BackTable Urology

In this episode of the BackTable Urology, Dr. Bogdana Schmidt (University of Utah), Dr. Woodson Smelser (Washington University in St. Louis), and Dr. Jeff Tosoian (Vanderbilt University) discusses the latest insights and advancements in prostate and bladder cancer treatment presented at AUA 2024.

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CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

Veracyte

https://www.veracyte.com/decipher

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SYNPOSIS

First, the doctors cover noteworthy topics, including the effectiveness of early screening and treatment for high-risk prostate cancer patients, innovative approaches in imaging and biomarkers, and the impact of new guidelines on salvage therapy. They also explore emerging treatments for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), as well as the evolving role of systemic immunotherapies and advanced genomic testing. To wrap up, the urologists offer detailed analyses and their expert opinions on how these developments could transform patient care in the field of urologic oncology.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introductions

03:06 - Prostate Cancer Screening Insights

10:10 - Advancements in MRI and Biomarkers

18:22 - Transperineal vs. Transrectal Prostate Biopsy

27:18 - New Guidelines for Bladder Cancer Treatment

30:57 - Innovative Drug Delivery Systems

32:36 - Gene Therapy and Immunotherapy Advances

40:11 - Concluding Thoughts and Future Prospects

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RESOURCES

Decipher Prostate Genomic Classifier by Veracyte:

​​https://decipherbio.com/decipher-prostate/physicians/decipher-prostate-overview/

In this episode of Back Table Urology, Dr. Aditya Bagrodia, Dr. Joshua Langston, and Dr. Mara Holton from the Large Urology Group Practice Association (LUGPA) share insights on the financial and administrative complexities that urologists face.

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CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

Fellow

https://www.meetfellow.com/

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SYNPOSIS

The doctors delve into the increasing costs of healthcare, the challenges posed by regulatory requirements, and the significance of physician leadership in influencing healthcare delivery. The discussion also highlights the importance of advocacy, the evolving role of physicians in business and policy, and actionable steps doctors can take to ensure their voices are heard. Finally, the doctors address the growing trend of hospital employment among physicians and its impact on rural healthcare access.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

06:41 - Complexities and Costs in Healthcare

11:48 - The Role of Physicians in Healthcare Leadership

17:21 - The Shift Towards Hospital Employment

27:35 - Economic Pressures on Physicians and Patients

30:09 - Cost Discrepancies in Medical Procedures

38:16 - Burnout and Workforce Challenges

49:26 - Advocacy and Call to Action

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RESOURCES

Fellow

https://www.meetfellow.com/

BackTable URO Ep. 82- Advocacy Basics for the Urologist: From Your Clinic to Capitol Hill with Dr. Ruchika Talwar

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0hcLrKuf5QU7TZCHSErs4Z?si=842c7985f44c4e04

BackTable URO Ep. 164: Urology Advocacy: From Passion to Policy with Dr. Seth Cohen, Dr. Michelle Leach, and Dr. Suzette Sutherland

https://open.spotify.com/episode/68pR7MxFIgQ1HJLy6xQHDX?si=36a93eedd6594770

In this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Aditya Bagrodia, urologic oncologist Dr. Philippe Speiss (Moffitt Cancer Center), and medical oncologist Dr. Andrea Necchi (Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele) have an in-depth discussion about the mission and achievements of the Global Society of Rare Genitourinary Tumors (GSRGT).

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CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS

Siemens Healthineers Theranostics

https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/en-us/clinical-specialities/theranostics

Veracyte

https://www.veracyte.com/decipher

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SYNPOSIS

First, the doctors discuss the society’s mission to improve the diagnosis and treatment of rare genitourinary cancers globally. They give an overview of their educational efforts, international collaborations, and significant achievements in clinical research. The discussion also covers the importance of global representation, the challenges of studying rare tumors, and future directions, such as leveraging artificial intelligence. The episode concludes with an emphasis on the society’s commitment to being inclusive and providing opportunities for young investigators.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

06:45 - Origins and Missions of GSRGT

11:21 - Challenges in Rare Cancer Research

31:51 - Future Directions in Rare Cancer Treatment

38:38 - How to Get Involved with GSRGT

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RESOURCES

Siemens Healthineers Theranostics:

https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/en-us/clinical-specialities/theranostics

Decipher Prostate Genomic Classifier by Veracyte:

​​https://decipherbio.com/decipher-prostate/physicians/decipher-prostate-overview/

GSRGT Website

https://www.gsrgt.com/

Andrea Necchi Website

https://www.andreanecchi.com/

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Cooperberg (UC San Francisco) and Dr. Arvin George (Johns Hopkins) join host Dr. Aditya Bagrodia in a conversation about guidelines and treatment algorithms for focal therapy in prostate cancer treatment.

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CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS

Siemens Healthineers Theranostics

https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/en-us/clinical-specialities/theranostics

Veracyte

https://www.veracyte.com/decipher

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SYNPOSIS

First, the doctors discuss focal therapy in prostate cancer treatment from various perspectives, including the challenges of treating certain lesions, the comparison of different focal therapy modalities like high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and brachytherapy, cryotherapy and the importance of patient-specific factors in treatment decisions. They emphasize the need for clinical trials and registries to validate focal therapy outcomes, the potential expansion of indications for focal therapy, and the critical role of advanced imaging and genomic classifiers in patient selection and treatment planning. The discussion also touches on the potential of focal therapy to evolve as a standard care option alongside advancements in understanding the biology of prostate cancer and improving imaging and treatment technologies.

