Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast

Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast
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Sep 29, 2025 • 34min

Clinical Challenges in Trauma Surgery: Stabbed in the Back - Decision Making in a Penetrating Junctional Vascular Injury

“It’s 5pm and your Consultant (attending) has headed off home. A patient arrives in the resuscitation room blood spurting from a stab wound in the armpit. Join Roisin – a junior Major Trauma fellow, Prash – a surgical trainee, Max – a senior trauma surgery fellow, and Chris – a Consultant trauma surgeon, as we talk through decision making from point of injury to aftercare in this challenging trauma surgical case”. • Hosts: Bulleted list of host names, including title, institution, & social media handles if indicated 1.     Mr Prashanth Ramaraj. General Surgery trainee, Edinburgh rotation. @LonTraumaSchool 2.     Dr Roisin Kelly. Major Trauma Junior Clinical Fellow, Royal London Hospital.  3.     Mr Max Marsden. Resuscitative Major Trauma Fellow, Royal London Hospital. @maxmarsden83 4.     Mr Christopher Aylwin. Consultant Trauma & Vascular Surgeon and Co-Programme Director MSc Trauma Sciences at Queen Mary University of London. @cjaylwin • Learning objectives: Bulleted list of learning objectives. A)    To become familiar with prehospital methods of haemorrhage control in penetrating junctional injuries. B)     To recognise the benefits of prehospital blood product resuscitation in some trauma patients. C)     To follow the nuanced decision making in decision for CT scan in a patient with a penetrating junctional injury. D)    To describe the possible approaches to the axillary artery in the context of resuscitative trauma surgery. E)     To become familiar with decision making around intraoperative systemic anticoagulation in the trauma patient. F)     To become familiar with decision making on type of repair and graft material in vascular trauma. G)    To recognise the team approach in holistic trauma care through the continuum of trauma care. • References: Bulleted list of references with PubMed links. 1.    Perkins Z. et al., 2012. Epidemiology and Outcome of Vascular Trauma at a British Major Trauma Centre. EJVES. https://www.ejves.com/article/S1078-5884(12)00337-1/fulltext 2.    Ramaraj P., et al. 2025. The anatomical distribution of penetrating junctional injuries and their resource implications: A retrospective cohort study. Injury. https://www.injuryjournal.com/article/S0020-1383(24)00771-X/ 3.    Smith, S., et al. 2019. The effectiveness of junctional tourniquets: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Trauma Acute Care Surg. https://journals.lww.com/jtrauma/abstract/2019/03000/the_effectiveness_of_junctional_tourniquets__a.20.aspx 4.    Rijnhout TWH, et al. 2019. Is prehospital blood transfusion effective and safe in haemorrhagic trauma patients? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Injury. https://www.injuryjournal.com/article/S0020-1383(19)30133-0/ 5.    Davenport R, et al. 2023. Prehospital blood transfusion: Can we agree on a standardised approach? Injury. https://www.injuryjournal.com/article/S0020-1383(22)00915-9. 6.    Borgman MA., et al. 2007. The Ratio of Blood Products Transfused Affects Mortality in Patients Receiving Massive Transfusions at a Combat Support Hospital. J Trauma Acute Care Surg. https://journals.lww.com/jtrauma/fulltext/2007/10000/the_ratio_of_blood_products_transfused_affects.13.aspx 7.    Holcomb JB., et al. 2013. The Prospective, Observational, Multicenter, Major Trauma Transfusion (PROMMTT) Study. Comparative Effectiveness of a Time-Varying Treatment With Competing Risks. JAMA Surgery. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamasurgery/fullarticle/1379768 8.    Holcomb JB, et al. 2015. Transfusion of Plasma, Platelets, and Red Blood Cells in a 1:1:1 vs a 1:1:2 Ratio and Mortality in Patients With Severe Trauma. The PROPPR Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2107789 9.    Davenport R., et al. 2023. Early and Empirical High-Dose Cryoprecipitate for Hemorrhage After Traumatic Injury. The CRYOSTAT-2 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2810756 10.   Baksaas-Aasen K., et al. 2020. Viscoelastic haemostatic assay augmented protocols for major trauma haemorrhage (ITACTIC): a randomized, controlled trial. ICM. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00134-020-06266-1 11. Wahlgren CM., et al. 2025. European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2025 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Vascular Trauma. EJVES. https://esvs.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-Vascular-Trauma-Guidelines.pdf 12. Khan S., et al. 2020. A meta-analysis on anticoagulation after vascular trauma. Eur J Traum Emerg Surg. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00068-020-01321-4 13. Stonko DP., et al. 2022. Postoperative antiplatelet and/or anticoagulation use does not impact complication or reintervention rates after vein repair of arterial injury: A PROOVIT study. Vascular. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/17085381221082371?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed 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://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 25, 2025 • 41min

