Medical Services & Specialties | Houston Methodist

Medical Services & Specialties | Houston Methodist
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Achalasia
Achalasia is a rare disease involving the muscles of the esophagus. It interferes with the passage of food and drink down the esophagus, causing regurgitation, vomiting or even chest pain.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux, also know as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when the valve in the lower esophagus (swallowing tube) does not close completely. Digestive acids in the stomach travel back up into the esophagus, causing inflammation and pain.
Acoustic Neuroma
An acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a benign tumor involving a small nerve joining the inner ear to the brain stem.
Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by a sudden, severe pain in the abdomen, which may last hours or days.
Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Heart defects present at birth that can result in both non-serious and life-threatening symptoms throughout adulthood.
Advanced Endoscopy
Advanced endoscopy examines and treats conditions of the GI tract using a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera, called an endoscope.
Advanced Heart Failure
Late-stage heart failure in which conventional treatments no longer work and a heart transplant is required.
Airway, Swallowing and Voice Disorders
Our throat specialists (also called laryngologists) use state-of-the-art equipment and technology to treat problems such as airway disorders, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, laryngeal cancer, sinusitus, thyroid cancer, thyroid disorders and voice disorders.
Alcohol-Induced Liver Disease
There are three types of alcohol-associated liver disease, and many individuals who consume alcohol heavily progress through these disease types over time: steatotic (fatty) liver, acute hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cognitive disorder and neurodegenerative disease, robbing patients of their independence, personality and memory.
Amyloidosis
Amyloidosis is a rare, multisystem disease that develops when abnormally shaped proteins, called amyloid fibrils, are produced in the bone marrow or liver and then deposited in organs or tissue throughout the body.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) is a nervous system disorder that causes muscle weakness and interferes with physical function.
Anal Cancer
Anal cancer, also called colorectal cancer, occurs when your cells in your colon or rectum begin to grow out of control. Most start as polyps, which are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum, though not all polyps develop into cancer
Anesthesiology
Anesthesia involves the careful, controlled use of medications to block pain and sedate patients during surgery.
Aneurysm
A brain aneurysm occurs when the blood vessels in the brain develop thin or weak spots, and pressure from blood inside the artery causes the weak tissue to bulge.
Anorectal Manometry Test
An anorectal manometry is a test that evaluates the reflexes and the neurological and muscular portions of the rectum responsible for continence.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a feeling of fear, dread, and uneasiness, usually brought on by stress. When anxiety intensifies and becomes all-consuming is when it is an indicator of an underlying disease.
Aortic Aneurysm
Dilation (or bulging) of the wall of the abdominal or thoracic portion of your aorta, which can lead to clots, tears or ruptures.
Aortic Disease
Acute and lifelong disorders and conditions that affect the part of your aorta that descends through your chest and into your abdomen.
Aortic Dissection
A life-threatening condition resulting from a tear in the aorta, the main blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.
Aortic Repair
Used to treat a variety of aortic conditions by repairing a bulge in the aorta and replacing damaged portions of the aortic wall.
Aortic Valve Disease
A type of valve disease in which your aortic valve either doesn’t close properly or doesn’t let enough blood through.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and filled with pus. Appendicitis causes pain in your lower right abdomen.
Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic therapy is an alternative form of rehabilitation that uses a comfortable, low-impact and pain-free exercise environment to help patients regain strength, flexibility, endurance and mobility.
Arrhythmia
Also known as irregular heartbeat, this fairly common condition occurs when the electrical signals controlling your heartbeat are blocked or delayed.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)
A mass of knotted, abnormally formed arteries and veins present at birth that can be both disfiguring and life-threatening.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) of the Head, Neck & Face
AVMs are rare, abnormal tangles of blood vessels in which connections form between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillaries and disrupting natural blood flow.
Arthritis
Arthritis is inflammation or swelling of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that typically worsens with age. There are more than 100 conditions that affect the joints, tendons and other connective issues.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways, making breathing difficult.
Asthma Associated With GERD
Asthma and acid reflux often occur together. Acid reflux can worsen asthma and asthma can worsen acid reflux — especially severe acid reflux, a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Ataxia
Ataxia occurs when cells in the cerebellum degenerate, causing lack of muscle control throughout the body and potentially compromising speech.
Atherosclerosis
A condition in which plaque (fats, cholesterol and other substances), builds up inside the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden over time, restricting blood flow.
Athletic Training
Houston Methodist athletic trainers provide the highest quality care to student athletes, active adults and elite professionals in preventing, recognizing, assessing, managing, treating and reconditioning athletic injuries.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) & Atrial Flutter
A type of arrhythmia characterized by irregular or rapid heart rate that results in poor blood flow to the body.
Atrial Septal Defect
A common type of congenital heart defect that causes enlargement of the right side of the heart.
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Back Pain
At some point in their lives, four out of five Americans experience back pain. Our specialists have dedicated their careers to helping patients find relief from back pain.
Balance Disorders
Balance disorders may cause symptoms of vertigo, dizziness, unsteadiness and nausea.
Balloon Valvuloplasty
A common catheter-based procedure that uses a small balloon to stretche heart valves that have narrowed.
Bariatric Surgery
Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, can lead to significant weight loss and improve weight-related health conditions.
Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett's Esophagus is a condition where the esophagus becomes damaged by acid reflux.
Behavioral Health
We offer inpatient and outpatient programs and services to confront the complex and diverse mental health needs of our patients.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate, occurs when growth of the prostate blocks urine flow through the urethra, leading to urinary problems and other complications.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve
A congenital heart defect in which the aortic valve is missing a flap, leading to backflow of blood into the heart.
Bile Duct Cancer
Bile duct cancer, also called cholangiocarcinoma, is a rare but aggressive type of cancer that forms in the slender tubes (bile ducts) that carry the digestive fluid bile.
Biliary Cirrhosis
An autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation in your bile ducts that can lead to liver damage.
Biliary Tract Disease
A number of disorders can affect the pancreas and biliary tract, including acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, hereditary pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer and biliary cirrhosis.
Bladder (Urinary) Fistula
Occurs when an opening forms between the bladder and another organ or the skin.
Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer occurs when cells in the bladder grow uncontrollably.
Bladder Disease
Conditions ranging from minor infections to more serious long-term diseases and cancer can affect bladder function. They include urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary incontinence (bladder control loss) and interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder wall inflammation).
Blocked Intestine
When digested material is prevented from passing normally through the bowel.
Blood Cancer
Blood cancer, also known as hematologic cancer, is a term for cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow or lymphatic system. It occurs when there are mutations in the DNA of blood cells, which can disrupt the normal development of blood cells. These include leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Bloodless Surgery
A type of surgery that relies on blood conservation techniques for patients who for personal, religious or medical reasons, want to avoid blood transfusions during surgery.
Body Contour Restoration Surgery
Body contour restoration can include removal of excess, loose skin due to significant weight loss or bariatric surgery.
Bone Density
Bone density, or bone mineral density, is the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue.
Bone Marrow Transplant
Restores healthy stem cells within the bone marrow, making it possible for oncologists to use higher doses of chemotherapy or radiation to kill blood cancers.
Brain Aneurysms
A brain aneurysm occurs when the blood vessels in the brain develop thin or weak spots, and pressure from blood inside the artery causes the weak tissue to bulge.
Brain Cancer
Brain cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the brain or nearby tissues, which can affect essential brain functions. Tumors may originate in the brain or spread from other parts of the body.
Brain Hemorrhage
A brain hemorrhage, also called a stroke, occurs when bleeding occurs into or around the brain.
