife Demonstration
Get an inside look at the Knife without a Blade. A neurosurgeon will introduce you to this highly sophisticated tool that allows a physician to perform brain surgery without opening the skull. The Gamma Knife at U.Va. has served the community for the last decade.

EEG Evaluation
See first-hand the benefits of an electroencephalogram. An EEG gives a physician an electrical picture of a brain's activity. A neurologist interprets the pattern of wavy lines to determine if the brain is functioning correctly. At U.Va., EEGs are digitally recorded and shown on large computer monitors. View a demonstration and analysis by a physician.

Discussion: Memory Loss at All Ages
A neurologist specializing in memory will discuss how memory loss affects people at all ages, how to prevent memory loss, and the latest research, care and treatment options. There will be time for questions and answers.

Exhibit Hall
View booths and talk to physicians and other health professionals about an array of brain-related topics including:

  • Stroke Prevention and Treatment
  • Memory Loss
  • Pituitary Tumor Effects and Treatment
  • Brain Tumor Treatment and Rehabilitation
  • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy
  • HealthSouth Neuro Rehabilitation Programs
  • Kluge Children's Rehabilitation Center Acquired Brain Injury Program
  • Multiple Sclerosis Society
  • Parkinson's Information Center

For more information on the Neuroscience Service Center's open house, call (804) 924-DOCS.

March 2, 2000