Meet your AI Examiner: Introducing Behind the Knife Oral Board Simulator

Learn more: https://behindtheknifeoralboardsimulator.org/ It has arrived!  Introducing Behind the Knife's Oral Board Simulator (beta version): Unlimited unique oral board scenarios Available 24/7 Diverse examiners Natural conversation  Detailed, actionable feedback based on SCORE curriculum and American Board of Surgery grading scheme Try it for free for a limited time! Note, this is our FIRST version of the Oral Board Simulator.  To make it better, we need your feedback.  After using the simulator, please take <1 minute to complete the feedback form.  This will help us refine the simulator and improve the user experience.   On this pod, we are thrilled to introduce the newest member of the Behind the Knife team, Dr. Matthew Swenson.  Dr. Swenson is a general surgeon and U.S. Air Force veteran.  He earned his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University and completed his general surgery residency at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. After training he was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska for 7 years, where he took part in multiple domestic and overseas military exercises. His practice in Alaska also involved partnerships with the local community, including working with residents and local surgeons at the Alaska Native Medical Center. At the completion of his military service, he was recruited to return to Las Vegas as the Associate Program Direct for the Valley Health System General Surgery residency program.  Dr. Swenson's primary passion is ensuring surgical residents are fully prepared for independent practice upon graduation, which has led him to create innovative, AI-powered study tools for oral board exam preparation. Whenever time allows, he enjoys family time and all things outdoors. Hosts: Ayman Ali, MD (PGY-4, Duke Hospital) Patrick Georgoff, MD (Trauma/Critical Care Surgeon, Duke Hospital): @georgoff  Matthew Swenson, MD (General Surgeon, Valley Health System) Talha Rafeeqi, MD (Foregut Surgeon, The Oregon Clinic) 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://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 22, 2025 • 47min

When Bad Outcomes Happen: A Lawyer on Liability, Litigation, and the Law

Joining Dr. Scott Steele today on Behind the Knife is Steve Crandall, a former medical negligence DEFENSE lawyer who, for reasons we will discuss, switched sides and now represents the patient who is suing care providers.  He is a founding partner of Crandall & Pera Law and also has been ranked as both one of the Top 5 Lawyers in Cleveland and Top 10 best Lawyers in Ohio for over 15 years. Crandall, a seasoned plaintiff attorney specializing in medical malpractice, joins the hosts to illuminate the key factors behind common lawsuits in surgery, the pivotal role of informed consent, standout cases with crucial learning points, expert witness strategies, and practical advice for surgeons to stay out of legal trouble. 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://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 18, 2025 • 37min

USA vs. UK: ASGBI Ep. 6 - Current Challenges and Hopes for the Future of Surgical Training

Welcome to the 6th episode of our BTK/ASGBI series!  During this series, BTK fellow Agnes Premkumar and ASGBI hosts Jared Wohlgemut and Gita Lingam will compare and contrast various aspects of surgery between the United States and the United Kingdom, debating who does what better.  In this episode, we delve into surgical training, current challenges, and hopes for the future of surgical training in the US and the UK. We will be discussing the advent of the EPA curriculum in the US, the current challenge of obtaining a speciality position in the UK, and tips for making the resident to attending/junior faculty transition smoothly. Dr. Jeremy Lipman represents the US while Dr. Phil Pearce represents the UK in this thought-provoking conversation. Dr. Lipman is a colorectal surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic and the director of graduate medical education for all training programs at the Cleveland Clinic. Additionally, he is an Associate Dean for Graduate Medical Education and Professor of Surgery at Case Western Reserve University. He is passionate about surgical training and holds the James E. Sampliner Endowed Chair in Surgical Education.  Dr. Phil Pearce is a consultant in emergency general surgery in Oxford with interests in trauma, complex biliary disease, and most importantly a passion for training. Take a listen and let us know what you think- who does surgical education and training better?  References: Speciality training position in the NHS https://www.ft.com/content/e4b364c3-6a20-42ee-a9a5-ab9eea441c87?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jul/02/nhs-in-england-told-to-slash-recruitment-of-overseas-trained-medics?utm_source=chatgpt.com Surgery job market in the US https://surgpli.com/the-state-of-surgery-as-a-career-in-2025/ EPA curriculum https://www.aamc.org/about-us/mission-areas/medical-education/cbme/core-epas 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://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 15, 2025 • 30min

