Once your PERT is assembled, how do you navigate the evolving pulmonary embolism (PE) literature to improve patient outcomes at all risk levels? In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, interventional radiologist Dr. Robert Lookstein (Mount Sinai) and pulmonary critical care specialist Dr. Timothy Fernandes (UC San Diego) join host Dr. Harris Chengazi to examine the latest evidence and multidisciplinary strategies for managing acute pulmonary embolism. The discussion highlights the complexities of catheter-directed therapies in intermediate- to high-risk PE, evolving guidelines in the face of new trial data, and prioritization of improving patients’ clinical trajectories.

---

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This podcast is supported by

Penumbra

https://www.penumbrainc.com/

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
03:57 - PERT Structure and Activation
08:24 - PE Risk Stratification Tools
12:02 - Patient Selection for IR Intervention
15:21 - Assessing Clot Chronicity
21:03 - Standardizing Workup
26:38 - Managing Unstable PE
28:31 - STORM-PE and HI-PEITHO Trial Data
35:49 - Guidelines vs. New Evidence
40:12 - Determining Therapeutic Endpoints
45:05 - Upcoming Trials and Future Directions
51:46 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

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More about this episode

The physicians explore the nuances of validated PE risk stratification tools, assessing the relationship between various PE scoring systems and the 2026 ACC/AHA classification for acute PE. They emphasize that the integration of clinical assessment, serial lab work, and patient history must take precedence over static imaging alone in guiding care. The doctors go on to review new trial data, including the improved RV-to-LV ratio and 90-day functional gains seen with mechanical thrombectomy in STORM-PE and reduced clinical deterioration observed with ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis in HI-PEITHO. The conversation concludes with a call for collaborative, safety-first management that focuses on the patient’s clinical status and long-term post-PE functional recovery.

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Resources

2026 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ACEP/CHEST/SCAI/SHM/SIR/SVM/SVN Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism in Adults
https://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001415

Composite Pulmonary Embolism Shock (CPES) Score
https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.124.014088

FOCUS study
https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehac206

STORM-PE trial
https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.125.077232

HI-PEITHO trial
https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmoa2516567

PE-TRACT study
https://petractstudy.org/homepage

PEERLESS II study
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06055920

PERSEVERE trial
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06588634

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BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

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Why do nearly half of IR residents consider leaving the specialty, and what can be done to change that? On this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Neil Jain interviews Dr. David Mittelstein, an integrated IR resident at UC San Diego and co-chair of the SIR RFS Recruitment Committee, about the findings of a national SIR survey on interventional radiology resident attrition. They discuss what drives uncertainty, from lifestyle and call burden to job market fears, and highlight the program features that encourage retention, such as structured training, high case volume, and a culture of camaraderie.

---

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This podcast is supported by

RADPAD® Radiation Protection
https://www.radpad.com/

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Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
04:31 - From Biomedical Engineering to IR
07:41 - Recruitment Committee Mission
12:37 - Match Trends Warning Sign
15:12 - Survey Design Demographics
20:21 - What Factors Matter
25:04 - Why Residents Consider Switching
30:23 - Recommendation 1 IR Curriculum
32:32 - Recommendation 2 More IR Rotation
34:10 - Recommendation 3 Build Camaraderie
38:30 - Advice for Residents Who Are Doubting
41:00 - What’s Next for RFS Recruitment
43:20 - Wrap Up

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More about this episode

The conversation explores free-response themes from the survey, where 78 percent of residents cited lifestyle concerns, 31 percent pointed to job market uncertainty, and 22 percent mentioned call experience as reasons for questioning IR. Retention was linked to structured training (38 percent), high case volume and procedural experience (35 percent), and program camaraderie (18 percent). Dr. Mittelstein and Dr. Jain review three concrete recommendations to improve retention, examine early changes at programs like Georgetown, and offer practical advice to residents who may be quietly doubting their path in IR.

