Inside Surgery

In this episode Dr Alice Tsai speaks with Prof. Milos Bjelovic, EAES 2025 Congress President, about the upcoming 33rd international EAES congress that will be held in Belgrade, Serbia from Tuesday 17 June through Friday 20 June in corporation with the Serbian Association for Endoscopic Surgery (UEHS). Prof. Bjelovic talks about the theme of the congress, what he's most looking forward to and where to visit while in Belgrade.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam talks to Dr Chen Sagiv about how Artificial Intelligence can create super surgeons rather than lazy surgeons! They discuss current and potential applications of AI in surgery and their fears that AI might stop us thinking for ourselves.Dr Sagiv is a mathematician and image processing researcher, as well as co-founder of DeePathology.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam speaks with Dr. Ir.ing Tim Horeman about innovation in surgery and the relationship between surgery and engineering. Dr Horeman is Associate Professor of Sustainable Surgery & Translational Technology and Academic Portfolio Director of Medical Technology at Delft University of Technology, as well as being a member of the EAES Tech Committee. They discuss the relationship between engineers and surgeons and how it has changed over time, as well as considering the successes and challenges of innovating in surgery, and how to respond when it doesn't work first time.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode Professor Tan Arulampalam interviews a range of guests to spotlight the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in surgery. Professor Silvana Perretta discusses AI's ability to enhance surgical precision, starting with procedures like cholecystectomy and laparoscopic hernia repair. Other experts, including Kiyokazu Nakajima and Rosa Jimenez-Rodriguez, explore AI's potential as an intraoperative assistant while emphasising the need for careful implementation. Discussions cover AI-driven task automation, augmented reality, and competency assessment tools. The episode highlights AI's role in surgical education, ethical considerations, and the future of automation, reinforcing that while AI will transform surgery, human expertise remains essential.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam joins Professor Luigi Boni as he prepares for a real-life robotic-assisted low anterior resection on a 42-year-old patient with rectal cancer. He discusses the importance of patient selection, multidisciplinary planning, and precise surgical techniques. Professor Boni explains his hybrid approach—combining laparoscopy for the initial steps and robotics for pelvic dissection—to optimise outcomes. Key surgical insights include meticulous dissection, cross-stapling strategies, and the role of fluorescence-guided perfusion assessment to reduce anastomotic leaks. He emphasises the need for standardisation, patience, and attention to detail to achieve the best results in rectal cancer surgery.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, hosted by Professor Tan Arulampalam, we welcome Professor Silvana Perretta from the University of Strasbourg, a renowned surgeon specialising in endoscopic and bariatric procedures. She introduces a groundbreaking flexible suturing system that reduces gastric volume and slows gastric emptying, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional bariatric surgery. Professor Perretta discusses the synergy between this procedure and weight-loss drugs, the training process for surgeons, and the low complication rates associated with the technique. She emphasises the importance of learning this method as part of a comprehensive obesity treatment strategy.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode hosts, Dr Alice Tsai and Dr Monica Ortenzi speak with three surgical specialists from The Hernia Institute Paris, which was the first French centre to specialise in laparoscopic abdominal wall and hernia surgery. The guests Dr Édouard Pélissier, Dr Philippe Ngo and Dr Jean-Pierre Cossa are all members of the French Academy of Surgery. Alice and Monica discuss with the guests their paper on 'Endoscopic-assisted repair of combined ventral hernias and diastasis recti: minimizing seroma incidence by quilting'.Reference:Cossa JP, Ngo P, Blum D, Pélissier E, Gillion JF. Endoscopic-assisted repair of combined ventral hernias and diastasis recti: minimizing seroma incidence by quilting. Surg Endosc. 2024 May;38(5):2826-2833. doi: 10.1007/s00464-024-10801-2. Epub 2024 Apr 10. PMID: 38600304.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

