Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast

The incidence of early onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) has been rising prompting the change in change in screening guidelines to 45 years of age for average risk patients. Join us for an in-depth discussion with guest speakers Dr. Andrea Cercek and Dr. Nancy You, where we provide a comprehensive look at the growing challenge of EOCRC. Hosts: - Dr. Janet Alvarez - General Surgery Resident at New York Medical College/Metropolitan Hospital Center - Dr. Wini Zambare – General Surgery Resident at Weill Cornell Medical Center/New York Presbyterian - Dr. Phil Bauer, Graduating Colorectal Surgical Oncology Fellow at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center  - Dr. J. Joshua Smith MD, PhD, Chair, Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center - Dr. Andrea Cercek - Gastrointestinal Medical Oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center - Dr. Y. Nancy You, MD MHSc - Professor, Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center Learning objectives:  - Describe trends in incidence of colorectal cancer, with emphasis on the rise of EOCRC. - Identify age groups and demographics most affected by EOCRC. - Summarize USPSTF recommendations for colorectal cancer screening. - Distinguish between screening methods (e.g., colonoscopy, FIT-DNA) and their sensitivity. - Understand treatment approaches for colon and rectal cancer (CRC) - Understand the role of mismatch repair (MMR) status in guiding treatment. - Outline the importance of genetic counseling and testing in young patients. - Discuss racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in CRC incidence and outcomes. - Describe the impact of cancer treatment on fertility and sexual health. -  Review fertility preservation options. - Identify the value of integrated care teams for young CRC patients. References: 1.         Siegel, R. L. et al. Colorectal Cancer Incidence Patterns in the United States, 1974–2013. JNCI J. Natl. Cancer Inst. 109, djw322 (2017). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28376186/ 2.         Abboud, Y. et al. Rising Incidence and Mortality of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer in Young Cohorts Associated with Delayed Diagnosis. Cancers 17, 1500 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40361427/ 3.         Phang, R. et al. Is the Incidence of Early-Onset Adenocarcinomas in Aotearoa New Zealand Increasing? Asia Pac. J. Clin. Oncol.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40384533/ 4.         Vitaloni, M. et al. Clinical challenges and patient experiences in early-onset colorectal cancer: insights from seven European countries. BMC Gastroenterol. 25, 378 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40375142/ 5.         Siegel, R. L. et al. Global patterns and trends in colorectal cancer incidence in young adults. (2019) doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2019-319511. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31488504/ 6.         Cercek, A. et al. A Comprehensive Comparison of Early-Onset and Average-Onset Colorectal Cancers. J. Natl. Cancer Inst. 113, 1683–1692 (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34405229/ 7.         Zheng, X. et al. Comprehensive Assessment of Diet Quality and Risk of Precursors of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer. JNCI J. Natl. Cancer Inst. 113, 543–552 (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33136160/ 8.         Standl, E. & Schnell, O. Increased Risk of Cancer—An Integral Component of the Cardio–Renal–Metabolic Disease Cluster and Its Management. Cells 14, 564 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40277890/ 9.         Muller, C., Ihionkhan, E., Stoffel, E. M. & Kupfer, S. S. Disparities in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer. Cells 10, 1018 (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33925893/ 10.       US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for Colorectal Cancer: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA 325, 1965–1977 (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34003218/ 11.       Fwelo, P. et al. Differential Colorectal Cancer Mortality Across Racial and Ethnic Groups: Impact of Socioeconomic Status, Clinicopathology, and Treatment-Related Factors. Cancer Med. 14, e70612 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40040375/ 12.       Lansdorp-Vogelaar, I. et al. Contribution of Screening and Survival Differences to Racial Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Rates. Cancer Epidemiol. Biomarkers Prev. 21, 728–736 (2012). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22514249/ 13.       Ko, T. M. et al. Low neighborhood socioeconomic status is associated with poor outcomes in young adults with colorectal cancer. Surgery 176, 626–632 (2024). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38972769/ 14.       Siegel, R. L., Wagle, N. S., Cercek, A., Smith, R. A. & Jemal, A. Colorectal cancer statistics, 2023. CA. Cancer J. Clin. 73, 233–254 (2023). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36856579/ 15.       Jain, S., Maque, J., Galoosian, A., Osuna-Garcia, A. & May, F. P. Optimal Strategies for Colorectal Cancer Screening. Curr. Treat. Options Oncol. 23, 474–493 (2022). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35316477/ 16.       Zauber, A. G. The Impact of Screening on Colorectal Cancer Mortality and Incidence: Has It Really Made a Difference? Dig. Dis. Sci. 60, 681–691 (2015). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25740556/ 17.       Edwards, B. K. et al. Annual report to the nation on the status of cancer, 1975-2006, featuring colorectal cancer trends and impact of interventions (risk factors, screening, and treatment) to reduce future rates. Cancer 116, 544–573 (2010). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19998273/ 18.       Cercek, A. et al. Nonoperative Management of Mismatch Repair–Deficient Tumors. New England Journal of Medicine 392, 2297–2308 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40293177/ 19.       Monge, C., Waldrup, B., Carranza, F. G. & Velazquez-Villarreal, E. Molecular Heterogeneity in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: Pathway-Specific Insights in High-Risk Populations. Cancers 17, 1325 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40282501/ 20.       Monge, C., Waldrup, B., Carranza, F. G. & Velazquez-Villarreal, E. Ethnicity-Specific Molecular Alterations in MAPK and JAK/STAT Pathways in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer. Cancers 17, 1093 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40227607/ 21.       Benson, A. B. et al. Colon Cancer, Version 2.2021, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology. J. Natl. Compr. Cancer Netw. JNCCN 19, 329–359 (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33724754/ 22.       Christenson, E. S. et al. Nivolumab and Relatlimab for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic mismatch repair proficient colorectal cancer. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40388545/ 23.       Dasari, A. et al. Fruquintinib versus placebo in patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer (FRESCO-2): an international, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, phase 3 study. The Lancet 402, 41–53 (2023). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37331369/ 24.       Strickler, J. H. et al. Tucatinib plus trastuzumab for chemotherapy-refractory, HER2-positive, RAS wild-type unresectable or metastatic colorectal cancer (MOUNTAINEER): a multicentre, open-label, phase 2 study. Lancet Oncol. 24, 496–508 (2023). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37142372/ 25.       Sauer, R. et al. Preoperative versus Postoperative Chemoradiotherapy for Rectal Cancer. N. Engl. J. Med. 351, 1731–1740 (2004). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15496622/ 26.       Cercek, A. et al. Adoption of Total Neoadjuvant Therapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer. JAMA Oncol. 4, e180071 (2018). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29566109/ 27.       Garcia-Aguilar, J. et al. Organ Preservation in Patients With Rectal Adenocarcinoma Treated With Total Neoadjuvant Therapy. J. Clin. Oncol. 40, 2546–2556 (2022). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35483010/ 28.       Schrag, D. et al. Preoperative Treatment of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer. N. Engl. J. Med. 389, 322–334 (2023). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37272534/ 29.       Kunkler, I. H., Williams, L. J., Jack, W. J. L., Cameron, D. A. & Dixon, J. M. Breast-Conserving Surgery with or without Irradiation in Early Breast Cancer. N. Engl. J. Med. 388, 585–594 (2023). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36791159/ 30.       Jacobsen, R. L., Macpherson, C. F., Pflugeisen, B. M. & Johnson, R. H. Care Experience, by Site of Care, for Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer. JCO Oncol. Pract. (2021) doi:10.1200/OP.20.00840. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33566700/ 31.       Ruddy, K. J. et al. Prospective Study of Fertility Concerns and Preservation Strategies in Young Women With Breast Cancer. J. Clin. Oncol. (2014) doi:10.1200/JCO.2013.52.8877. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24567428/ 32.       Su, H. I. et al. Fertility Preservation in People With Cancer: ASCO Guideline Update. J. Clin. Oncol. 43, 1488–1515 (2025). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40106739/ 33.       Smith, K. L., Gracia, C., Sokalska, A. & Moore, H. Advances in Fertility Preservation for Young Women With Cancer. Am. Soc. Clin. Oncol. Educ. Book 27–37 (2018) doi:10.1200/EDBK_208301. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30231357/ 34.       Blumenfeld, Z. How to Preserve Fertility in Young Women Exposed to Chemotherapy? The Role of GnRH Agonist Cotreatment in Addition to Cryopreservation of Embrya, Oocytes, or Ovaries. The Oncologist 12, 1044–1054 (2007). 35.       Bhagavath, B. The current and future state of surgery in reproductive endocrinology. Curr. Opin. Obstet. Gynecol. 34, 164 (2022). 36.       Ribeiro, R. et al. Uterine transposition: technique and a case report. Fertil. Steril. 108, 320-324.e1 (2017). 37.       Yazdani, A., Sweterlitsch, K. M., Kim, H., Flyckt, R. L. & Christianson, M. S. Surgical Innovations to Protect Fertility from Oncologic Pelvic Radiation Therapy: Ovarian Transposition and Uterine Fixation. J. Clin. Med. 13, 5577 (2024). 38.       Holowatyj, A. N., Eng, C. & Lewis, M. A. Incorporating Reproductive Health in the Clinical Management of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer. JCO Oncol. Pract. 18, 169–172 (2022). ***Behind the Knife Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Audio Review: https://app.behindtheknife.org/course-details/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

You have probably seen recent headlines that Microsoft has developed an AI model that is 4x more accurate than humans at difficult diagnoses. It's been published everywhere, AI is 80% accurate compared to a measly 20% human rate, and AI was cheaper too! Does this signal the end of the human physician? Is the title nothing more than clickbait? Or is the truth somewhere in-between? Join Behind the Knife fellow Ayman Ali and Dr. Adam Rodman from Beth Israel Deaconess/Harvard Medical School to discuss what this study means for our future.       Studies: Sequential Diagnosis with Large Language Models: https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.22405v1 METR study: https://metr.org/blog/2025-07-10-early-2025-ai-experienced-os-dev-study/ Hosts: Ayman Ali, MD Ayman Ali is a Behind the Knife fellow and general surgery PGY-4 at Duke Hospital in his academic development time where he focuses on applications of data science and artificial intelligence to surgery.  Adam Rodman, MD, MPH, FACP, @AdamRodmanMD Dr. Rodman is an Assistant Professor and a practicing hospitalist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He's the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Director of AI Programs. In addition, he's the co-director of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center iMED Initiative. Podcast Link: http://bedside-rounds.org/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join us as we dissect the use of robotics in bariatric surgery – where precision meets programming, and the scalpel gets a software upgrade.  Hosts:  - Matthew Martin, trauma and bariatric surgeon at the University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (Los Angeles, California) - Adrian Dan, bariatric and MIS surgeon, program director for the advanced MIS bariatric and foregut fellowship at Summa Health System (Akron, Ohio) -  Crystal Johnson Mann, bariatric and foregut surgeon at the University of Florida (Gainesville, Florida) - Katherine Cironi, general surgery resident at the University of Southern California/Los Angeles General Medical Center (Los Angeles, California) Learning objectives:  Strengths of the robot:  Surgical robots are at the forefront of technology and continue to improve with detailed, precision cameras and the ability to remove baseline tremors Allows for smooth movements, fine dissection, and precise tissue handling  Ergonomics are more advantageous to the surgeon when compared to laparoscopy Weaknesses of the robot: The loss of haptic feedback can be challenging for surgeons early in their learning curve Emphasis on surgical robots means some trainees may be losing exposure to laparoscopic techniques Longer operative time when working robotically, and more time under anesthesia for the patient  Increased cost for robotic surgery  Outcomes data:  Mixed data from the MBSA QIP database (metabolic and bariatric surgery accreditation and quality improvement program) The most recent study looked at 824,000 patients from 2015-2022 who had a sleeve gastrectomy or RNY gastric bypass, either laparoscopically (lap sleeve 61%, lap RYGB 24%) or robotically (robo sleeve 11%, robo RYGB 4%). Robotic sleeves were reported to have higher complication rates compared to laparoscopy, seen as higher overall morbidity and an increased rate of leaks  While the robotic RYGBs have lower overall complications, including decreased morbidity and bleeding. Robotic RYGB can be especially advantageous with revisional surgeries when compared to lap.   Setting up for success Train your eyes to determine tension on tissue, since there is no haptic feedback Learn how to assist yourself (manipulating the camera and effectively utilizing the fourth arm) Understand how techniques of the surgery change when doing it robotically, as compared to laparoscopy  Experienced operating room team  When learning, recommend putting all cases feasible on the robot (including easier cases), to master the straightforward cases before moving to technically challenging revision cases. Don't hesitate to add an additional trocar or assistant port when needed  Education in Robotic learning  Learning by observation/mirroring – ex: robotic bilateral inguinal hernia (mirroring the attending/instructor)  Easy for the attending/instructor in the case to switch instruments seamlessly, then give them back intermittently at the appropriate time  Helpful when the attending annotates the screen to depict where to go  Data-driven teaching tools on the Davinci system  Tips for robotic sleeve gastrectomy:  Of the robotic bariatric surgeries, sleeve gastrectomy is most similar to its laparoscopic procedure 30-40 degrees of reverse Trendelenburg Liver hammock stitch instead of a liver retractor (one less trocar), which makes a total of 4 trocars needed for the case Green staple load for the first firing, then the rest are typically blue loads Mixed opinions on reinforced staple loads versus non-reinforced staple loads and oversewing the staple line (discussed cost-benefit)  Tips for robotic gastric bypass:   Watch videos from colleagues to learn what they do Gastric bypass is a multi-quadrant surgery; thus, you must set yourself up for success so that your arms are not fighting when moving through different quadrants  A size 12 trocar on the left can make the formation of  the gastric pouch easier GJ and JJ anastomosis formed with a linear fire, then a two-layer closure with absorbable barb suture Don't forget to close the mesenteric defect (non-absorbable braided suture) Tips for robotic DS and SADI:   If doing a duodenal anastomosis hand-sewn, then recommend planning the exact number of sutures and locations of each for ease Hand-sewn anastomosis can have less bleeding and fewer strictures for patients, and is completed in a much more seamless fashion with the robot   Future of Robotics  Haptic feedback Integrated visual overlays to identify anatomical structures/serve as an intraoperative map Artificial intelligence integration  Telesurgery – ex, small surgical robot deployed to space  Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