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Resources

Episode # 554 Optimizing the IR/DR Curriculum & Experience

https://www.backtable.com/shows/vi/podcasts/554/optimizing-the-ir-dr-curriculum-experience

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BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

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How are new aspiration thrombectomy systems and real-time hemodynamic monitoring enabling safer, more effective pulmonary embolism treatment? On this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Ally Baheti welcomes Dr. Maya Serhal and Dr. David Dexter for a deep dive into modern pulmonary embolism (PE) management, with a focus on advances in large-bore aspiration thrombectomy. They discuss evolving PE triage algorithms, real-world procedural strategies, and the clinical impact of next-generation aspiration systems on safety, efficiency, and patient recovery.

---

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This podcast is supported by

Imperative Care
https://imperativecare.com/

---

Timestamps

00:00- Introduction
02:03- PE Response Workflow
05:32- Symphony Device
07:07- Sizing and Blood Loss
10:00- Multi-Port Hemodynamics
14:45- Procedure Endpoints
17:01- IVUS Guided Strategy
20:02- ProHelix and Lollipopping
25:48- Case Studies
34:12- Closing Thoughts

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More about this episode

The conversation explores multidisciplinary PE response workflows, lab and imaging triggers for escalation, and technical considerations in catheter sizing, blood loss management, and real-time hemodynamic monitoring. Dr. Dexter reviews his use of intravascular ultrasound for precise clot localization, and Dr. Serhal shares practical tips for adjusting aspiration power to avoid complications. Together, they discuss procedural endpoints, mechanical assist devices for difficult clots, and present case examples demonstrating rapid improvement in hemodynamics and oxygenation. The episode emphasizes the importance of teamwork, patient selection, and ongoing innovation in optimizing PE care.

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Resources

American Society of Hematology 2020 Guidelines for Management of Venous Thromboembolism: Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism
https://ashpublications.org/bloodadvances/article/4/19/4693/463998/American-Society-of-Hematology-2020-Guidelines-for

Prospective Multicenter IDE Study of the Next-Generation Precision Aspiration Thrombectomy System for Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism: The SYMPHONY-PE Trial
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.125.015815

Is There a Golden Hour for Thrombectomy in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism? Insights From SYMPHONY-PE
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.126.016573
---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

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Are you building a business that can thrive without you, or just creating a job you can never leave? In this episode of BackTable Women’s Health, host Dr. Karen Toubi sits down with Dr. Nneka Una (Unachukwu), a board-certified pediatrician, founder of Ivy League Pediatrics, and creator of EntreMD, to discuss the mindset and skills needed to build a truly sustainable medical practice. The conversation explores why physician entrepreneurship is essential in today’s evolving healthcare landscape, the difference between building yourself a job and building a resilient business, and practical strategies for long-term growth.

---

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---

Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
04:47 - From Employee to Owner
05:53 - Skills That Changed Everything
07:35 - The Wake Up Call
10:44 - Why Doctors Resist Business
15:06 - Profit as Patient Care
18:20 - Job vs. Business Entity
21:13 - CEO Hat and Team Systems
25:14 - Exit Value and Sellability
29:00 - More Profit: More Time Off
30:24 - Fear Before Breakthrough
35:32 - Choose Service Over Perfection
39:11 - Invest in Your Potential
46:26 - MEAT Week Priorities
48:40 - Three-Part Daily Rhythm
55:02 - Advice for Burned-Out Docs
59:29 - Wrap Up

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More about this episode
Dr. Una shares how doctors can overcome resistance to “business,” why every practice needs a strong business engine, and how to balance profitability with ethical, people-centered care. She explains how to shift from employee to physician-CEO, tackle imposter syndrome, and develop systems that give your practice true staying power. The discussion provides actionable advice on hiring, team management, building exit value, and creating the freedom to take more time off without sacrificing patient care or financial stability.

