
BackTable Urology
The BackTable Urology Podcast is a resource for practicing urologists to learn tips, techniques, and practical advice from their peers in the field. Listen here or on the streaming platform of your choice.
Latest episodes

May 14, 2024 • 47min
Ep. 167 Solving Semen Analysis Barriers: Innovation & Accessibility with Dr. James Smith
In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. James Smith, Director of Male Reproductive Health at UC San Francisco and CMO of Fellow, discusses advancements in semen analysis and fertility testing with Dr. Jose Silva.---CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORFellowhttps://www.meetfellow.com/---SYNPOSISFirst, Dr. Smith introduces the significance of a comprehensive approach to examining male fertility, including total motile sperm counts and treatable conditions like prostatitis. He also highlights the role of the Fellow kit, a mail-in semen analysis test that improves the access and availability of sperm analysis. He explains the scientific foundations behind the Fellow kit, including temperature control, nutrient supply, and antibacterial measures to preserve sperm motility. The episode also touches on broader themes in fertility, such as the impact of illnesses like COVID-19 on sperm quality, the potential for future molecular and genetic testing in semen analysis, and the socioeconomic factors affecting access to fertility testing. Finally, Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of early and comprehensive fertility evaluations for men and discusses the potential for future research to further improve fertility diagnostics.---TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Exploring Fertility Challenges and Solutions10:16 - The Game-Changing Impact of the Fellow Semen Analysis Kit15:29 - Navigating Semen Analysis: Quality, Progression, and Treatment22:51 - The Importance of Early Fertility Testing and Intervention27:27 - The Journey of Fellow: Improving Patient Compliance and Access41:08 - The Future of Semen Analysis and Fertility Research44:25 - Concluding Thoughts on Male Fertility and Patient Care---RESOURCESFellow Websitehttps://www.meetfellow.com/

May 7, 2024 • 46min
Ep. 166 Innovating Urology: Surgeons Trailblazing Solutions with Dr. Alexandra Haessler, Dr. Jay Shakuri-Rad, and Dr. Tova Weiss
In this crossover episode of BackTable Urology and OBGYN, Dr. Suzette Sutherland interviews three urological/gynecologic innovators, Dr. Ali Haessler, Dr. Jay Shakuri-Rad, and Dr. Tova Weiss, who are all at different career stages and product development phases.---SYNPOSISDr. Tova Weiss, a urology resident at the University of Washington, discusses her development of a safer urinary catheter so that if a patient were to pull out their catheter, the distal part would disconnect from the catheter inside the urethra, preventing urethral trauma. Dr. Jay Shakuri-Rad, a practicing urologist specializing in robotics and neuromodulation, shares his creation of the Foramen Finder to enhance sacral neuromodulation procedures. Dr. Allie Haessler, a practicing urogynecologist, talks about her invention of a novel vaginal ring aimed at providing neuromodulation therapy for pelvic floor issues. They each discuss the inspiration behind their inventions, challenges faced, and the importance of failure in the path to innovation. The episode emphasizes the role of physicians in identifying healthcare gaps, collaborating across disciplines, and pushing the boundaries of medical technology to improve patient care.---TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introduction01:54 - Dr. Tova Weiss and the Urinary Catheter Accessory08:49 - Dr. Jay Shakuri-Rad and the Foramen Finder22:04 - Dr. Allie Haessler and the Neuromodulation Vaginal Ring27:29 - Navigating the Patent Process and Protecting Innovation29:52 - The Path to FDA Approval37:11 - Advice for Aspiring Innovators in Medicine40:52 - Embracing Failure and the Inventor’s Mindset

May 3, 2024 • 52min
Ep. 165 Empowering Clinicians through Quality Improvement Initiatives with Dr. Andrew Harris
In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Aditya Bagrodia invites Dr. Andrew Harris (University of Kentucky) to discuss the significance of quality improvement using the lean methodology to improve patient safety and healthcare efficiency.---SYNPOSISFirst, Dr. Harris shares his transformative journey into quality improvement following a personal experience in the operating room, highlighting how critical it is for healthcare professionals to scrutinize and refine daily processes for better outcomes. The conversation dives into the heart of quality improvement, complex problem solving, encouraging healthcare professionals to apply their analytical skills to improve systems and processes. They discuss the importance of communication, team involvement, and leadership in fostering a culture that embraces quality improvement. Practical examples from Harris’s experience underscore how small changes can lead to significant benefits in patient care, staff satisfaction, and overall healthcare efficiency.---TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introduction05:16 - Combating Burnout with Quality Improvement Initiatives13:38 - Exploring the Anatomy of a Quality Improvement Project25:24 - Optimizing Operating Room Efficiency28:37 - Balancing Standardization and Flexibility in Healthcare Processes34:11 - Ad Hoc Solutions vs. Structured Quality Improvement40:36 - Incorporating Patient Perspectives in Quality Improvement