It's 2 a.m. The on-call resident's voice is shaky. The CT shows an 18cm abdominal aortic aneurysm with a Type 1B endoleak. There's gas in the sac, fluid in the belly, and the patient has a defibrillator on both sides of his chest. Is it a rupture? A graft infection? An aortoenteric fistula? All of the above? You're the vascular surgeon, what do you do?  This episode dives deep into decision-making when EVAR fails, when infection strikes, and when the patient might not survive a definitive repair. Let's talk about what happens when clinical textbooks meet real-world chaos. Hosts: ·      Christian Hadeed -PGY 4 General Surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center ·      Paul Haser -Division chief, Vascular Surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center ·      Andrew Harrington, Vascular surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center ·      Lucio Flores, Vascular surgery, Brookdale Hospital Medical Center Learning objectives: · Understand the clinical implications and management of late EVAR complications, including Type 1B endoleak and aortoenteric fistula. · Explore the decision-making process in critically ill patients with multiple comorbidities and infected aortic grafts. · Compare endovascular vs open surgical approaches in the setting of infected AAA, and when each is appropriate. · Recognize the role of multidisciplinary collaboration in complex vascular cases. · Discuss the ethical considerations and goals-of-care planning in high-risk, potentially terminal vascular patients. · Highlight the importance of long-term surveillance after EVAR and the consequences of noncompliance. References ·       Karl Sörelius et al.Nationwide Study of the Treatment of Mycotic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Comparing Open and Endovascular Repair.Circulation. 2016;134(22):1822–1832. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27799273/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15researchgate.net+15 ·       PARTNERS Trial (OVER Trial).Outcomes Following Endovascular vs Open Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Randomized Trial.JAMA. 2009;302(14):1535–1542. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19826022/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6jamanetwork.com+6 ·       B.T. Müller et al.Mycotic Aneurysms of the Thoracic and Abdominal Aorta and Iliac Arteries: Experience with Anatomic and Extra-anatomic Repair in 33 Cases.J Vasc Surg. 2001;33(1):106–113. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11137930/ sciencedirect.com+5pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+5periodicos.capes.gov.br+5 ·       Chung‑Dann Kan et al.Outcome after Endovascular Stent Graft Treatment for Mycotic Aortic Aneurysm: A Systematic Review.J Vasc Surg. 2007 Nov;46(5):906–912. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17905558/ researchgate.net+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+15 ·       Hamid Gavali et al.Outcome of Radical Surgical Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Graft and Endograft Infections Comparing Extra‑anatomic Bypass with In Situ Reconstruction: A Nationwide Multicentre Study.Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2021;62(6):918–926. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34782231/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+6diva-portal.org+6  Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In the corner of the ICU, on multiple pressors, distended, oliguric, and intubated you'll find the necrotizing pancreatitis patient. Sounds intimidating, but with the persistence, patience, and the proper care these patients can make it! In this episode from the HPB team at Behind the Knife listen in as we discuss the Step-Up approach, when to surgically intervene, various approaches to pancreatic Necrosectomy, and additional aspects of the multidisciplinary care required for the successful treatment of necrotizing pancreatitis.  Hosts Anish J. Jain MD (@anishjayjain) is a current PGY3 General Surgery Resident at Stanford University and a former T32 Research Fellow at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Jon M. Harrison is a 2nd year HPB Surgery Fellow at Stanford University. He will be joining as faculty at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA at the conclusion of his fellowship in July 2024.    Learning Objectives ·      Develop an understanding of the severity of necrotizing pancreatitis and the proper indications to surgical intervene on this often-tenuous patients.  ·      Develop an understanding of the Step-Up approach and key aspects (reimaging, clinical status, physiologic status, etc.) that determine when to “step-up” treatment for patients with necrotizing pancreatitis. ·      Develop an understanding of long term sequalae and complications associated with necrotizing pancreatitis and operative management ·      Develop an understanding of multidisciplinary care and long-term follow-up necessary for adequate treatment of patients suffering from necrotizing pancreatitis. Suggested Reading Maurer LR, Fagenholz PJ. Contemporary Surgical Management of Pancreatic Necrosis. JAMA Surg. 2023;158(1):81–88. doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2022.5695 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36383374/ Harrison JM, Day H, Arnow K, Ngongoni RF, Joseph A, Aldridge T, Wheeler KJ, DeLong JC, Bergquist JR, Worth PJ, Dua MM, Friedland S, Park W, Eldika S, Hwang JH, Visser BC. What's Behind it all: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Retrogastric Pancreatic Necrosis Management. Ann Surg. 2024 Sep 3. doi: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000006521. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39225420/ Harrison JM, Visser BC. Not Dead Yet: Managing the Abdominal Catastrophe in Necrotizing Pancreatitis. Pancreas. 2025 May 20. doi: 10.1097/MPA.0000000000002512. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40388698/ Harrison JM, Li AY, Sceats LA, Bergquist JR, Dua MM, Visser BC. Two-Port Minimally Invasive Nephrolaparoscopic Retroperitoneal Debridement for Pancreatic Necrosis. J Am Coll Surg. 2024 Dec 1;239(6):e7-e12. doi: 10.1097/XCS.0000000000001152. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39051721/ van Santvoort HC, Besselink MG, Bakker OJ, Hofker HS, Boermeester MA, Dejong CH, van Goor H, Schaapherder AF, van Eijck CH, Bollen TL, van Ramshorst B, Nieuwenhuijs VB, Timmer R, Laméris JS, Kruyt PM, Manusama ER, van der Harst E, van der Schelling GP, Karsten T, Hesselink EJ, van Laarhoven CJ, Rosman C, Bosscha K, de Wit RJ, Houdijk AP, van Leeuwen MS, Buskens E, Gooszen HG; Dutch Pancreatitis Study Group. A step-up approach or open necrosectomy for necrotizing pancreatitis. N Engl J Med. 2010 Apr 22;362(16):1491-502. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa0908821. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20410514/ Bang JY, Arnoletti JP, Holt BA, Sutton B, Hasan MK, Navaneethan U, Feranec N, Wilcox CM, Tharian B, Hawes RH, Varadarajulu S. An Endoscopic Transluminal Approach, Compared With Minimally Invasive Surgery, Reduces Complications and Costs for Patients With Necrotizing Pancreatitis. Gastroenterology. 2019 Mar;156(4):1027-1040.e3. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.11.031. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30452918/ Zyromski NJ, Nakeeb A, House MG, Jester AL. Transgastric Pancreatic Necrosectomy: How I Do It. J Gastrointest Surg. 2016 Feb;20(2):445-9. doi: 10.1007/s11605-015-3058-y. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26691148/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

RE-RELEASE This was first published in 2023 but it's so good we are running it back! Buckle up, PGY-1's! Intern year is starting whether you're ready or not. Don't fret, BTK has your back to make sure you dominate the first year of residency.  In this last episode of the intern bootcamp mini-series, we'll talk about tips & tricks as well as good habits to establish in order to dominate intern year. Hosts: Shanaz Hossain, Nina Clark Tips for New Interns:  GENERAL TIPS FOR SUCCESS ON THE WARDS Spend time with the patient! Trust, but verify. Be kind to everyone. Stay humble. Be flexible. Seek and apply feedback. HOW TO LEARN IN THE OR Double scrub as many cases as you can. Write down/record everything after a case. MAINTAIN YOUR PERSONAL SANITY Figure out your stress outlets and what brings you joy. Decompress after work. Maintain work/life boundaries. Keep in touch with loved ones. Vacations are meant for relaxation.Repeat after me: NO WORK ON VACATION! Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our new how-to video series on suture and knot-tying skills – https://behindtheknife.org/video-playlists/btk-suture-practice-kit-knot-tying-simulator-how-to-videos/

RE-RELEASE This was first published in 2023 but it's so good we are running it back! Buckle up, PGY-1's! Intern year is starting whether you're ready or not. Don't fret, BTK has your back to make sure you dominate the first year of residency. Today, we're hitting the wards and tackling some of the scary clinical scenarios you will see as an intern. Hosts: Shanaz Hossain, Nina Clark Tips for new interns: THINGS TO REMEMBER ·       BREATHE. In most cases, you have a little bit of time – at least enough to take a breath and calm down outside the room before heading into an emergency. Panic doesn't help anybody. ·       See the patient. Getting a bunch of pages? Worried about someone? Confused as to what's going on? Go see the patient and chat with the bedside team. ·       Know your toolbox. There are a ton of people around who can help you in the hospital, and knowing the basic labs/imaging studies and when to use them can help you to triage even the sickest patients. ·       Load the boat. You've heard this one from us all week! Loop senior level residents in early. HYPOTENSION ·       Differential: measurement error, patient's baseline, and don't miss – SHOCK.            - Etiologies of shock: hemorrhagic, hypovolemic, ·       On the phone: full set of vitals, accurate I/Os, ·       On the way: recent notes, PMH/PSH including from this hospital stay, and vitals/I&Os/studies from earlier in the day ·       In the room: ABCDs – rapidly gives you a sense of how high acuity the patient is ·       Get more info: labs, consider imaging, work up specific types of shock based on clinical concern. ·       Initial management: depends on etiology of hypotension; don't forget to consider peripheral or central access, foley catheterization for close monitoring of urine output, and level of care HYPOXEMIA ·       Differential: atelectasis, baseline pulmonary disease, pneumonia, PE, hemo/pneumothorax, volume overload ·       On the phone: full set of vitals, amount of supplemental oxygen required and delivery device, rate of escalation in oxygen requirement ·       On the way: review PMH/PSH, known injuries (known hemothorax/pneumothorax? Rib fractures? Chest tubes in already?), risk factors for DVT/PE, review I/Os for evidence of volume status, vitals and labs for evidence of infection ·       In the room: ABCDs, pulmonary and cardiac exam, volume status exam ·       Get more info: basic labs, ABG if worried about oxygenation, CXR, consider bedside US of the lungs/heart, if high suspicion for PE consider CTA chest ·       Initial Management: supplemental O2, higher level of care, consider intubation or other supplemental oxygenation adjuncts, additional management dependent on suspected etiology ·       ABG Vs VBG (IBCC): https://emcrit.org/ibcc/vbg/ ALTERED MENTAL STATUS ·       Differential: stroke, medication effect, hypoxemia or hypercarbia, toxic or medication effect, endocrine/metabolic, stroke or MI, psychiatric illness, or infections, delirium ·       On the way: review PMH/PSH, recent notes for evidence of altered mentation or agitation, or signs hinting at above etiologies ·       In the room: ABCDs, focal neuro deficits?, alert/oriented? Be sure the patient's mental status is adequate for airway protection! ·       Get more info: basic labs, blood gas/lactate, CT head noncontrast if concerned for stroke. ·       Initial management: rule out above; if concerned about delirium, optimize sleep/wake cycles, pain control, and lines/drains/tubes. OLIGURIA ·       Differential: prerenal due to hypovolemia or low effective circulating volume, intrinsic renal disease, post-renal obstruction ·       On the phone: clarify functional foley or bladder scan results, full set of vitals ·       On the way: review PMH/PSH, known injuries (known hemothorax/pneumothorax? Rib fractures? Chest tubes in already?), risk factors for DVT/PE, review I/Os for evidence of volume status, vitals and labs for evidence of infection ·       In the room: ABCDs, confirm functioning foley catheter ·       Get more info: basic labs, urine electrolytes, consider fluid challenge to evaluate responsiveness, consider adjuncts including renal US ·       Initial management: typically consider IVF bolus initially, but if patient not volume responsive, don't overload them -- look for other etiologies! TACHYCARDIA ·       Differential: sinus tachycardia (pain, hypovolemia, agitation, infection), cardiac arrhythmia, MI, PE ·       On the phone: full set of vitals, acuity of change in heart rate, updated I/Os ·       On the way: Review PMH/PSH, known cardiac history, cardiac and PE risk factors, volume resuscitation, signs concerning for infection, updated I/Os ·       In the room: ABCDs, cardiac/pulmonary exam, evaluate for any localizing signs for infection ·       Get more info: basic labs, EKG, consider CXR, troponins ·       Initial management: depends heavily on etiology Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our new how-to video series on suture and knot-tying skills – https://behindtheknife.org/video-playlists/btk-suture-practice-kit-knot-tying-simulator-how-to-videos/