---

Resources
EntreMD https://entremd.com/about-us/
The Profitable Private Practice Playbook https://entremd.com/method-book/

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.
► https://www.backtable.com/app

How do you decide between a dedicated aortic scaffold and kissing stents in complex aortoiliac bifurcations? On this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Sabeen Dhand and Dr. Eric Secemsky discuss the management of a female smoker presenting with rapidly progressive bilateral hip pain, ultimately revealed to be severe aortoiliac arterial disease. The case highlights the value of noninvasive vascular studies, CTA, and IVUS for precise diagnosis and procedural planning, as well as the nuanced decision-making process between different device options.

---

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---

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
01:56 - Patient History
05:42 - CTA and Angio Findings
09:30 - Strategy Access and IVUS
13:17 - IVUS Sizing and Lesion Review
16:38 - IVL Angioplasty Technique
18:28 - Stenting and Final Result
22:50 - Post-procedure Meds and Outcome
24:34 - Wrap Up

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More about this episode

Dr. Secemsky reviews access strategy, lesion sizing, and the use of intravascular lithotripsy to reduce rupture risk in heavily calcified arteries. The doctors explain their rationale for choosing kissing covered stents over a dedicated aortic scaffold, details the technical steps of ballooning and stenting, and discusses the transition from dual antiplatelet therapy to rivaroxaban and aspirin postprocedure. The episode concludes with key insights into device selection, procedural technique, and patient-centered decision-making for successful aortoiliac interventions.

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

► https://www.backtable.com/app

What do new interventional radiologists wish they had known before starting residency? On this reflective episode of BackTable, Dr. Neil Jain is joined by chief residents Dr. Aesha Patel and Dr. Gregg Khodorov as they look back on six years of IR/DR training. They share what they wish they’d known as applicants, from the growing emotional weight of complications near graduation to the essential role of co-residents, support networks, and the evolving balance between confidence and competence.

---

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---

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
04:34 - Rapid Fire Reflections
07:20 - Complications and Confidence
12:01 - Applicant Misconceptions
16:54 - Defining a Great Program
26:38 - Lessons Learned Over Time
29:12 - Pearls and Hard-Won Lessons
33:09 - Valuing Bread-and-Butter Cases
35:24 - Complications and Empathy
41:03 - Memorable Attending Phrases
43:06 - Habits for the Future
47:34 - Mentorship and Craftsmanship
52:42 - IR Culture and Professional Pride
57:44 - The Future of IR Training
01:08:34 - Closing Thoughts

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More about this episode

They discuss how their definition of a “good case” has evolved, the importance of mastering bread-and-butter procedures, and the impact of habits like detailed note-taking, patient-centered communication, and taking ownership of complications. The episode highlights ideas for future training improvements and offers advice on valuing patient interactions, embracing growth, and developing sound clinical judgment under pressure. Throughout, the conversation underscores the personal and professional growth that comes from these challenges and the lasting value of camaraderie and mentorship in interventional radiology.

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Resources

Perspective on the New IR Residency Selection Process: 4-year Experience at a Large, Collaborative Training Program
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1076633221000568

Diversity in Interventional Radiology Residency Programs
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1546144025002765

Implementation and Evaluation of a Comprehensive Simulation Curriculum for the IR/DR Integrated Residency
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S107663322300051X

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

► https://www.backtable.com/app

A bone biopsy can reach the target and still miss the diagnosis. In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, host Dr. Neil Jain is joined by Dr. Peter Thurlow to discuss how lesion selection, imaging review, trajectory planning, and device choice determine whether a targeted bone biopsy produces a useful sample without compromising future treatment.

