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Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast

Behind The Knife: The Surgery Podcast

Behind the Knife is the world’s #1 surgery podcast.  From high-yield educational topics to interviews with leaders in the field, Behind the Knife delivers the information you need to know.  Tune in for timely, relevant, and engaging content designed to help you DOMINATE THE DAY!

Behind the Knife is more than a podcast.  Visit www.behindtheknife.org to learn more.  
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  • #167
    Yesterday · 34 min

    Beyond the Match, Episode 3: Working Conditions, Resident Mobility, and Accountability

    You stayed late again, the service is still short-staffed, and when you finally say something, the answer is: you just need to be more efficient. More resilient. That's the go-to explanation for almost everything hard about residency — but what if the problem isn't your resilience at all? In the finale of Beyond the Match, Mckenzie Roebuck, Carl Engelke, Michael Brinton, and Omer Hassan of CoSEF look downstream at what happens after residents match: working conditions, culture and mental health, the practical barriers that make transferring so difficult, why residents may not trust existing reporting systems, and what real accountability and resident voice would require. Hosts: Dr. Mckenzie Roebuck, CoSEF BTK Lead, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, mckenzie.rowe@inova.org Dr. Carl Engelke, The Ohio State University, Carl.Engelke@osumc.edu Dr. Michael Brinton, Medical College of Wisconsin, mbrinton@mcw.edu Dr. Omer Hassan, University of Calgary/Alberta Children's Hospital, omerh91@gmail.com CoSEF: X @surgedfellows, cosef.org Learning objectives: Summarize the real problems the congressional report identifies in working conditions, mistreatment reporting, and resident mental health Distinguish necessary difficulty in residency training from preventable system dysfunction, and describe its relationship to resident well-being and reporting Explain the practical barriers to resident mobility, including position availability, training requirements, funding, visa status, professional risk, and stigma Describe local and national accountability mechanisms — including program reporting, GMECs, ACGME pathways, and unions — and the limitations of each Identify strategies to strengthen resident voice, psychological safety, anti-retaliation protections, and institutional accountability rather than relying on individual resilience alone. References: House Committee on the Judiciary. Medical Mis-Match: How a Residency Hiring Monopoly Harms Patients, Doctors, and the American Public. Published online March 27, 2026. Gianakos AL, Freischlag JA, Mercurio AM, et al. Bullying, Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and the Fear of Retaliation During Surgical Residency Training: A Systematic Review. World J Surg. 2022;46(7):1587-1599. doi:10.1007/s00268-021-06432-6 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35006329/ Mata DA, Ramos MA, Bansal N, et al. Prevalence of Depression and Depressive Symptoms Among Resident Physicians: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA. 2015;314(22):2373-2383. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.15845 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26647259/ Malone TL, Zhao Z, Liu TY, Song PXK, Sen S, Scott LJ. Prediction of Suicidal Ideation Risk in a Prospective Cohort Study of Medical Interns. PLoS One. 2021;16(12):e0260620. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0260620 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34855821/ Drolet BC, Schwede M, Bishop KD, Fischer SA. Compliance and Falsification of Duty Hours: Reports From Residents and Program Directors. J Grad Med Educ. 2013;5(3):368-373. doi:10.4300/JGME-D-12-00375.1 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24404298/ National Resident Matching Program. The Match Agreement. Accessed August 2026. https://www.nrmp.org/intro-to-the-match/the-match-agreement/. Intealth (ECFMG). J-1 Physicians Training in the US (infographic). Accessed August 2026. https://www.intealth.org/pdfs/J-1_US_Infographic.pdf. (Note: Institutional PDF; no PubMed entry available). Foote DC, Rosenblatt AE, Amortegui D, et al. Experiences With Unionization Among General Surgery Resident Physicians, Faculty, and Staff. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(7):e2421676. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.21676 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39018072/ Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Report an Issue. https://www.acgme.org/residents-and-fellows/report-an-issue/?utm_source. 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review Surgical Critical Care Review: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #166
    Tuesday · 35 min

    Beyond the Match, Episode 2: Application Chaos, Transparency, and the Cost of Uncertainty