May 1, 2024 • 59min
Ep. 164 Urology Advocacy: From Passion to Policy with Dr. Seth Cohen and Dr. Michelle Leach
In this episode of Backtable Urology, Dr. Suzette Sutherland invites Dr. Seth Cohen (City of Hope) and Dr. Michelle Leach (UC San Diego) to explore the importance and impact of advocacy work in the field of urology, highlighting how physicians can wield their influence to affect change within their communities and the healthcare system at large.Dr. Cohen and Dr. Leach first discuss their personal journeys into advocacy work, the projects they’ve been involved in, and the tangible changes they have helped make, including a resident book club and increasing access to sacral neuromodulation. They both emphasize the importance of physician involvement in advocacy at both the beginning and throughout their careers. They also provide practical advice on participating in professional organizations (AUA, AMA, etc.) and the importance of surveys in guiding advocacy efforts. The discussion concludes with encouragement for medical professionals to engage in policy and advocacy to safeguard their practice and enhance patient care.---SHOW NOTES00:00 - Introduction16:50 - Real-World Success Stories25:36 - Navigating the Complexities of Health Policy and Advocacy33:06 - The Importance of Membership in Professional Organizations36:14 - Highlighting Urology’s Influence in Health Policy45:14 - The AUA Summit Experience55:23 - The Value of Engagement and Advocacy---RESOURCESEp. 82- Advocacy Basics for the Urologist: From Your Clinic to Capitol Hill with Dr. Ruchika Talwarhttps://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/82/advocacy-basics-for-the-urologist-from-your-clinic-to-capitol-hillEp. 154- Navigating Healthcare Reform: Lessons from Urology Advocacy with Dr. Mara Holtonhttps://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/154/navigating-healthcare-reform-lessons-from-urology-advocacy

Apr 30, 2024 • 39min
Ep. 163 Navigating Physician Partnerships: Understanding Stark Law with Clint Davis and David Soler
In this episode, Clint Davis, Senior Vice President & General Counsel at HealthTronics joins Dr. Silva to discuss the nuances of physician-industry partnerships in urology, focusing on mobile equipment services like shockwave lithotripsy and ureteroscopy.First, they delve into the Stark Law restrictions on physician referrals and the unique legal status of lithotripsy services. The conversation also covers partnership benefits, compliance strategies for different services, the importance of due diligence, and considerations for physicians looking to invest in or maintain ancillary income through such partnerships. Additionally, they explore the impact of the Federal Sunshine Act on partnership reporting obligations, as well as advice for navigating hospital policies and ensuring legal and financial protections when engaging in these partnerships.---SHOW NOTES00:00 - Introduction06:38 - Exploring Physician Partnerships and Investment Models10:28 - Navigating Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Urology Partnerships12:43 - Investment Strategies and Compliance for Urologists21:42 - Addressing Common Concerns and Opportunities in Urology Partnerships34:53 - Advice on Urology Partnerships---RESOURCESHealthTronicshttps://www.healthtronics.com/

Apr 23, 2024 • 42min
Ep. 162 Leadership Development During Residency with Dr. Max Bowman
In this episode of the BackTable Urology, Dr. Lindsay Hampson (UCSF), Dr. Gina Badalato (Columbia), and Dr. Max Bowman (UCSF) delve into leadership development during urology residency.First, Dr. Bowman shares his journey towards leadership, starting from his junior residency years and leading up to his current chief resident role and soon-to-be faculty position at UCSF. Max discusses the importance of setting clear expectations, direct communication, and maintaining friendships despite hierarchical differences in residency. The conversation also highlights the benefits of proactive mentorship, the persistent pursuit of leadership opportunities, and the value of leading by example. The urologists then summarize intentional leadership development in medical training and offer advice for residents and early career faculty aiming to enhance their leadership skills.---SHOW NOTES00:00 - Introduction07:37 - Intentional Leadership Development17:51 - Balancing Friendship and Authority20:42 - Crafting a Culture of Leadership32:44 - Seeking and Embracing Leadership Opportunities---RESOURCESEpisode 145 - Urology Training: From Intern to Expert with Dr. Gina Badalato and Dr. Lindsay Hampsonhttps://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/145/urology-training-from-intern-to-expert

Apr 16, 2024 • 43min
Ep. 161 The Terrible Urological 5: Time for Cystectomy and Urinary Diversion with Dr. Drew Peterson
This week on BackTable Urology, Dr. Suzette Sutherland (University of Washington) and Dr. Drew Peterson (Duke University) explore the psychological and clinical challenges faced by genitourinary cancer survivors dealing with the urological consequences of cystectomy and urinary diversion.First, they delve into the “Terrible Urological Five”, a set of criteria indicating when it might be necessary to consider cystectomy and urinary diversion. Dr. Peterson shares his insights on patient care, emphasizing how long-term follow-up and comprehensive care can transform survivors’ quality of life. He also addresses the psychological aspects of major urological surgery, highlighting the importance of acceptance and adjustment for patients and their families. Alongside specific medical considerations, the surgeons underscore surgical advancements that enhance safety and outcomes, reaffirming the potential for patients to regain a fulfilling life post-surgery.---EARN CMEReflect on how this Podcast applies to your day-to-day and earn free AMA PRA Category 1 CMEs: https://earnc.me/wEWNiy---SHOW NOTES00:00 - Introduction to Cancer Survivorship08:06 - The Terrible Urological Five: When to Consider Cystectomy23:09 - The Journey to Accepting a Cystectomy and Urinary Diversion35:03 - Support Networks and Postoperative Quality of Life38:53 - Concluding Thoughts and the Importance of Moving Forward