To kick off Series 5 of Inside Surgery, hosts Dr Alice Tsai and Dr Monica Ortenzi are joined by Professor Tan Arulampalam to interview EAES General Secretary, Professor Alberto Arezzo. Professor Arezzo is the winner of eight Horizon Projects, four of which are still running and involve the EAES. He has also won the prestigious ERC Synergy Grant from European Research Council. In this podcast they discuss CLASSICA, an EU-funded project bringing together five leading cancer surgery centres across Europe to look at how to deploy cancer classification AI technology in the operating theatre. As well as explaining the phases, goals and expected impacts of the research, they explore the clinical, legal and ethical challenges of running a novel project involving AI and Indocyanine green (ICG). In concluding Professor Arezzo encourages young surgeons to be as ambitious as possible, but to always start from an unmet clinical need.CLASSICA: https://classicaproject.euPlease note: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Health and Digital Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In the final episode of Series 4, Dr Alice Tsai and Dr Monica Ortenzi speak to Dr Deborah Keller about a paper she co-authored on optimising perioperative care in older adults.Link to join SAGES as a Candidate Member: https://www.sages.org/membership/candidate/Reference:Keller DS, Curtis N, Burt HA, Ammirati CA, Collings AT, Polk HC Jr, Carrano FM, Antoniou SA, Hanna N, Piotet LM, Hill S, Cuijpers ACM, Tejedor P, Milone M, Andriopoulou E, Kontovounisios C, Leeds IL, Awad ZT, Barber MW, Al-Mansour M, Nassif G, West MA, Pryor AD, Carli F, Demartines N, Bouvy ND, Passera R, Arezzo A, Francis N. EAES/SAGES evidence-based recommendations and expert consensus on optimization of perioperative care in older adults. Surg Endosc. 2024 Aug;38(8):4104-4126. doi: 10.1007/s00464-024-10977-7. Epub 2024 Jun 28. PMID: 38942944; PMCID: PMC11289045. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode host Dr Draga Mandi and guest Dr Amila Cizmic discuss the transformative impact of the EAES Research Sandpit Programme on their surgical careers and lives. They share has the Research Sandpit helped them build connections with renowned researchers, develop research proposals, compete for funding and gaining hands-on experience in surgical research. Both Dr Mandi and Dr Cizmic emphasise how the programme has given them lifelong professional networks and foster lasting friendships.Find out more about the Research Sandpit: https://eaes.eu/about-eaes/committees/research/research-talent-academy/If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode  recorded at EAES 2024 in Maastricht Dr Alice Tsai interviews coach Michael Blackhurst, who shares insights on the captaincy mindset - perfect for surgeons working in high-risk, complex environments. This unique approach balances team-based performance and personal well-being, helping surgeons lead teams effectively while ensuring long-term success both in the OR and in life.Mike's leadership coaching draws parallels between the critical role of captains and surgeons, emphasising the importance of results ("golden eggs") while maintaining personal health and resilience ("the goose").You can find out more about captaincy on Mike's website: www.JTJ-Services.comIf you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In the second episode, on surgical coaching, hosts Alice and Monica speak again with Dr Kristine Lombardozzi, a trauma surgeon and director at the Academy of Surgical Coaching. This time their discussion focuses on the practical aspects of setting up a surgical coaching program. They identify the key steps to follow and what metrics can be used to measure success run line with organisational priorities, and Alice experiences coaching live from Kristine.Links:> The Academy for Surgical Coaching> Wisconsin Surgical Coaching ProgramIf you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In the first of two podcast episodes on surgical coaching, hosts Alice and Monica speak with Dr Kristine Lombardozzi, a trauma surgeon and director at the Academy of Surgical Coaching. Dr Lombardozzi discusses the origins and importance of surgical coaching, emphasising its role in enhancing the performance of surgeons at all career stages and how it differs from teaching and mentoring. The conversation also highlights successful U.S. coaching programs and Dr Lombardozzi's personal journey into coaching, driven by her commitment to improving surgical education and performance. The episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of practical applications and outcomes of surgical coaching in the next episode.Links:> The Academy for Surgical Coaching> Wisconsin Surgical Coaching ProgramIf you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, firstly Dr Alice Tsai interviews Ass. Prof. Aung Myint Oo, a prominent gastrointestinal surgeon and educator from Singapore. He shares insights into his multifaceted roles, including his work as a senior consultant, clinical informatics officer,and president of the Bariatric Society of Singapore. He discusses his passion for training future surgeons and the importance of innovative teaching methods like using cooperative multiplayer games to engage younger generations. Secondly, Dr Mert Tanal interviews Dr Audrius Dulshas from Lithuania, exploring his journey to becoming a surgeon. He shares how his childhood dream of surgery motivated him throughout his career, emphasising hard work and perseverance. He also talks about the importance of family support and how attending conferences like EAES 2024 rejuvenates his passion for surgery, providing fresh insights and ideas.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this first in series of literature review podcasts Dr Ritch Geitenbeek (PhD Candidate at the University Medical Center, Groningen, Netherlands) discusses his recent journal article comparing outcomes for rectal cancer patients of different surgical methods. This episode is hosted by Dr Alice Tsai (Post-CCT Fellow in Oesophagogastric Surgery at Imperial College London, UK) and Dr Monica Ortenzi (Assistant Professor of Surgery at Università Politecnica delle Marche in Italy).Article reference:Geitenbeek, R.T.J., Burghgraef, T.A., Moes, C.A. et al. Functional outcomes and quality of life following open versus laparoscopic versus robot-assisted versus transanal total mesorectal excision in rectal cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Surg Endosc 38, 4431–4444 (2024).https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00464-024-10934-4If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this special episode, Gisela Brandsma recollects her time working with Thérèse van Velthoven, and Draga Mandi interviews Thérèse about how the EAES has grow and developed over her three decades with the association.If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes?Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode Eugenio Licardie interviews Pietro Mascagni, a surgical resident and clinical research advisor based in Rome. Pietro shares insights into his work in artificial intelligence (AI) for surgery and discusses the potential for AI to improve surgical training and intraoperative performance. The conversation also touches on the challenges of integrating AI in surgery, the need for cultural change among surgeons and the potential for AI to democratise access to surgical expertise worldwide.Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode Dr Alice Tsai interviews two inspiring surgeons.Firstly, Professor Young-Woo Kim from the Graduate School of the National Cancer Center in Korea shares his experiences in the field of gastric cancer surgery. He discusses the importance of high-quality clinical trials to validate new technologies and improve patient care globally. Reflecting on his path to medicine, he reveals that his initial aspirations ranged from becoming an author or classical singer to being a researcher in genetic engineering.Secondly, Dr Anne Yeh from National Taiwan University Hospital. Dr Ye, a dedicated general surgeon with a specialisation in hernia surgery, shares her journey from a background in medical technology to becoming a renowned surgeon and teacher. She discusses the challenges she faced during her training, the influence of her mentors and her passion for surgical education.Tune in to learn more about their remarkable journeys and the insights they offer for surgeons young and old.Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

