Robot-assisted technology has revolutionized surgical fields such as general surgery and urology—could interventional radiology be the next frontier? In this episode of the BackTable podcast, host Dr. Jacob Fleming explores the transformative potential of robotic-assisted percutaneous biopsies and ablations with experts Dr. Govindarajan “Raj” Narayanan from the Miami Cancer Institute and Dr. Sean Tutton from UC San Diego.

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This podcast is supported by:

Quantum Surgical

https://www.quantumsurgical.com/

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SYNPOSIS

Dr. Narayanan begins by sharing his initial interest in robotic applications for tumor ablations, aiming to maximize efficiency in his practice. Dr. Tutton then highlights the advantages of robotics for probe placement, especially in challenging cases. The two doctors discuss the logistics of the robotic system, including setup, imaging, and access choices. They also reflect on the learning curve associated with robotics and how it gradually enhances procedural efficiency while reducing mental fatigue. This improvement allows them to take on more complex cases with confidence. Overall, both experts agree that robotics has the potential to democratize minimally invasive procedures, offering new opportunities for skill development and advancement within the field of interventional radiology.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast

03:30 - Developing an Interest in Robotics

10:44 - Integration of Robotics in the Procedural Suite

13:27 - Logistics of Robot System

18:38 - Planning for Percutaneous Access

22:39 - Future Implications of Robotics on Training Programs

35:51 - Efficiency and Volume Management with Robotics

40:39 - Learning Curves for Robotic Procedures

48:09 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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RESOURCES

Quantum Surgical Epione Robot:

https://www.quantumsurgical.com/epione/

ACCLAIM Trial:

https://www.sio-central.org/ACCLAIM-Trial