Inside Surgery

Host Dr. Bright Huo speaks with Dr. Eran Shlomovitz about his EAES-funded research using AI and computer vision to automate scoring for the FLS laparoscopic skills exam. They discuss how this work builds on the BEST Box simulator, the potential to remove proctoring barriers, and the impact of EAES and SAGES grants in enabling scalable, objective surgical training. Dr. Shlomovitz also shares advice for early-career researchers applying for grants and highlights the future directions of his minimally invasive surgery research. The call for EAES Research Grants 2026 is open till 30 November 2025. Apply now! If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? This podcast is sponsored by Richard Wolf System Green, the real-time ICG/NIR solution for enhanced vision and saver decision in surgery. Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

Hosts Dr. Alice Tsai and Dr. Bright Huo discuss the new EAES Cholecystitis Guideline with Prof. Nicole Bouvy (President of the EAES) and Prof. Salvador Morales-Conde, and review the Tokyo classification for grading cholecystitis, its limitations, and the guideline’s key recommendations. The guests emphasise the importance of clear research questions, training, teamwork, and knowing surgical limits. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? This podcast is sponsored by Richard Wolf System Green, the real-time ICG/NIR solution for enhanced vision and saver decision in surgery. Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

Prof. Tan Arulampalam hosts Prof. Kiyokazu Nakajima and patent attorney in training Matilda Arulampalam to discuss Prof Nakajima's recent research paper 'The EAES intellectual property protection guide' and his journey to this point. You can read the paper here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00464-025-12173-7 If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? This podcast is sponsored by Richard Wolf System Green, the real-time ICG/NIR solution for enhanced vision and saver decision in surgery. Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

Hosted by Draga Mandi, this podcast features Dr. Constantin Ifteme, a veterinarian who introduced minimally invasive and fluorescence-guided surgery to animals, inspired by human medicine. He pioneered advanced techniques, trained surgeons globally, and founded a major veterinary surgery center. The discussion celebrates collaboration between human and veterinary surgeons, emphasizing innovation, empathy, and the concept of “one medicine.” If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? This podcast is sponsored by Richard Wolf System Green, the real-time ICG/NIR solution for enhanced vision and saver decision in surgery. Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