RE-RELEASE This was first published in 2023 but it's so good we are running it back! Buckle up, PGY-1's! Intern year is starting whether you're ready or not. Don't fret, BTK has your back to make sure you dominate the first year of residency.  This episode, we'll talk about how to give and receive consults in the hospital like a pro. We'll also provide some tips on how to make those long call days a little more manageable. Hosts: Shanaz Hossain, Nina Clark Tips for New Interns:  GIVING CONSULTS Clear and Concise Question! Develop a script, such as: “Hi, this is XX with the general surgery team. We're calling to request an evaluation for a patient presenting with XX. I can give you the MRN whenever you are ready…” Follow this with a brief H&P. If you are asking another team to perform a procedure on your patient, be prepared with the following information: NPO Status Ability to Consent or Proxy Contact Blood Thinners Urgency of Procedure RECEIVING CONSULTS Make sure you are clear on what the team is asking of you as a consultant. Clarify if the patient is expecting to receive a surgery before talking to them about an operation! Quickly gather information about the patient and their hospital course from the consultant, electronic medical record, and, most importantly, the patient! Note the callback number on the primary team and call them with the plan after you have staffed the patient with your attending. If you are asked to perform a procedure as a consultant, clarify the following information: NPO Status Ability to Consent or Proxy Contact Blood Thinners Urgency of Procedure Develop a system to stay organized and keep track of your to-do list with consults! CALL SHIFTS Bring a survival bag with toothbrush/toothpaste, face wash, deodorant, change of clothes, etc to reset. Try to nap when you can, but: PM round to address non-urgent pages ahead of time Set alarms! Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our new how-to video series on suture and knot-tying skills – https://behindtheknife.org/video-playlists/btk-suture-practice-kit-knot-tying-simulator-how-to-videos/

RE-RELEASE This was first published in 2023 but it's so good we are running it back! Buckle up, PGY-1's! Intern year is starting whether you're ready or not. Don't fret, BTK has your back to make sure you dominate the first year of residency.  You've been a doctor for about 3.5 seconds, and suddenly that bright eyed, bushy-tailed medical student on service is looking to you for advice? Don't fret, in this episode we'll give you some tips for how to handle it. Hosts: Shanaz Hossain, Nina Clark Tips for new interns: REMEMBER HOW INTERNS DO AND DO NOT TEACH - Nobody, not even the med students, expect you to be an expert in everything or give a fully-planned formal lecture - You WILL however spend a ton of time working with students on your team – and via modeling and teachable moments, you can help them learn how it's done! MODELING - Remember how hard everything has been in the few days since you started residency? Think about all the information you've picked up, tips and tricks you're developing for efficiency, and best practices you're learning in the care of your patients. ALL of these are things you can pass on to students. - Presentations, case prep, answering questions from senior members of the team are ALL excellent opportunities to teach (and show students how you learn yourself, so they can do it independently). TEACHABLE MOMENTS - Find small topics that you know or are getting to know well – things like looking at a CXR, CT scan, etc. - Once you're getting more comfortable caring for specific disease processes, think about high yield lessons for students: - Acute trauma evaluation and management (ABCDE's), appendicitis, diverticulitis, benign biliary disease all make great 5 minute chalk talks that you can have in your back pocket IN THE OR - Watch students practice skills, and try to give some feedback and tips that you use (you learned knot tying and suturing more recently than ANYONE else in the OR and probably have some tips that you're still using to improve) - If you're not sure where or why the student is struggling with a particular skill (like tying a knot), model doing it yourself in slow motion while watching them do it – often the side by side comparison can help you identify where they're going astray BE THE RESIDENT YOU WISH YOU HAD - Refer to EVERYONE with respect - Model being a kind, conscientious, and curious physician - Try to find universal lessons and crossover topics that non-surgeons need to know - A great student makes their interns look even better – be explicit about how they can be successful, then advocate for them to have opportunities to show everything they're learning! Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our new how-to video series on suture and knot-tying skills – https://behindtheknife.org/video-playlists/btk-suture-practice-kit-knot-tying-simulator-how-to-videos/

RE-RELEASE This was first published in 2023 but it's so good we are running it back! Buckle up, PGY-1's! Intern year is starting whether you're ready or not. Don't fret, BTK has your back to make sure you dominate the first year of residency.  This episode, we'll tackle the resources that you should know about to support your own learning throughout residency. Hosts: Shanaz Hossain, Nina Clark Tips for new interns: STRUCTURE YOUR STUDYING - 2 things you need to do: (1) develop a knowledge base and (2) answer questions - Knowledge base Pick a level-appropriate textbook, read it (ideally all of it) yearly.  Ideally, lead a little bit every day - 10 pages/day is a good goal to start with and you may need to adjust.  - Questions Do some questions every week – 50/week is a good goal to start Plan to do more questions closer to ABSITE! Consider storing everything you learn in one place – either a notebook you carry with you or a cloud-based note app Share this with others, use it to take notes while reading, doing cases, getting feedback, or gaining experience while taking care of patients every day. SPECIFIC RESOURCES  - Textbooks Sabiston: big book, very dense, with a lot of great information. Schwartz: shorter chapters, clinically oriented, ideal for junior residents Cameron: shorter chapters, clinically oriented, ideal for senior residents - ABSITE review books Fiser: Classic, packed with facts but can be difficult to read, good for looking things up quickly BTK ABSITE Companion: https://www.amazon.com/Behind-Knife-ABSITE-Review-Companion-ebook/dp/B0CLBZ273F/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3382SFZ81ZHKA&keywords=absite+review+behind+the+knife&qid=1698106031&sprefix=absite+review+behind+the+knife%2Caps%2C64&sr=8-2 - Question banks TrueLearn: high quality, can be pricy depending on program  SCORE: written/edited by ABS, free for subscribing programs LEARN HOW TO OPERATE?? - Carry suture and a needle driver with you and practice basic moves - Consider a home suture kit for practice when you don't want to be in sim lab – BTK released one this year - Use VIDEOS to ensure learning things the correct way! Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our new how-to video series on suture and knot-tying skills – https://behindtheknife.org/video-playlists/btk-suture-practice-kit-knot-tying-simulator-how-to-videos/

RE-RELEASE This was first published in 2023 but it's so good we are running it back! Buckle up, PGY-1's! Intern year is starting whether you're ready or not. Don't fret, BTK has your back to make sure you dominate the first year of residency. First up, the first day of intern year. Hosts: Shanaz Hossain, Nina Clark Tips for new interns: BRING WHAT YOU NEED Name badge Scrubs, white coat, and extra clinic clothes Comfortable shoes - even on clinic days Pager Phone Pen Bonus stuff that's good to keep in your bag: Snacks, extras of everything, toothbrusth/toothpaste/deodorant, suture  STAY ORGANIZED Preround purposefully and systematically  Look at the same things in the same order every day on every patient Write data in the same physical location on your sheet so you can quickly find information on the fly  Keep track of to-do's from rounds Check box system:  Nina's system: empty = not done, half full = ordered/needs follow up, full = completely done and followed up on  Don't forget to look at the results of imaging studies, labs, or consults after they are entered!  Prioritize urgent/emergent things first, then consults and discharges, then routine orders, then notesAs you get more efficient, start drafting your notes as you pre-round – it will save you lots of time later in the afternoon!  OWN THE FLOOR  During the day, be ready to shift your priorities as urgent issues arise.  Develop a system for remembering what happened after rounds so you can quickly update seniors Shanaz's system: One color for AM rounds, a different color for afternoon events Load the boat! Your team is there to help you. If you are concerned about someone or have a question, ask. There is truly no better time than as an intern. Master the art of getting your seniors' attention in the OR - be conscientious, be clear in what you're asking, and be prepared to report back about urgent findings!  Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our new how-to video series on suture and knot-tying skills - https://behindtheknife.org/video-playlists/btk-suture-practice-kit-knot-tying-simulator-how-to-videos/

In this surgical education episode, the Cleveland Clinic General Surgery Education Team explores the past, present, and future of resident autonomy in the operating room. With guest colorectal surgeons Dr. Tracy Hull (recently retired) and Dr. David Rosen (early career faculty), we discuss how autonomy was granted in “the good ole days,” how educational culture and institutional pressures shape current practice, and what thoughtful autonomy looks like moving forward. Through candid stories—from emergent cases and missed enterotomies to thumbtacks pulled off the wall to stop bleeding—we get a nuanced look at what surgical independence really means, and how to responsibly develop it. Join hosts Pooja Varman, MD, Judith French, PhD, and Jeremy Lipman, MD, MHPE, for this conversation about what it means to train competent, confident, and independent surgeons. Learning Objectives By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to  1.     Define operative autonomy and its educational value in surgical training 2.     Identify barriers to providing resident autonomy in modern surgical environments 3.     Discuss strategies for tailoring autonomy to the skill level and readiness of the trainee 4.     Describe approaches to communicating resident involvement to patients References 1.     Sehat AJ, Oliver JB, Yu Y, Kunac A, Anjaria DJ. Declining Surgical Resident Operative Autonomy in Acute Care Surgical Cases. J Surg Res. 2023;281(k7b, 0376340):328-334. doi:10.1016/j.jss.2022.08.041 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36240719/ 2.     Teman NR, Gauger PG, Mullan PB, Tarpley JL, Minter RM. Entrustment of General Surgery Residents in the Operating Room: Factors Contributing to Provision of Resident Autonomy. J Am Coll Surg. 2014;219(4):778-787. doi:10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2014.04.019 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25158911/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join the Behind the Knife Surgical Oncology Team as we discuss the two key studies investigating optimal management strategies of neuroendocrine tumors of the small bowel. Hosts: - Timothy Vreeland, MD, FACS (@vreelant) is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Surgical Oncologist at Brooke Army Medical Center - Daniel Nelson, DO, FACS (@usarmydoc24) is Surgical Oncologist/HPB surgeon at Kaiser LAMC in Los Angeles. - Connor Chick, MD (@connor_chick) is a 2nd Year Surgical Oncology fellow at Ohio State University. - Lexy (Alexandra) Adams, MD, MPH (@lexyadams16) is a 1st Year Surgical Oncology fellow at MD Anderson. - Beth (Elizabeth) Barbera, MD (@elizcarpenter16) is a PGY-6 General Surgery resident at Brooke Army Medical Center Learning Objectives: In this episode we review two important papers that discuss optimal management strategies of neuroendocrine tumors (NET) of the small bowel.  The first paper by Singh and colleagues discusses the NETTER-2 trial investigating the role of radioligand therapy for NET as a first-line treatment.  The second article by Maxwell et all challenges surgical dogma regarding optimal debulking cutoffs for debulking of NET. Links to Papers Referenced in this Episode: 1.     Singh S, Halperin D, Myrehaug S, Herrmann K, Pavel M, Kunz PL, Chasen B, Tafuto S, Lastoria S, Capdevila J, García-Burillo A, Oh DY, Yoo C, Halfdanarson TR, Falk S, Folitar I, Zhang Y, Aimone P, de Herder WW, Ferone D; all the NETTER-2 Trial Investigators. [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE plus long-acting octreotide versus high‑dose long-acting octreotide for the treatment of newly diagnosed, advanced grade 2-3, well-differentiated, gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NETTER-2): an open-label, randomised, phase 3 study. Lancet. 2024 Jun 29;403(10446):2807-2817. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(24)00701-3. Epub 2024 Jun 5. PMID: 38851203. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38851203/ 2.     Maxwell JE, Sherman SK, O'Dorisio TM, Bellizzi AM, Howe JR. Liver-directed surgery of neuroendocrine metastases: What is the optimal strategy? Surgery. 2016 Jan;159(1):320-33. doi: 10.1016/j.surg.2015.05.040. Epub 2015 Oct 9. PMID: 26454679; PMCID: PMC4688152. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26454679/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