    You matched into your dream program... but only after submitting 80 applications, spending thousands of dollars, and losing sleep wondering if anyone was even reading yours. Meanwhile, on the other side of the screen, a program director is staring down a thousand applications for six spots, trying to figure out who's actually serious about coming. Sound familiar? Join Mckenzie Roebuck, Milanie Milan, Sarah Lund, and Bryanna Stukes of CoSEF as they unpack the residency application arms race: why uncertainty drives overapplication, what preference signaling and application caps actually solve, the trade-offs of virtual versus in-person interviews, and how better transparency, advising, holistic review, and even AI might help applicants and programs find the right fit. Hosts: Dr. Mckenzie Roebuck, CoSEF BTK Lead, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, mckenzie.rowe@inova.org, insta @mrowemd, X @mrowemd1 Dr. Milanie Milan, Cleveland Clinic, milanie.milan98@gmail.com, insta @m.mdgram Dr. Sarah Lund, Mayo Clinic, slund@alum.mit.edu, X @DrSarahLund Dr. Bryanna Stukes, UT Southwestern bryanna.stukes@UTSouthwestern.edu CoSEF: X @surgedfellows, cosef.org Learning objectives: Explain how uncertainty across the residency selection process drives overapplication and distinguish the Match algorithm from the broader application ecosystem Describe how preference signaling, application caps, and interview format affect applicant and program behavior, including equity trade-offs Identify ways programs can improve both competitiveness and program-level transparency Discuss how investment in holistic review and mission-specific selection criteria may improve application review while introducing new challenges. References: House Committee on the Judiciary. Medical Mis-Match: How a Residency Hiring Monopoly Harms Patients, Doctors, and the American Public. Published online March 27, 2026. National Resident Matching Program. Advance Data Tables: 2026 Main Residency Match. NRMP. Published March 20, 2026. Accessed August 2026. https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/advance-data-tables-2026-main-residency-match/. Ulin L, Bernstein SA, Nunes JC, et al. Improving Transparency in the Residency Application Process: Survey Study. JMIR Form Res. 2023;7:e45919. doi:10.2196/45919 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38145482/ American Medical Association. Transparency in the Resident Physician Application Process (Issue Brief). Published online November 2023. Accessed August 2026. https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/cme-issue-brief-resident-application-process.pdf. Nilsen K, Walling A, Callaway P, et al. "The End Game" — Students' Perspectives of the National Residency Matching Program: A Focus Group Study. Med Sci Educ. 2018;28(4):729-737. doi:10.1007/s40670-018-0627-1 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34646549/ Weissbart SJ, Kim SJ, Feinn RS, Stock JA. Relationship Between the Number of Residency Applications and the Yearly Match Rate: Time to Start Thinking About an Application Limit? J Grad Med Educ. 2015;7(1):81-85. doi:10.4300/jgme-d-14-00270.1 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26217439/ Angus SV, Williams CM, Kwan B, et al. Drivers of Application Inflation: A National Survey of Internal Medicine Residents. Am J Med. 2018. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2018.01.002 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29355512/ Lund S, Santucci NM, Zarate Rodriguez J, et al. Message Received? Applicant Insights on Preference Signals in General Surgery Residency Recruitment. J Surg Educ. 2026;83(9):104096. doi:10.1016/j.jsurg.2026.104096 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42418854/ Woodward JM, Gan CY, Foote DC, et al. Thanks for the Signal—Now What? Program Director Perspectives on How Preference Signals Are Shaping General Surgery Residency Recruitment. J Surg Educ. 2026;83(9):104061. doi:10.1016/j.jsurg.2026.104061 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42418853/ Mullens CL, Picart JK, Dualeh SHA, et al. A Practical Approach for Implementing Holistic Review for General Surgery Resident Recruitment. J Surg Educ. 2026;83(9):104069. doi:10.1016/j.jsurg.2026.104069 PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42436210/ 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review Surgical Critical Care Review: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #166
    Monday · 34 min

