It’s official — NeuWave is exiting the market. In this episode, Dr. Christopher Beck hosts a conversation with Dr. Josh Kuban, an interventional radiologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center, to discuss the impact that NeuWave's microwave tumor ablation technology has had on the field of interventional oncology and the recent announcement of its discontinuation, scheduled for March 2026.

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This podcast is supported by:

Medtronic Emprint
medtronic.com/emprint

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SYNPOSIS

Dr. Kuban reflects on NeuWave’s innovative beginnings in microwave ablation, which expanded to include four distinct systems and advanced ablation confirmation software. At its peak, the company held over 50% of the microwave ablation market and played a pivotal role in reshaping interventional radiology's view of the safety and effectiveness of this treatment approach.

He also shares how NeuWave’s departure will affect his practice and outlines the steps he’s taking to prepare his team for the transition to alternative devices. The discussion broadens to the current landscape of microwave ablation, spotlighting emerging players in ablation confirmation software and robotic technologies.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
2:14 - Overview of Neuwave’s Rise
7:01 - Decision to Discontinue
14:56 - Navigating the Switch Different Technologies
21:54 - Buyback Program
24:33 - Forecasting New Developments

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RESOURCES

BackTable IND Ep. 23- Approach the Problem with Vision: Part I of the Neuwave Story : https://www.backtable.com/shows/industry/podcasts/23/approach-the-problem-with-vision-part-i-of-the-neuwave-story

BackTable IND Ep. 24- Trials and Tribulations: Part II of the Neuwave Story: https://www.backtable.com/shows/industry/podcasts/24/trials-tribulations-part-ii-of-the-neuwave-story

BackTable IND Ep. 25- Next Level Stuff, the Exit: Part III of the Neuwave Story:
https://www.backtable.com/shows/industry/podcasts/25/next-level-stuff-the-exit-part-iii-of-the-neuwave-story

Johnson & Johnson Press Release Regarding Discontinuation of NeuWave:
https://www.medline.com/media/assets/pdf/vendor-list/Disco_notice.pdf
MedTronic Emprint Ablation: https://www.medtronic.com/covidien/en-gb/products/ablation-systems/emprint-ablation-system.html

Varian MicroThermX Ablation:
https://www.varian.com/products/interventional-oncology/microthermx

Safety and Effectiveness of Microwave Ablation of Liver Tumors: Initial Real-World Results from the Multinational NeuWave Observational Liver Ablation (NOLA) Registry (Odisio, 2025):
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39848330/

Making strides against melanoma: how can medical oncologists and interventional oncologists join forces to deliver smarter, patient-centered care? In this episode of BackTable, Dr. Tyler Sandow,hosts Dr. Sunandana Chandra, medical oncologist at Northwestern, and Dr. Riad Salem, interventional oncologist at Northwestern, to discuss the evolving management of advanced melanoma.

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This podcast is supported by an educational grant from Replimune.

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SYNPOSIS

The doctors open the episode with an overview of melanoma and recent advances in its treatment, highlighting key trials such as DREAMseq and CheckMate 067. The discussion explores the shift from medical oncologist as solo primary providers to a dynamic, multidisciplinary approach to advanced cancer care—emphasizing cutting-edge treatments like immunotherapy and intratumoral oncolytic viruses.

Dr. Salem shares practical insights on the procedural techniques of administering intratumoral oncolytics like Replimune, emphasizing the importance of thorough documentation and patient-centered care. The doctors also provide an overview of the ongoing IGNYTE-3 Trial, a Phase 3 study assessing the safety and efficacy of the oncolytic immunotherapy RP1 in combination with nivolumab for the treatment of advanced melanoma.

The episode underscores the transformative potential of innovative melanoma treatments and the crucial role of integrated, team-based approaches in improving cancer patient outcomes.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
03:48 - The Evolution of Melanoma Treatment: From Chemotherapy to Immunotherapy
14:05 - The Role of Oncolytic Viruses in Melanoma Treatment
20:14 - Interventional Radiology’s Role in Cancer Treatment
27:00 - Collaborative Approach to Cancer Care
32:53 - Hyper Documentation and Communication Efficiency
44:47 - Future of Intratumoral Oncolytics
48:10 - Multidisciplinary Approach in Advanced Cancer Management
51:46 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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RESOURCES

DREAMseq Trial: Atkins MB, Lee SJ, Chmielowski B, et al. Combination Dabrafenib and Trametinib Versus Combination Nivolumab and Ipilimumab for Patients With Advanced BRAF-Mutant Melanoma: The DREAMseq Trial-ECOG-ACRIN EA6134. J Clin Oncol. 2023;41(2):186-197. doi:10.1200/JCO.22.01763

CheckMate 067 trial: Wolchok JD, Chiarion-Sileni V, Rutkowski P, et al. Final, 10-Year Outcomes with Nivolumab plus Ipilimumab in Advanced Melanoma. N Engl J Med. 2025;392(1):11-22. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2407417