Brain Tumor Surgery
Minimally invasive or traditional surgery is often the first line of treatment for removing or reducing the size of brain tumors.
Brain Tumors
Brain tumors are abnormal growths, lesions or masses of cells in the brain that can be cancerous or benign (non-cancerous).
Bravo Capsule pH Test
The 48-hour Bravo pH capsule test evaluates the extent of acid reflux, or backflow, from the stomach into the esophagus. This may be done during an upper endoscopy or through the mouth using a specialized delivery system.
Breast Cancer
Cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in women in the U.S., after skin cancer.
Breast Care
Breast care includes getting an annual mammogram, which is an X-ray picture of your breast, typically used to check for breast cancer.
Breast Reconstruction
The restoration of one or both breasts to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry and size following mastectomy, lumpectomy or congenital deformities.
Breast Screenings
Breast screenings include mammograms, which are X-ray pictures of your breast, typically used to check for breast cancer.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding, or nursing, is the process by which human breast milk is fed to a child.
Bronchial Thermoplasty
A procedure used to treat patients with severe, persistent asthma that is not well controlled with medications. A tiny, carefully controlled device delivers mild heat to the smooth muscle of the airways in the lungs, via a bronchoscope through the nose or mouth, and with no incision.
Brow Ptosis
Drooping of the eyebrow due to aging, nerve damage, or muscle weakness, which can affect vision and facial appearance.
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Cancer
A disease caused when cells divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues. It is caused by changes to DNA.
Cancer Treatment - Chemotherapy
A systemic cancer treatment that can kill cancer cells anywhere within the body, whether part of the primary tumor or cancer cells that have spread away from the primary tumor (metastasized).
Cancer Treatment - Hormone Therapy
Works by depriving the cancer cells of the hormones they need to survive. It is achieved by either using drugs that stop the production of certain hormones or, in some cases, removing hormone-producing organs, such as the ovaries or testes.
Cancer Treatment - Immunotherapy
Uses drugs or treatments specifically designed to help stimulate or strengthen the immune system to more effectively target and/or fight cancer cells.
Cancer Treatment - Radiation Therapy
A type of cancer treatment that uses beams of intense energy to kill or control the growth of cancer cells. Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, most often uses X-rays.
Cardiac Amyloidosis
A condition in which amyloids (protein fragments) are deposited in the heart, making it difficult for electrical signals to move.
Cardiac Catheterization
Uses catheter-based procedures to diagnose and treat heart disease.
Cardiac CT
Uses the latest multidetector CT to provide fast and accurate images of your heart and vascular system.
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Specialized facilities and resources to help you recover from both common and complex heart conditions and treatments, including heart attack and open-heart surgery.
Cardiac Tumors
Abnormal growths in the tissue of the heart.
Cardio Vascular Surgery
Surgery on the heart or great vessels performed by heart (cardiac) surgeons.
Cardiology
The branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the heart and the cardiovascular system. Includes medical diagnosis and treatment of congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease and electrophysiology.
Cardio-Oncology
Focuses on identifying, monitoring and treating cardiovascular (heart-related) diseases caused by cancer therapies.
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Surgical operations to treat conditions involving the heart, lungs, esophagus and other organs in the chest.
Cardiovascular Surgery
Surgical operations to treat conditions involving the heart, large arteries and the chest.
Carotid Artery Disease
Hardening and narrowing of arteries, which can lead to restricted blood flow to the brain (causing a stroke) or the heart (causing a heart attack).
Carotid Cavernous Fistula
A CCF is an abnormal connection between a carotid artery in the neck and the cavernous sinus behind your eyes.
Carpal Tunnel
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when pressure on the median nerve in your wrist leads to decreased nerve function.
Cataract
A painless condition of the eye that manifests as a clouding of the eye’s lens and clinically obstructs the passage of light to the retina. Cataracts usually develop gradually.
Causalgia
A relatively rare pain syndrome that occurs from injury to the peripheral nerves, which extend from the spine and brain to the arms, legs and internal organs.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. This reaction damages the small intestine's lining and prevents it from absorbing some nutrients.
Central Airway Obstruction (CAO)
A complex condition that may cause life-threatening breathing problems and significantly impact a patient’s quality of a life.
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak
When cerebrospinal fluid — the clear fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord — escapes through a tear or hole in the tissues surrounding them.
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak Program
Led by specialists in neurosurgery, interventional neuroradiology and spinal surgery, we use state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools as well as advanced therapies to pinpoint the source of spinal CSF leaks.
Cerebrovascular Diseases
Cerebrovascular diseases and conditions impact circulation to and inside the brain.
Cervical Cancer
Occurs when abnormal cells develop in the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina — and grow out of control.
Chemotherapy
A systemic cancer treatment that can kill cancer cells anywhere within the body, whether part of the primary tumor or cancer cells that have spread away from the primary tumor (metastasized).
Chemotherapy for Brain Tumors
Antitumor medication that slows, stops the growth of or destroys cancer cells.
Chest Cancers & Malignancies
Chest cancers include malignant tumors affecting the lungs, chest wall and surrounding structures. The most common type is lung cancer, which may cause symptoms like persistent cough or chest pain.
Chiari Malformation
A structural defect in the cerebellum that causes a portion of the posterior brain to be compressed and protrude into the spinal canal.
Childbirth Centers
Our board-certified OB-GYNs provide highly specialized childbirth care for moms-to-be who want more options, including natural childbirth.
Chordoma
A rare type of cancer of the bones in the skull and spine that develops from cells left behind as the spinal cord developed.
Choreas
These movement disorders cause irregular, involuntary muscle movements and can accompany several other conditions and diseases.
Chronic Cough
Chronic cough is considered a lung disorder if the persistent cough lasts more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
A serious and potentially deadly lung disease that gradually develops. Ultimately, COPD irreversibly damages your airways and lungs.
Chronic Pain Syndrome
Chronic pain syndrome occurs when pain signals continue to fire even after the initial cause of pain has been resolved.
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)
High blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs caused by clot-like masses.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver caused by continuous, long-term liver damage. Scar tissue replaces healthy tissue in the liver and prevents the liver from working properly.
Claudication (Leg Cramps)
A symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD) in which narrowed or blocked arteries in the leg cause the leg muscles to contract.
Cleft Lip and Palate
A cleft lip is the separation of parts of the lip, which often includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate occurs when two sides of the palate do not join together while the baby is developing in the womb, leaving an opening in the roof of the mouth.
Cognitive Disorders
Any disorder, such as Alzheimer's) that significantly impairs the cognitive functions of an individual to the point where normal functioning in society is impossible without treatment.
Colitis
Colitis is a chronic digestive disease characterized by inflammation of the inner lining of the colon, often autoimmune or infectious.
Colon Cancer
A cancer of the colon or rectum, which may begin as noncancerous polyps.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy screening is the number one tool to help detect early signs of cancer. It allows doctors to remove polyps that over time can become cancerous.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer, also called anal cancer, occurs when your cells in your colon or rectum begin to grow out of control. Most start as polyps, which are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum, though not all polyps develop into cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Colorectal surgeons most frequently manage and treat disorders of the rectum, anus, and colon.
Concussion
A traumatic brain injury caused by a blow, jolt or hit to the head or body.
Congenital Heart Disease
Occurs when a person has structural problems in his or her heart that have existed since birth.
Corneal Diseases
A group of conditions that affect your cornea, including keratitis, corneal dystrophy and corneal ectasia. Causes range from genetic mutations to eye injuries.
Coronary Angiogram
A catheter-based imaging test that provides a detailed look at the arteries supplying your heart with blood.