    Beyond the Match, Episode 1: Pay, Benefits, and Bargaining Power

    What does it say about a training system when childcare can eat up almost half a resident’s monthly salary — and the physicians doing essential clinical work have almost no ability to negotiate their pay or benefits? A recent House Judiciary Committee report argues that the Match suppresses resident compensation and bargaining power. But if the Match disappeared tomorrow, would residents actually get paid more? Join Mckenzie Roebuck, Maya Hunt, Nicole Santucci, and Michael Kabbash of CoSEF as they unpack resident pay and benefits, where GME funding actually goes, why residency is not a normal labor market, and where real leverage for change might come from. Hosts: Dr. Mckenzie Roebuck, CoSEF BTK Lead, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, mckenzie.rowe@inova.org, insta @mrowemd, X @mrowemd1 Dr. Maya Hunt, Indiana University, mayahunt@iu.edu Dr. Nicole Santucci, Washington University in St. Louis, snicole@wustl.edu Dr. Michael Kabbash, University of Florida, michel.kabbash@surgery.ufl.edu, X @MichaelKabbash CoSEF: X @surgedfellows, cosef.org Learning objectives: Summarize the congressional report’s arguments about resident compensation and bargaining power Explain how GME funding supports residency and why federal GME dollars do not map directly onto resident salaries Describe how salary and benefit structures affect residents’ financial well-being, family planning, and quality of life Identify institutional, policy, and collective strategies to strengthen resident compensation and bargaining power. References: House Committee on the Judiciary. Medical Mis-Match: How a Residency Hiring Monopoly Harms Patients, Doctors, and the American Public. Published online March 27, 2026. Association of American Medical Colleges. AAMC Survey of Resident/Fellow Stipends and Benefits. https://www.aamc.org/data-reports/students-residents/report/aamc-survey-resident/fellow-stipends-and-benefits. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Direct Graduate Medical Education (DGME). https://www.cms.gov/medicare/payment/prospective-payment-systems/acute-inpatient-pps/direct-graduate-medical-education-dgme. Foote DC, Rosenblatt AE, Amortegui D, et al. Experiences With Unionization Among General Surgery Resident Physicians, Faculty, and Staff. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(7):e2421676. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.21676 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39018072/ Tomei KL, Selby LV, Kirk LM, et al. Beyond Training the Next Generation of Physicians: The Unmeasured Value Added by Residents to Teaching Hospitals and Communities. Acad Med. 2022;97(11):1592-1596. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35731593/ doi:10.1097/ACM.0000000000004792 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Common Program Requirements. Accessed August 2026.https://www.acgme.org/programs-and-institutions/programs/common-program-requirements/. Rigged or Right? The Residency Match Under Fire | podcast. Behind the Knife. https://behindtheknife.org/podcast/rigged-or-right-the-residency-match-under-fire. 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review Surgical Critical Care Review: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #165
    September 11 · 59 min

    Surgical Critical Care Review: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

    Introducing Behind the Knife Surgical Critical Care Review! DOMINATE THE ICU with our comprehensive course that includes audio + simulator + question bank. Master the management of the critically ill patient with Behind the Knife's all-new Surgical Critical Care Review. Built for high-yield, real-world application, this comprehensive multimedia program gives residents, fellows, and practicing surgeons everything they need to confidently manage the sickest patients in the hospital. What's included: 38 High-Yield Podcasts — Expert-led discussions spanning the full SCORE curriculum for Surgical Critical Care. AI Case Simulator — Test your judgment against our one-of-a-kind interactive simulator, built to recreate the pressure of high-stakes clinical scenarios. 110 simulator credits included with purchase. Comprehensive Question Bank — Rigorous, board-style multiple-choice questions to sharpen your performance on rounds and on exam day. Get Instant Access Here: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review Enjoy this sample episode from the course.

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  • #163
    September 10 · 23 min

    Surgical Critical Care Review: Traumatic Brain Injury

    Introducing Behind the Knife Surgical Critical Care Review! DOMINATE THE ICU with our comprehensive course that includes audio + simulator + question bank. Master the management of the critically ill patient with Behind the Knife's all-new Surgical Critical Care Review. Built for high-yield, real-world application, this comprehensive multimedia program gives residents, fellows, and practicing surgeons everything they need to confidently manage the sickest patients in the hospital. What's included: 38 High-Yield Podcasts — Expert-led discussions spanning the full SCORE curriculum for Surgical Critical Care. AI Case Simulator — Test your judgment against our one-of-a-kind interactive simulator, built to recreate the pressure of high-stakes clinical scenarios. 110 simulator credits included with purchase. Comprehensive Question Bank — Rigorous, board-style multiple-choice questions to sharpen your performance on rounds and on exam day. Get Instant Access Here: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review Enjoy this sample episode from the course.

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  • #164
    September 9 · 30 min

    Surgical Critical Care Review: Liver Failure

    Introducing Behind the Knife Surgical Critical Care Review! DOMINATE THE ICU with our comprehensive course that includes audio + simulator + question bank. Master the management of the critically ill patient with Behind the Knife's all-new Surgical Critical Care Review. Built for high-yield, real-world application, this comprehensive multimedia program gives residents, fellows, and practicing surgeons everything they need to confidently manage the sickest patients in the hospital. What's included: 38 High-Yield Podcasts — Expert-led discussions spanning the full SCORE curriculum for Surgical Critical Care. AI Case Simulator — Test your judgment against our one-of-a-kind interactive simulator, built to recreate the pressure of high-stakes clinical scenarios. 110 simulator credits included with purchase. Comprehensive Question Bank — Rigorous, board-style multiple-choice questions to sharpen your performance on rounds and on exam day. Get Instant Access Here: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review Enjoy this sample episode from the course.