You have a patient with complicated diverticulitis s/p IR drain with colo-cutaneous fistula and colo-vaginal fistula. They are scheduled for surgery. How will you do it? What is the role for hand assist? How can hand assist help? Tune in to find out! Join Drs. Peter Marcello, Jonathan Abelson, and Tess Aulet as they discuss high yield papers discussing hand assist laparoscopy in Colon and Rectal surgery.  Learning Objectives 1. Describe the technical considerations and how to do hand assist laparoscopic surgery (HALS) 2. Discuss the indications for use of HALS 3. Review literature supporting use of HALS   References: Marcello PW, Fleshman JW, Milsom JW, Read TE, Arnell TD, Birnbaum EH, Feingold DL, Lee SW, Mutch MG, Sonoda T, Yan Y, Whelan RL. Hand-assisted laparoscopic vs. laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a multicenter, prospective, randomized trial. Dis Colon Rectum. 2008 Jun;51(6):818-26; discussion 826-8. doi: 10.1007/s10350-008-9269-5. Epub 2008 Apr 17. PMID: 18418653. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18418653/ Jacobs C, Read TE. "Peek port": avoiding conversion during laparoscopic colectomy-an update. Surg Endosc. 2020 Sep;34(9):3944-3948. doi: 10.1007/s00464-019-07165-3. Epub 2019 Oct 4. PMID: 31586252. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31586252/ Heneghan HM, Martin ST, Kiran RP, Khoury W, Stocchi L, Remzi FH, Vogel JD. Laparoscopic colorectal surgery for obese patients: decreased conversions with the hand-assisted technique. J Gastrointest Surg. 2013 Mar;17(3):548-54. doi: 10.1007/s11605-012-2089-x. Epub 2012 Nov 27. PMID: 23188222. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23188222/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Intern year: where the learning curve is steep and you're not sure if the patient is crashing or you are. In this episode of Behind the Knife, our surgical education fellows reflect on what they wish they had known before Day 1—and all the humbling, hilarious, and genuinely formative moments along the way. From getting lost wheeling a critical patient through the hospital, to triple-scrubbing just to be acknowledged, to accidentally spraying TPA into your own eye (yes, really)—this episode is a candid conversation about the highs, lows, and everything in between. Whether you're gearing up to start your intern year or reflecting on how far you've come, this is the episode we all needed. Hosts:  Elizabeth Maginot, MD – General Surgery Resident, University of Nebraska Medical Center  @e_magination95 Nina Clark, MD – General Surgery Resident, University of Washington @clarkninam Ayman Ali, MD – General Surgery Resident, Duke University Michelle LaBella, MD – General Surgery Resident, University of North Carolina Emma Burke, MD – General Surgery Resident, Baylor College of Medicine @emmaburke017 Learning Objectives: Identify common misconceptions about intern year—and how to manage expectations Understand how to approach early mistakes with humility and resilience Recognize the importance of teamwork and asking for help Reflect on what makes a strong, dependable intern References BTK Intern Survival Guide: https://app.behindtheknife.org/podcast-series/medical-student-and-intern-survival-guide Institutional pharmacists (seriously, call them—they're the unsung heroes) Check out our Medical Student and Intern Survival Guide HERE: https://app.behindtheknife.org/podcast-series/medical-student-and-intern-survival-guide

This new series will be a collaboration between BTK and Annals of Surgery, where we will be discussing hot topics in surgery research. No, we won't be getting into the nitty gritty of methods of individual papers but rather will focus on high-level discussions of contemporary topics that are moving our field forward. Hosts: Cody Mullens, MD is a general surgery resident at the University of Michigan, current Behind the Knife Surgery Education Fellow. (@Cody_Mullens) Justin B. Dimick, MD MPH is the Fredrick A Coller Distinguished Professor and Chair of Surgery at the University of Michigan. He also serves as the Editor in Chief at Annals of Surgery. (@jdimick1) Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

The evidence for climate change is irrefutable. But how does surgical care contribute to global emissions, and is there anything we can do to make surgery more sustainable? Join Jon Williams and our ASGBI partners for the next installment of our BTK/ASGBI collaborative series, where we discuss how to make surgical care greener. Mrs. Cleo Kennington from the UK and Dr. Benjamin Miller from the US are our guest experts, and provide valuable insights into local sustainability efforts you can take home to your hospital, broader concepts of how high-quality care is sustainable, innovations in sustainability, and what the future of sustainable surgery may look like. After listening, you get to decide–Who has more sustainable surgical practices? The UK or US? Mrs. Cleo Kenington is a Consultant Emergency General and Trauma Surgeon at St George's Hospital, London and was the recent ASGBI Sustainability Lead. She is a big advocate for practicing what she preaches, focusing on how we can reduce the environmental impact at all stages, from cycling to work, preventing complications and unnecessary surgeries, to reducing the use of disposable surgical components.  Dr. Benjamin Miller is a general and minimally invasive surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic, with a clinical focus on complex abdominal wall reconstruction. After earning his MD from University of Minnesota School of Medicine in 2011, Dr. Miller went to Nashville to complete his general surgery residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Following this, he became a MIS/complex ab wall fellow at Cleveland Clinic, after which he joined as faculty in 2023. In addition to his clinical interests, Dr. Miller has a deep passion for sustainability efforts within surgical practice, carrying on the legacy of established sustainability efforts within surgical care at Cleveland Clinic and training the next generation of sustainable surgeons. If you enjoyed this episode, stay tuned for more upcoming BTK/ASGBI collaborative content. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us at hello@behindtheknife.org. Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join Drs. Michael Rosen, Benjamin T. Miller, Sara Maskal, and Ryan Ellis as they review mesh materials used in hernia repair and the general properties surgeons who perform hernia repairs should know.  Hosts:    - Sara Maskal, MD, Cleveland Clinic  - Ryan Ellis, MD, Cleveland Clinic - Benjamin T. Miller, MD, Cleveland Clinic  - Michael Rosen, MD, Cleveland Clinic  Learning Objectives:   - Understand common mesh materials  - Review properties of the different mesh materials - Understand how to apply knowledge of the different mesh properties to different patient scenarios References:  - Ellis R, Miller BT. Mesh selection in abdominal wall reconstruction: an update on biomaterials. Surgical Clinics. 2023 Oct 1;103(5):1019-28. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37709387/ - Krpata DM, Petro CC, Prabhu AS, Tastaldi L, Zolin S, Fafaj A, Rosenblatt S, Poulose BK, Pierce RA, Warren JA, Carbonell AM. Effect of hernia mesh weights on postoperative patient-related and clinical outcomes after open ventral hernia repair: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA surgery. 2021 Dec 1;156(12):1085-92. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34524395/ - Rosen MJ, Krpata DM, Petro CC, Carbonell A, Warren J, Poulose BK, Costanzo A, Tu C, Blatnik J, Prabhu AS. Biologic vs synthetic mesh for single-stage repair of contaminated ventral hernias: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA surgery. 2022 Apr 1;157(4):293-301. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35044431/ - Maskal S, Miller B, Ellis R, Phillips S, Prabhu A, Beffa L, Krpata D, Rosenblatt S, Rosen M, Petro C. Mediumweight polypropylene mesh fractures after open retromuscular ventral hernia repair: incidence and associated risk factors. Surgical Endoscopy. 2023 Jul;37(7):5438-43. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37038022/ - Harris HW, Primus F, Young C, Carter JT, Lin M, Mukhtar RA, Yeh B, Allen IE, Freise C, Kim E, Sbitany H. Preventing recurrence in clean and contaminated hernias using biologic versus synthetic mesh in ventral hernia repair: the PRICE randomized clinical trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33443907/ - Olavarria OA, Bernardi K, Dhanani NH, Lyons NB, Harvin JA, Millas SG, Ko TC, Kao LS, Liang MK. Synthetic versus biologic mesh for complex open ventral hernia repair: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Surgical Infections. 2021 Jun 1;22(5):496-503. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33259771/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Welcome back to our series on AI for the clinician! Large language models, like ChatGPT, have been taking the world by storm, and healthcare is no exception to that rule – your institution may already be using them! In this episode we'll tackle the fundamentals of how they work and their applications and limitations to keep you up to date on this fast-moving, exciting technology. Hosts: Ayman Ali, MD Ayman Ali is a Behind the Knife fellow and general surgery PGY-3 at Duke Hospital in his academic development time where he focuses on data science, artificial intelligence, and surgery. Ruchi Thanawala, MD: @Ruchi_TJ Ruchi Thanawala is an Assistant Professor of Informatics and Thoracic Surgery at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) and founder of Firefly, an AI-driven platform that is built for competency-based medical education. In addition, she directs the Surgical Data and Decision Sciences Lab for the Department of Surgery at OHSU.  Phillip Jenkins, MD: @PhilJenkinsMD Phil Jenkins is a general surgery PGY-3 at Oregon Health and Science University and a National Library of Medicine Post-Doctoral fellow pursuing a master's in clinical informatics. Steven Bedrick, PhD: @stevenbedrick Steven Bedrick is a machine learning researcher and an Associate Professor in Oregon Health and Science University's Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology. Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Mastering the surgical consult is a true milestone in every young surgeon's career.  But it's not easy!  It is a difficult transition from lowly data gatherer to mighty data synthesizer.  It is, in many ways, an art form.  Is there anything more beautiful than breaking down a complex, convoluted patient presentation into an immaculate assessment and plan?  Something so bullet proof that the attending surgeon has been left speechless.  Perhaps not!  Join Drs. Joey Lew and Patrick Georgoff as they review 10 CONSULT COMMANDMENTS TO DOMINATE THE DAY: Have a System Trust No One, Expect Sabotage Always Ask at Least One Why Always Look at the Imaging Yourself Don't Worry Alone Don't Bury the Lead Never Lie Include a Real Assessment and Plan in Your Note Goals of care are important and individual Over-communicate Hosts: Dr. Joey Lew, MD, MFA, PGY2, Duke University (@LewActually) Dr. Patrick Georgoff, MD, Duke University (@georgoff) Insensible Losses – Poems by Joey Lew: https://www.amazon.com/Insensible-Losses-Joey-Lew/dp/B0D773LSHL Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In this episode, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of ambient listening AI in healthcare. From outpatient clinics to inpatient wards and operating rooms, this technology is reshaping how care is delivered, documented, and experienced. We explore how ambient listening AI is improving clinic flow by streamlining documentation and reducing interruptions, allowing clinicians to stay more present with their patients. The technology is increasingly adaptive to individual provider styles, learning preferences and workflows to deliver more personalized support. Plus, we share practical tips for new users to get the most out of their ambient listening AI systems from day one. Join us as we hear from experts on the front lines and debate the future of ambient listening AI in medicine—where the walls really do have ears, but for all the right reasons. Host:  - Nicole Petcka, MD – General Surgery Resident, Emory University, @npetcka2022 Guests:  - Samuel R. Torres Landa Fernández, MD – Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellow, Emory University  - Anastasios Nikolaos (Nick​) Panagopoulos, MD – Internal Medicine Resident, Emory University  - Joe Sharma, MD - McGarity Chair in Endocrine Surgery and Professor of Surgery, Vice-chair for Patient Safety, Quality and Innovation, Emory University  Resources:  Enhancing Accuracy of Operative Reports with Automated Artificial Intelligence Analysis of Surgical Video Khanna A, Wolf T, Frank I, Krueger A, Shah P, Sharma V, Gettman MT, Boorjian SA, Asselmann D, Tollefson MK. Enhancing Accuracy of Operative Reports with Automated Artificial Intelligence Analysis of Surgical Video. J Am Coll Surg. 2025 May 1;240(5):739-746. doi: 10.1097/XCS.0000000000001352. Epub 2025 Apr 16. PMID: 39918224. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39918224/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join the University of Washington Surgical Palliative Care Team for their final episode of this series — a dual journal review and clinical challenges discussion on assessing medical decision-making capacity. Using Dr. Paul Applebaum's foundational framework, the team outlines the four key criteria for evaluating capacity and brings the topic to life through two contrasting standardized patient scenarios. This episode highlights why capacity assessment is not only relevant but essential for surgeons navigating complex, high-stakes decisions.  Hosts:  Dr. Katie O'Connell (@katmo15) is an associate professor of surgery at the University of Washington. She is a trauma surgeon, palliative care physician, director of surgical palliative care, and founder of the Advance Care Planning for Surgery clinic at Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Dr. Ali Haruta is an assistant professor of surgery at the University of Washington. She is a trauma and emergency general surgeon and palliative care physician. Ali recently completed fellowships in palliative care at the University of Washington and Trauma and Critical Care at Parkland.  Dr. Lindsay Dickerson (@lindsdickerson1) is a PGY6 general surgery resident at the University of Washington with an interest in surgical oncology.   Dr. Virginia Wang is a PGY3 general surgery resident at the University of Washington. Learning Objectives: 1.        Decipher the distinction between the terms “capacity” and “competence”.   2.        Describe the four criteria for assessing medical decision-making capacity presented in Dr. Paul Applebaum's article “Assessment of Patients' Competence to Consent to Treatment.” 3.        Apply the capacity assessment framework to real-world clinical scenarios in surgical practice.  References: 1.        Applebaum, PS. Assessment of Patients' Competence to Consent to Treatment. New England Journal of Medicine 2007; 357(18):1834-1840. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17978292/ 2.        Special thank you to Mr. Mark Fox for his acting contribution to this episode. Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In their last Behind the Knife episode, the Hernia Content Team from Carolinas Medical Center discusses quality improvement in abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). The complexity of AWR patients makes this discipline a perfect match for quality improvement efforts. The group review two papers published by their group: one that tracks patient outcomes over time and then another that reviews a specific quality improvement initiative (penicillin allergy protocol).  Hosts: ·      Dr. Sullivan “Sully” Ayuso, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Endeavor Health (Evanston, IL), @SAyusoMD (Twitter) ·      Dr. Monica Polcz, Assistant Professor, University of South Florida (Tampa, FL) ·      Dr. Vedra Augenstein, Professor of Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center (Charlotte, NC), @VedraAugenstein (Twitter) ·      Dr. Todd Heniford, Chief of GI & MIS, Carolinas Medical Center (Charlotte, NC), @THeniford (Twitter) Learning Objectives: -       Define Quality Improvement and its Importance in Surgical Practice -       Identify Key Strategies and Examples of Quality Improvement Initiatives in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction -       Explain the Process of Implementing and Evaluating a Quality Improvement Project -       Recognize the Value of Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Quality Improvement Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Welcome to our new series – the AI Journal Club! In this series, we'll cover some interesting studies and evidence-based applications of artificial intelligence in surgery in a case-based format. Surely AI can find a DVT by now … or can it? Stay tuned and find out! Hosts: - Ayman Ali, MD Ayman Ali is a Behind the Knife fellow and general surgery PGY-3 at Duke Hospital in his academic development time where he focuses on data science, artificial intelligence, and surgery. - Ruchi Thanawala, MD: @Ruchi_TJ Ruchi Thanawala is an Assistant Professor of Informatics and Thoracic Surgery at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) and founder of Firefly, an AI-driven platform that is built for competency-based medical education. In addition, she directs the Surgical Data and Decision Sciences Lab for the Department of Surgery at OHSU.  - Marisa Sewell, MD: @MarisaSewell Marisa Sewell is a general surgery PGY-4 at Oregon Health and Science University.  Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