Coronary Angioplasty
A common catheter-based procedure used to dissolve blockages in the main artery leading to the heart, improving symptoms of coronary artery disease.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Redirects blood flow around clogged arteries, lessening the risk of blood clots and improving oxygen circulation to the heart.
Coronary Artery Disease
A buildup of plaque in the lining of your arteries, causing blood clots that lead to restricted blood flow and, ultimately, heart attack.
Cranial & Spinal Dural Fistulas
Rare and abnormal connections between arteries, the outermost layer of the brain and a draining vein.
Craniofacial Deformities
A craniofacial deformity is a condition that affects the way the skull and face develop.
Critical Care Medicine
Medical care for those whose life-threatening illness or injuries requires constant, comprehensive monitoring by a team of specially trained health care providers.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn´s disease is an extreme case of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), generally occurring at the end of the small intestine and making the digestive tract prone to sores and ulcers.
Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
An inherited disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to form in the lungs and clog the airways, making it hard to breathe. This condition can potentially cause lung damage and affect other organs.
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Dementia
A general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life.
Depression & Mood Disorders
A group of conditions associated with the elevation or lowering of a person's mood, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Dermatology
The study of medicine that focuses on diseases and issues pertaining to the skin, nails and hair.
Diabetes
A disease that affects the body's ability to produce or respond to insulin, a hormone that enables cells to absorb glucose and use it as energy. Diabetes is both an endocrine and a metabolic disease.
Diabetic Retinopathy
A disease in which the small blood vessels in the retina (the back, inner layer of the eye that captures light and sends the signals to the optic nerve) are slowly damaged, causing them to swell and leak fluid.
Diastolic Heart Failure
When your heart contracts normally, but the ventricles remain stiff or don’t relax, causing less blood to enter the heart and fluid to build up in the lungs.
Digestive Disorders
Common digestive disorders include gastroesophageal reflux disease, cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance and hiatal hernia.
Digestive Surgery
Houston Methodist specializes in surgically treating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including gallstones and other disorders of the biliary tract, intestinal cancers, hernias, inflammatory bowel disease, liver and pancreatic cancers, gastroesophageal reflux disease and other disorders of the esophagus, bariatric surgery and other stomach-related disorders.
Discography
A diagnostic imaging test that evaluates spinal disks by injecting contrast dye to identify pain sources or disk abnormalities.
Diverticulitis & Diverticular Disease
Diverticulitis occurs at weak points in the wall of the large intestine (colon), which can cause pain, infection or the need for emergency surgery.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome occurs due to reduced tear production, poor quality tears or excessive tear evaporation. It can cause eye discomfort and poor vision, and lead to other eye diseases.
Dupuytren's Disease
Dupuytren's disease, also known as Dupuytren's contracture, is a condition where the tissue in the palm of your hand starts to thicken, leading to small, hard lumps forming on the palm and causing your ring finger or pinky to curl inward toward your palm.
Dysarthria
Dysarthria involves weakness or difficulty controlling or coordinating the muscles used for speaking, resulting in slow, slurred speech.
Dyspepsia (Indigestion)
Dyspepsia describes recurring symptoms of an upset stomach. Indigestion is an umbrella term for a group of gastrointestinal symptoms that occur together, including pain, a burning feeling or discomfort in your upper abdomen.
Dysphagia
Dysphagia is a term that describes difficulty swallowing (i.e., taking more time and effort to move food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach).
Dystonia
Disordered movement of voluntary muscles, resulting in intermittent or persistent involuntary contractions that present as tremors or twisting.
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Ear Disorders
Any disease or disorder that affects the human ear and hearing, including ear infection, dizziness, balance problems, hearing loss and facial nerve problems.
Ear Infections
An infection of the middle ear (called otitis media), the air-filled space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny vibrating bones of the ear. More common in children.
Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT)
Otolaryngologists, commonly known as ear, nose and throat doctors or ENTs, treat diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat, including problems with the sinuses and inner ear.
Earache
Pain in the inner or outer ear that may interfere with ability to hear, often caused by excess fluid and infection.
Echocardiogram
Uses ultrasound waves to evaluate how blood moves through the heart chambers and valves in your heart.
Electrophysiology
A test performed to assess your heart's electrical system or activity and is used to diagnose abnormal heartbeats or arrhythmia.
Emergency Care
Emergency care from board-certified emergency doctors and nurses that is available 24/7/365 and provides the full spectrum of medical services to all patients who need emergency assistance.
Endocarditis
Inflammation of the inner lining (endocardium) of your heart, which can affect the heart valves and other structures.
Endocrine Surgery
Our surgeons partner with endocrinologists, nephrologists, oncologists, radiologists and pathologists to treat diseases and disorders of the thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas and adrenal glands.
Endocrinology
A branch of physiology and medicine dealing with the endocrine system, its diseases and its specific secretions known as hormones.
Endometrial Cancer
Also called uterine cancer, endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the uterus.
Endometriosis
A typically painful condition causing tissue that usually lines the inside of the uterus to grow outside the uterus and onto the ovaries, bowel and pelvic tissue.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
A minimally invasive procedure that offers a nonsurgical alternative to traditional bariatric surgery, helping patients achieve meaningful, sustained weight loss with little to no downtime.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)
Minimally invasive bariatric procedures performed using an endoscope and involve inserting devices or administering treatments through the gastrointestinal tract to restrict food intake, enhance feelings of fullness and promote successful weight loss.
Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that assesses the upper digestive system and the interior surfaces of the esophagus and stomach.
Epilepsy & Seizures
Epilepsy & Seizures
Epilepsy is characterized by repeated, spontaneous seizures — episodes of disturbed brain function — caused by abnormal electrical signals in the brain.
Erectile Dysfunction
Also known as male impotence, a condition which prevents a man from having or sustaining an erection to finish having sex.
Esophageal Cancer
A disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the esophagus. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and Barrett esophagus can increase the risk of this cancer.
Esophageal Strictures
An esophageal stricture is an abnormal tightening or narrowing of the esophagus that makes it difficult to swallow
Esophageal Web
An esophageal web is a thin, fibrous, mucous membrane that forms across the throat and may cause difficulty swallowing.
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is inflammation that damages the tube running from your throat to the stomach (esophagus) causing difficulty swallowing and chest pain with eating.
Essential & Familial Tremors
This non-dangerous neurological disorder causes a rhythmic shaking that can occur in the hands, head, voice, legs and arms, especially while doing simple tasks.
Essential Tremor
Eye Cancer
Refers to any cancer that starts in the eye.
Eye Care
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine dealing with the structure, functions and diseases of the eye.
Eye Floaters, Flashes or Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina is pulled away from the back of the eye where it normally resides. It will cause blindness if not immediately treated. Symptoms include floaters, flashes and blurry vision.
Eyelid Irritation & Infections
The eyelid can be the site of infectious and inflammatory conditions called blepharitis, resulting in irritation, mattering, itching, red eyelids and dry eyes.
Eyelid Ptosis
Drooping of the upper eyelid due to muscle weakness, nerve damage, or aging, which can affect vision and facial symmetry.
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Facial Injuries
Facial injuries (also known as maxillofacial injuries) are all types of injuries to the face, jawbone or mouth.
Facial Paralysis Surgery
When surgeons use all or parts of muscles, nerves or both from other parts of the body to restore motion to the lower half of the face. Also called facial reanimation surgery.
Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Our experts have extensive experience reshaping and restoring function to facial structures, including your ears, nose, mouth, neck and skin.
Fecal Incontinence & Constipation
Fecal incontinence is not being able to control bowel movements. Constipation is a problem with passing stool.