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  • #163
    September 8 · 20 min

    Surgical Critical Care Review: Mechanical Circulatory Support

    Introducing Behind the Knife Surgical Critical Care Review! DOMINATE THE ICU with our comprehensive course that includes audio + simulator + question bank. Master the management of the critically ill patient with Behind the Knife's all-new Surgical Critical Care Review. Built for high-yield, real-world application, this comprehensive multimedia program gives residents, fellows, and practicing surgeons everything they need to confidently manage the sickest patients in the hospital. What's included: 38 High-Yield Podcasts — Expert-led discussions spanning the full SCORE curriculum for Surgical Critical Care. AI Case Simulator — Test your judgment against our one-of-a-kind interactive simulator, built to recreate the pressure of high-stakes clinical scenarios. 110 simulator credits included with purchase. Comprehensive Question Bank — Rigorous, board-style multiple-choice questions to sharpen your performance on rounds and on exam day. Get Instant Access Here: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-critical-care-review Enjoy this sample episode from the course.

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  • #162
    September 3 · 27 min

    Clinical Challenges in Colorectal Surgery: Managing the Tough Stoma

    This episode offers a practical, case-based approach to one of the most common intraoperative challenges in GI surgery: constructing a stoma that just won't cooperate. The discussion covers preoperative marking and stoma siting in the obese and non-elective patient, technical maneuvers to gain length and reduce tension on the stoma, strategies for the foreshortened small bowel mesentery, and considerations for maturing a stoma in a massively dilated, thick-walled colon. Join Drs. Elissa Dabaghi, Jared Hendren, Joseph Trunzo, Ajaratu Keshinro, and David Rosen as they discuss this clinical challenge in colorectal surgery. Hosts: · Elissa Dabaghi, MD, Institution: Department of General Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio · Jared Hendren, 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, X/Twitter @joseph_trunzo · Ajaratu Keshinro, MD, Institution: Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, X/Twitter- @AJKesh · David Rosen, MD, Institution: Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Digestive Disease Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, X/Twitter- @davidrrosenmd Learning Objectives: By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to: 1. Describe preoperative marking strategies and intraoperative technical adaptations for stoma siting and construction in obese and non-elective patients. 2. Apply strategies for managing a foreshortened small bowel mesentery when constructing an end or loop ileostomy. 3. Recognize technical considerations for maturing a stoma in a massively dilated, thick-walled colon and identify associated long-term risks Sponsor Disclaimer: Visit https://www.goremedical.com/btkpod to learn more about GORE® SYNECOR Biomaterial, including supporting references and disclaimers for the presented content. Refer to Instructions for Use at eifu.goremedical.com for a complete description of all applicable indications, warnings, precautions and contraindications for the markets where this product is available. Rx only 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #162
    August 31 · 38 min

    Building the House of Surgical Education: The Legacy of Dr. Ajit Sachdeva

    What does it take to build a national surgical education apparatus from scratch? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ajit Sachdeva, the former Senior Vice President for Education at the American College of Surgeons—a role he held for 24 years before passing the torch in fall 2025. When Dr. Sachdeva arrived at the ACS in 2001, there was no division, no script, and almost no structure. Over the course of his tenure, he created an ecosystem that now touches surgeons at every stage of their careers, from the first year of medical school to the last year of practice. Dr. Sachdeva reflects on competence, excellence, and the value of surgical educators. He discusses the structural shifts that have shaped modern surgical training, including simulation standards, competency-based curricula, the ACS Accredited Education Institutes, and the Academy of Master Surgeon Educators. He also shares his thoughts on the challenges that remain: resource constraints, the tension between clinical productivity and educational investment, and the gap between national standard-setting and local implementation. Join hosts Pooja Varman, MD, Judith French, PhD, and Jeremy Lipman, MD, MHPE to reflect on Dr. Sachdeva’s impact on surgical education. Learning Objectives By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to 1. Distinguish between competence, proficiency, expertise, and mastery in the context of surgical training and career development. 2. Identify key structural initiatives from the ACS Division of Education and describe their impact on surgical education at the national level. 3. Discuss the challenges of sustaining and funding surgical education infrastructure and articulate strategies for aligning educational goals with institutional priorities. References 1. ACS Accredited Education Institutes: https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/education/programs/accredited-education-institutes/ 2. Dr. Ajit Sachdeva Describes a Career of Distinction in Practice and Surgical Education | ACS. Accessed March 27, 2026. https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/news-publications/news-and-articles/acs-brief/october-21-2025-issue/dr-ajit-sachdeva-describes-a-career-of-distinction-in-practice-and-surgical-education/ 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #161
    August 27 · 53 min

    Clinical Challenges in Trauma Surgery: Organ Retrieval to Trauma Survival - Challenging Trauma Steps Made Familiar