It is the final episode of our Challenging Cases in Emergency General Surgery series and we're diving into another dreaded topic: the complex abdominal wall. This structure is a daily partner to the general surgeon—but when things go wrong, it can quickly become our biggest challenge. In this episode, we'll walk through the emergency presentation of a patient with multiple prior hernia repairs and mesh placements, and how these complicate diagnosis and management. From imaging pearls to OR decision-making and post-op dilemmas, this episode covers it all.  We round things off with a fun game (as always!) and some hot takes on abdominal wall strategies in emergency general surgery. Whether you're an EGS surgeon, trainee, or surgical enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical insights, decision-making frameworks, and real-world nuance. Hosts: - Dr. Ashlie Nadler - Dr. Jordan Nantais - Dr. Graham Skelhorne-Gross Learning Objectives: - Identify key factors to assess in patients presenting with complex abdominal wall problems, including detailed surgical history, hernia characteristics, and signs of complications. - Discuss the role of imaging, particularly CT scans, in evaluating patients with ventral hernias and bowel obstruction, with a focus on identifying transition points and signs of strangulation. - Outline the surgical approach to incarcerated incisional ventral hernias, including pre-operative considerations, operative techniques, and management of threatened bowel. - Recognize the importance of patient-specific factors and interdisciplinary collaboration in the management of complex abdominal wall cases, including the role of pre-habilitation and hernia specialists. Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

We got the gang together (minus John, who is on mission).  Today, we are talking about diverticulitis with super expert Scott Steele.  Scott walks Jason, Patrick, and Kevin through the nuances of modern-day management of diverticulitis.   We cover laparoscopic lavage, review decision making for surgical resection after drainage, and discuss the evolving role of antibiotics in uncomplicated cases. Surgical techniques, including resection boundaries and the consideration of diverting ostomies in emergent situations, are also reviewed.  DOMINATE THE COLON! Hosts Scott Steele, MD: @ScottRSteeleMD Scott is the Rupert B. Turnbull MD Endowed Chair in Colorectal Surgery and Chairman of Colorectal Surgery at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, OH. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, he was an active duty Army officer for over 20 years, serving as the Chief of Colorectal Surgery at Madigan Army Medical Center. He also received his MBA from Case Western University Weatherhead School of Business and Management. Patrick Georgoff, MD: @georgoff Patrick Georgoff is an Acute Care Surgeon at Duke University.  He went to medical school at the University of Pennsylvania, completed General Surgery residency and Surgical Critical Care fellowship at the University of Michigan, and a Trauma Surgery fellowship at the University of Texas in Houston.  His clinical practice includes the full spectrum of Acute Care Surgery in addition to elective hernia surgery.  Patrick is the Associate Program of the General Surgery Residency and associate Trauma Medical Director at Duke. Kevin Kniery, MD: @Kniery_Bird Kevin is a vascular surgeon at Brooke Army Medical Center. He completed his undergraduate degree at the United States Military Academy in West Point, medical school at Tulane University, general surgery residency at Madigan Army Medical Center, and vascular fellowship at Cornell and Columbia. Jason Bingham, MD: @BinghamMd Jason is a general and bariatric surgeon at Madigan Army Medical Center. He also serves as the Director of Research and Associate Program Director for the general surgery residency program. He received his undergraduate degree from New York University and medical degree at the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences. He is a medical officer in the US Army with several combat deployments under his belt. Jason's research efforts focus on the management of hemorrhagic shock, trauma induced coagulopathy, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In our recent episode on global burn surgery with Dr. Barclay Stewart and Dr. Manish Yadav, we discussed several cases at Kirtipur Hospital in Nepal to illustrate the global burden of burns and similarities and differences in treating burns at Harborview Medical Center, a level 1 trauma and ABA verified burn center in Seattle, WA and Kirtipur Hospital (Nepal Cleft and Burn Center) in Kathmandu, Nepal. In this episode Dr. Stewart and Dr. Yadav return for an interview by UW Surgery Resident, Paul Herman, sharing insights on how to get involved in global surgery with an emphasis on sustainable participation. Hosts:  Manish Yadav, Kirtipur Hospital, Nepal Barclay Stewart, UW/Harborview Medical Center Paul Herman, UW/Harborview General Surgery Resident, @paul_herm  Tam Pham, UW/Harborview Medical Center (Editor) Learning Objectives 1.     Approaches to global surgery  a.     Describe historical perspectives on global health and global surgery reviewing biases global surgery inherits from global health due to the history of colonialism, neo-colonialism and systemic inequalities b.     Review a recently published framework and evaluation metrics for sustainable global surgery partnerships (GSPs) as described by Binda et al., in Annals of Surgery in March 2024. c.      Provide examples of this framework from a successful global surgery partnership d.     Define vertical, horizontal and diagonal global surgery approaches e.     Share tips for initial engagement for individuals interested in getting involved in global surgery References 1.     Gosselin, R., Charles, A., Joshipura, M., Mkandawire, N., Mock, C. N. , et. al. 2015. “Surgery and Trauma Care”. In: Disease Control Priorities (third edition): Volume 1, Essential Surgery, edited by H. Debas, P. Donkor, A. Gawande, D. T. Jamison, M. Kruk, C. N. Mock. Washington, DC: World Bank. 2.     Qin R, Alayande B, Okolo I, Khanyola J, Jumbam DT, Koea J, Boatin AA, Lugobe HM, Bump J. Colonisation and its aftermath: reimagining global surgery. BMJ Glob Health. 2024 Jan 4;9(1):e014173. doi: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-014173. PMID: 38176746; PMCID: PMC10773343. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38176746/ 3.     Binda CJ, Adams J, Livergant R, Lam S, Panchendrabose K, Joharifard S, Haji F, Joos E. Defining a Framework and Evaluation Metrics for Sustainable Global Surgical Partnerships: A Modified Delphi Study. Ann Surg. 2024 Mar 1;279(3):549-553. doi: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000006058. Epub 2023 Aug 4. PMID: 37539584; PMCID: PMC10829902.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37539584/ 4.     Jedrzejko N, Margolick J, Nguyen JH, Ding M, Kisa P, Ball-Banting E, Hameed M, Joos E. A systematic review of global surgery partnerships and a proposed framework for sustainability. Can J Surg. 2021 Apr 28;64(3):E280-E288. doi: 10.1503/cjs.010719. PMID: 33908733; PMCID: PMC8327986. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33908733/ 5.     Frenk J, Gómez-Dantés O, Knaul FM: The health systems agenda: prospects for the diagonal approach. The handbook of global health policy. 2014 Apr 24; pp. 425–439 6.     Davé DR, Nagarjan N, Canner JK, Kushner AL, Stewart BT; SOSAS4 Research Group. Rethinking burns for low & middle-income countries: Differing patterns of burn epidemiology, care seeking behavior, and outcomes across four countries. Burns. 2018 Aug;44(5):1228-1234. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2018.01.015. Epub 2018 Feb 21. PMID: 29475744. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29475744/ 7.     Strain, S., Adjei, E., Edelman, D. et al. The current landscape of global international surgical rotations for general surgery residents in the United States: a survey by the Association for Program Directors in Surgery's (APDS) global surgery taskforce. Global Surg Educ 3, 77 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44186-024-00273-2 8.     Francalancia S, Mehta K, Shrestha R, Phuyal D, Bikash D, Yadav M, Nakarmi K, Rai S, Sharar S, Stewart BT, Fudem G. Consumer focus group testing with stakeholders to generate an enteral resuscitation training flipbook for primary health center and first-level hospital providers in Nepal. Burns. 2024 Jun;50(5):1160-1173. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.02.008. Epub 2024 Feb 15. PMID: 38472005; PMCID: PMC11116054. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38472005/ 9.     Shrestha R, Mehta K, Mesic A, Dahanayake D, Yadav M, Rai S, Nakarmi K, Bista P, Pham T, Stewart BT. Barriers and facilitators to implementing enteral resuscitation for major burn injuries: Reflections from Nepalese care providers. Burns. 2024 Oct 28;51(1):107302. doi: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.107302. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39577105. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39577105/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Surgical conferences are a forum of the profession–where we all gather to socialize, share clinical experiences, promote academic work, and learn from each other. But what goes into putting these conferences together? In this next installment of the BTK/ASGBI collaborative series, Jon Williams and ASGBI co-hosts Kellie Bateman and Jared Wohlgemut welcome Mr. Dimitrios Damaskos from Edinburgh and Dr. Anne Lidor from the University of Wisconsin to take a look behind the scenes of conference planning. We'll cover logistics, program selection, how surgical societies strive to support their members and trainees, and much more! Mr Dimitrios Damaskos, initially from Greece, he came to the UK for his fellowship and is a UGI and Emergency General Surgical Consultant with an interest in abdominal wall surgery based in The Royal Infirmary Edinburgh. He is the current Director of Scientific Programme for ASGBI and responsible for organising our main International Congress which this year happens to be in Edinburgh. He has also held numerous other events for surgical societies including the British Hernia Society. Dr. Lidor serves as the program chair for the Society for American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (i.e. SAGES), which is a wide-reaching US-based international surgical society that encompasses many facets of general surgery. The SAGES Annual Meeting was just last month, and is a great opportunity for surgeons to convene and share clinical experiences, academic work, and professionally connect. Dr. Lidor completed medical school at the New York Medical College, and then moved on to George Washington University for general surgery residency training. Following residency, she moved to Baltimore to Johns Hopkins where she completed her MIS/Bariatric Surgery fellowship and subsequently stayed on as a faculty surgeon. After years at Hopkins during which she held many education leadership roles both at the medical school and as fellowship director, she moved to the University of Wisconsin to become Chief of Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery, a role she continues to hold today.  If you enjoyed this episode, stay tuned for more upcoming BTK/ASGBI collaborative content. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us at hello@behindtheknife.org.  Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Hey APPs - Are you ready to DOMINATE surgery?  Well let's go!  Perform at the highest level on day one of your rotation using our easy to navigate text, tables, flashcards, podcasts, and videos.  Go beyond rote memorization and learn what really matters.  We are talking practical, high-yield, and engaging content all available at your fingertips.  Get the information you need to know FAST.  Whether it's learning how to two-hand tie, work up a patient with a colon mass, or organizing yourself for rounds, Behind the Knife has got you covered.    Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation Course Link: https://app.behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation

