BackTable Vascular & Interventional

Dr. Robert Martin, Director of Surgical Oncology at the University of Louisville, is a trailblazer in liver-directed therapies and minimally invasive procedures. He shares insights on the importance of collaboration among oncology specialties for optimal patient care. The conversation dives into the evolution of liver cancer treatments and emerging clinical trials, highlighting innovative techniques like microwave ablation and irreversible electroporation. Dr. Martin emphasizes the need for a growth mindset and lifelong learning among young professionals in the field.

Dr. Siddarth Padia, Dr. Tyler Sandow, Dr. Kavi Krishnasamy, and Dr. Kevin Burns share their journeys in interventional oncology, exploring how they transitioned from general radiology to specializing in liver cancer. They discuss innovative telehealth solutions and hybrid care models that enhance patient access and communication. The doctors emphasize the importance of clinic support and how integrating advanced technologies can drive procedural growth. Finally, they highlight the role of mentorship and relationship-building in overcoming challenges in establishing successful practices.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Altan Ahmed from Moffitt Cancer Center and Dr. Sid Padia from UCLA delve into the innovative HEPZATO treatment for liver metastases from uveal melanoma. They explore patient selection for clinical trials and the intricacies of the treatment procedure. The conversation highlights the importance of teamwork in optimizing workflow and drug dosing, as well as the need for ongoing research to address current gaps. They also discuss future applications for HEPZATO in treating other malignancies, promising new hope for patients.

Dr. Siddharth Padia, an interventional radiologist at UCLA, and Dr. John Seal, a transplant and hepatobiliary surgeon at Ochsner Clinic, dive deep into the complexities of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. They discuss the delicate balance between surgical resection and liver transplantation, influenced by factors like liver health and patient condition. The conversation highlights advancements in living donor transplantation and crucial communication about treatment expectations, all while navigating challenges like organ availability and evolving surgical techniques.

Dr. Yuji Okuno, a pioneer in musculoskeletal embolization, discusses his groundbreaking techniques for treating chronic pain conditions like frozen shoulder and plantar fasciitis. He explains the development of innovative temporary embolic agents and how they improve patient outcomes. The conversation also highlights the importance of detecting hypervascularity through imaging. Dr. Okuno shares insights into differential recanalization and the exciting future of embolization techniques in musculoskeletal care on a global scale.

Dr. John Seal, a transplant and hepatobiliary surgeon at Ochsner Clinic, joins transplant hepatologists Dr. Heather Patton and Dr. Stephen Young to discuss the complexities of liver transplantation. They explore the multidimensional pre-transplant evaluation process, the significance of the MELD score, and manage challenges like portal vein thrombosis. Innovations in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are highlighted, emphasizing emotional support for patients. The conversation also touches on groundbreaking advancements in transplantation practices, reshaping future possibilities.

Dr. Shivank Bhatia, an interventional radiologist at the University of Miami, discusses his extensive research on prostatic artery embolization (PAE). He reveals findings from his groundbreaking study involving 1,075 patients, exploring PAE's long-term efficacy and safety. Dr. Bhatia shares insights on building a successful PAE program, patient workup, and key procedural techniques. He emphasizes the impressive outcomes in urinary function and quality of life, establishing PAE as a minimalist alternative to traditional surgeries.

In this engaging discussion, medical oncologists Adam Burgoyne and Lingling Du, alongside interventional radiologists Kirema Garcia-Reyes and Zachary Berman, tackle the complexities of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. They explore the 'grey zone' in treatment goals, emphasizing the importance of performance status and comprehensive liver function assessments. The guests share insights on navigating advanced liver disease, the role of immunotherapy, and the critical need for multidisciplinary collaboration to optimize patient outcomes.

Dr. Ari Kramer, a general surgeon specializing in dialysis access, and Dr. Omar Davis, an interventional nephrologist, share insights on enhancing dialysis care. They discuss the advanced FLEX Vessel Prep system, emphasizing its benefits and latest clinical data. Mental health support for dialysis patients takes center stage, with a tribute to patient Fred Hill, author of "Dialysis Is Not Your Life." The doctors address advanced techniques, innovative devices, and how tailoring approaches can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Kirema Garcia-Reyes, an interventional radiologist from Mount Sinai specializing in Y90, joins Dr. Sabeen Dhand and Dr. Kevin Burns, an early adopter of histotripsy. They delve into the complexities of treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through ablation. Key insights include comparing cryoablation and microwave ablation, discussing histotripsy's noninvasive approach, and highlighting the significance of advanced imaging techniques. They also explore the future of curative therapies and the importance of patient-specific strategies in optimizing treatment outcomes.