    It’s 0300 and you encounter a rapidly expanding zone 1 retroperitoneal haematoma. Time to enter “tiger country”. What can you do to make this a more familiar expedition? • Hosts: Bulleted list of host names, including title, institution, & social media handles if indicated 1. Mr Prashanth Ramaraj. ST5 General Surgery, George Hospital, Western Cape / Southeast Scotland Deanery. @LonTraumaSchool 2. Dr Roisin Kelly. Medical Officer, Emergency Medicine, Sydney, Australia. 3. Mr Max Marsden. Consultant Trauma and UGI Surgeon, Royal London Hospital. @maxmarsden83 4. Mr Christopher Johnston. Consultant Liver Transplant Surgeon and Transplant Surgery Fellowship Lead, Edinburgh Transplant Unit. @cjcjohnston • Learning objectives: Bulleted list of learning objectives. A) To understand the rationale for thoracic aortic clamping in resuscitative trauma surgery and how this is performed. B) To understand how to access the retroperitoneal structures by means of medial visceral rotation and how this is performed. C) To understand the haemostatic ladder for liver trauma and considerations in hepatic exclusion. 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #161
    August 24 · 29 min

    Clinical Challenges in Endocrine Surgery: Adrenal Cases

    There are many acceptable approaches to adrenalectomy. Hypercortisolism with adrenal origin is a challenging topic especially in a population where obesity is incredibly common. A thorough biochemical workup involving endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons is key to offering the best surgery. Large adrenal tumors with indeterminate imaging characteristics have historically been removed with an open surgical approach. However, with modern robotic technology, it is possible to remove these successfully using a minimally invasive approach with a high-volume surgeon. Today we will discuss some clinically challenging adrenal cases addressing the above issues, and include tips and tricks from an expert, high-volume robotic adrenal endocrine surgeon. Hosts: - Amanda Doubleday, DO, MBA, Assistant Professor, Waukesha Surgical Specialists, ProHealth Care. Affiliated with University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery. - Simon Holoubek, DO, MPH, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery. - John R. Porterfield, Jr., MD, MSPH, FACS, President of Clarus Surgery, President of Apex PA Surgical Services and Founder & Chief Medical Officer of Informed Surgical 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #160
    August 20 · 28 min

    Operative Standards for Cancer Surgery Series: Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

    This mini-series on Behind the Knife will delve into the technical aspects of the Operative Standards for Cancer Surgery, developed through the American College of Surgeons Cancer Research Program. This third episode highlights the Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary cancer operative standard. Hosts: Eliza W. Beal, MD, FACS (X: @ElizaWBealMD) is a Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgeon at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit. She is also an associate professor of Oncology and Surgery at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Morgan Jackson, MD is a general surgery resident at the Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. Daniel Nelson, MD, FACS, FSSO (X: @DWNelsonHPB) is a Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgeon at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center - Chattanooga. Hop Sanderson Tran Cao, MD, FACS (X: @HopSTranCao) is a Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgeon at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Guest: Alice Wei, MD is a Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering and associate professor of surgery at Weill Cornell School of Medicine. Dr. Wei contributed to the development of the operative standards for HPB surgery. Learning Objectives: The goals of this podcast are to provide education about the standards, generate discussion, and offer technical pearls to both oncologic specialists and general surgeons, to all of whom these standards apply. In this podcast we discuss the operative standards for liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma, which includes that the surgeon should: (1) perform a thorough inspection of the liver and abdomen, either laparoscopically or open, including performing liver ultrasound, and (2) should resect all lesions to macroscopically negative margins, preferably with an anatomic resection. Our guest Dr. Wei also provides technical tips, pearls for improving skills performing and interpreting liver ultrasound, and discusses the role of lymphadenectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. References: Operative Standards for Cancer Surgery, Volume 3: Sarcoma, Adrenal, Neuroendocrine, Peritoneal, Urothelial, Hepatobiliary https://www.facs.org/quality-programs/cancer-programs/cancer-surgery-standards-program/operative-standards-for-cancer-surgery/purchase/ 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #159
    August 17 · 38 min

    USA vs. UK: ASGBI Ep. 10 - The Nuanced Approach to Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

    In this episode, we discuss all things abdominal wall reconstruction. What is this new developing field, just patching “holes” with meshes or something more? We delve into the impact of the robot in transforming this speciality in new ways. We also explore the reasons that make the field of abdominal wall reconstruction so special (the creativity in surgical planning and the unique patient-provider relationship). Joining BTK fellow Agnes Premkumar and ASGBI hosts Elizabeth McLennan and Gita Lingam are Dr. Conrad Ballecer and Dr. Akash Mehta. Dr. Conrad Ballecer is an internationally renowned minimally invasive surgeon, focused on abdominal wall reconstruction. He currently works at Creighton University in Phoenix with complex hernias and frequently publicizes his surgical videos for education! Mr. Mehta is a consultant colorectal surgeon at St. Mark’s Hospital in London, United Kingdom. He is interested in intestinal failure and rehabilitation surgery. He is also the lead for the region's abdominal wall multidisciplinary team and has successfully established a minimally invasive abdominal wall surgery program. This episode is dedicated to Professor Neil Smart, a visionary surgeon from the UK who was a lifelong advocate for hernia surgery and patients. His legacy lives on. Let us know what you think! And be on the lookout for more ASGBI/BTK collaborative episodes. 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #158
    August 13 · 41 min