Bringing Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) to the OBL setting means balancing cost efficiency, quality care, and a high procedure volume. What should you know and how can you get started? This week, host Dr. Ally Baheti explores outpatient PAE with Dr. Stephen “Andy” Vartanian, an independent interventional radiologist and medical director of PrecisionIR.
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SYNPOSIS
The doctors discuss Dr. Vartanian’s unique career path and extensive experience with prostate artery embolization (PAE). They discuss his approach to the procedure, best practices, and how he was able to set himself up for success in the transition to an OBL. Dr. Vartanian shares insights into patient workup, collaboration with urologists, and his perspective on the financial and operational challenges of managing an independent practice. The doctors then touch on other outpatient procedures like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) and genicular artery embolization (GAE) and the difficulties in patient acquisition for these treatments. This episode offers a unique look into factors to consider when optimizing your practice patterns for PAE in an OBL setting.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction
05:38 - OBL Setting and PAE
10:02 - Approach to PAE, Techniques, and Tools
21:38 - Post-Procedure Care and Managing Patient Expectations
25:32 - Advice to IRs Interested in PAE
27:37 - Challenges and Strategies in Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
33:14 - Running an OBL: Insights and Experiences
36:40 - Future Plans and Business Reflections
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RESOURCES
PrecisionIR: https://myprecisionir.com/

How is reimbursement decided? Have an inside look from the committee itself as we unpack exactly how a new CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code is created, assessed, and ultimately valued for physician Medicare reimbursement. In this episode of BackTable, Dr. Sabeen Dhand is joined by radiation oncologist Dr. Amar Rewari and interventional radiologist Dr. Curtis Anderson, both of whom sit on the RVS Update Committee (RUC).
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SYNPOSIS
The conversation covers who participates in the RUC, the preparation it takes to propose a new CPT code, and what it’s like to collaborate with physicians from all specialties. They discuss the confidential yet crucial role of the RUC in determining physician work and practice expenses, advocacy efforts, and the impact of healthcare policies on reimbursement. The doctors stress the importance of physician engagement—especially through member surveys—and share how providers can get involved. The guests also touch on their personal journeys and motivations within the RUC and introduce Dr. Rewari’s podcast, ‘Value Health Voices’, which focuses on healthcare policy and economics.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction and Importance of Surveys
01:18 - Understanding the RVS Update Committee (RUC)
6:36 - How Does a New CPT Code Get Introduced?
09:44 - Challenges and Dynamics within the RUC
20:52 - Health Value Voices Podcast
22:51 - Transparency in Healthcare Policy
24:39 - Future of Healthcare Payments
29:00 - Getting Involved in Healthcare Policy
33:43- Final Thoughts and Call to Action
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RESOURCES
Health Value Voices Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cxnf4Il3QK3cvFFKxwPWL?si=212d084a09034cf2

Is minimally invasive ablation the future of metastatic cancer care? We now have the results of the COLLISION Trial, which investigates the non-inferiority of thermal ablation compared to surgical resection. How will these findings change treatment paradigms and practice patterns around metastatic colorectal cancer? In this week’s episode of BackTable, interventional radiologist Dr. Chris Beck discusses the impact and implications of the COLLISION Trial with principal investigator Dr. Martijn Meijerink from Amsterdam UMC.
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SYNPOSIS
The doctors explore the COLLISION Trial’s design, results, complication rates, and future directions. They also cover best practices for ablation techniques and the potential for interventional oncology to enter a “golden era.” Finally, Dr. Meijerink highlights the importance of standardizing intervention quality and being present in tumor boards to ensure optimal patient care.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction
03:21 - Understanding Metastatic Colorectal Cancer and IR’s Role
05:18 - Introduction to the COLLISION Trial
07:40 - Radiofrequency vs Microwave Ablation and Technological Advancements
09:02 - Trial Design and Patient Eligibility
16:20 - Ablation Techniques and Approaches
22:05 - Trial Results and Analysis
30:19 - Impact on Guidelines and Practice
39:44 - Best Practices in Thermal Ablation
43:27 - Future Directions in Interventional Oncology
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RESOURCES
“Surgery versus thermal ablation for small-size colorectal liver metastases (COLLISION): An international, multicenter, phase III randomized controlled trial.” (Meijerink, 2024)
https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2024.42.17_suppl.LBA3501