Fibromyalgia
This chronic disorder causes widespread, deep muscle pain, fatigue and mood and memory issues.
Foot & Ankle Care
Foot and ankle care focuses on preventing, treating and managing pain or injuries through proper footwear, exercise, stretching and medical treatments as needed.
Foregut Diseases
Foregut diseases include diseases of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
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Gait Disorders & Problems
Conditions that cause difficulty walking, resulting in increased risk of falling.
Gallstones
Gallstones are small, pebble-like stone particles of cholesterol or calcium salts that form from bile in the gallbladder.
Ganglion Cyst
Ganglion cysts, also known as bible cysts, are non-cancerous lumps that commonly develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists, hands or feet.
Gastroenterology & GI Surgery
The study of the normal function and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and liver.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a serious condition that occurs when a valve in the esophagus does not close completely, causing stomach acid to travel back up into the esophagus. Warning signs can include a burning sensation in the back of the mouth, a fowl taste in your mouth and heartburn.
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach takes significantly longer than usual to empty its contents, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
General Emergency Surgery
Our highly specialized and experienced surgeons work in an intensely collaborative environment, crossing multiple disciplines to ensure patients receive the most advanced and detailed surgical care possible.
Geriatrics
Geriatric medicine is a specialized branch of health care that focuses on the medical needs of older adults. It aims to prevent, diagnose and treat age-related health conditions and promote well-being in the elderly population.
Germ Cell Tumors
Rare tumors that develop from cells that are precursors to sperm and eggs in a developing fetus.
Glaucoma
A group of eye diseases that result in damage to the optic nerve, which is located in the back of the eye and is responsible for carrying information from the eye to the brain.
Gliomas
This type of tumor starts in the brain or spine.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
A disorder of the peripheral nerves, often preceded by a virus infection, usually beginning in the lower limbs and resulting in abnormal sensation and muscle weakness or paralysis.
Gynecologic Oncology
Focuses on cancers of the female reproductive system, including ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, cervical cancer and vulvar cancer.
Gynecology
Involves the treatment of women's diseases, especially those of the reproductive organs. It is often paired with the field of obstetrics, known as obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN).
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Hand & Wrist Surgery
Hand and wrist surgeries can be critical medical interventions that improve your hand function while relieving pain and improving your quality of life.
Hand Therapy
Focuses on strengthening and restoring range of motion and functions in the hands and upper extremities using specialized diagnostic, treatment and rehabilitation options.
Hand Trauma
The term “hand trauma” refers to a wide range of injuries to the musculoskeletal, neurologic and vascular parts of your hand, and can include injuries to your bones, ligaments, tendons or nerves.
Hand, Wrist & Finger Fractures
Ranging from simple breaks in the small bones of the hand to more serious fractures that involve the long bones of the wrist, these fractures can significantly disrupt your day-to-day activities.
Head & Neck Cancer
These types of cancers include thyroid cancer, oral cancer, pharyngeal (throat) cancer and laryngeal cancer.
Head & Neck Disorders
Include salivary gland disorders, thyroid and parathyroid diseases, sleep disorders and tumors of the head and neck, including skin cancers.
Head & Neck Infections
Infections that can affect the head and neck areas. Some are cancer-related and others are caused by bacterial infection.
Headaches
Dull, aching pain across the forehead, behind the eyes or on the sides or back of the head.
Heart & Vascular
Branch of medicine that focuses on the cardiovascular system and the heart.
Heart Attack
Occurs when the arteries that deliver blood to your heart become blocked, most commonly as a result of coronary artery disease.
Heart Blocks
A type of arrhythmia that affects the rate (number of beats per minute) or rhythm (pattern of pulses produce) of your heartbeat.
Heart Disease in Women
Heart disease is the leading cause of death of women in the U.S., and women often don’t exhibit classic symptoms.
Heart Failure
A condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Heart Scan Services
Also called calcium scoring, a heart scan and vascular screening assess your risk of developing heart disease and help physicians anticipate future cardiac events.
Heart Transplant
Surgery to replace a damaged or failing heart with a healthy heart from a donor who's recently died.
Heart Tumor
Also called cardiac tumors, heart tumors are abnormal growths in the tissue of the heart.
Heart Valve Surgery
Repairing or replacing a heart valve that is no longer functioning properly.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid is forced back up the esophagus. When this happens, a feeling of warmth or burning may occur in the chest.
Hematology
Branch of medicine involving the study of the cause, prognosis, treatment and prevention of diseases related to blood.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a variety of infectious viruses and noninfectious agents.
Hereditary Eye Diseases
Inherited eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal degeneration and eye malformations.
Hernia
A hernia occurs when tissue inside the body pushes through a weak section in the muscle of the abdomen or groin.
Herniated Disk
A condition in which the outer ring of a spinal vertebrae is damaged, causing pain, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.
Herniated Disk Surgery
Surgery for herniated disks typically involves the removal of the portion of the disc that has herniated and is irritating the nerve.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach bulges into the chest.
High Blood Pressure
A common cause of heart disease, in which your heart’s blood pressure remains abnormally elevated for a sustained period of time.
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
An advanced, minimally invasive prostate cancer treatment that uses focused ultrasonic waves to generate heat, effectively targeting and destroying cancerous cells in the prostate.
Hip Care
Hip care involves maintaining mobility, preventing injuries, and managing pain through exercise, proper posture, weight management and medical treatments when needed.
Hip Replacement
A hip replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or worn-out hip joint with an artificial implant to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Hormone Disorders
Occur when a gland produces too much or too little of one or more hormones, the body's chemical messengers
Hormone Therapy
Used to treat specific types of cancer that can only grow in the presence of certain hormones, such as some breast cancers and prostate cancer.
Hospitalists
Provide specialized, coordinated, day-to-day care for inpatients (patients who require a hospital stay).
Huntington's Disease (Chorea)
A progressive, inherited movement disorder that causes progressive degeneration of the nerve cells in your brain and causes movement, cognitive and psychiatric disorders. A type of chorea.
Hydrocephalus
Also known as “water on the brain,” this condition is a result of fluid buildup on the brain that causes increased pressure on the skull.
Hypertension
Also called hypertension, a common heart condition in which a person’s blood pressure remains abnormally elevated for a sustained period of time.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
A genetic disease causing abnormal heart thickening.
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Image-Guided Therapy
Uses a variety of imaging technologies, including 3D, 4D, 5D and 6D functional images, to plan the best surgical approach in virtual reality prior to surgery, or even as the operation is underway to visualize the procedure.
Imaging & Radiology
Uses medical imaging (pictures) and imaging tests to diagnose diseases and guide their treatment.
Immunotherapy
Uses drugs or treatments that are specifically designed to help stimulate or strengthen the immune system in order to more effectively target and/or fight cancer cells.
Immunotherapy for Brain Tumors
There are several different types of this advanced treatment. Some use your immune system to fight cancer while others use immune system chemicals that are refined by expert oncologists.
Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth that either do not break through the gums or remain trapped in the jawbone or surrounding tissue due to the lack of space in the dental arch.
Impedance pH Test
The 24-hour impedance pH (nasal catheter) probe test detects reflux activity. This test allows for the detection of both acid and nonacid reflux in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) while the patient is on or off acid-suppressive therapy.
Implantable Medical Devices
Manufactured instruments that can treat certain heart conditions by helping the heart function at a normal level.
Incontinence
Loss of bladder control, ranging from mild leakage to uncontrollable urine loss.
Infectious Disease
Also called communicable diseases), these are disorders caused by organisms that live in and on our bodies, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi.
