Still in the early stages, a theory of Dr. Zamboni's, if proven and accepted by the medical community, may provide new life to millions of MS patients around the world. A report on W5, on CTV in Canada, reports that Dr. Zamboni has relieved the symptoms of some MS patients by treating a vein condition found in the neck and upper chest.
Dr. Zamboni's Liberation Treatment
Dr. Zamboni reported in the interview that he has found that some patients' veins that transport blood from the brain are twisted and blocked. This also may cause blood to flow backwards into the brain, depositing high levels of iron. Deposits of iron can be toxic in the brain and may set off a series of immune reactions leading to MS.
Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCVI), as Dr. Zamboni has termed his findings, can be treated using "The Liberation Treatment." It involves a procedure similar to that used to repair coronary arteries in angioplasty.
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
The symptoms of MS are many and varied and may differ from patient to patient. Multiple sclerosis attacks the covering of the brain and spinal cord, interrupting nerve impulses, thus causing a multitude of symptoms.
According to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, symptoms can include the following:
- balance problems and dizziness
- dysarthria (difficulty speaking)
- dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- gait problems
- spasms
- tremors
- pain
- weakness
- fatigue
This is a partial list of symptoms that MS patients may experience to differing degrees.
Current Research on Multiple Sclerosis
A recent article in the Vancouver Sun by Iris Winston, "Intensive Research is leading to new hope for MS sufferers", reports that, "More research and new disease-modifying therapies that reduce symptoms and relapses are having a major impact on the quality of life of people with MS."
Research in Canada is being aided by a campaign organized by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada called "endMS." The goal is to raise $60 million and the campaign is two-thirds of the way to that figure.
Stewart Wong, the MS Society's media and public relations national senior manager, was quoted in the article, saying, "The advances in research have translated into better treatment options for people with MS and so have enhanced their quality of life."
MS Society Cautious but Following Up on Zamboni's Findings
Yves Savoie, President and CEO of the MS Society of Canada, issued a statement on the Society's website, acknowledging the huge interest in Dr. Zamboni's research and treatment. He stated that he shares the excitement and hope in the preliminary findings of the study. Savoie goes on to say he also believes in the current research underway in Canada.
MS Society of Canada spokeswoman, Suzanne Jay, in a Vancouver Sun report, December 14, 2009, "Italian MS research brings hopeful patients to private Vancouver clinic", says that the 'society is specifically looking to fund research that replicates the Italian study, to determine if it is valid.'
According to a CTV news report online, "The foundation that has sponsored Zamboni's research, the Hilarescere Foundation, also urges cautious restraint."
Canadians Have One of Highest Rates of MS in the World
Dr. Zamboni's interview on W5 has already sparked enormous interest across Canada. As Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, any new developments are met with hope for the future.
According to the MS Society, MS is also the most frequent neurological disease affecting young people in the country.
Given these Canadian statistics, it is understandable that Dr. Zamboni's research is greeted with such hope by so many. As reported in the Vancouver Sun, December 14, 2009, the False Creek Surgical Centre in Vancouver, Canada is providing an MRI and ultrasound to patients who want to know if they have the condition identified by Dr. Zamboni. The cost is $2300 but regardless of the results, the Surgical Centre surgeons do not provide the actual procedure.
A number of researchers in North America, according to CTV, are beginning studies based on Zamboni's research, and the procedure has been performed in the United States. The fact that his research is being taken seriously and that soon his research findings will be published offers hope to many people affected by this devastating illness.
Where to Find More Information on Dr. Zamboni's Research
The press release with all the pertinent information about Dr. Zamboni's limited study was issued on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 by the Hilarescere Foundation (Fondazione Hilarescere.)
Dr. Zamboni's research results are to be published this year in the Journal of Vascular Surgery.
Lorah Delaney - Lorah is a native of Vancouver, British Columbia. She has a degree in Physical Education from the University of British Columbia and a ...