Journal Review in Colorectal Surgery: Management of Acute Uncomplicated Diverticulitis With or Without Antibiotics

Why are we still treating acute uncomplicated diverticulitis with antibiotics? There is plenty of evidence from several randomized controlled trials demonstrating that symptomatic management alone yields similar results. If we should continue prescribing antibiotics for acute uncomplicated diverticulitis, which patients should undergo treatment and when? Join Drs. Jared Hendren, Elissa Dabaghi, Joseph Trunzo, Ajaratu Keshinro, and David Rosen as they discuss the management of uncomplicated diverticulitis while reviewing groundbreaking literature. Hosts: -Jared Hendren, MD Institution: Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio - Elissa Dabaghi, MD Institution: Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio - Joseph Trunzo, MD Institution: Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio Social Media Handle: X/Twitter @joseph_trunzo - Ajaratu Keshinro, MD Institution: Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio Social Media Handle: X/Twitter- @AJKesh - David Rosen, MD Institution: Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio Social Media Handle: X/Twitter- @davidrrosenmd Learning Objectives: By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to: 1.     Identify criteria for managing acute uncomplicated diverticulitis without antibiotics based on recent literature 2.     Define uncomplicated and complicated diverticulitis 3.     Discuss nuanced management decisions of patients with uncomplicated diverticulitis to determine when antibiotics may be appropriate for management References: 1.     Azhar, N., Aref, H., Brorsson, A., Lydrup, M.‑L., Jörgren, F., Schultz, J. K., & Buchwald, P. (2022). Management of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis without antibiotics: Compliance and outcomes – a retrospective cohort study. BMC Emergency Medicine, 22(1), Article 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12873‑022‑00584‑X  2.     Mora‑López, L., Ruiz‑Edo, N., Estrada‑Ferrer, O., Piñana‑Campón, M. L., Labró‑Ciurans, M., Escuder‑Perez, J., Sales‑Mallafré, R., Rebasa‑Cladera, P., Navarro‑Soto, S., Serra‑Aracil, X., & DINAMO‑study Group. (2021). Efficacy and safety of nonantibiotic outpatient treatment in mild acute diverticulitis (DINAMO‑study): A multicentre, randomised, open‑label, noninferiority trial. Annals of Surgery, 274(5), e435–e442. https://doi.org/10.1097/SLA.0000000000005031 3.     Daniels, L., Ünlü, Ç., de Korte, N., van Dieren, S., Stockmann, H. B., Vrouenraets, B. C., Consten, E. C., van der Hoeven, J. A., Eijsbouts, Q. A., Faneyte, I. F., Bemelman, W. A., Dijkgraaf, M. G., & Boermeester, M. A. (2017). Randomized clinical trial of observational versus antibiotic treatment for a first episode of CT‑proven uncomplicated acute diverticulitis. British Journal of Surgery, 104(1), 52‑61. https://doi.org/10.1002/bjs.10309 4.     Chabok, A., Påhlman, L., Hjern, F., Haapaniemi, S., & Smedh, K.; AVOD Study Group. (2012). Randomized clinical trial of antibiotics in acute uncomplicated diverticulitis. British Journal of Surgery, 99(4), 532–539. https://doi.org/10.1002/bjs.8688 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://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 11, 2025 • 36min