Infertility - Female
The inability to get pregnant (conceive) after one year (or longer) of unprotected sex.
Infertility - Male
The inability to conceive a child after a year or more of frequent, unprotected sexual intercourse.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) occurs because of chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
Infusion Centers
We provide infusion therapy primarily for adult oncology patients for chemotherapy, biotherapy, immunotherapy and related supportive care. Certain locations also provide IV therapy services for iron, hydration, treatments for migraines and autoimmune disorders, blood transfusions, injections and therapeutic phlebotomies.
Insomnia
Repeated difficulty with sleep initiation, duration, consolidation or quality despite adequate time and opportunity for sleep.
Internal Medicine
Internal medicine, or general medicine, is the medical specialty that manages the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of adult diseases.
Interstitial Lung Disease
Encompasses hundreds of disorders characterized by lung tissue inflammation, followed by scarring.
Intestinal Ultrasound
Intestinal ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging technique that provides rapid insight into bowel wall inflammation.
Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease
Plaque made of cholesterol, fatty deposits and other materials builds up in the blood vessels at the base of the brain, causing them to narrow and harden.
Intracranial Injuries
Intracranial injuries are complex and may affect the brain, skull or scalp, or the tissues and blood vessels in the head.
Islet Transplant
The transplantation of isolated islets from a donor pancreas into another person. It is a treatment for type 1 diabetes.
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Joint Care
Joint care involves maintaining mobility, reducing stiffness and preventing pain through exercise, proper nutrition, weight management and medical treatments when needed, including both surgical and non-surgical solutions,.
Joint Replacement Surgery
A procedure in which a surgeon removes a damaged joint and replaces it with a new, artificial part.
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Keratitis (Corneal Inflammation)
Inflammation of the clear tissue on the front of the eye (cornea).
Kidney Cancer
Occurs when cells in the kidney grow uncontrollably.
Kidney Disease
National Institutes of Health estimates more than 20 million U.S. adults as young as 20 years old have chronic kidney disease (CKD), the gradual loss of kidney function.
Kidney Stones
Occur when high levels of certain substances, such as calcium, occur in the urine.
Kidney Transplant
Also called renal transplant, surgery to place a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor into a patient with end-stage kidney disease.
Knee Care & Knee Replacement
Knee care involves preventing, treating, and managing knee pain or injuries through exercise, proper movement, therapy, medication or surgery when needed.
Knee Injuries
Knee injuries include a wide range of potential conditions that can have a profound impact on soft tissues and bone.
Knee Replacement & Recovery
Surgery to replace the knee joint with a man-made artificial joint.
Kyphosis
Also called Kelso’s hunchback, this condition is characterized by excessive outward curvature of the spine.
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Lab Services
Houston Methodist provides our patients with high-quality outpatient laboratory testing throughout the Greater Houston area.
Labor & Delivery
Highly specialized childbirth care for moms-to-be who want more options, including natural childbirth.
Lactation Support
Assistance and guidance provided to help with milk production, latch issues, pumping and overall nursing success. It may include education, counseling and professional help from lactation consultants.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is the body´s inability to digest the milk sugar (called lactose) found in dairy products.
Laminectomy
A surgical procedure that removes part of the vertebra (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Laminoplasty
A surgical procedure that reshapes or repositions the vertebral lamina to relieve spinal cord pressure while preserving stability.
Laparoscopic Surgery
A minimally invasive surgery that uses fewer and smaller incisions than open surgery. Benefits include: less pain and blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, fewer complications and little or no scarring.
Lariat Procedure
A minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure that helps prevent stroke in individuals with atrial fibrillation (AFib) who are unable to take blood thinning medication.
Leukemia
A type of blood cancer. Starts in blood-forming tissue, such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the bloodstream.
Limb Ischemia
Occurring when blood flow to a limb suddenly decreases, this is the most severe form of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and can lead to amputation if not treated.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is a disease in which cells in the liver grow out of control.
Liver Disease
Any condition (including hepatitis, cirrhosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) that damages the liver and prevents it from functioning well.
Liver Transplant
A liver transplant is Surgery that removes a liver that no longer functions properly (liver failure) and replaces it with a healthy liver from a deceased donor or a portion of a healthy liver from a living donor.
Lordosis
Also called swayback, this condition causes the spine to curve inward.
Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS)
ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) is a nervous system disorder that causes muscle weakness and interferes with physical function.
Lower Back Pain & Relief
Muscle weakness, spasms and general pain in the low back that varies in severity from mild to debilitating.
Lung Abscess
A lung abscess is a pocket of pus in the lung caused by infection, often following aspiration or severe pneumonia. Symptoms include cough, fever and foul-smelling mucus or phlegm.
Lung Cancer
Begins in the lungs, and most often occurs in people who smoke or who have smoked. It may spread to the lymph nodes or other organs in the body, like the brain.
Lung Disease
Lung disease refers to many breathing disorders. If all types of these disorders are grouped together, lung disease is the third leading cause of death in the U.S.
Lung Transplant
A surgical procedure to replace a diseased or failing lung with a healthy lung, usually from a deceased donor.
Lung Volume Reduction Surgery
A procedure that removes damaged lung tissue to improve breathing in patients with severe emphysema.
Lupus
An autoimmune disease (more common in women than men) that damages the skin, heart, lung, kidneys and brain, as well as joints.
Lymphedema
A build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin that can cause swelling and discomfort.
Lymphoma
Cancer of the lymph nodes; includes two main types: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
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Macular Degeneration
Causes loss in the center of the field of vision.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Uses high-powered magnets and radio waves to produce images of organs and structures.
Male Infertility
The inability to conceive a child after a year or more of frequent, unprotected sexual intercourse.
Mammograms
An X-ray picture of the breasts for breast cancer screening or diagnostic purposes.
Marfan Syndrome
A genetic disorder characterized by abnormal growth of connective tissue, which can result in heart defects.
Melanoma
Melanoma, or skin cancer, is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. If left unchecked, these cancer cells can spread from the skin into other tissues and organs.
Men's Health
Our center experts diagnose, monitor and treat common conditions such as low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, prostate health, metabolic syndrome and bladder and kidney health.
Meniere's Disease
An inner ear disorder that causes episodic hearing loss and vertigo
Meningioma Brain Tumors
Fairly common, benign, slow-growing tumors that grow in the thick membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord.
Meningitis
A potentially life-threatening nervous system infection caused by inflammation and swelling of the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord.
Menopause
The absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months. Most women begin menopause between ages 45 and 50.
Metabolic Disease
Occur when your body’s biochemical pathways are disrupted.
Migraines
Throbbing, severe pain in the head that lasts 4 to 72 hours. Nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound can also accompany migraine pain.
Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
An alternative to traditional, open-chest bypass surgery and aortic and mitral valve procedures, allowing for faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Uses fewer and smaller incisions than open surgery. Benefits include: less pain and blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, fewer complications and little or no scarring.
Ministroke
A brief blockage of blood to the brain that is also called a transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Mitochondrial Disorders
Chronic, often genetic disorders that occur when the mitochondria of the cell fails to produce enough energy for cell or organ function.
Mitral Valve Disease
A type of valve disease affecting the mitral valve that leads to blood leaking back into or building up in the left atrium of your heart.
Movement & Functional Disorders
Movement and functional disorders include a group of chronic neurological conditions — like Parkinson's disease or Huntington's disease — that cause problems with movement, thinking, voice, emotion and behavior.
MoyaMoya Disease
A progressive disease where the arteries at the base of the brain become blocked, and to compensate, tiny blood vessels grow in a wispy, tangled mass.
