Welcome to the first episode of GaitKeepers Journal Club, a monthly collaboration between Pod Patrol and LERexpo!

Dr. Jeff Dikis is joined by Dr. Brad Abicht, as they debate the merits of MIS head procedures versus MIS Lapidus, share their own perspective, and tips for successful surgical outcomes.

The conversation revolves around the controversial topic of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for bunion procedures, exploring its evolution, benefits, and challenges. The speakers discuss the differences between various surgical techniques, the importance of understanding hypermobility in patients, and the implications of non-union rates in different procedures. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to bunion surgery, considering both traditional and modern techniques to achieve optimal patient outcomes. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of bunion surgery, particularly focusing on the non-union rates associated with various procedures, including the minimally invasive (MIS) techniques and the Lapidus procedure. They discuss the importance of technical skills, the versatility of different surgical approaches, and the need for proper patient selection. The dialogue also highlights the ongoing debate between the efficacy of MIS and traditional methods, emphasizing the necessity for skilled execution in achieving optimal patient outcomes.

Join us next month for our next episode: Fibular Nails: Fad or New Standard?

Song: KO by Nu Alkemi$t

In this segment of the conversation, Jeff Dikis and Jake Wynes delve into various surgical techniques and considerations in foot and ankle surgery. They discuss the nuances of managing cavus deformities, the importance of soft tissue in surgical outcomes, and the intricacies of fibular onlay techniques. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by radiological interpretations, the role of tendon transfers in pediatric cases, and the management of subtalar joint instability. Throughout, they emphasize the need for a comprehensive understanding of both anatomical and functional aspects of foot surgery. In this conversation, we delve into advanced techniques in ankle surgery, focusing on innovations in lateral ankle reconstruction, subtalar joint instability, and the significance of the spring ligament. They share personal experiences, discuss the effectiveness of various surgical methods, and emphasize the importance of understanding the anatomy and biomechanics of the ankle to improve patient outcomes. The dialogue highlights the evolving nature of orthopedic practices and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in surgical techniques.takeaways

The first season of Pod Patrol Podcast comes to an end with the Finale!

In this episode, Jeff Dikis interviews Dr. Zach Thomas, a sports medicine expert and YouTube content creator (FootDoctorZach), discussing his journey from residency to private practice and the evolution of his career. They delve into the intricacies of shoe design, biomechanics, and the importance of proper footwear for athletes. Dr. Thomas shares insights from his research, his passion for tennis, and the methods he uses to test and review shoes on his YouTube channel. The conversation also touches on the marketing versus functional aspects of shoe features and offers practical advice for choosing the right footwear. In this conversation, Zach and Jeff delve into the intricacies of running, shoe selection, and the role of orthotics in foot health. They discuss the varying needs of recreational runners versus competitive athletes, the balance between shoe quality and orthotic support, and the ongoing debate surrounding barefoot running. Additionally, they explore the dynamics of private practice in podiatry and the challenges of maintaining a successful YouTube channel while practicing medicine.

In this episode, Dr. Alton Johnson shares his journey through podiatry, detailing his education and experiences from Ohio to Florida and now Michigan. He emphasizes the importance of research in podiatry, discussing his fellowship and the skills he gained in conducting high-quality studies. Dr. Johnson also highlights his leadership roles in various podiatric organizations and his commitment to community health initiatives. The conversation shifts to the role of minimally invasive surgery in limb preservation and the clinical approach to wound care, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in managing complex cases. They discuss the challenges of managing chronic wounds and the importance of palliative care in these situations, including the complexities surrounding amputation decisions, the nuances of wound care products, and the role of imaging in patient management. They delve into the innovative use of virtual reality in surgical education. They emphasize the importance of patient quality of life, the challenges of diagnosing infections in patients with varying skin pigmentation, and the need for effective communication in healthcare.

In this conversation, Dr. Jeff Dikis interviews Travis Zimmerman, a medical device rep, about his background in sports and how he got involved in medical device sales. They discuss Travis' experience playing college football, his surgeries, and how that led him to develop an interest in the medical field. Travis explains the training process for medical reps and how they stay up to date on new products. They also discuss the role of a rep in the operating room and the importance of communication and preparedness. In this conversation, Dr. Jeff Dikis and Travis Zimmerman discuss what happens when a surgical tray isn't sterile or ready to go, how to handle slow surgeons, dealing with bad surgical outcomes, and the best ways to train surgeons on new devices. They also touch on the biggest changes in hardware, such as the shift towards minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and advancements in biologics and plating.

In this episode, Dr. Jeff Dikis is joined by Dr. Grant Schindler and Dr. Rebecca Varney, two fellows at the Core Institute. They share their backgrounds, the reasons for pursuing fellowship training, and the application process. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, the need for a centralized application process, and the readiness for practice after residency. Both fellows emphasize the value of additional training in enhancing their skills and confidence in their field. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the transition from residency to fellowship, highlighting the importance of independence and decision-making in their new roles. They explore the financial implications of pursuing a fellowship, the challenges faced in various programs, and the need for accountability in residency training. The discussion also touches on the future of fellowships, the job search process for new graduates, and offers valuable advice for those considering fellowship opportunities.