Journal Review in Surgical Education: Gossip in Residency

Psst… wanna hear some tea? Join Drs. Maya Hunt, John Woodward, and Cait Silvestri as they discuss gossip - what it is, what it means, and how it can impact the surgical training environment. Joined by authors of a recent paper deconstructing gossip in surgical residency, Dr. Bobbi Ann Adair White and former CoSEF leader Dr. Joseph L’Huillier, the team examines the ways gossip can be positive and negative, how we can mitigate the harms that come with it, and reflect on some of our own experiences with gossip as trainees. Episode Hosts: - Dr. Maya Hunt, Indiana University, mayahunt@iu.edu - Dr. John Woodward, University at Buffalo, @JohnWoodward76, jmwoodwa@buffalo.edu -  Dr. Cait Silvestri, Columbia University, @CaitSilvestri, cs4004@cumc.columbia.edu  -  CoSEF: @surgedfellows, cosef.org   Guests: -  Dr. Joseph L’Huillier, University of Buffalo, @JoeLHuillier101, josephlh@buffalo.edu -  Dr. Bobbi Ann Adair White, MGH Institute of Health Professions, @_BAAW_, bwhite2@mghihp.edu  Learning Objectives: -  Define gossip in the context of surgical education, distinguishing between its academic definition and common perceptions -  Identify how forms of gossip can be constructive, as well as destructive - Explore the process model of gossip in surgical residency programs, including what choices recipients have when receiving gossip -  Recognize environmental factors that contribute to gossip in surgical settings - Apply practical strategies to mitigate harmful gossip in training environments References: - L'Huillier JC, Silvestri C, Brian R, et al. The Anatomy of Gossip: Dissecting Dynamics and Impacts in Surgical Residency. Surgery. 2025;180:109126. doi:10.1016/j.surg.2024.109126 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39862712/ - L'Huillier JC, Woodward JM, Lund S, et al. Is it gossip or feedback? Surgical attendings' perceptions of gossip within residency. J Surg Educ. 2024;81(10):1362-1373. doi:10.1016/j.jsurg.2024.07.004 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39173427/ 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://behindtheknife.org/listen Behind the Knife Premium: General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Dominate Surgery for APPs: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Rotation: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-for-apps-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-rotation Vascular Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/vascular-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-audio-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-audio-review Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 8, 2025 • 43min

Clinical Challenges in Breast Surgery: The Management of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS)

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Melissa Pilewskie and Dr. Stephanie Downs-Canner delve into the complexities of managing ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). They tackle crucial topics like the balance between over-treatment and preventing invasive cancer. With new data from the COMET trial, they explore personalized treatment strategies and the importance of active surveillance. The conversation also highlights risk assessment tools, the impact of radiation, and patient preferences, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches in breast surgical oncology.
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Sep 4, 2025 • 25min

Artificial Intelligence for the Clinician Episode 3: Basics of Machine Learning Statistics

Welcome back our series on AI for the clinician! In this episode, we go over some basics of machine learning statistics with the goal to help you read and analyze contemporary studies. Some of this will be a review, and parts will be technical, but by the end we hope reading these studies is less daunting.  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 data science, artificial intelligence, and surgery.  Julie Doberne, MD, PhD: @juliedoberne Julie Doberne is an Assistant Professor of Surgery, Assistant Professor of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology, cardiothoracic surgeon, and faculty member of the Surgical Data and Decision Sciences Lab at Oregon Health and Science University.  Phillip Jenkins, MD: @PhilJenkinsMD Phil Jenkins is a general surgery PGY-4 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.  Shelby Willis, MD Shelby Willis is a general surgery PGY-4 at Oregon Health and Science University. She is currently in her research time in the Surgical Data and Decision Sciences lab at OHSU pursuing advanced training in informatics. 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://behindtheknife.org/listen BTK Fan Favorites:  General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Sep 1, 2025 • 16min

Hot Topics from the Annals of Surgery Ep. 2: Academic Surgery

In the second episode of this new collaboration between BTK and Annals of surgery, we discuss another hot topic: academic surgery. Specifically, we discuss dedicated research time for residents and how surgical leaders think about building the academic surgery enterprise. This discussion was inspired by a couple of recent papers in Annals of Surgery that stirred up a lot of conversation on social media which can be found below.  Host: Cody Mullens, MD MPH — general surgery resident at University of Michigan current BTK Surgery Education Fellow (@Cody_Mullens) Guest: Justin Dimick, MD MPH — Fredrick A Coller Distinguished Professor and Chair of Surgery at the University of you Michigan and Editor in Chief at Annals of Surgery (@jdimick1) Papers:  Career Trajectory After General Surgery Residency Do Academic Program Graduates Pursue Academic Surgery? https://journals.lww.com/annalsofsurgery/abstract/2025/05000/career_trajectory_after_general_surgery_residency_.10.aspx Training the Surgeon-scientist: Time (and Money) Well Spent? https://journals.lww.com/annalsofsurgery/citation/9900/training_the_surgeon_scientist__time__and_money_.1318.aspx Introducing a New Annals of Surgery Section Professional Development for the Contemporary Surgeon https://journals.lww.com/annalsofsurgery/fulltext/2025/08000/introducing_a_new_annals_of_surgery_section_.8.aspx 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://behindtheknife.org/listen BTK Fan Favorites:  General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US
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Aug 28, 2025 • 26min