    Surgical Endoscopy Series Ep. 5: Novel Endosurgical Techniques

    In this surgical endoscopy episode, the BTK team introduces endoscopic surgical procedures that are perhaps less well known. They cover primary endoscopic treatments for gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal plication, intestinal resurfacing procedures, and magnet-assisted enteric anastomoses. Endoscopic options may be viable alternatives to surgical treatment, especially in case where the surgical alternatives may significantly increase morbidity. Video: https://behindtheknife.org/watch/surgical-endoscopy-series-ep-5-novel-endosurgical-techniques Hosts: · Dr. Sullivan “Sully” Ayuso, Minimally Invasive Surgeon, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin (Austin, TX), @SAyusoMD (Twitter) · Dr. H. Mason Hedberg, Minimally Invasive Surgeon, Endeavor Health (Evanston, IL), · Dr. Trevor Crafts, Minimally Invasive Surgeon, Rocky Mountain VA Medical Center (Denver, CO), @CraftsTrevor (Twitter) · Dr. Zachary Callahan, Minimally Invasive Surgeon, The Surgical Clinic (Nashville, TN), @zmcallahan (Twitter) 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #157
    August 10 · 28 min

    Journal Review in Minimally Invasive Surgery: Digital Surgery

    Digital surgery has morphed from buzzword into ubiquitous high-impact technology. In this episode, the BTK MIS team steps into the rapidly evolving ecosystem of cameras, sensors, robotics, and software that are turning surgical operations into structured, analyzable datasets. From AI segmentation to real-time telepresence, don’t miss this opportunity to catch up on what’s new and what’s next, what’s exciting and what’s terrifying, just on the horizon of your surgical career. Hosts: · James Jung, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Duke University · Jacob Greenberg, MD, EdM, MIS Division Chief and Vice Chair for Education, Duke University · Zachary Weitzner, MD, Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery Fellow, Duke University, @ZachWeitznerMD · Joey Lew, MD, MFA, Surgical resident PGY-3, Duke University, @lew__actually Learning Goals: By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to: · Define “digital surgery” and describe its core components, including video capture, instrumentation, robotics, data analytics, and system connectivity. · Discuss current and emerging applications of digital surgery in surgical education, including video-based self-assessment, procedural segmentation, and structured feedback models. · Describe how digital tools can be used to improve OR efficiency and resource utilization, including instrumentation usage, operative time analysis, and workflow optimization. · Summarize current telepresence and teleproctoring technologies and their clinical use cases, including augmented reality–based collaboration across institutions and geographic boundaries. · Identify key ethical, legal, and operational challenges in digital and tele-surgery, including credentialing, cross-state licensure, liability, and trust in remote expertise. · Discuss how digital surgery may reshape surgical training and competency-based assessment, including implications for autonomy, deliberate practice, and feedback frequency. · Recognize future directions of digital surgery integration, including predictive analytics, simulation using patient-specific imaging, and AI-assisted intraoperative decision support. References: Balvardi S, Semsar-Kazerooni K, Kaneva P, et al. Validity of video-based general and procedure-specific self-assessment tools for surgical trainees in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Surg Endosc. 2023;37(3):2281-2289. doi:10.1007/s00464-022-09466-6 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36307525/] Hospital Utilizes Intraoperative Idle Time Metrics to Improve Surgical Safety and Efficiency. Theator | The Surgical Intelligence Company. Accessed March 20, 2026. https://theator.io/customer-story/hospital-utilizes-intraoperative-idle-time-metrics-to-improve-surgical-safety-and-efficiency/ Campbell KK, Abreu AA, Zeh HJ, et al. Using OR Black Box Technology to Determine Quality Improvement Outcomes for In-situ Timeout and Debrief Simulation. Ann Surg. 2026;283(1):122. doi:10.1097/SLA.0000000000006438 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38317208/] Al Abbas AI, Meier J, Daniel W, et al. Impact of team performance on the surgical safety checklist on patient outcomes: an operating room black box analysis. Surg Endosc. 2024;38(10):5613-5622. doi:10.1007/s00464-024-11064-7 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39069926/] Proximie’s telepresence platform helps surgeons across the globe grow and exchange experience in real-time. World Health Expo Insights. Accessed March 20, 2026. https://www.worldhealthexpo.com/insights/telemedicine/proximie-s-telepresence-platform-helps-surgeons-across-the-globe-grow-and-exchange-experience-in-real-time Hassan AE, Desai SK, Georgiadis AL, Tekle WG. Augmented reality enhanced tele-proctoring platform to intraoperatively support a neuro-endovascular surgery fellow. Interv Neuroradiol. 2022;28(3):277-282. doi:10.1177/15910199211035304 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34538166/] SAGES Digital Surgery Working Group; Ali JT, Yang G, Green CA, Reed BL, Madani A, Ponsky TA, Hazey J, Rothenberg SS, Schlachta CM, Oleynikov D, Szoka N. Defining digital surgery: a SAGES white paper. Surg Endosc. 2024 Feb;38(2):475-487. doi: 10.1007/s00464-023-10551-7. Epub 2024 Jan 5. PMID: 38180541. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38180541/] 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #156
    August 6 · 26 min