Hey APPs - Are you ready to DOMINATE surgery?  Well let's go!  Perform at the highest level on day one of your rotation using our easy to navigate text, tables, flashcards, podcasts, and videos.  Go beyond rote memorization and learn what really matters.  We are talking practical, high-yield, and engaging content all available at your fingertips.  Get the information you need to know FAST.  Whether it's learning how to two-hand tie, work up a patient with a colon mass, or organizing yourself for rounds, Behind the Knife has got you covered.    Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation Course Link: https://app.behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation

Hey APPs - Are you ready to DOMINATE surgery?  Well let's go!  Perform at the highest level on day one of your rotation using our easy to navigate text, tables, flashcards, podcasts, and videos.  Go beyond rote memorization and learn what really matters.  We are talking practical, high-yield, and engaging content all available at your fingertips.  Get the information you need to know FAST.  Whether it's learning how to two-hand tie, work up a patient with a colon mass, or organizing yourself for rounds, Behind the Knife has got you covered.    Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation Course Link: https://app.behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation

In this episode, the Surgical Endoscopy team, accompanied by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Brian Dunkin of Boston Scientific, review primary and revisional endoscopic treatment options for bariatric patients. They focus on the emerging data available for procedures such as endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) and endoscopic gastrojejunal revision (EGJR) and offer technical tips on how to perform the procedures. In addition, they discuss accessibility challenges for patients and provide insight into the future direction of bariatric endoscopy as a field.  Hosts: ·      Dr. Sullivan “Sully” Ayuso, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Endeavor Health (Evanston, IL), @SAyusoMD (Twitter) ·      Dr. Trevor Crafts, Minimally Invasive Surgeon, Rocky Mountain VA Medical Center (Denver, CO), @CraftsTrevor (Twitter)  ·      Dr. H. Masson Hedberg, Minimally Invasive Surgeon, Endeavor Health (Evanston, IL) ·      Dr. Michael Ujiki, Professor and Louis Biegler Chair of Surgery, Endeavor Health (Evanston, IL), @UjikiMike ·      Dr. Brian Dunkin, Chief Medical Officer at Boston Scientific, @briandunkinmd Learning Objectives:  -       Identify and Describe Common Endobariatric Procedures: Learners will be able to name and briefly describe at least three common endobariatric procedures discussed in the episode, including Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG), Endoscopic GJ Revisions (Transoral Outlet Reduction - TORR/EGJR), and Intragastric Balloons, along with their historical context and evolution. -       Explain the Mechanism and Benefits of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG): Learners will be able to articulate the procedural technique of ESG, including the U-shaped suture pattern, its impact on gastric volume reduction, and the proposed mechanisms of weight loss, such as slowed gastric emptying and hormonal changes, as compared to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. -       Discuss the Role of Technology and Training in Endobariatrics: Learners will be able to explain the significance of endoscopic suturing devices like the Overstitch in the advancement of endobariatric procedures and recognize the importance of specialized training, including the recommendations against fundal suturing for safety during the initial learning curve. -       Compare and Contrast Endobariatric Procedures with Surgical and Pharmacological Obesity Treatments: Learners will be able to discuss the position of endobariatric procedures as a "gap therapy" in the spectrum of obesity treatments, highlighting their benefits such as reduced invasiveness, lower complication rates, faster recovery, and increased patient access compared to surgery, as well as their potential role in conjunction with pharmacologic therapies like GLP-1 agonists. -       Recognize Key Considerations and Potential Complications of Endobariatric Procedures: Learners will be able to identify important technical considerations during ESG, such as achieving full-thickness bites while avoiding injury to adjacent organs, and describe common post-procedure issues associated with intragastric balloons, including nausea, vomiting, and the need for general anesthesia during removal. Discontinuation and Reinitiation of Dual-Labeled GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Among US Adults With Overweight or Obesity: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39888616/ Surgical Endoscopy Series Ep. 1: An Introduction to Surgical Endoscopy: https://app.behindtheknife.org/podcast/surgical-endoscopy-series-ep-1-an-introduction-to-surgical-endoscopy Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Thinking about doing an away rotation? In this episode of Behind the Knife, we break down everything you need to know about away rotations and sub-internships. From how to apply and what to expect to making a great impression and building connections, we've got you covered. Plus, we discuss whether you should even do an away rotation at all and how to decide if it's the right move for your application. We're joined by a fantastic and diverse group of general surgery residents who share their insights, tips, and experiences. Episode Hosts: –Dr. Josh Roshal, University of Texas Medical Branch, @Joshua_Roshal, jaroshal@utmb.edu –Dr. Colleen McDermott, University of Utah, @ColleenMcDMD, Colleen.McDermott@hsc.utah.edu –Dr. Sophia Williams-Perez, Baylor College of Medicine, @SophWPerez, Sophia.Williams-Perez@bcm.edu –CoSEF: @surgedfellows, cosef.org Guests:  Dr. Steven Thornton, Duke University Medical Center, @swthorntonjr swt12@duke.edu Dr. Nicole Santucci, Washing University in St. Louis, @nicolemsantucci  snicole@wustl.edu Abbas Karim, MS3, University of Texas Medical Branch, @_AbbasKarim aakarim@utmb.edu Reagan Collins, MS4, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, @ReaganACollins, reagan.collins@ttuhsc.edu Dr. Annie Hierl, Indiana University, @annie_hierl ahierl@iu.edu  Dr. Jorge Zarate Rodriguez, Washington University in St Louis, @jzaraterod, j.zarate@wustl.edu  References: McDermott CE, Anand A, Brian R, Gan C, L'Huillier JC, Lund S, Sathe T, Silvestri C, Woodward JM. Should I Do a General Surgery Away Rotation?: Perspectives From the Collaboration of Surgical Education Research Fellows (CoSEF). Ann Surg Open. 2024 Dec 3;5(4):e509. doi: 10.1097/AS9.0000000000000509. PMID: 39711667; PMCID: PMC11661735. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39711667/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  

Listen as we discuss the highly-awaited ESOPEC trial, which examines treatment regimens for esophageal and EGJ adenocarcinoma. Wildly impress your thoracic attendings or peers with your nuanced knowledge! FLOT who? You'll know. Pull out the paper and listen along! Learning Objectives: -Discuss the patient population in the ESOPEC trial -Discuss the main differences between the ESOPEC trial and the CROSS trial -Describe the main drawbacks between FLOT and the CROSS regimen. Hosts: Chloe Hanson MD, Brian Louie MD, and Peter White MD   Referenced Material https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2409408 Hoeppner J, Brunner T, Schmoor C, Bronsert P, Kulemann B, Claus R, Utzolino S, Izbicki JR, Gockel I, Gerdes B, Ghadimi M, Reichert B, Lock JF, Bruns C, Reitsamer E, Schmeding M, Benedix F, Keck T, Folprecht G, Thuss-Patience P, Neumann UP, Pascher A, Imhof D, Daum S, Strieder T, Krautz C, Zimmermann S, Werner J, Mahlberg R, Illerhaus G, Grimminger P, Lordick F. Perioperative Chemotherapy or Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy in Esophageal Cancer. N Engl J Med. 2025 Jan 23;392(4):323-335. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2409408. PMID: 39842010. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1112088 van Hagen P, Hulshof MC, van Lanschot JJ, Steyerberg EW, van Berge Henegouwen MI, Wijnhoven BP, Richel DJ, Nieuwenhuijzen GA, Hospers GA, Bonenkamp JJ, Cuesta MA, Blaisse RJ, Busch OR, ten Kate FJ, Creemers GJ, Punt CJ, Plukker JT, Verheul HM, Spillenaar Bilgen EJ, van Dekken H, van der Sangen MJ, Rozema T, Biermann K, Beukema JC, Piet AH, van Rij CM, Reinders JG, Tilanus HW, van der Gaast A; CROSS Group. Preoperative chemoradiotherapy for esophageal or junctional cancer. N Engl J Med. 2012 May 31;366(22):2074-84. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1112088. PMID: 22646630. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(18)32557-1/abstract Al-Batran SE, Homann N, Pauligk C, Goetze TO, Meiler J, Kasper S, Kopp HG, Mayer F, Haag GM, Luley K, Lindig U, Schmiegel W, Pohl M, Stoehlmacher J, Folprecht G, Probst S, Prasnikar N, Fischbach W, Mahlberg R, Trojan J, Koenigsmann M, Martens UM, Thuss-Patience P, Egger M, Block A, Heinemann V, Illerhaus G, Moehler M, Schenk M, Kullmann F, Behringer DM, Heike M, Pink D, Teschendorf C, Löhr C, Bernhard H, Schuch G, Rethwisch V, von Weikersthal LF, Hartmann JT, Kneba M, Daum S, Schulmann K, Weniger J, Belle S, Gaiser T, Oduncu FS, Güntner M, Hozaeel W, Reichart A, Jäger E, Kraus T, Mönig S, Bechstein WO, Schuler M, Schmalenberg H, Hofheinz RD; FLOT4-AIO Investigators. Perioperative chemotherapy with fluorouracil plus leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and docetaxel versus fluorouracil or capecitabine plus cisplatin and epirubicin for locally advanced, resectable gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (FLOT4): a randomised, phase 2/3 trial. Lancet. 2019 May 11;393(10184):1948-1957. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(18)32557-1. Epub 2019 Apr 11. PMID: 30982686. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In 2002 a group of surgeons got together and radically changed surgical training forever. They just got together again... They call themselves the Blue Ribbon Committee. When they met in 2002 they addressed critical issues such as residency structure, specialization, work-life balance, and simulation-based training. Now, with rapid advancements in medicine and education, BRC II has revisited these topics and introduced new priorities to ensure that surgical education meets the demands of the modern era. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Steven Stain, co-chair of BRC II and a leader in surgical education. Dr. Stain shares insights into the motivations behind the second committee, its key findings, and how competency-based education, entrustable professional activities (EPAs), and other innovations are shaping the future of surgical training. Join hosts Pooja Varman MD, Judith French PhD, and Jeremy Lipman MD, MHPE for an engaging discussion on what surgical educators, trainees, and institutions need to know about the new recommendations from BRC II and the future of surgical education. Learning Objectives By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to  1.     Under the origins and impact of the first Blue Ribbon Committee (BRC I) 2.     Explain the factors that led to the formation of the BRC II and its major recommendations 3.     Identify challenges and opportunities in modern surgical education 4.     Discuss the role of competency-based education and EPAs in training future surgeons 5.     Recognize how institutions and educators can adapt to BRC II recommendations References 1.     Recommendations on Surgical Education and Training in the United States: 2024. Ann Surg. 2024;280(4):535. doi:10.1097/SLA.0000000000006360 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38814074/ 2.     Blue Ribbon Committee II Advises Sweeping Changes in Surgical Education. ACS. Accessed January 12, 2025. https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/news-publications/news-and-articles/bulletin/2024/may-2024-volume-109-issue-5/blue-ribbon-committee-ii-advises-sweeping-changes-in-surgical-education/ ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join Drs. Galandiuk, Bolshinsky, Kavalukas, and Simon, with guest Dr. Farr Nezhat, as they discuss management, surgical treatment, and outcomes of bowel endometriosis.  Come with us as we learn from expert Dr. Nezhat's experience and discuss the importance of interdisciplinary approach to bowel endometriosis.  Hosts:  - Susan Galandiuk, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, @DCREdInChief - Vladimir Bolshinsky, Peninsula Health, Victoria, Australia, @bolshinskyv - Sandy Kavalukas, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, @sandykava - Hillary Simon, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, @HillaryLSimon Guest Host:  - Farr Nezhat, Nezhat Surgery for Gynecology/Oncology (Cornell/NYU), New York, NY Producer:  -  Manasa Sunkara MS4, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, @manasasunkara12 Learning objectives:  -  Review pathophysiology of endometriosis. - Understand key goals of bowel endometriosis treatment.  - Discuss interdisciplinary surgical care and outcomes of bowel endometriosis.  References:  1.     Tsuei A, Nezhat F, Amirlatifi N, Najmi Z, Nezhat A, Nezhat C. Comprehensive Management of Bowel Endometriosis: Surgical Techniques, Outcomes, and Best Practices. J Clin Med. 2025 Feb 3;14(3):977. doi: 10.3390/jcm14030977 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39941647/ 2.     Bendifallah S, Puchar A, Vesale E, Moawad G, Daraï E, Roman H. Surgical Outcomes after Colorectal Surgery for Endometriosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2021 Mar;28(3):453-466. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2020.08.015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32841755/ 3.     Erdem S, Imboden S, Papadia A, Lanz S, Mueller MD, Gloor B, Worni M. Functional Outcomes After Rectal Resection for Deep Infiltrating Pelvic Endometriosis: Long-term Results. Dis Colon Rectum. 2018 Jun;61(6):733-742. doi: 10.1097/DCR.0000000000001047. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29664797/ 4.     Nasseri Y, Ma R, Fani N, La K, Solis-Pazmino P, Xu V, Siedhoff MT, Wright KN, Schneyer R, Hamilton KM, Barnajian M, Meyer R. The impact of surgeon specialty on surgical outcomes following colorectal resection for endometriosis. Colorectal Dis. 2025 Feb;27(2):e70028. doi: 10.1111/codi.70028.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39949080/ 5.     Chua, Heidi, and Michael J Snyder. "Endometriosis.” ASCRS Textbook of Colon and Rectal Surgery, 4th ed., Springer Nature Switzerland AG, 2022. ASCRS U, www.ascrsu.com/ascrs/view/ASCRS-Textbook-of-Colon-and-Rectal-Surgery/2285036/all/Endometriosis. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