I’ve Got 99 Problems, and a G Tube is One

In this episode of Behind the Knife, Dr. Patrick Georgoff sits down with Dr. Keri Seymour and Dr. Joey Lew to tackle the complex world of gastrostomy tubes. What may seem like a routine and straightforward procedure is anything but—full of nuanced patient considerations, timing dilemmas, technical challenges, and potential complications that can turn a “simple” consult into a 2 a.m. call you won’t forget. From who truly needs a G tube and when to managing difficult post-op issues like dislodgement and buried bumper syndrome, this episode breaks down the practical, evidence-based approach every surgeon should know. Whether you’re managing stroke patients, trauma cases, or navigating the tricky administrative obstacles around enteral access, this episode will equip you with the insights and strategies to confidently dominate your G tube consults. Hosts:  ·      Dr. Patrick Georgoff (Acute Care Surgeon, Duke University) ·      Dr. Keri Seymour (Minimally Invasive & Acute Care Surgeon, Duke Regional) ·      Dr. Joey Lew (Surgical Resident, BTK MIS Team) Learning Goals: By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to:  ·      Understand the nuanced indications for gastrostomy tube (G tube) placement. ·      Learn which patients truly benefit from G tubes, and when enteral access is not appropriate or indicated. ·      Appreciate the importance of goals of care discussions, assessment of comorbidities, and decision-makers—especially in neurocritical and elderly populations. ·      Know evidence-based timing for gastrostomy tube placement in stroke, TBI, and other complex scenarios. ·      Understand guideline recommendations and the clinical reasoning behind trial periods of nasogastric feeding versus early G tube placement. ·      Describe technical approaches to G tube placement and how to tailor the method to patient anatomy and clinical context. ·      Solidify knowledge of when to choose endoscopic, laparoscopic, open, or interventional radiology-guided placement. ·      Recognize, manage, and strive to prevent common and serious complications of G tubes, including early and late dislodgement, buried bumper syndrome, infection, bleeding, and gastrocutaneous fistula. ·      Discuss perioperative considerations, including anticoagulation, patient stability, and post-procedural care. ·      Understand why routine suturing of the G tube or bumper is not recommended, and how administrative and facility factors can drive clinical decisions. ·      Gain practical pearls and quick decision trees to dominate G tube consults and troubleshooting, day or night. References: ·      Braun R, Han K, Arata J, Gourab K, Hearn J, Gonzalez-Fernandez M. Establishing a clinical care pathway to expedite rehabilitation transitions for stroke patients with dysphagia and enteral feeding needs. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2024;103(5):390-394. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000002387 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36867953/ ·      Burgermaster M, Slattery E, Islam N, Ippolito PR, Seres DS. Regional comparison of enteral nutrition-related admission policies in skilled nursing facilities. Nutr Clin Pract. 2016;31(3):342-348. doi:10.1177/0884533616629636 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26993318/ ·      Chaudhry R, Kukreja N, Tse A, Pednekar G, Mouchli A, Young L, Didyuk O, Wegner RC, Grewal N, Williams GW. Trends and outcomes of early versus late percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement in patients with traumatic brain injury: Nationwide population-based study. J Neurosurg Anesthesiol. 2018;30(3):251-257. doi:10.1097/ANA.0000000000000434 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28459729/ ·      Cleverdon SA, Costantini TW, McGrew TM, Santorelli JE, Berndtson AE, Haines LN. Dysphagia in patients with traumatic brain injury, how often do they really need feeding access? Presented at: Academic Surgical Congress; February 2025; Washington, DC. Abstract 92.33. ·      Cmorej P, Mayuiers M, Sugawa C. Management of early PEG tube dislodgement: simultaneous endoscopic closure of gastric wall defect and PEG replacement. BMJ Case Rep. 2019;12(9):e230728. doi:10.1136/bcr-2019-230728 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31488448/ ·      Galovic M, Stauber AJ, Leisi N, et al. Development and validation of a prognostic model of swallowing recovery and enteral tube feeding after ischemic stroke. JAMA Neurol. 2019;76(5):561-570. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2018.4858 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30742198/ ·      Gallo RJ, Wang JE, Madill ES. Things we do for no reason™. J Hosp Med. 2024;19(8):728-730. doi:10.1002/jhm.13263 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38180160/ ·      George BP, Hwang DY, Albert GP, Kelly AG, Holloway RG. Timing of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy for acute ischemic stroke. Stroke. 