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TIMESTAMPS

Siemens Healthineers Theranostics:

https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/en-us/clinical-specialities/theranostics

Decipher Prostate Genomic Classifier by Veracyte:

​​https://decipherbio.com/decipher-prostate/physicians/decipher-prostate-overview/

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RESOURCES

Siemens Healthineers Theranostics:

https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/en-us/clinical-specialities/theranostics

Decipher Prostate Genomic Classifier by Veracyte:

​​https://decipherbio.com/decipher-prostate/physicians/decipher-prostate-overview/

In this episode of Backtable Urology Podcast, Ken Mitchell MPAS, PA-C, a certified physician associate, speaks about the role of interprofessional collaboration in treating male sexual dysfunction and infertility.

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CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

KYZATREX™

https://www.kyzatrex.com

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SYNPOSIS

First, Ken highlights his journey into men’s health, sparked by the debut of erectile dysfunction medication and his engagement in vascular medicine. He then discusses how he leveraged his clinical background to address prevalent issues such as erectile dysfunction and testosterone management. Ken emphasizes the importance of education, collaboration, and innovative treatment approaches in providing effective patient care. Dr. Silva and Ken also cover the potential of oral testosterone treatments and their growing acceptance among patients due to convenience and cost-effectiveness. Ken shares insights into his role in advancing APP utilization in urology practices and ensuring comprehensive care coverage. Finally, Ken introduces his nonprofit organization, GUYnecology Men’s Health, an initiative aimed at fostering a broader understanding of preventative care among patients and healthcare professionals.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

06:28 - Expanding the Role of APPs in Urology

14:47 - Addressing Testosterone Replacement Therapy

21:40 - Exploring Treatment and Insurance Challenges in Urology Practices

27:35 - The Evolution of Oral Testosterone Treatments

35:29 - Incorporating Telehealth and Enhancing Patient Education

36:03 - Introducing Guynecology: A New Approach to Men’s Health

41:44 - Final Thoughts and Advice for Urologists and APPs

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RESOURCES

KYZATREX

https://www.kyzatrex.com/

GUYnecology Men’s Health Association

https://learnguynecology.org/

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.

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CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

Fellow

https://www.meetfellow.com/

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SYNPOSIS

First, 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.

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TIMESTAMPS

0:00 - Exploring Fertility Challenges and Solutions

10:16 - The Game-Changing Impact of the Fellow Semen Analysis Kit

15:29 - Navigating Semen Analysis: Quality, Progression, and Treatment

22:51 - The Importance of Early Fertility Testing and Intervention

27:27 - The Journey of Fellow: Improving Patient Compliance and Access

41:08 - The Future of Semen Analysis and Fertility Research

44:25 - Concluding Thoughts on Male Fertility and Patient Care

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RESOURCES

Fellow Website

https://www.meetfellow.com/

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.

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SYNPOSIS

Dr. 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.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

01:54 - Dr. Tova Weiss and the Urinary Catheter Accessory

08:49 - Dr. Jay Shakuri-Rad and the Foramen Finder

22:04 - Dr. Allie Haessler and the Neuromodulation Vaginal Ring

27:29 - Navigating the Patent Process and Protecting Innovation

29:52 - The Path to FDA Approval

37:11 - Advice for Aspiring Innovators in Medicine

40:52 - Embracing Failure and the Inventor’s Mindset

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.

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SYNPOSIS

First, 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.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

05:16 - Combating Burnout with Quality Improvement Initiatives

13:38 - Exploring the Anatomy of a Quality Improvement Project

25:24 - Optimizing Operating Room Efficiency

28:37 - Balancing Standardization and Flexibility in Healthcare Processes

34:11 - Ad Hoc Solutions vs. Structured Quality Improvement

40:36 - Incorporating Patient Perspectives in Quality Improvement

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.

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SHOW NOTES

00:00 - Introduction

16:50 - Real-World Success Stories

25:36 - Navigating the Complexities of Health Policy and Advocacy

33:06 - The Importance of Membership in Professional Organizations

36:14 - Highlighting Urology’s Influence in Health Policy

45:14 - The AUA Summit Experience

55:23 - The Value of Engagement and Advocacy

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RESOURCES

Ep. 82- Advocacy Basics for the Urologist: From Your Clinic to Capitol Hill with Dr. Ruchika Talwar

https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/82/advocacy-basics-for-the-urologist-from-your-clinic-to-capitol-hill

Ep. 154- Navigating Healthcare Reform: Lessons from Urology Advocacy with Dr. Mara Holton

https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/154/navigating-healthcare-reform-lessons-from-urology-advocacy

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.

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SHOW NOTES

00:00 - Introduction

06:38 - Exploring Physician Partnerships and Investment Models

10:28 - Navigating Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Urology Partnerships

12:43 - Investment Strategies and Compliance for Urologists

21:42 - Addressing Common Concerns and Opportunities in Urology Partnerships

34:53 - Advice on Urology Partnerships

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RESOURCES

HealthTronics

https://www.healthtronics.com/