In this episode, with Prof. Tilo Kölbel, we discuss the significant risks associated with air embolism during aortic surgery, the innovative technique of CO2 flushing of aortic endografts, and the practical tips and tricks of implementing this technique in clinical practice. The conversation also touches on current guidelines and the future of CO2 flushing in endovascular protocols, emphasising its potential to improve patient outcomes. Unmissable!

Also, check out these papers that we mentioned in the podcast:

https://www.ejves.com/action/showPdf?pii=S1078-5884%2825%2900409-5

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1526602816633705

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10151986/

https://www.ejves.com/action/showPdf?pii=S1078-5884%2818%2930692-0

The war in Gaza has been described as a humanitarian catastrophe. Ever since the war began 2 years ago, following the October 7th attack by Hamas it is estimated that over 68,000 people have been killed, with a further 180,000 injured. Thousands have been displaced, and many have suffered starvation and famine because of the Israeli blockade. The plight of medics trying to treat civilians has also been extremely challenging and dangerous, with health care facilities often targeted by the IDF airstrikes. In this podcast, we talk to Mr Ed Brown, a consultant vascular surgeon from the UK who has recently returned from Gaza and describes his experiences working in a warzone. What does it take to work in such an environment? What are the challenges facing surgeons and other health professionals in Gaza? Ever thought of humanitarian work yourself? These are the questions we hope to answer. With Justin Woolgar.

Aortic stent infections remain among the most feared and complex complications in vascular surgery—rare but devastating when they occur. In episode, recorded live in ESVS Istanbul, Dr. Laurence Bertrand speaks with Dr. Anne Le Jay, about complex aortic reconstruction and graft infection management. Together, they examine how vascular specialists are redefining best practice: from early recognition and imaging to multidisciplinary treatment planning, surgical decision-making, and long-term outcomes.

Recorded live during the ESVS Annual Meeting, this episode brings together two experts shaping the field of oncovascular surgery Dr. Pirkka Vikatmaa and Dr. Stefano Ancetti. We explore how multidisciplinary oncovascular teams are transforming cancer surgery, the expanding role of vascular surgeons in complex tumour resections, and the use of endovascular techniques in oncovascular surgery.

In this episode, recorded live at the 39th ESVS Annual Meeting, we sit down with Prof. Javier Pascual, a podiatrist specialised in diabetic foot care and wound biomechanics. Together, we explore the biomechanical principles behind the most common diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) — why they develop, how abnormal pressure and gait contribute to tissue breakdown, and what clinicians can do to enhance healing and to prevent ulcer recurrence. Dr. Pascual breaks down complex concepts into practical insights, making this a must-listen for vascular specialists, podiatrists, wound-care nurses, and anyone involved in multidisciplinary diabetic foot management.

Join us for another episode in our journey into the secret lives of vascular machines and devices. In this episode, we look at the ubiquitous vascular stent. Ever wondered who invented them and when they were first used to treat vascular disease? Ever thought about why they are made of stainless steel or nitinol? In fact, what actually is Nitinol? All your burning questions answered in this podcast that delves into the world of vascular bioengineering. Presented by Justin Woolgar.

Only about 50% of patients with chronic diseases adhere to treatment recommendations, and the consequences can be devastating. In this thought-provoking episode of the ESVS Podcasts, we delve into this important and under-discussed issue. Together with Professor Khadija Hafidh, we analyse some factors that help explain why so many patients struggle with adherence, as well as some strategies that have proved effective in improving patient compliance. Spoiler: empathy, communication, shared decision making, and simplifying the treatment regime are key elements. Join us in this episode that can really help your clinical practice.

As vascular surgeons, we all use various pieces of equipment and technology in our day jobs. Everything from the hand-held Doppler to complex ultrasound machines, CT and MRI scanners. Every time we treat vascular disease we use some form of technology, be it an angioplasty balloon, stent or a vascular graft. We are surrounded by technology and use it all the time, but how many of us actually have any clue as to how it works? In this series of podcasts, we will take a slightly light-hearted look at the biomedical engineering involved in some of the pieces of kit that most of us take for granted. Nothing too overwhelming, but enough to explain the science behind the machine.

In the first episode, we will take a look at the humble hand-held Doppler machine and explain how this frequently used machine does what it does. We will explain how the Doppler and piezoelectric effects combine to make an essential tool for clinicians and allied healthcare professionals in the field of vascular surgery.

Presented by Justin Woolgar.

In this episode, we’re joined by Prof. Alberto Settembrini and Associate Professor Ashley K. Vavra to discuss the application of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols in the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

We explore how ERAS principles are adapted for both open and endovascular AAA repair, covering key elements such as preoperative risk assessment, anaesthetic management, early mobilisation, and discharge planning.

The conversation underscores the importance of bridging the gap between evidence and clinical practice, as well as the central role of the entire multidisciplinary team, comprising surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, physiotherapists, and dietitians.

In this episode, we’re joined by Prof. Kate McGinigle – vascular surgeon, researcher, and expert in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS).

We explore the role of ERAS protocols in optimising outcomes for vascular surgery patients, with a focus on preoperative risk assessment, nutritional support, and structured prehabilitation.

Drawing on clinical data and implementation experience, Prof. McGinigle outlines practical strategies that surgical teams can adopt to reduce complications, support recovery, and personalise care pathways.

This is Part 1 of a two-part series on perioperative optimisation in vascular surgery.

Recommended for surgeons, anesthesiologists, dietitians, physiotherapists, and all healthcare professionals involved in perioperative care.