As graduating residents step into the IR job market, the big question remains: What truly makes a great first job? Dr. Subhash Gutti hosts guest Dr. Kavi Devulapalli (Image Guided Solutions of Missouri) and Dr. Christopher Zarour (Huron Valley Radiology in Ann Arbor) as they share early career advice and job search strategies.
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This podcast is supported by:
RADPAD® Radiation Protection
https://www.radpad.com/
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SYNPOSIS
The doctors begin by highlighting different practice models and emphasize the significance of knowing what type of IR you are - an imager, a surgeon, or dynamic blend of both. They share their personal experiences navigating their early careers and underscore the pivotal role of establishing a robust clinical practice and taking full ownership of the patient. They also explore strategies for practice growth, including availability and network referrals. The episode ends with valuable advice on navigating the early stages of one's career, drawn from personal experiences.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction
01:16 - Early Career Advice and Job Search
04:50 - Exploring the Job Market
09:46 - What Makes a Good First Job?
14:33 - Challenges in the First Job
28:27 - Strategies for Building a Clinical Practice
36:56 - Understanding the Business Side of Medicine
48:49 - Final Advice for New Graduates

To TIPS or not to TIPS? More than ever, younger patients are presenting with acute portal vein thrombosis (PVT) that requires intervention beyond anticoagulation alone. These patients need safe, effective options that offer long-term resolution and a good quality of life after treatment. In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Benjamin May, Interventional Radiologist at Weill Cornell Medicine, discusses the evolving treatment landscape for acute PVT.
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SYNPOSIS
Dr. May shares insights into the changing interventional approaches, highlights the utility of tools such as suction thrombectomy devices, and explains how his best practices have developed over time. He emphasizes the continued importance of anticoagulation therapy, explores the potential complications and outcomes of various interventions, and discusses how thrombus location and characteristics influence his clinical decisions. With real-world scenarios and a step-by-step walkthrough of his decision-making process, Dr. May offers a comprehensive look at modern strategies for managing acute portal vein thrombosis.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction
05:46 - Diagnosing Portal Vein Thrombosis
10:52 - Management Options for Acute PVT and What is Safest?
21:09 - Choosing an Intervention Approach
26:19 - Tackling Large Bore Thrombectomy
32:37 - Learnings and Tips for Successful Thrombectomy
39:50 - Impact of Thrombus Location on Intervention Approach
45:01 - Post-Care and Follow-Up
49:46 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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RESOURCES
“Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt and Thrombectomy (TIPS-Thrombectomy) for Symptomatic Acute Noncirrhotic Portal Vein Thrombosis” (Shalvoy, 2023)
https://www.jvir.org/article/S1051-0443(23)00341-X/abstract

En este episodio de BackTable, la radióloga intervencionista Dra. Sara Lojo Lendoiro y la Dra. Gloria Salazar discuten los desafíos y las barreras para diagnosticar y tratar el dolor pélvico crónico y las varices pélvicas en mujeres.
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SYNPOSIS
Primero, abordan la ausencia de diagnóstico y el estereotipo que estigmatiza a las mujeres con problemas psiquiátricos. Dra. Salazar comparte su trayectoria personal desde Brasil hasta su posición de profesora asociada de radiología en la University of North Carolina, y su trabajo centrado en mejorar la salud de la mujer. También se habla sobre la necesidad de colaboración multidisciplinar, la investigación futura para entender mejor la fisiopatología, y cómo la educación y una mayor conciencia pueden mejorar el diagnóstico y tratamiento de estas patologías. Además, destacan la importancia de considerar el impacto económico y social de no tratar adecuadamente estas condiciones en mujeres activas y trabajadoras.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Presentación de la Dra. Gloria Salazar
06:25 - Desafíos en el Diagnóstico de la Salud de la Mujer
08:08 - Comprendiendo las Varices Pélvicas y el Dolor Pélvico Crónico
22:23 - Técnicas de Diagnóstico y Desafíos
36:19 - Evaluación del Dolor Pélvico y los Síntomas en las Piernas
41:46 - Variaciones Anatómicas y Técnicas de Diagnóstico
50:40 - La Importancia de los Equipos Multidisciplinarios
58:59 - Direcciones Futuras en la Investigación de las Venas Pélvicas
01:09:50 - Reflexiones Finales y Colaboraciones Futuras

Is it time for interventional radiology to sever ties with diagnostic radiology and define its own future? Dr. Ally Baheti hosts Dr. Mark Lessne, interventional radiologist at Charlotte Radiology and Dr. Saher Sabri, Chief of Interventional Radiology at MedStar Health, to discuss the evolving relationship between interventional radiology (IR) and diagnostic radiology (DR).

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SYNPOSIS
The doctors begin the discussion by asking a critical question: 'What defines an interventional radiologist?' They delve into the different practice patterns of IRs, exploring both the opportunities and challenges in interventional radiology forging its own path, independent of diagnostic radiology. The doctors share their thoughts on the financial implications, sustainability of the specialty, and the importance of establishing a clinical and longitudinal practice. The discussion concludes with the notion that an organic separation is likely inevitable, although the timing remains uncertain.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
03:45 - Challenges in IR Practice
12:23 - Financial Models and Sustainability
16:13 - The Role of SIR in Supporting IRs
34:29 - Defining IR Standards
35:28 - SIR’s Role
38:29 - Future of IR and DR
58:36 - Final Thoughts and Call to Action