Multi-Organ Transplant
A surgery in which two or more diseased organs are replaced with healthy donor organs, usually from the same donor.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
This condition develops when the body’s immune system attacks the myelin sheath that covers nerves, disrupting communication between your brain and body.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
A rare degenerative disorder that resembles Parkinson’s disease and negatively impacts blood pressure, heart rate, bladder function and digestion.
Muscular Dystrophy (MD)
A group of diseases that cause progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass.
Music Therapy
Can help patients improve cognitive, physical, psychological and social functioning. Research shows that music helps alleviate pain as well as decrease blood pressure, heart rate, stress and anxiety.
Myasthenia Gravis
An autoimmune and neuromuscular disorder in which voluntary muscles tire rapidly and get progressively weaker over time.
Myeloma
A blood cancer that develops in plasma cells (white blood cells) in the bone marrow — the soft, spongy tissue at the center of your bones.
Myocarditis
Inflammation of the middle layer of the wall of your heart, which can lead to a weakened and enlarged heart.
Myoclonus
Sudden, involuntary jerking or twitching movements when a muscle contracts or relaxes.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
A chronic pain disorder that can be caused by poor posture, stress-related tension, overuse or skeletal muscle injury.
Myopathy & Inflammatory Myopathy
Muscle fibers do not function properly, resulting in muscle weakness, involuntary movement or spasms.
Myositis, Polymyositis, Inflammatory Myopathy
Inflammation of muscle tissue that may cause muscle weakness.
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Narcolepsy
A chronic neurological disorder caused by the brain's inability to regulate sleep-wake cycles normally.
Nasal & Sinus Disorders
Disorders affecting the nasal passages and sinuses.
Neck Pain
Muscle stiffness, numbness, weakness and discomfort in the tissues of the neck.
Necrotizing Colitis
A serious but rare disease that occurs when part of your colon dies.
Necrotizing Pancreatitis
An extreme complication of acute pancreatitis that occurs when part of your pancreas dies.
Nephrology
A specialty of internal medicine that focuses on the treatment of diseases that affect the kidneys.
Neuralgia
Painful neuropathy caused by nerve irritation, inflammation or damage.
Neurogenic Bowel
The loss of normal bowel function due to an injury to the nervous system, such as from spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis or spina bifida.
Neurology
Concerns the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and disease involving the nervous system, comprised of the brain, the spinal cord and the peripheral nerves.
Neuromuscular Disorders
Disorders that interfere with the connection between your nervous system and your muscles, impacting your ability to move.
Neuropathic Pain
This condition occurs when damaged nerve fibers send incorrect signals to pain centers in the brain, resulting in chronic pain.
Neurosurgery
Surgery performed on the nervous system, especially the brain and spinal cord.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) covers a wide range of liver conditions affecting people who drink little to no alcohol. The main characteristic of NAFLD is too much fat stored in liver cells.
Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
Liver inflammation and damage caused by a buildup of fat in the liver. It is part of a group of conditions called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Nuclear Cardiology
Uses small amounts of radiation to allow for advanced imaging of the structure and function of your heart.
Nuclear Medicine (PET/CT)
Uses small amounts of radioactive materials to examine organ function and structure. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a type of nuclear medicine that uses radioactive materials, a special camera and computer tevaluate organ and tissue functions.
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OB-GYN
A doctor of obstetrics and gynecology who specializes in pregnancy, childbirth and the female reproductive system.
Obstetrics
Highly specialized childbirth care for moms-to-be who want more options, including natural childbirth.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
A common and serious disorder characterized by periods of reduced or ceased breathing during sleep.
Occupational Lung Diseases
Occupational lung diseases are caused by on-the-job chemical, dust and fiber inhalation.
Occupational Therapy
Involves the treatment and rehabilitation of hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder injuries and conditions.
Ocular Motility Disturbances
Abnormal eye alignment or difficulty in controlling eye movements.
Open-Heart Surgery
Includes a variety of surgeries that restore your heart’s normal function.
Ophthalmology
A branch of medicine that deals with diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders
Optic Nerve Disease
A set of diseases that disrupt the normal function of the eye.
Optic Nerve Disorders (Neuro-Ophthalmology)
When swelling (inflammation) damages the optic nerve — a bundle of nerve fibers that transmits visual information from your eye to your brain. Can cause patterns of vision loss.
Optic Nerve Tumors
Benign or cancerous growths that develop on the optic nerve.
Optic Neuritis
Optic nerve inflammation that can cause intense headaches and vision loss.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery & Dentistry
The treatment of conditions, deformities and injuries of the face, jaws, mouth, and teeth.
Oral Cysts & Tumors
Relatively rare growths or lesions that develop in the jawbone or the soft tissues in the mouth and face.
Orbital Diseases & Tumors
Tumors that emerge within the eye socket or form in adjacent sources, such as the eyelid, paranasal (the space that surrounds the nasal cavity), sinus or intracranial compartment.
Organ Transplant
Surgery where an organ is removed from one body and placed in the body of a recipient, to replace a damaged or missing organ.
Orthopedic Neck & Spine Care
Neck and spine care focuses on maintaining posture, flexibility and strength to prevent pain or injury, with treatments including exercise, therapy, medication or surgery when necessary.
Orthopedic Oncology
Treatment, including radiation and surgery, for patients with bone and soft tissue tumors.
Orthopedic Surgery
Surgery involving the skeletal system and its interconnecting parts: bones, muscles and joints.
Orthopedics
The branch of medicine that focuses on the skeletal system and its interconnecting parts: bones, muscles and joints.
Osteoporosis
A disease that causes bones to become fragile and more likely to fracture, most frequently in postmenopausal women.
Otolaryngology
The surgical and medical management of diseases of the head and neck, including the ear and throat.
Ovarian Cancer
Occurs when cells within, near or on the ovaries grow out of control.
Ovarian Cyst
Fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovaries.
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Palliative Care
A type of care for people living with a serious or life-threatening illness, focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of the illness.
Pancreas Transplant
Involves implanting a healthy pancreas into a person who usually has diabetes to hopefully restore insulin production and improve blood sugar control.
Pancreatic & Biliary Diseases
Pancreatic and biliary disease encompass complex disorders of the pancreas, organs and ducts that facilitate digestion.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer occurs when the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas grow out of control, which is called pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Pancreatic Cysts
Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled growths that develop in or on the pancreas. While most pancreatic are benign, some may become cancerous over time.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation within the pancreas. Pancreatitis can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Disease severity can be mild and may not require treatment at all; however, severe pancreatic damage can occur, leading to a life-threatening condition.
Parkinson’s Disease
A progressive nervous system condition characterized by slight to severe tremors and cognitive and emotional challenges that worsen over time.
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for children to improve gait, mobility, gross motor function and developmental skills.
Pelvic Floor Disorders
Include pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence in both men and women.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Restores muscle and postural dysfunction and skeletal misalignment, which contribute to bladder and bowel control loss, sexual dysfunction and pelvic pain.
Pelvic Health
Involves the best possible functioning and management of the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs, playing an important role in complete physical, mental, social and sexual well-being.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
When a woman’s pelvic organs, including the uterus, bladder and rectum, slip and create a bulge in the vagina after the muscles, tissues and ligaments supporting those organs weaken.
Pelvic Pain
Pain or discomfort, ranging from a sharp jab to a dull ache, in the lowest part of the abdomen and pelvis.
Pelvic Restoration
Restores the normal structure and function of the female pelvic organs.
Peptic Ulcer
A peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of your stomach, small intestine or esophagus.