Dr Alice Tsai interviews attendees live at EAES 2024 in Maastricht about their experience of the congress, as well as finding out about their favourite surgical instrument and celebrity surgeon!Become a member of EAES via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr Draga Mandi is joined by Dr Emina Letic from Bosnia, a surgical resident with a passion for colorectal surgery. Mina shares her journey, from her fascination with surgery as a medical student to her current residency in Sarajevo. She discusses the challenges and biases she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, highlighting the importance of perseverance and resilience. Mina also talks about the support she found in international surgical networks and the impact of mentorship and research involvement on her career. The conversation explores the broader issues of gender inequality in surgery and the need for more supportive and inclusive environments for women surgeons.This episode is sponsored by Medtronic.Interested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

In  this guest-presented episode Dr Draga Maria Mandi from Romania interviews her friend and contemporary, consultant surgeon Dr Clarisa Birlog. Clarisa shares her journey in surgical training and reflects on the  opportunities available through engagement with surgical associations. Dr. Birlog discusses her passion for mentoring young surgeons through the EAES Rising Star Academy, emphasising the importance of non-technical skills like communication and empathy. She highlights the challenges female surgeons face and the importance of mentorship.This episode is sponsored by Medtronic.Interested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

The pod focuses on Turkish surgeons and features guest presenter Dr Mert Tanal interviewing Professor Dr Mahir Ozmen.  They discuss the advancements and future of robotic surgery, highlighting the transition from laparoscopic to robotic surgery, emphasising improved patient outcomes and reduced complications. Prof Ozmen advocates for integrating robotic surgery into surgical residency and oncology curricula, stressing the importance of practical, hands-on training with experienced mentors and advanced simulations.Prof Ozmen notes significant technological advancements, such as new robotic systems and micro-robots, and the crucial role of GPUs and TPUs in processing big data for enhancing machine learning and autonomous surgical robots. The potential for remote surgeries with improved connectivity is also discussed.Prof Ozmen acknowledges challenges in analysing large surgical datasets and calls for further research and investment in artificial intelligence. He envisions a future with nonlinear robotics and micro-robots enabling more precise and less invasive surgeries, ultimately improving surgical training and patient outcomes through advanced technology and comprehensive education.This episode is sponsored by Medtronic.Interested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

In the second instalment from the Symposium of Innovation in Surgery in Bucharest, Hamish talks with Alberto Arezzo, Alice Tsai, Monica Ortenzi and  Ken Cambell on a range of topics. Alberto discusses  the development of the EAES training curriculum, Alice and Monica talk about coaching and surgical travel while Ken Summarises some of his research and practical development of hands-on surgical training models. This episode is sponsored by Medtronic.Interested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

For the first in a series of Episodes from the Symposium on Innovations in Surgery in Bucharest, Hamish is joined by Juan Sanchez-Margallo, Salvador Moralez-Conde and Arjan Appel for a discussion around the developing paradigm of technology enhanced  training and the growing popularity of the SIS. This episode is sponsored by Medtronic.Interested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

In this episode, Hamish is joined from Romania by the local host of SIS 2024 Prof. Catalin Copaescu to discuss visiting Bucharest for the upcoming winter meet and the topics it will cover including the development of robotic surgery and training opportunities through the hands on courses accompanying the event.This episode is sponsored by MedtronicInterested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

In this extended episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam is joined by Dr Pat Willer and Professor Nader Francis to discuss the Coreal programme. This programme aims to build consensus on standardising the definition and reporting registry for anastomotic leaks to allow for statistical comparison and robust scientific evaluation of new technologies and approaches. This episode is sponsored by MedtronicInterested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