Apr 9, 2024 • 52min
Ep. 160 The Evolution of Bladder Cancer Treatment: New Insights on Lymphadenectomy with Dr. Seth Lerner
This week on BackTable Urology, Dr. Seth Lerner (Baylor College of Medicine) discusses the intricacies of lymph node dissection in bladder cancer management, including an overview of patterns of metastasis, genomic classifiers, and recent clinical trials.The discussion highlights the evolution of bladder cancer treatment, from the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy to the current practice of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radical cystectomy. Dr. Lerner and Dr. Bagrodia further explore diagnostic and treatment strategies, including the role of Decipher Prostate Genomic Classifier in tailoring patient treatment plans. The podcast delves into the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to bladder cancer, the benefits of multimodal therapy, and the integration of circulating tumor DNA in management plans. Dr. Lerner then discusses clinical trials assessing the impact of extended lymph node dissection during cystectomies and emphasizes the importance of surgical quality and adherence to established protocols in bladder cancer treatment.---CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORVeracytehttps://www.veracyte.com/decipher---SHOW NOTES00:00 - Introduction06:17 - The Role of Imaging in Bladder Cancer Staging08:00 - Exploring the Potential of Genomic Classifiers16:55 - Debating the Efficacy of Extended Lymph Node Dissection27:47 - Update on Bladder Cancer Clinical Trials48:54 - Final Thoughts and the Future of Bladder Cancer Treatment

Apr 2, 2024 • 51min
Ep. 159 The Surgeon Scientist: Fostering the Next Generation with Dr. Ganesh Palapattu
This week on BackTable Urology, Dr. Aditya Bagrodia speaks with Dr. Ganesh Palapattu, Chair of Urology at the University of Michigan about the evolving role of a surgeon scientist, the balance between clinical work and research, and the importance of mentorship and positivity.Dr. Palapattu shares his personal journey from being inspired by mentors like Dr. Don Coffey to becoming Chief of Urologic Oncologist at Houston Methodist and his focus on fostering the next generation of medical professionals. The episode emphasizes the need for self-reflection, understanding one’s motivations, and the importance of maintaining relationships outside of the professional sphere. Additionally, the doctors discuss financial pressures on surgeon scientists and the importance of a supportive environment, along with the unique position of urologists in driving significant scientific and clinical advancements.---SHOW NOTES00:00 - Introduction07:30 - The Challenges and Importance of Being a Surgeon Scientist13:36 - The Impact of Clinical Practice on Scientific Research18:40 - Structuring Success in Academic Medicine25:41 - Reflecting on the Culture of Collaboration and Support27:24 - The Importance of Time and Resources in Academic Medicine43:40 - Advice for Aspiring Surgeon Scientists---RESOURCESDr. Ganesh Palapattu’s Faculty Profilehttps://medicine.umich.edu/dept/urology/ganesh-s-palapattu-md-facs

Mar 26, 2024 • 30min
Ep. 158 The Genesis of Genitourinary Reconstruction Surgery (GURS) with Dr. Gerald Jordan
This week on BackTable Urology, Dr. Ramon Virasoro, a reconstructive urologist in Eastern Colorado, interviews his mentor, Dr. Gerald Jordan, Professor Emeritus of Urology at Eastern Virginia Medical School.First, they explore Dr. Jordan’s multifaceted career, starting from his upbringing in El Paso and his military career, which eventually led him to medicine and urology. Dr. Jordan shares anecdotes from his time as a Navy fighter pilot and how his service influenced his medical path. He eventually chose to focus on reconstructive urology and played a pivotal role in the formation of the Society of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons (GURS). Significant emphasis is placed on global surgical education and Dr. Jordan’s involvement in establishing and contributing to key nonprofits aimed at improving urological care worldwide. The podcast also delves into Dr. Jordan’s tenure at the American Board of Urology, and the urologists also discuss the evolving landscape of urology education and certification. Finally, Dr. Jordan reflects on the importance of mentorship, the joy of lifelong learning, and the future of urology as a fulfilling specialty.---SHOW NOTES00:00 - From Fighter Pilot to Urologist07:32 - Transitioning from the Military to a Medical Career14:21 - The Evolution of Reconstructive Urology and Global Surgical Education22:01 - Dr. Jordan’s Role in the American Board of Urology26:31 - Reflecting on a Distinguished Career and Looking Ahead---RESOURCESSociety of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeonshttps://societygurs.org/BackTable Urology Episode 52- Legends in Urology: Dr. Jack McAninchhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/46wrxyhB2XCwERp4Z2ySc0?si=fe62e35cff934e74