Bright Huo hosts a discussion on new TaTME guidelines, with expert guests Prof. Michel Adamina, Prof. Patricia Sylla and Prof. Alberto Arezzo. Experts highlighted its advantages for low rectal cancers, where it can ensure oncologic safety while preserving the sphincter, leading to better functional outcomes. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? This podcast is sponsored by Richard Wolf System Green, the real-time ICG/NIR solution for enhanced vision and saver decision in surgery. Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode Dr Alice Tsai speaks with Prof. Milos Bjelovic, EAES 2025 Congress President, about the upcoming 33rd international EAES congress that will be held in Belgrade, Serbia from Tuesday 17 June through Friday 20 June in corporation with the Serbian Association for Endoscopic Surgery (UEHS). Prof. Bjelovic talks about the theme of the congress, what he's most looking forward to and where to visit while in Belgrade. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam talks to Dr Chen Sagiv about how Artificial Intelligence can create super surgeons rather than lazy surgeons! They discuss current and potential applications of AI in surgery and their fears that AI might stop us thinking for ourselves. Dr Sagiv is a mathematician and image processing researcher, as well as co-founder of DeePathology. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam speaks with Dr. Ir.ing Tim Horeman about innovation in surgery and the relationship between surgery and engineering. Dr Horeman is Associate Professor of Sustainable Surgery & Translational Technology and Academic Portfolio Director of Medical Technology at Delft University of Technology, as well as being a member of the EAES Tech Committee. They discuss the relationship between engineers and surgeons and how it has changed over time, as well as considering the successes and challenges of innovating in surgery, and how to respond when it doesn't work first time. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode Professor Tan Arulampalam interviews a range of guests to spotlight the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in surgery. Professor Silvana Perretta discusses AI’s ability to enhance surgical precision, starting with procedures like cholecystectomy and laparoscopic hernia repair. Other experts, including Kiyokazu Nakajima and Rosa Jimenez-Rodriguez, explore AI’s potential as an intraoperative assistant while emphasising the need for careful implementation. Discussions cover AI-driven task automation, augmented reality, and competency assessment tools. The episode highlights AI’s role in surgical education, ethical considerations, and the future of automation, reinforcing that while AI will transform surgery, human expertise remains essential. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, Professor Tan Arulampalam joins Professor Luigi Boni as he prepares for a real-life robotic-assisted low anterior resection on a 42-year-old patient with rectal cancer. He discusses the importance of patient selection, multidisciplinary planning, and precise surgical techniques. Professor Boni explains his hybrid approach—combining laparoscopy for the initial steps and robotics for pelvic dissection—to optimise outcomes. Key surgical insights include meticulous dissection, cross-stapling strategies, and the role of fluorescence-guided perfusion assessment to reduce anastomotic leaks. He emphasises the need for standardisation, patience, and attention to detail to achieve the best results in rectal cancer surgery. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, hosted by Professor Tan Arulampalam, we welcome Professor Silvana Perretta from the University of Strasbourg, a renowned surgeon specialising in endoscopic and bariatric procedures. She introduces a groundbreaking flexible suturing system that reduces gastric volume and slows gastric emptying, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional bariatric surgery. Professor Perretta discusses the synergy between this procedure and weight-loss drugs, the training process for surgeons, and the low complication rates associated with the technique. She emphasises the importance of learning this method as part of a comprehensive obesity treatment strategy. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode hosts, Dr Alice Tsai and Dr Monica Ortenzi speak with three surgical specialists from The Hernia Institute Paris, which was the first French centre to specialise in laparoscopic abdominal wall and hernia surgery. The guests Dr Édouard Pélissier, Dr Philippe Ngo and Dr Jean-Pierre Cossa are all members of the French Academy of Surgery. Alice and Monica discuss with the guests their paper on 'Endoscopic-assisted repair of combined ventral hernias and diastasis recti: minimizing seroma incidence by quilting'. Reference: Cossa JP, Ngo P, Blum D, Pélissier E, Gillion JF. Endoscopic-assisted repair of combined ventral hernias and diastasis recti: minimizing seroma incidence by quilting. Surg Endosc. 2024 May;38(5):2826-2833. doi: 10.1007/s00464-024-10801-2. Epub 2024 Apr 10. PMID: 38600304. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