In this episode, Hamish is joined by by the 2024 EAES congress president, Nicole Bouvy and EAES Excutive Director, Arjan Appel. Recorded at the UMS+ Maastricht, they discuss the congress themes and scientific programme delegates can expect in the forthcoming 2024 annual congress. This episode is sponsored by MedtronicInterested in starting with Robotics or would like to learn more about the HugoTM RAS system?  Sign up here: https://cvent.me/2eNBGZ 

In the final episode from the EAES Roma Congress, Hamish shares the microphone with members of the communication task force Pedro Botello and Marina Yiasemidou. They catch up with professors Michel Adamina, Manish Chand, and Nader Francis for wide ranging conversations on technology, research and work-life as a surgeon.

In this second live episode from the 2023 Roma Congress, Hamish is joined on presenting duties by Pedro Botelho (Portugal)  where they talk with consultant surgeons Sonja Chiappetta (Italy), Danilo Miskovic (UK) and Daniel Preda (Romainia)They discuss a variety of issues ranging from new approaches to training and education innovation, the development of surgical guidelines, the work of the EAES research committee and the impact of  music in the OR.

In this live episode, Hamish is joined by a range of trainee and early career surgeons from across Europe. They reflect on the value of EAES to younger members and the trends in training and surgical opportunities across Europe  in 2023. The epsiode features insight from;  Michael Okocha (UK)Mert Tanal (Turkey)Draga-Maria Mandi (Romainia)Daniel Preda (Romainia)Audrius Dulskas (Lithuania)

In episode 2 of the pre-Roma series, Tan is joined by Paul Barach.  Paul is an anaesthesiologist, researcher and lecturer from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. They discuss the importance of team training and safety management systems in the progression of medical systems.

In the first of  the new series of of Inside Surgery running up to the EAES Annual Congress in Rome, Hamish Mackenzie is joined by Professors Marlies Schrijven and Tan Arulampalam. They discuss the benefits of social media for surgeons and some of  the guard rails that might be considered when developing and engaging with a professional network. Marlies shares some of the positive stories from her engagement across a range of platforms and they share some expert tips on how to cultivate a professional network. 

In the final episode from the mini-series recorded at the EAES Symposium on Innovation in Surgery, Hamish is joined first by Yoav Mintz (Israel) and Zobia Gundkalli (UK) to discuss the changing format of the Wintermeet and the diversity of technology and training available to participants. Yoav reviews teh programme for the event whilst Zobia takes listeners through the concept of a 'surgical escape room' and why it is such an effective team training methodology. 

In this episode, Prof Sheraz Marker reflects on his academic and clinical progression and some of the challenges of balancing this with the pressure  of a young family. Sheraz discusses the support and progression available from working with the EAES research committee for the past 7 years. Stefania Marconi shares her research on environmental sustainability in the medical sector from her perspective a biomedical engineer. Stefania reflects on the inspiration she draws from talking and working with surgeons from across the EAES family. This episode is sponsored by Olympus

In this episode from the Malta Wintermeet, Hamish Mackenzie is joined by research committee members  Stavros Antoniou (Greece), Dimitris Mavridis (Greece) and Albert Wolthuis (Belgium) to discuss the tole of research within the EAES. They discuss the impact of the guidelines sub-committee and how research can inform practice across Europe.This episode is sponsored by Olympus

In the next episode from the EAES Malta Wintermeet, Hamish is joined by consultant surgeons Ana Senent Boza (Chair, young members task force committee - Spain) Monica Ortenzi (research committee - Italy). They discuss the value younger surgeons can derive from the EAES and the importance of network in the early stages of career. This episode is sponsored by Olympus

In this episode from the recent Malta Wintermeet, Hamish Mackenzie is joined by the EAES President, Salvador Morales Conde, President Elect, George Hanna and Roma Congress President, Nicola Di Lorenzo. They discuss direction, leadership, eduction and training and reflect on some of the major challenges and opportunities in the sector. Nicola looks forwards towards the annual congress in Roma on 20-23rd June 2023. This episode is sponsored by Olympus

For the first in a series of conversation from the EAES Symposium on Innovation in Surgery 2023, Tan Arulampalam (UK) is joined by Suzanne Gisbertz (the Netherlands) and Barbara Seelinger (France) to discuss the future of surgical training and some of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. This episode is sponsored by Olympus

Professor Tan Arulampalam launches the new Inside Surgery podcast from the European Society for Endoscopic Surgery. In this Christmas Cracker episode, Tan talks with the executive board from the EAES about the forthcoming Symposium on Innovation in Surgery Malta and the plans the organisation has for expansion to support more surgeons over the course of 2023.  The themes include collaboration, education, training, robotics and research.