    Journal Review in Thoracic Surgery: Empowering IMGs in CT Surgery - the Time to Act is Now

    Navigating the path to becoming a surgeon in the US as an International Medical Graduate (IMG) can definitely have its hurdles. In this episode we sit down with Professor of Surgery, Dr. Ourania Preventza about her journey as an IMG, and how to break down the barriers in one of the most competitive surgical subspecialties. Dr. Preventza teaches us why sponsorship is invaluable, and how we as a surgical community can help support this vulnerable group of providers. With years of experience to offer, both as an IMG herself, and now as a fierce advocate and mentor for trainees, this interview with Dr. Preventza is not one to miss. References: https://www.jtcvsopen.org/article/S2666-2736(25)00059-2/fulltext The current landscape and challenges facing international medical graduates in cardiothoracic surgery training https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39886768/ International Medical Graduates in Academic Cardiothoracic Surgery https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/playContent/1-s2.0-S2666273625002840?returnurl=https:%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2666273625002840%3Fshowall%3Dtrue&referrer=https:%2F%2Fpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2F A career in cardiothoracic surgery in the United States: Guidance and resources for international medical graduates https://jtd.amegroups.org/article/view/38164/html US women in Thoracic Surgery: Reflections on the Past and Opportunities for the Future 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #155
    August 3 · 29 min

    Clinical Challenges in Burn Surgery: Have Some Skin (Substitutes) In the Game

    Join our burn team as they dive into the complex world of skin substitutes in burn care, breaking down a practical four-axis framework to help clinicians navigate product selection, patient factors, and clinical goals when managing massive burn injuries. Hosts: - Kathleen Romanowski – University of California Davis Hospital, Shriners Hospital Sacramento - Laura Johnson – Grady Memorial Hospital - Lauren Nosanov – Grady Memorial Hospital - Victoria Miles – Louisiana State University Health Science Center, University Medical Center New Orleans Learning objectives: 1. Classify skin substitutes along four axes: layer replaced, cellularity, origin, and duration. 2. Integrate wound, patient, phase-of-care, and goal factors to select an appropriate skin substitute or combination strategy. 3. Critically appraise the evidence base for skin substitutes, including industry influence and the distinction between adjunctive tools and definitive autologous coverage. If you would like the table mentioned in the episode, please email hello@behindtheknife.org. 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #154
    July 30 · 29 min

    Power, Partnerships, and the Reality of Global Surgery Collaboration

    In this episode of the Behind the Knife Global Surgery Series, we take a closer look at the real-world complexity of global surgery partnerships between high-income institutions and partners in the Global South. Words like equity, bidirectionality, partnership, and decolonization are used often in global surgery—but what do they actually mean when funding, mobility, research access, publication opportunities, and institutional power are unequally distributed? Host Mike Mallah is joined by Dr. Hugo Stark from George Hospital in South Africa and Dr. Sydney Bertram from Emory for a candid discussion about the benefits and tensions of collaborations in an unequal world. Together, they explore how global surgery partnerships can create meaningful educational and clinical value, how good intentions can still reproduce unequal systems, and how surgeons can build partnerships that are locally useful, honest about power, and ultimately centered on better surgical care for patients. Hosts/Guests: - Mike M. Mallah, MD, FACS, FICS Director of Global Surgery at Medical University of South Carolina @MikeMMallahMD @MUSCGlobalSurg mallahm@musc.edu - Hugo Stark, MD Head of Department - Surgery, George Hospital, Western Cape, South Africa Head of Surgical Services, Central Karoo Region Sydney Bertram, MD General Surgery Resident, Emory University Trainee Advisory Council, Consortium of Universities for Global Health @Sydney_Bertram Learning objectives: • Describe how global surgery partnerships can provide educational, clinical, professional, and research value for both high-income and Global South partners. • Identify how asymmetries in funding, mobility, publication access, and institutional agenda-setting can create inequity within otherwise well-intentioned global surgery partnerships. • Discuss practical principles for ethical global surgery engagement, including centering local needs, avoiding extraction, building durable partnerships, and focusing on patient access to surgical decision-making. 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #153
    July 27 · 37 min