To kick off Series 5 of Inside Surgery, hosts Dr Alice Tsai and Dr Monica Ortenzi are joined by Professor Tan Arulampalam to interview EAES President, Professor Alberto Arezzo. Professor Arezzo is the winner of eight Horizon Projects, four of which are still running and involve the EAES. He has also won the prestigious ERC Synergy Grant from European Research Council. In this podcast they discuss CLASSICA, an EU-funded project bringing together five leading cancer surgery centres across Europe to look at how to deploy cancer classification AI technology in the operating theatre. As well as explaining the phases, goals and expected impacts of the research, they explore the clinical, legal and ethical challenges of running a novel project involving AI and Indocyanine green (ICG). In concluding Professor Arezzo encourages young surgeons to be as ambitious as possible, but to always start from an unmet clinical need. CLASSICA: https://classicaproject.eu If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In the final episode of Series 4, Dr Alice Tsai and Dr Monica Ortenzi speak to Dr Deborah Keller about a paper she co-authored on optimising perioperative care in older adults. Link to join SAGES as a Candidate Member: https://www.sages.org/membership/candidate/ Reference: Keller DS, Curtis N, Burt HA, Ammirati CA, Collings AT, Polk HC Jr, Carrano FM, Antoniou SA, Hanna N, Piotet LM, Hill S, Cuijpers ACM, Tejedor P, Milone M, Andriopoulou E, Kontovounisios C, Leeds IL, Awad ZT, Barber MW, Al-Mansour M, Nassif G, West MA, Pryor AD, Carli F, Demartines N, Bouvy ND, Passera R, Arezzo A, Francis N. EAES/SAGES evidence-based recommendations and expert consensus on optimization of perioperative care in older adults. Surg Endosc. 2024 Aug;38(8):4104-4126. doi: 10.1007/s00464-024-10977-7. Epub 2024 Jun 28. PMID: 38942944; PMCID: PMC11289045. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode host Dr Draga Mandi and guest Dr Amila Cizmic discuss the transformative impact of the EAES Research Sandpit Programme on their surgical careers and lives. They share how the Research Sandpit has helped them build connections with renowned researchers, develop research proposals, compete for funding and gaining hands-on experience in surgical research. Both Dr Mandi and Dr Cizmic emphasise how the programme has given them lifelong professional networks and foster lasting friendships. Find out more about the Research Sandpit: https://eaes.eu/about-eaes/committees/research/research-talent-academy/ If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode recorded at EAES 2024 in Maastricht Dr Alice Tsai interviews coach Michael Blackhurst, who shares insights on the captaincy mindset - perfect for surgeons working in high-risk, complex environments. This unique approach balances team-based performance and personal well-being, helping surgeons lead teams effectively while ensuring long-term success both in the OR and in life. Mike’s leadership coaching draws parallels between the critical role of captains and surgeons, emphasising the importance of results ("golden eggs") while maintaining personal health and resilience ("the goose"). You can find out more about captaincy on Mike's website: www.JTJ-Services.com If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In the second episode, on surgical coaching, hosts Alice and Monica speak again with Dr Kristine Lombardozzi, a trauma surgeon and director at the Academy of Surgical Coaching. This time their discussion focuses on the practical aspects of setting up a surgical coaching program. They identify the key steps to follow and what metrics can be used to measure success run line with organisational priorities, and Alice experiences coaching live from Kristine. Links: > The Academy for Surgical Coaching > Wisconsin Surgical Coaching Program If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In the first of two podcast episodes on surgical coaching, hosts Alice and Monica speak with Dr Kristine Lombardozzi, a trauma surgeon and director at the Academy of Surgical Coaching. Dr Lombardozzi discusses the origins and importance of surgical coaching, emphasising its role in enhancing the performance of surgeons at all career stages and how it differs from teaching and mentoring. The conversation also highlights successful U.S. coaching programs and Dr Lombardozzi's personal journey into coaching, driven by her commitment to improving surgical education and performance. The episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of practical applications and outcomes of surgical coaching in the next episode. Links: > The Academy for Surgical Coaching > Wisconsin Surgical Coaching Program If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this episode, firstly Dr Alice Tsai interviews Ass. Prof. Aung Myint Oo, a prominent gastrointestinal surgeon and educator from Singapore. He shares insights into his multifaceted roles, including his work as a senior consultant, clinical informatics officer,and president of the Bariatric Society of Singapore. He discusses his passion for training future surgeons and the importance of innovative teaching methods like using cooperative multiplayer games to engage younger generations. Secondly, Dr Mert Tanal interviews Dr Audrius Dulshas from Lithuania, exploring his journey to becoming a surgeon. He shares how his childhood dream of surgery motivated him throughout his career, emphasising hard work and perseverance. He also talks about the importance of family support and how attending conferences like EAES 2024 rejuvenates his passion for surgery, providing fresh insights and ideas. If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member

In this first in series of literature review podcasts Dr Ritch Geitenbeek (PhD Candidate at the University Medical Center, Groningen, Netherlands) discusses his recent journal article comparing outcomes for rectal cancer patients of different surgical methods. This episode is hosted by Dr Alice Tsai (Post-CCT Fellow in Oesophagogastric Surgery at Imperial College London, UK) and Dr Monica Ortenzi (Assistant Professor of Surgery at Università Politecnica delle Marche in Italy). Article reference: Geitenbeek, R.T.J., Burghgraef, T.A., Moes, C.A. et al. Functional outcomes and quality of life following open versus laparoscopic versus robot-assisted versus transanal total mesorectal excision in rectal cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Surg Endosc 38, 4431–4444 (2024). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00464-024-10934-4 If you enjoy this episode, why not subscribe to Inside Surgery so you don't miss out on future episodes? Would you like to become a part of the EAES family? Become a member via https://eaes.eu/become-a-member