Percutaneous Atrial Septal Defect Closure
A catheter-based procedure used to repair a hole in the muscular wall in your heart.
Performing Arts Medicine
Encompasses a specialized group of more than 100 Houston Methodist physicians working collaboratively to address the specific demands placed on artists.
Pericardial Effusion
Excess fluid in your heart’s pericardium, which can ultimately lead to inflammation.
Pericarditis
Inflammation of your heart’s pericardium that can result in chest pain.
Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)
Though this condition is similar to restless legs syndrome, PLMD occurs during sleep with regular intervals between involuntary movements.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Often referred to as peripheral vascular disease (PVD), a common circulation disorder that affects blood flow in your arteries.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves and may cause weakness, numbness and pain in the hands and feet.
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)
A common circulation disorder that affects blood flow through blood vessels.
Personality Disorders
A deeply ingrained pattern of behavior that deviates markedly from the norms of generally accepted behavior, typically apparent by the time of adolescence, and causing long-term difficulties in personal relationships or in functioning in society.
Pharmacy Services
We partner with you to help you navigate the complex world of specialty pharmacy, helping you identify and obtain patient financial assistance services and programs, receive personalized refill reminders, and access our pharmacists 24/7 for support.
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Physical therapy and rehabilitation that uses advanced techniques and technology to create a personalized treatment plan specific to your needs,
Physical Therapy
Through exercise, education and the latest equipment, helps you get relief from pain and regain strength after injury or surgery.
Physical Therapy for Hand & Wrists
Hand and wrist physical therapy helps restore function to these areas, limit pain, prevent additional injuries and increase wrist and hand mobility.
Pineal Region Tumors
Tumors that arise in the pineal gland, a small organ deep in the brain, can negatively impact production of melatonin and certain reproductive hormones.
Pituitary Gland Tumors
These tumors can grow inside or on the surface of the pituitary gland, interfering with many of the body’s daily functions.
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Restores form and function lost due to trauma, tumor, disease or congenital conditions.
Pregnancy & Childbirth
Highly specialized childbirth care for moms-to-be who want more options, including natural childbirth.
Premature Atrial Contractions (PAC)
a common type of arrhythmia that occurs due to premature electrical activation originating in the upper chamber of your heart.
Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVC)
A common type of arrhythmia that occurs due to premature electrical activation originating in the lower chamber of your heart.
Primary Care
Covers a range of prevention, wellness and treatment for common illnesses.
Primary Care Sports Medicine
A primary care sports medicine doctor is a regular family doctor with specialized training in both the treatment and prevention of illness and injury.
Primary CNS Lymphoma (PCNSL)
PCNSL is a type of cancer that originates from and grows in the brain or spinal cord and usually is classified as a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
Also called Steele-Richardson-Olszewski syndrome, this progressive, rare disorder can make it difficult to balance, walk or control complex eye movements and may interfere with cognitive functions.
Prostate Cancer
A form of cancer that begins in the gland cells of a man's prostate, a small walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid.
Prostate Issues
When growth of the prostate blocks urine flow through the urethra, leading to urinary problems.
Psychiatry
We offer inpatient and outpatient programs and services to confront the complex and diverse mental health needs of our patients.
Pulmonary Fibrosis
A common lung disease where tissue deep in the lungs becomes thick, stiff and scarred, making it difficult to breathe.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Occurs when arteries carrying blood from your heart to your lungs narrow to the point of restricting blood flow.
Pulmonary Valve Disease
A common type of congenital heart disease in which pulmonary valve issues cause increased pressure in the right ventricle of your heart.
Pulmonology
A subspecialty of internal medicine with specific knowledge and training to diagnose and treat patients with lung diseases as well as chest infections and breathing problems.
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Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy (radiotherapy) uses high-energy beams to shrink or destroy tumor cells and prevent them from growing.
Radiology
A medical specialty that uses medical imaging to diagnose diseases and guide treatment.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Enhances and restores functional ability and quality of life to people with physical injuries, impairments or disabilities.
Rectal Cancer
When malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the rectum.
Refractive Errors
A defect in the shape of the eye that causes improper bending of the light, resulting in blurred or fuzzy vision.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Patients with this chronic sleep disorder appear to "act out their dreams," sometimes injuring themselves or their bed partner.
Respiratory Failure
When your lungs do not function well enough to perform everyday tasks and sustain your normal activities.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, RLS is a neurological disorder characterized by a strong, almost irresistible urge to move your legs when you are awake.
Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
Also known as stiff heart syndrome, a condition in which the heart either fills or contracts poorly due to heart muscle malfunction.
Retinal Detachment
When it the retina is detached from the layer of blood vessels that provide it with oxygen, the retina may deteriorate, causing loss of vision in the affected eye.
Rheumatology
Rheumatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions of the body's connective tissue, as well as musculoskeletal problems and systemic illnesses, including autoimmune diseases.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Surgery that uses a robotic interface to control tools more precisely during surgical procedures.
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Salivary Gland Disease
This disease attacks the tissues in the mouth and can cause swelling and pain, making it difficult to chew and swallow.
Schizophrenia
A serious mental disorder that affects your ability to think and act clearly.
Sciatica
Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, usually from the lower back down one leg, often caused by nerve compression.
Scoliosis
The spine is twisted side-to-side in a C or S shape, or it is rotated out of normal alignment.
Screening Mammograms
A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect early signs of cancer before symptoms appear.
Septal Defect Closure
Uses a catheter-based procedure or open surgery to repair a hole in the muscular wall in your heart.
Short Bowel Syndrome or Small Bowel Disease
Develops when the small intestine, or small bowel, is shortened or damaged and cannot absorb enough nutrients from food to maintain health.
Shoulder Care & Treatment
Shoulder care involves maintaining strength, flexibility and proper posture to prevent pain or injury, with treatment options including exercise, rest, therapy or medical intervention if needed.
Skilled Nursing
In a skilled nursing facility, you will receive bedside care and personalized therapy consultations to improve independent mobility, self-care and communication.
Skin Cancer
The uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. If left unchecked, these cancer cells can spread from the skin into other tissues and organs.
Skin Diseases
Diseases affecting the skin, including skin reaction, infections, psoriasis, eczema, basal and squamous skin cancers and malignant melanoma.
Sleep Apnea
When a person with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) falls asleep, his or her airway collapses and narrows, disrupting normal breathing patterns and sleep cycles — usually resulting in loud snoring.
Sleep Disorders
Changes in sleeping patterns or habits that can negatively affect health. Include insomnia, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy and sleep apnea.
Small Bowel Manometry
A small bowel manometry test analyzes how well the muscles and nerves of the small intestine work in propelling liquid or food through the gastrointestinal tract.
Spasticity
A muscle control condition in which there is an abnormal increase in the stiffness or tone of the muscles, interfering with movement or speech.
Specialty Pharmacy
Our pharmacy liaisons and clinical pharmacists specializing in your condition will partner with you to help you navigate the complex world of specialty pharmacy.
Speech Apraxia
Speech apraxia affects the brain’s ability to create a plan to make the muscles of speech work.
Speech Disorders
A condition in which a person has problems creating or forming the speech sounds needed to communicate with others.
Spinal Cord Injury
Damage to the bundle of nerves and nerve fibers that sends and receives signals from the brain.
Spinal Cord, Nerve Root & Plexopathy Disorders
Nerve damage to the brachial or lumbosacral networks of nerves, causing symptoms similar to lower back pain.
Spinal Deformity
Unnatural curvature of the spine.
Spinal Fracture
A break or crack in the vertebrae, often caused by trauma, osteoporosis or disease.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress nerves and cause pain, numbness or weakness, usually in the neck or lower back.
