Mouse study links chronic pain to disrupted sleep patterns
Researchers at WashU Medicine Anesthesiology have discovered a key link between chronic pain and sleep disruptions, a combination that can impair daily functioning, reduce quality of life, and increase healthcare costs.
Pennington appointed as department’s inaugural Associate Vice Chair for Quality and Safety
Dr. Bethany Pennington, Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, has been named Associate Vice Chair for Quality and Safety. A dedicated leader in patient safety and quality improvement, she will help shape strategy and innovation in patient safety and QI across the department.
Single atom editing in morphine structure could lead to safer painkillers
Researchers have developed a modified form of morphine that retains its pain-relieving power while minimizing harmful side effects, according to a study in PNAS. By changing just one atom in the molecule, the team significantly improved the drug’s safety profile.
Residency and Fellowships celebrate 2025 graduates
As the academic year ends, we celebrate our graduating residents and fellows for their lasting impact on patient care, education, and the future of medicine. Learn more about their achievements and celebrations.
Predicting pain with machine learning (Links to an external site)
Researchers at WashU are using machine learning to better predict who will experience persistent pain after surgery.
McMillan appointed Associate Clinical Director at Progress West Hospital
Brennan McMillan, MD, has been appointed as the Associate Clinical Director at Progress West Hospital (PWH), effective July 1, 2025.
Chamessian named Rita Allen Foundation Scholar (Links to an external site)
Alexander Chamessian, MD, PhD, assistant professor of anesthesiology at WashU Medicine, has been named a 2025 recipient of the Rita Allen Foundation Scholars Award in Pain.
Prewitt receives 2025 Excellence in Nursing Award
Melissa Prewitt, AGACNP-BC, was named St. Louis Magazine’s 2025 Excellence in Nursing Intensive Care winner.