BIG T TRAUMA is back with more TRAUMA PITFALLS!  Join Drs. Teddy Puzio (University of Texas in Houston), Jason Brill (Tripler Army Medical Center), Patrick Georgoff (Duke University, @georgoff) and special guest Dr. Tyler Simpson (Trauma Fellow at Duke University) for a fast-moving, no-nonsense discussion on the many pitfalls you are bound to encounter in the high-stakes world of trauma surgery.  Remember, the eyes do not see what the mind does not know... More from the BIG T series: https://app.behindtheknife.org/podcast-series/big-t-trauma This episode of Big T Trauma was sponsored by Teleflex, a global provider of medical devices. Learn more at teleflex.com and at the Teleflex Trauma and Emergency Medicine LinkedIn page. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

BIG T TRAUMA is back with more TRAUMA PITFALLS!  Join Drs. Teddy Puzio (University of Texas in Houston), Jason Brill (Tripler Army Medical Center), Patrick Georgoff (Duke University, @georgoff) and special guest Dr. Jared Ourieff (Trauma Fellow at University of Texas in Houston) for a fast-moving, no-nonsense discussion on the many pitfalls you are bound to encounter in the high-stakes world of trauma surgery.  Remember, the eyes do not see what the mind does not know... More from the BIG T series: https://app.behindtheknife.org/podcast-series/big-t-trauma This episode of Big T Trauma was sponsored by Teleflex, a global provider of medical devices. Learn more at teleflex.com and at the Teleflex Trauma and Emergency Medicine LinkedIn page. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In the third episode of our rural surgery series, Dr. Cody Mullens meets with Dr. Randy Lehman, a rural general surgeon from Rensselaer, Indiana to discuss rural practice, lifestyle, resources, and tips & tricks for general surgery residents interested in pursuing rural practice. The Rural American Surgeon Podcast and Contact:  https://www.theruralamericansurgeon.com/ The North American Rural Surgery Society: https://www.northamericanrss.org/ ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

In the second episode of our rural surgery series, Dr. Cody Mullens sits down with Dr. Brad Muncy, a 2nd year general surgery resident at Marshall University Rural General Surgery Residency Program and Dr. Jodi Cisco-Goff, an Associate Program Director at Marshall University Rural General Surgery Residency Program to discuss educating and training rural surgeons at Marshall University, the first of its kind training program. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Introducing a new series on rural surgery - In this episode, BTK fellow Dr. Cody Mullens sits down with Dr. Bret Autrey, a general surgery attending at Ludington Hospital in Ludington, MI.  Dr. Autrey is a career rural surgeon who discusses, in detail, rural surgery practice, how it's evolved, and both the upside and challenges of practicing rural general surgery. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Our guest was Julia Zumpano, RD. She is a registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic's Center for Human Nutrition, and her expert insight helped inform the guidelines for two programs featured in the hospital's new wellness and diet coaching app, the Cleveland Clinic Diet app. Both programs aim to educate and empower users in making healthier diet and lifestyle choices. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more. If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Dr. Christian Jones was a trauma and acute care surgeon, and an early innovator in surgical education. Dr. Jones generously participated and promoted Behind The Knife in its early years. He passed away in late 2024, and we spend the first 15 minutes of this episode reflecting on the person he was and the impact he made in surgery. Here is a link to his obituary https://www.peacefulalternatives.com/obituary/christian-jones Dr. Lisa Kodadek is a trauma and acute care surgeon at Yale. She was a resident under Dr. Jones at Johns Hopkins. She shares her insights and gratitude for being able to train under Dr. Jones.  Following the memorial portion of this interview we listen to mock oral cases that Dr. Jones took Kevin Kniery and Woo Do through when they were general surgery residents in 2017.  If you would like to hear more episodes from Dr. Jones, please search his name in our app as there are multiple others to enjoy. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join Patrick Georgoff as he welcomes Dr. Gene Moore and Dr. Ian Roberts, two giants in trauma surgery and epidemiology, to discuss tranexamic acid (TXA) in trauma care. Dr. Moore, a legendary trauma surgeon and researcher, and Dr. Roberts, the architect of the CRASH trials, break down the science, controversies, and practical applications of TXA. They explore who should get TXA, when it should be given, optimal dosing, and its potential risks. With insights from landmark trials like CRASH-2, STAMP, PATCH, and ROC TXA, this episode cuts through the confusion surrounding TXA in trauma and traumatic brain injury. Is early administration the key to saving lives? Should TXA be given intramuscularly prehospital? Tune in as we tackle these critical questions and define the future of TXA in trauma care! This episode of Big T Trauma was sponsored by Teleflex, a global provider of medical devices. Learn more at teleflex.com and at the Teleflex Trauma and Emergency Medicine LinkedIn page. ***Fellowship Application Link: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen BIG T Trauma Series: https://app.behindtheknife.org/podcast-series/big-t-trauma

In this second part of a two-part series on disability insurance, Kevin and Larry delve into the specifics of Guaranteed Standard Issue (GSI) disability insurance. They discuss what GSI is, why it's crucial for residents and fellows, and how to avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize eligibility.

In this first part of a two-part series, Dr. Kevin Kniery interviews Insurance Agent and Certified Financial Planner professional Larry Keller about the fundamentals of disability insurance for physicians, particularly surgeons. They discuss the importance of individual disability policies, key differences between policies, and how to choose the right agent. ***Fellowship Application Form: https://forms.gle/PQgAvGjHrYUqAqTJ9 Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

The Vascular Surgery Subspecialty Team dives into the pressing issue of burnout among vascular surgery trainees. Unveiling surprising statistics and expert insights, they explore the alarming prevalence of burnout, its causes like work-home conflict and physical discomfort, and the protective role of mentorship and a supportive learning environment. With research-backed discussions, they navigate strategies to combat burnout and enhance the well-being of medical professionals. Hosts:  Dr. Bobby Beaulieu is an Assistant Professor of Vascular Surgery at the University of Michigan and the Program Director of the Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency Program as well as the Vascular Surgery Fellowship Program at the University of Michigan. Dr. Frank Davis is an Assistant Professor of Vascular Surgery at the University of Michigan Dr. Drew Braet is a PGY-5 Integrated Vascular Surgery Resident at the University of Michigan Learning Objectives -  Review the definition and prevalence of burnout - Understand the risk factors, including both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, for burnout  - Review the effects of burnout on trainees and attending surgeons References 1.    Hekman KE, Sullivan BP, Bronsert M, Chang KZ, Reed A, Velazquez-Ramirez G, Wohlauer MV; Association of Program Directors in Vascular Surgery Issues Committee. Modifiable risk factors for burnout in vascular surgery trainees. J Vasc Surg. 2021 Jun;73(6):2155-2163.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2020.12.064. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33675887/ 2.    Cui CL, Reilly MA, Pillado EB, Li RD, Eng JS, Grafmuller LE, DiLosa KL, Conway AM, Escobar GA, Shaw PM, Hu YY, Bilimoria KY, Sheahan MG 3rd, Coleman DM. Burnout is not associated with trainee performance on the Vascular Surgery In-Training Exam. J Vasc Surg. 2025 Jan;81(1):243-249.e4. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2024.08.057. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39233022/ 3.    Chia MC, Hu YY, Li RD, Cheung EO, Eng JS, Zhan T, Sheahan MG 3rd, Bilimoria KY, Coleman DM. Prevalence and risk factors for burnout in U.S. vascular surgery trainees. J Vasc Surg. 2022 Jan;75(1):308-315.e4. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2021.06.476.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34298120/ 4.    Davila VJ, Meltzer AJ, Hallbeck MS, Stone WM, Money SR. Physical discomfort, professional satisfaction, and burnout in vascular surgeons. J Vasc Surg. 2019 Sep;70(3):913-920.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2018.11.026.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31279532/ 5.    Pillado E, Li RD, Chia MC, Eng JS, DiLosa K, Grafmuller L, Conway A, Escobar GA, Shaw P, Sheahan MG 3rd, Bilimoria KY, Hu YY, Coleman DM. Reported pain at work is a risk factor for vascular surgery trainee burnout. J Vasc Surg. 2024 May;79(5):1217-1223. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2024.01.003.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38215953/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Do you find yourself saying: “Hey, what's the big idea with that newfangled whole blood in the refrigerator next to the trauma bay?”  Like using whole blood but not sure why?  Don't like using whole blood but not sure why? Join us for a 30 minute power session in whole blood where we try to get you the information you need to know! Hosts: - Michael Cobler-Lichter, MD, PGY4/R2: University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital/Ryder Trauma Center @mdcobler (X/twitter) - Eva Urrechaga, MD, PGY-8, Vascular Surgery Fellow University of Pennsylvania Recent graduate of University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital/Ryder Trauma Center General Surgery Residency @urrechisme (X/twitter) - Eugenia Kwon, MD, Trauma/Surgical Critical Care Attending: Loma Linda University  Recent graduate of University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital/Ryder Trauma Center Trauma/CC Fellowship - Jonathan Meizoso, MD, MSPH Assistant Professor of Surgery, 6 years in practice University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital/Ryder Trauma Center @jpmeizoso (twitter) Learning Objectives: - Describe the proposed benefits of whole blood resuscitation in trauma -  Identify current problems with synthesizing the existing literature on whole blood resuscitation in trauma - Propose needed areas for future research regarding whole blood resuscitation in trauma Quick Hits: 1. There is significant heterogeneity in study design across whole blood resuscitation studies, complicating comparison 2.  There is likely a mortality benefit to whole blood resuscitation in trauma, however this is likely dependent on the specific population 3. Future research directions should focus on prospective randomized work to try and better quantify the exact benefit of whole blood, and determine in which populations this benefit is actually realized References 1.     Hazelton JP, Ssentongo AE, Oh JS, Ssentongo P, Seamon MJ, Byrne JP, Armento IG, Jenkins DH, Braverman MA, Mentzer C, Leonard GC, Perea LL, Docherty CK, Dunn JA, Smoot B, Martin MJ, Badiee J, Luis AJ, Murray JL, Noorbakhsh MR, Babowice JE, Mains C, Madayag RM, Kaafarani HMA, Mokhtari AK, Moore SA, Madden K, Tanner A 2nd, Redmond D, Millia DJ, Brandolino A, Nguyen U, Chinchilli V, Armen SB, Porter JM. Use of Cold-Stored Whole Blood is Associated With Improved Mortality in Hemostatic Resuscitation of Major Bleeding: A Multicenter Study. Ann Surg. 2022 Oct 1;276(4):579-588. doi: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000005603. Epub 2022 Jul 18. PMID: 35848743. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35848743/ 2.     Sperry JL, Cotton BA, Luther JF, Cannon JW, Schreiber MA, Moore EE, Namias N, Minei JP, Wisniewski SR, Guyette FX; Shock, Whole Blood, and Assessment of Traumatic Brain Injury (SWAT) Study Group. Whole Blood Resuscitation and Association with Survival in Injured Patients with an Elevated Probability of Mortality. J Am Coll Surg. 2023 Aug 1;237(2):206-219. doi: 10.1097/XCS.0000000000000708. Epub 2023 Apr 11. PMID: 37039365; PMCID: PMC10344433. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37039365/ 3.     Meizoso JP, Cotton BA, Lawless RA, et al. Whole blood resuscitation for injured patients requiring transfusion: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and practice management guideline from the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma. J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2024;97(3):460-470. doi:10.1097/TA.0000000000004327 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38531812/ Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.   If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listen

Join the BTK crew as they discuss how surgeons maintain relationships despite the demanding nature of their profession. The speakers are surgeons at different career stages (residents, fellows, attendings) and they share tips and tricks for maintaining relationships with significant others, children, parents, and friends. ***Scroll to the bottom and download our Coloring and Activity book for Kids here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/home ***SPECIALTY TEAM APPLICATION LINK: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdX2a_zsiyaz-NwxKuUUa5cUFolWhOw3945ZRFoRcJR1wjZ4w/viewform?usp=sharing Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.