---

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This podcast is supported by
Varian

https://cancercare.siemens-healthineers.com/products/interventional-oncology/musculoskeletal/omnibone

---

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
04:17 - Approaching Focal Bone Lesions
06:17 - Differentiating Lesions and Pain Management
13:13 - Settling on Bone Biopsy Imaging
16:55 - Understanding Pre-Op Imaging from Lesion Characteristics
21:50 - Maintaining Communication Across Specialties
24:21 - Which Devices To Select and Navigating Challenges
32:28 - Trajectory Paths and Surgical Considerations
35:30 - How to Avoid and Mitigate Biopsy Complications
41:30 - Wrap Up

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More about this episode

The conversation begins with a systematic approach to evaluating focal bone lesions, including the likelihood of malignancy, lesion location, number of lesions, and selection of an appropriately sized sampling device. Dr. Thurlow reviews anesthesia and pain-management strategies for both superficial and deeper osseous targets, as well as the respective roles of MRI and CT in procedural planning. For challenging lesions, he explains why needle-guidance technology may be preferable to adjusting gantry tilt and outlines how imaging findings and biopsy strategy should be tailored to lesion type, with particular attention to the difficulties associated with blastic lesions.

The doctors also discuss the importance of communication with pathology, surgery, oncology, and other collaborating specialties before proceeding. Dr. Thurlow shares his preferred biopsy devices, considerations for selecting a safe trajectory, and ways to account for potential future surgical approaches. The episode concludes with practical strategies for avoiding complications, minimizing tissue injury, and obtaining an adequate diagnostic sample.

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

► https://www.backtable.com/app

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) continues to gain traction worldwide, but is the evidence catching up to the hype? In this episode of BackTable Bone and Sports Podcast, host Dr. Kavi Krishnasamy welcomes Dr. Peter Minko, an interventional radiologist from Düsseldorf, Germany, to discuss GAE’s evolving evidence, techniques, and international practice patterns. Dr. Minko highlights forthcoming clinical trials and emphasizes the need for high-quality research to guide patient care.

---

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---

Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
03:13 - The Embolization Landscape in Germany
07:25 - The Basics of GAE Patient Workup
13:49 - The Unideal Patient Candidate for GAE
16:55 - Measuring Outcomes Beyond Clinical Scores
23:14 - Procedure Specifics: Minko’s Choice
36:28 - Discussing the Future of Temporary vs. Permanent Embolics
43:47 - Collateral Flow Strategy and Procedure Wrap-Up
49:05 - Post-Procedure Rehab Guidelines
52:00 - Repeat GAE Treatment Algorithm
58:00 - Safety and Outcomes in Post-TKA Patients
01:04:11 - GAE and Associations with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
01:09:40 - Call for Better Trials and Evidence in GAE
01:14:11 - Case Presentation: GAE Transpedal Access Case
01:21:05 - Case Presentation: “Three Stop Shop” Anastomosis
01:27:08 - Case Presentation: AV Fistula… Due to Arthroscopy?
01:32:03 - Case Presentation: Popliteal Agenesis
01:38:14 - Dr. Minko’s Perspective on the Future of MSK Embolization
01:40:55 - Wrap Up

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More about this episode
The doctors break down procedural specifics, including embolic materials, access site and catheter choices, and strategies for patient selection and contraindications. They discuss post-procedure rehabilitation, approaches to repeat GAE, and unique considerations for patients with prior total knee arthroplasty. The discussion also features interesting case presentations, explores the future of temporary versus permanent embolics, and examines the importance of robust study design in advancing MSK embolization. Dr. Minko shares his perspective on the direction of the field and the collaborative effort needed to move GAE evidence and practice forward.

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Resources
Dr. Peter Minko
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Peter-Minko

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.
► https://www.backtable.com/app

What is the emerging role of bioresorbable scaffolds in treating tibial artery disease, and how do they compare with traditional stenting and drug delivery approaches? In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Sabeen Dhand interviews interventional cardiologist Dr. Sahil Parikh at Columbia to explore the evolution of tibial artery stenting, drug-eluting technology, and the latest evidence behind bioresorbable scaffolds. The discussion highlights patient selection, treatment algorithms, technical considerations, and the impact of drug delivery choices on patient outcomes.

