BackTable Vascular & Interventional

Dr. Gary Siskin, an esteemed UFE practitioner and professor at Albany Med, shares his expertise on uterine fibroid embolization. He discusses the evolution of fibroid treatment and the importance of collaboration with gynecologists. The episode delves into procedural insights, such as embolic agent selection and accessing uterine arteries, emphasizing patient-specific considerations for treatment. Siskin also highlights pain management and post-operative care strategies, advocating for patient education to promote awareness of this minimally invasive option.

Dr. Mina Makary, a vascular and interventional radiologist and Associate Professor at The Ohio State University, dives into the lesser-known world of interventional radiology. He highlights a striking study revealing that many people don’t recognize IR specialists as physicians. The conversation covers innovative strategies to boost awareness, including engaging primary care providers and using social media. They also discuss how reconsidering the specialty's name might change public perception, ultimately aiming to empower patients with informed choices.

Dr. Jason Levy, a seasoned expert in musculoskeletal interventional oncology from Atlanta, dives into the complexities of ablating acetabular lesions. He emphasizes the biomechanical challenges posed by this pelvic region and advocates for using radiofrequency ablation paired with cement augmentation for enhanced stability. The conversation covers the advantages of cone beam CT for precision imaging and the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration with orthopedic oncologists. Dr. Levy also shares insights on avoiding complications and improving patient outcomes through innovative techniques.

Dr. Gina Landinez, an interventional radiologist at the Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, specializes in musculoskeletal tumor embolizations. She discusses how this innovative procedure can shrink tumors preoperatively and alleviate pain. Dr. Landinez highlights the importance of targeting hypervascular lesions and shares strategies for creating strong referral networks with orthopedic surgeons. Additionally, she addresses the challenges of managing post-embolization symptoms and emphasizes compassionate follow-up care to enhance patient outcomes.

Teri Yates, CEO of Accountable Physician Advisors and revenue cycle management expert, joins to share her insights on optimizing revenue for healthcare practices. She discusses the complexities of revenue cycle management, emphasizing the importance of understanding payer rules and the role of professional coders. Teri highlights actionable strategies for improving collections, navigating cybersecurity challenges, and adapting to upcoming reimbursement changes. Listeners can expect valuable tips for enhancing financial health in outpatient labs and surgery centers.

Dr. Zachary Berman, a hepatobiliary interventional oncologist and Associate Clinical Professor of Radiology at UC San Diego, shares expertise on microwave ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). He emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, discussing the roles of tumor boards and collaborative care. Berman elaborates on pre-procedure imaging, the importance of ultrasound skills, and navigating complex cases. The conversation also touches on the integration of immunotherapy and advanced imaging techniques to enhance ablation outcomes.

Dr. Kevin Herman, an interventional radiologist at American Endovascular and Holy Name Hospital in New Jersey, dives into the evolving landscape of treating critical limb ischemia (CLI) in outpatient settings. He discusses the impact of advanced devices like the Wingman catheter and IVUS on complex cases. Dr. Herman also sheds light on the business challenges faced by outpatient labs, strategies for effective marketing, and the innovative use of live-streaming for educational purposes. A case study highlights successful treatment techniques, revealing the power of collaboration in patient management.

Dr. Jeff Hull, a pioneering figure in endovascular technology, discusses the innovative Ellipsys system for arteriovenous fistula creation in dialysis care. He shares the journey from conception in 2006 to its acquisition by Medtronic in 2020, highlighting the significance of mentorship and cross-discipline teamwork. Hull emphasizes the value of competition and strategic exit planning in the startup landscape. Additionally, he introduces deep vein arterialization as a novel application in treating peripheral arterial disease, showcasing the future of vascular access.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Jason Hoffman, an interventional radiologist at NYU Langone Health, shares his expertise on prostate artery embolization (PAE) and the future of practice building. He emphasizes collaboration with urologists for better patient management and discusses innovative catheter technologies that enhance procedural efficiency. The conversation touches on recent PAE guidelines, patient expectation management, and the vital role of effective communication in improving care quality. Discover the importance of fostering trust and enhancing patient experiences in interventional radiology.

Dr. Osman Ahmed is an interventional radiologist at the University of Chicago, specializing in genicular artery embolization (GAE) for knee osteoarthritis. He dives into the origins and procedure of GAE, highlighting its rise as a treatment when other options fail. The discussion covers patient selection, potential complications, and the importance of ongoing research. Dr. Ahmed also shares insights on managing patient expectations and the use of temporary agents during the procedure, emphasizing the significance of meticulous technique and data collection.