Join the Behind the Knife Bariatric Surgery Team as they kick off 2025 with a crucial discussion on pediatric and adolescent bariatric surgery. Drs. Matt Martin, Adrian Dan and Katherine Cironi delve into the latest ASMBS guidelines, comparing long-term outcomes of gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy in adolescents versus adults. They explore key comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and orthopedic issues, and emphasize the importance of early intervention. This episode also tackles the complex ethical considerations surrounding surgery in this vulnerable population, including consent, multidisciplinary care, and the evolving role of medical therapies like GLP-1 agonists. Show Hosts: - Matthew Martin - Adrian Dan - Katherine Cironi Learning Objectives:  ·  Identify the current ASMBS guidelines for pediatric and adolescent bariatric surgery, including BMI thresholds and associated comorbidities.  ·  Describe common comorbidities seen in the pediatric population eligible for bariatric surgery, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and orthopedic issues.  ·  Compare and contrast long-term outcomes of bariatric surgery (gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy) in adolescents and adults, including remission rates of comorbidities and reoperation rates.  ·  Discuss the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, including psychological and ethical considerations, when evaluating adolescent patients for bariatric surgery.  ·  Explain the ethical framework used in evaluating adolescents for bariatric surgery, including consent/assent, parental involvement, and addressing potential coercion.  ·  Recognize the evolving role of medical management (e.g., GLP-1 agonists) in conjunction with or as an alternative to bariatric surgery in adolescents. Article #1: Inge 2019 – Five-year outcomes of gastric bypass in adolescents as compared with adults https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461610/ - The cumulative effect of sustained severe obesity (BMI >35) from adolescence into adulthood increases the likelihood of diabetes, hypertension, respiratory conditions, kidney dysfunction, walking limitations, and venous edema in legs/feet (when compared to adults that did not report severe obesity in adolescence) - American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) guidelines for adolescents who should be considered for bariatric surgery: BMI is ≥35 with a co-morbidity or if they have a BMI ≥40 (class 3 obesity, 140% of the 95th percentile) - This article utilizes the Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (TEENS LAB) and LABS (adults) databases to evaluate the outcomes of adolescents vs. adults who underwent bariatric surgery Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (2006-2009) - 161 adolescents (13-19 at the time of surgery) with severe obesity (BMI>35) vs 396 adults (25-50 years old at the time of surgery) who have remained obese (BMI>30) since adolescence  - Both groups had the gastric bypass procedure as their primary bariatric operation  - Both groups had unadjusted similar demographics, however, BMI was higher in adolescence (54) when compared to adults (51)  - Results were analyzed using linear mixed and Poisson mixed models to analyze weight and coexisting conditions - After surgery, adolescents were significantly more likely than adults to have remission of type 2 diabetes and hypertension - Increased likelihood of remission of diabetes due to the shorter duration of diabetes, lower baseline glycated Hgb, less use of medications, and increased baseline C-peptide levels  - Increased vascular stiffness in adults along with a longer duration of hypertension make the cessation of hypertension less responsive with surgery in adults  - No significant difference in percent weight changes between adolescents and adults 5 years after surgery  - Both adults and adolescent groups had decreased rates of hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL levels, albeit not significantly different when comparing the two groups  - Of note, the rate of abdominal reoperations was significantly higher among adolescents (20%) than among adults (16%) with cholecystectomy representing nearly half the procedures in both groups - Limitations - At baseline, adults had a high prevalence of both diabetes and hypertension - only 14% of adolescents had diabetes vs 31% of adults  - Only 30% of adolescents had hypertension vs 61% of adults  Article #2: Ryder 2024 – Ten-year outcomes after bariatric surgery in adolescents  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39476348/ - The goal is to discuss the long-term durability of weight loss and remission of coexisting conditions in adolescents after bariatric surgery  - This article utilizes the Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (TEENS LABS) database to evaluate the 10-year outcomes in adolescents who underwent gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy  - 260 adolescents with an average age of 17 years old at the time of surgery (ages ranged from 13-19 years old) - 161 adolescents underwent gastric bypass, 99 adolescents underwent sleeve gastrectomy  - Results were analyzed using propensity score-adjusted linear and generalized mixed models  - At 10 years, the average BMI had decreased significantly with both groups experiencing about a 20% change in BMI on average - To assess comorbidities, both groups were analyzed together -  55% of patients who had DM2 at baseline, were in remission at 10 years - 57% of patients who had HTN at baseline, were in remission at 10 years -  54% of patients who had dyslipidemia at baseline, were in remission at 10 years - Limitations  - Neither of these studies compare surgery to medical management. GLP-1s have shown promise for weight loss management but we need more data in terms of long-term outcomes in co-morbidities like diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia  - Highlighted Outcomes  - Metabolic bariatric surgery is quite effective in the adolescent population  - Adolescents tend to have weight loss that is similar to that of adults and improved resolution of comorbid conditions (DM2, HTN, dyslipidemia) Article #3: Moore 2020 – Development and application of an ethical framework for pediatric metabolic and bariatric surgery evaluation https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33191162/ - The purpose of this paper is to describe the ethical framework that supports the use of metabolic & bariatric surgery (MBS) on the principle of justice, and how providers can conduct a thorough evaluation of patients presenting for these surgeries - Highlights adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and preadolescent children who pose more ethical questions before considering surgery  - This article utilizes the bariatric surgery center at one children's hospital and the institution's ethics consult service to develop an ethical framework to evaluate pediatric patients seeking bariatric surgery – using the national ASMBS guidelines  - This ethical framework utilized 4 central ethical questions 1.     Should any patients be automatically excluded from evaluation for MBS? 2.     How should it be determined that the benefits of MBS outweigh the risks? 3.     How do we ensure the patient fully understands and is capable of cooperating with the surgery and follow-up care? 4.     How do we make sure the decision to have surgery is truly voluntary, and not coerced by family or others? - Results: this ethical framework was discussed in depth in two case studies  - Overview of framework: an ethical question would arise from the bariatric team they would review & apply the ethical framework. The question is either resolved by the bariatric team OR ethics consult, continue pre-operative workup vs no surgery - Case 1: 17M (BMI 42) with a history of autism spectrum disorder, pre-DM, depression with behavior challenges, HTN, dyslipidemia. Testing at school demonstrates intellectual functioning at a fourth-grade level. Pt lives with mom and 11-year-old sister. Mom endorses food insecurity (on supplemental nutrition assistance benefits) and struggles with her son's large intake of food.  1.     Co-morbidities should not be exclusionary, but pt should undergo a comprehensive psychosocial evaluation with attention to family dynamics and support and the patient's decision-making capacity  2.     Discuss benefits vs risks. Benefits – decreased progression of DM2, HTN, hyperlipidemia, cardiometabolic dx. Risks – gastric leak, infection, bleeding, dumping syndrome, etc.  3.     Can assess decision-making capacity with the surgical team or if need be other teams. In this case, the pt had limited decision-making capacity  - His level of understanding remained stable during the pre-op visits, and he gave assent to surgery - The mom identified a second source of support (extended family) - The team talked to both the patient and mother alone and then, together, found that the patient developed an independent desire for surgery, and thus moved forward.  - Case 2: 8F (BMI 50) with a history of mod OSA, L slipped capital femoral epiphysis s/p surgical stabilization (6 mos prior). The patient is neurotypical & excels in school, and lives with mom & dad. Referred by mom & dad (mom with a recent history of sleeve gastrectomy).  1.     An 8-year-old should not be discriminated against based solely on age, but the patient should be offered more conservative/less invasive options before OR.  a.     In this case, the family had not yet been offered these nonsurgical approaches (structured weight management program, physical support, dietician) 2.     Discuss benefits vs risks. Benefits – preventing progression of hip disease, improvement of OSA, decreased risk of cardiometabolic dx. Risks – anatomic/infectious/nutrition risks  3.     Decision-making capacity was assessed. Found that the parents were more advocating for the surgery saying she has a poor quality of life physically and socially. When the patient was separated from her parents, she said she could lose weight if she had healthier foods at home and someone to exercise with. The patient had decision-making capacity & did not assent to surgery.  4.     When the ethics team interviewed the patient and parents, the parents had a strong preference toward surgery vs patient was scared of surgery and wanted to try other approaches first  a.      Decided that the child's dissent outweighed the medical necessity for surgery and that there were conservative treatment options still available to try  - Highlighted Outcomes  - ASMBS guidelines give us good direction on who qualifies for surgery and emphasize an interdisciplinary approach to decision-making. The decision to pursue surgery should always weigh the benefits and risks and should be made collaboratively with the patient, family, and care team ***SPECIALTY TEAM APPLICATION LINK: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdX2a_zsiyaz-NwxKuUUa5cUFolWhOw3945ZRFoRcJR1wjZ4w/viewform?usp=sharing Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.

You're a new attending leading a busy surgical service. You're tasked with teaching a team that includes every learner from medical students to junior and senior residents—all from different generations. How do you adapt your teaching style to effectively reach everyone? Dr. Abbey Fingeret, Endocrine Surgeon at University of Nebraska and passionate Surgical Educator, joins our host, Dr. Elizabeth Maginot, to explore strategies for engaging learners across generations and creating inclusive, dynamic teaching environments. Hosts: Dr. Abbey Fingeret, MD, MHPTT, FACS: Associate Professor, University of Nebraska Medical Center Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Twitter: @DrFingeret Dr. Elizabeth Maginot, MD: General Surgery Resident and BTK Surgical Education Fellow, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Twitter: @e_magination95 Learning Objectives: -  Understand the defining characteristics of Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, and how these traits influence their learning and teaching styles in medical education. -  Explore how to adapt teaching strategies for multigenerational learners by understanding and addressing their unique perceptions of education, feedback, and expectations in the clinical setting. -  Discuss methods to build a positive learning environment that fosters collaboration and inclusivity across all levels of trainees. -  Recognize the strengths and challenges different generations bring to medical education and how to leverage these to enhance team learning and patient care." References  Stillman, D., & Stillman, J. (2017). Gen Z@ work: How the next generation is transforming the workplace. HarperCollins. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Stillman%2C+D.%2C+%26+Stillman%2C+J.+%282017%29.+Gen+Z%40+work%3A+How+the+next+generation+is+transforming+the+workplace.+HarperCollins. Elmore, T., & McPeak, A. (2019). Generation Z unfiltered: Facing nine hidden challenges of the most anxious population. Poet Gardener Publishing. Twenge, J. M. (2023). Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents—and What They Mean for America's Future. Simon and Schuster. ***SPECIALTY TEAM APPLICATION LINK: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdX2a_zsiyaz-NwxKuUUa5cUFolWhOw3945ZRFoRcJR1wjZ4w/viewform?usp=sharing Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.