---

Get the BackTable app
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---

This podcast is supported by

Abbott Cardiovascular

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Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
04:00 - Bioengineering Origins
08:29 - Paclitaxel vs. Limus
13:43 - When to Stent Tibials
16:14 - Stepwise Tibial Algorithm
18:46 - Stent Platforms and Costs
23:09 - Bifurcation Stenting Basics
26:35 - Fracture and Crush Risks
30:10 - Device Selection: Born for Tibials
33:27 - Materials and Drug Kinetics
36:57 - How to Deploy Safely
40:46 - Cost and Reimbursement Reality
43:21 - Market Growth and Competitors
48:02 - Paclitaxel Mortality Scare
51:13 - Final Takeaways and Access

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More about this episode

Dr. Parikh reviews the differences between paclitaxel and sirolimus or limus agents, the historical dominance of paclitaxel in peripheral devices, and why peripheral therapy has lagged behind coronary interventions. He outlines a practical tibial treatment algorithm emphasizing crossing (often with retrograde access), imaging to assess calcium, lesion preparation (including IVL, specialty balloons, and atherectomy when needed), proper sizing, and bailout stenting for recoil or dissection, and addresses the unique challenges of distal placement, bifurcations, and occasional fractures. The discussion covers the evolution and rationale, absorption timeline, and clinical data for bioresorbable scaffolds, as well as reimbursement, emerging alternatives, and the ongoing debate over paclitaxel safety. Dr. Parikh also shares his perspective on the future of drug delivery, the need for payer support, and strategies for ensuring the best patient care across diverse clinical settings.

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Resources

US Esprit™ BTK System Product Information (https://www.cardiovascular.abbott/us/en/hcp/products/peripheral-intervention/esprit-btk-resorbable-scaffold-system.html?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=backtable&utm_campaign=us-endo-esprit-btk&utm_division=vas&utm_product=esprit-btk&utm_content=kol&utm_type=other)

US Esprit™ BTK System Important Safety Information (https://www.cardiovascular.abbott/us/en/hcp/products/peripheral-intervention/esprit-btk-resorbable-scaffold-system/important-safety-information.html)

Drug-Eluting Resorbable Scaffold versus Angioplasty for Infrapopliteal Artery Disease
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37888915/)

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

► https://www.backtable.com/app

With multiple training pathways, how can you determine which is the right choice for your career and clinical goals? In this episode of BackTable Podcast, Dr. Neil Jain sits down with interventional radiologist Dr. John Cieslak to compare the Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR), integrated IR/DR, and independent IR routes. The conversation highlights practical differences in training structures, procedural exposure, and the key factors that influence career decisions for aspiring IRs.

---

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---

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
01:47 - Early Life and Science Roots
03:58 - Surgery to IR Pivot
05:51 - Radiology Training and ESIR Setup
08:59 - Three IR Training Pathways
11:53 - ESIR Pros Cons and Case Exposure
14:27 - Competency and Hiring Perceptions
20:12 - Job Market Academic vs Hospital
23:08 - Early Attending Surprises
26:00 - Integrated Versus ESIR
29:10 - Boosting Your Application
31:24 - Rapid Fire IR Questions
34:46 - Future Of IR
36:46 - Wrap Up And Credits

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More about this episode

Dr. Cieslak shares his own journey, from early exposure to hospital science and a long academic path to switching from surgery to radiology and ultimately landing in IR. They outline the practical pros and cons of each pathway, including the flexibility and breadth of ESIR, the directness of integrated training, and the realities of re-matching and job market considerations. The discussion covers early attending challenges like building referrals and making independent decisions, the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork, and advice for residents and students interested in IR. The Drs. also discuss the evolution of IR procedures, the impact of program variability, and why persistence and exposure are vital for success in the field.

---

BackTable Vascular & Interventional (VI) is the go-to podcast for interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional cardiologists.

Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.

► https://www.backtable.com/app