2017;48(2):420-427. doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.116.015119 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27965430/ ·      Goldberg LS, Altman KW. The role of gastrostomy tube placement in advanced dementia with dysphagia: a critical review. Clin Interv Aging. 2014;9:1733-1739. doi:10.2147/CIA.S53153 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25342891/ ·      Hartford A, Li W, Qureshi D, et al. Use of feeding tubes among hospitalized older adults with dementia. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(2):e2460780. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.60780 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39976967/ ·      Hochu G, Soule S, Lenart E, Howley IW, Filiberto D, Byerly S. Synchronous tracheostomy and gastrostomy placement results in shorter length of stay in traumatic brain injury patients. Am J Surg. 2024;227:153-156. doi:10.1016/j.amjsurg.2023.10.012 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37852846/ ·      Kobzeva-Herzog AJ, Nofal MR, Bodde J, et al. Implementation of a quality improvement initiative reduced adult inpatient gastrostomy tube dislodgements. Am J Surg. 2025;(article 116522). doi:10.1016/j.amjsurg.2025.116522 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40782502/ ·      Kurt Boeykens, Ivo Duysburgh. Prevention and management of major complications in percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. BMJ Open Gastroenterol. 2021;8:e000628. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33947711/ ·      Murphy LM, Lipman TO. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy does not prolong survival in patients with dementia. Arch Intern Med. 2003;163(11):1351-1353. doi:10.1001/archinte.163.11.1351 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12796072/ ·      Papavramidis TS, Mantzoukis K, Michalopoulos N. Confronting gastrocutaneous fistulas. Ann Gastroenterol. 2011;24(1):16-19. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24714282/ ·      Rajan A, Wangrattanapranee P, Kessler J, Kidambi TD, Tabibian JH. Gastrostomy tubes: fundamentals, periprocedural considerations, and best practices. World J Gastrointest Surg. 2022;14(4):286-303. doi:10.4240/wjgs.v14.i4.286 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35664365/ ·      Reddy KM, Lee P, Gor PJ, Cheesman A, Al-Hammadi N, Westrich DJ, Taylor J. Timing of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement in post-stroke patients does not impact mortality, complications, or outcomes. World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther. 2022;13(5):77-87. doi:10.4292/wjgpt.v13.i5.77 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36157266/ ·      Singh D, Laya AS, Vaidya OU, Ahmed SA, Bonham AJ, Clarkston WK. Risk of bleeding after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). Dig Dis Sci. 2012;57(4):973-980. doi:10.1007/s10620-011-1965-7 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22138961/ ·      Thosani N, Rashtak S, Kannadath BS, et al. Bleeding risk and mortality associated with uninterrupted antithrombotic therapy during percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement. Am J Gastroenterol. 2021;116(9):1868-1875. doi:10.14309/ajg.0000000000001348 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34158462/ ·      Ward EC, Green K, Morton AL. Patterns and predictors of swallowing resolution following adult traumatic brain injury. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2007;22(3):184-191. doi:10.1097/01.HTR.0000271119.96780.f5 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17510594/ ·      Wick B. Timing of PEG tube placement in stroke patients with dysphagia: a multi-center retrospective cohort analysis using the TriNetX database. Am J Gastroenterol. 2024;119(10 Suppl):S1146-S1147. doi:10.14309/01.ajg.0001035684.98119.d5 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://behindtheknife.org/listen BTK Fan Favorites:  General Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/general-surgery-oral-board-review Trauma Surgery Video Atlas: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/trauma-surgery-video-atlas Dominate Surgery: A High-Yield Guide to Your Surgery Clerkship: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/dominate-surgery-a-high-yield-guide-to-your-surgery-clerkship Download our App: Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/behind-the-knife/id1672420049 Android/Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.btk.app&hl=en_US

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