Spinal Tumors
Growths that originate or spread to the spinal canal or the bones of the spine.
Spine
Our spine specialists collaborate with neurologists, neuroradiologists, orthopedic surgeons, pain management specialists and rehabilitation experts to provide the most accurate diagnosis for your spinal condition.
Spondylosis
Age-related spine degeneration that may cause pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.
Sports Medicine & Performance
Provides comprehensive diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of all musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery
A radiation therapy technique that increases precision and treats tumors that cannot be reached with traditional surgery.
Stomach Cancer
Cancers of the stomach usually start in the inner lining (adenocarcinomas). Esophageal cancer arises when cells that make up the tissue lining the esophagus grow out of control.
Stomach Ulcer
Ulcers in the digestive tract are open sores of various sizes that won’t heal.
Stroke
Blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage (ischemic) or bleeding into the brain tissue (hemorrhagic).
Stuttering
Stuttering (also called stammering or childhood-onset fluency disorder) is a speech disorder that occurs when you know what you wish to say but cannot physically do so.
Sudden Cardiac Death
Loss of heart function that is usually caused by or related to a type of arrhythmia, such as ventricular fibrillation.
Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
A type of arrhythmia originating above the ventricles that can cause sudden episodes of rapid heart rate.
Surgical Critical Care
Our surgeons work 24/7 in an intensely collaborative emergency department, specializing in laparoscopic procedures and robotic-assisted techniques, which help achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.
Surgical Services
Our surgeons use the most advanced procedures and state-of-the-art technology to provide you expert care across the full spectrum of surgical specialties — no matter your condition.
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Tardive Dyskinesia
A disorder that involves involuntary, repetitive movements, usually of the face, eyes and jaw.
TAVI / TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)
A minimally invasive catheter-based procedure used to replace and repair a dysfunctional aortic valve.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Fairly common disorders that can cause a range of pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement.
Testicular Cancer
A buildup of extra cells in your testicles can result in the formation of a mass (tumor) that can either be malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous).
Tetralogy of Fallot
A common type of congenital heart disease characterized by a combination of four heart defects.
Thoracic Surgery
Ccmprehensive surgical treatment of diseases and conditions that affect the chest and lungs.
Thyroid Eye Disease
Also called Graves’ eye disease or Graves’ orbitopathy, this is an autoimmune condition that affects the tissues and muscles around the eye. Can occur in up to 50% of people with thyroid disorders.
Thyroid Orbitopathy
Also called thyroid eye disease, Graves’ eye disease or Graves’ orbitopathy, this is an autoimmune condition that affects the tissues and muscles around the eye. Can occur in up to 50% of people with thyroid disorders.
Tourette's Syndrome
A neurological disorder that starts in childhood and involves unusual and frequent rapid, repetitive movements or sounds that cannot be controlled, called “tics.”
Transient Ischemic Attack
A brief blockage of blood to the brain that is also called a ministroke.
Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)
A common but complex type of congenital heart disease in which the two main vessels of the heart are switched in position.
Tricuspid Valve Disease
A type of valve disease affecting the tricuspid valve that leads to blood leaking back into or building up in the right atrium of your heart.
Trigeminal Neuralgia & Facial Nerve Disorders
Also known as prosopalgia, tic douloureux or Fothergill's disease, this chronic pain condition affects the trigeminal nerve at the base of the brain, which interferes with facial sensation.
Trigger Digit (Finger)
Also called trigger finger, this happens when inflammation causes the tunnel around the tendon in your finger to thicken, in some cases leading to a small bump or nodule on the tendon’s surface.
Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Unlike other forms of breast cancer, triple negative breast cancer lacks estrogen and progesterone receptors and makes very little of the HER2 protein.
Tuberculosis (TB)
Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) that involves the lungs but may spread to other organs.
U
Ulcer Diseases
An ulcer is, essentially, an open sore that is found on the mucous layer (inner lining) of the body’s various organs. The mucous layer protects the organ or gland.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is among the most common types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is a form of chronic inflammation in the large intestine of the digestive tract causing abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Upper Extremity (shoulder, elbow, hand & wrist)
The region of the body that includes the arm, forearm, wrist and hand.
Urinary Incontinence - Men
Loss of bladder control, ranging from mild leakage to uncontrollable urine loss.
Urinary Incontinence - Women
Accidental loss of urine and bladder control, ranging from occasionally leaking urine when you cough or sneeze to having a sudden and strong urge to urinate.
Uterine Cancer
Also called endometrial cancer, uterine cancer is a type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the uterus.
Uveal Melanoma
Uveal melanoma is the most common form of eye cancer, and is often found during regular eye exams; however, symptoms are sometimes hard to detect.
V
Valve Disease
When a valve in your heart either doesn’t let enough blood through or doesn’t seal properly, leading to leakage, backflow or lack of blood flow.
Vascular Malformations of the Brain & Spinal Cord
Vascular malformations are rare abnormalities in the blood vessels and their membranes.
Vascular Surgery
Uses stenting and angioplasty to treat conditions such as peripheral vascular disease (PVD), aneurysms and carotid artery disease.
Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA)
Involves multiple tissue types including skin, bone, nerves and blood vessels (vascular means vessels) which are transplanted onto a patient.
Ventricular Assist Device
An implanted mechanical device that helps maintain the pumping ability of your heart if it can’t work effectively on its own.
Ventricular Fibrillation
A severe type of arrhythmia in which erratic electrical impulses cause the heart to stop.
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
A common type of congenital heart disease that causes the heart to pump more than twice the normal amount of blood.
Ventricular Tachycardia
Abnormally rapid heartbeats that originate from the lower chambers of the heart.
Vestibular Schwannoma
An acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a benign tumor involving a small nerve joining the inner ear to the brain stem.
Virtual Urgent Care
Telemedicine 24/7 video visits with Houston Methodist providers for non-emergency, urgent care needs,
Voice Disorders & Injuries
Problems with pitch, volume, tone and other voice qualities that may occur when your vocal cords don't vibrate normally.
Vulvar & Vaginal Cancers
Occur when cells of the vulva (the outer part of a woman's genital organs) or the vagina (the hollow channel from the uterus to the outside of the body) grow out of control.
W-Z
Weight Loss Services
Houston Methodist Center for Weight Loss & Bariatric Surgery offers a variety of ways to help you lose weight, including bariatric surgery, personalized programs, medical nutrition therapy and more.
Weight Loss Surgery
Also known as bariatric surgery. Includes a group of operations that help you lose weight by making changes to your digestive system.
Weight Management
The process of making long-term lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy body weight based on your age, height and sex.
Wellness Services
Corporate wellness solutions that focuses on lifestyle modification to improve well-being and reduce health care costs for companies as well as individuals.
Wilson Disease
Wilson disease is a rare, inherited multisystem disorder that affects the liver, nervous system, eyes and other vital organs. The root cause is the presence of excess copper and the inability to excrete it.
Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome (WPW)
A rare type of arrhythmia present at birth that can cause sudden episodes of rapid heart rate.
Women's Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death of women in the U.S., and women often don’t exhibit classic symptoms.
Women's Services
Include medical and surgical gynecological care, labor and delivery, pelvic health, mammograms and breast care, gynecologic oncology and osteoporosis care.
Wound Care
Involves every stage of wound management, from pinpointing diagnosis to proper cleaning and the most effect treatment for the type of wound and healing conditions.
X-Ray
Uses a small dose of radiation to produce images of body structures. Types include: barium X-ray, bone density scan, and fluoroscopy.
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