    Clinical Challenges in Breast Surgery: The Fundamentals of Cancer Immunotherapy

    Immune checkpoint inhibitors have rapidly reshaped care for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)—but surgical teams increasingly encounter their downstream perioperative consequences. In this episode, we define immunotherapy through the lens of checkpoint biology, review the landmark evidence supporting pembrolizumab in metastatic PD‑L1–positive TNBC (KEYNOTE‑355) and curative-intent stage II–III TNBC (KEYNOTE‑522), and translate immune-related adverse events (irAEs) into practical periop recognition, triage, and timing decisions—especially for endocrine, pulmonary, hepatic, dermatologic, and GI toxicities. Hosts: - Rashmi Kumar, MD, PhD Resident, University of Michigan General Surgery Residency Program Twitter/X: @RashmiJKumar - Melissa Pilewskie, MD Attending Breast Surgical Oncologist, Co-Director of the Weiser Family Center for Breast Cancer, Michigan Medicine Twitter/X: @MPilewskie - Stephanie Downs-Canner, MD Attending Breast Surgical Oncologist & Physician-Scientist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Program Director of the Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship Training Program Twitter/X: @SDownsCanner Learning Objectives: Define immunotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition in breast cancer Summarize current clinical indications and pivotal evidence for pembrolizumab in TNBC Equip perioperative clinicians to identify and manage immune-related adverse events (irAEs) or side effects of immunotherapy. Rationale for Immunotherapy in Breast Cancer Review Selecting Triple Negative Breast Cancer Patients for Immunotherapy: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37714640/ Landmark Clinical Trials Discussed in this Episode KEYNOTE-355: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33232653/ KEYNOTE-522: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33232642/ IMpassion130: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30345906/ IMpassion131: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33930478/ Assessment of Surgical Outcomes in patients receiving chemoimmunotherapy Surgical outcomes after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38332314/ Immune Related Adverse Events and Management Schneider BJ, et al. Management of immune-related adverse events: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34724392/ Brahmer JR, et al. SITC clinical practice guideline: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34177534/ 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: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-review OBGYN Oral Board Review Coures: https://behindtheknife.org/course/obgyn-oral-board-review EPA Playbook: https://behindtheknife.org/course/epa-playbook Surgical Instrument Flashcards: https://behindtheknife.org/course/surgical-instrument-flashcards ABSITE Review: https://behindtheknife.org/course/absite-2026-exam-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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  • #152
    July 23 · 28 min

    Journal Review in Hernia Surgery: What is Bioresorbable Mesh and Is It Worth It?

    Join our OHSY Hernia team to review the current landscape of bioresorbable meshes and a conversation considering “are they worth it?" Hosts: Dr. Maggie Bosley - @MBosleyMD Dr. Sean Orenstein - @OrensteinSean Dr. Amber Sandoval Dr. Peter Ferrin Institution: Oregon Health & Science University References: - Long-Term, Prospective, Multicenter Study of Poly-4-Hydroxybutyrate Mesh (Phasix Mesh) for Hernia Repair in Cohort at Risk for Complication: 60-Month Follow-Up https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36102523/ - Multicenter, Prospective, Longitudinal Study of the Recurrence, Surgical Site Infection, and Quality of Life After Contaminated Ventral Hernia Repair Using Biosynthetic Absorbable Mesh: The COBRA Study https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28009747/ - A prospective, multicenter trial of a long-term bioabsorbable mesh with Sepra technology in cohort of challenging laparoscopic ventral or incisional hernia repairs (ATLAS trial) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34976385/ - Biosynthetic mesh in hernia repair: A systematic review and meta-analysis https://journals.lww.com/rhaw/fulltext/2024/07020/biosynthetic_mesh_in_hernia_repair__a_systematic.2.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 Behind the Knife Premium: https://behindtheknife.org/premium Oral Board Review: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board Oral Board Simulator: https://behindtheknife.org/oral-board/simulator 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-review Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/colorectal-surgery-oral-board-review Surgical Oncology Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/surgical-oncology-oral-board-review Cardiothoracic Oral Board Review Course: https://behindtheknife.org/premium/cardiothoracic-surgery-oral-board-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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