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Inside Surgery

EAES

Surgical Insights from the European Association of Endosopic Surgery

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  • 20 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 24 min
  • English
  • S7 · E9
    September 1 · 35 min

    Teamwork in the OR

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Prof. Tan Arulampalam is joined by Prof. Marlies Schijven and Prof. Catalin Copaescu to explore one of the most important factors in surgical success: teamwork. From operating room culture and psychological safety to communication, hierarchy, and the growing role of technology, the discussion examines what really drives high-performing surgical teams. Along the way, the guests share practical insights, personal experiences, and a glimpse into how the future of surgery may be shaped as much by people as by innovation. 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

  • S7 · E8
    August 24 · 14 min

    Groin Hernia Guidelines

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, recorded live at the EAES Congress in Athens, host Dr. Bright Huo is joined by Dr. Stavros Antoniou, Prof. Salvador Morales-Conde, and Prof. Thomas Carus to explore the latest international guidelines on primary groin hernia repair. Together, they unpack the evidence behind the recommendation for laparoscopic repair, and discuss what the data means for surgeons and patients in everyday practice. The panel also tackles the long-standing TAPP versus TEP debate, revealing where the evidence is clear, where expertise matters most, and why the real-world context of care remains crucial. 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

  • S7 · E7
    August 10 · 32 min

    Musculoskeletal Pain and Ergonomics in the OR

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, recorded live at the EAES Congress in Athens, host Dr. Draga Maria Mandi talks with Dr. Ludovica Baldari, Prof. Rosa Jiménez Rodríguez, and Prof. Selman Uranues to discuss musculoskeletal pain and ergonomics in the operating room. From posture and instrument design to robotic surgery and long operating lists, they explore how working conditions affect surgeons’ wellbeing, performance, and patient care. The panel also considers practical solutions, including better training, smarter operating-room setup, and equipment designed for a more diverse surgical workforce. 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

  • S7 · E6
    July 27 · 31 min

    The Death of Laparoscopy

    Has laparoscopy reached its limits, or is it simply paving the way for the next era of surgery? Recorded live at the EAES Congress in Athens, this episode brings together Prof. Jaap Bonjer, Dr. Clarisa Birlog, and Dr. Draga Mandi for a thought-provoking discussion on robotic surgery, surgical training, AI, and the technologies transforming operating rooms around the world. From hernia repairs and complex cancer procedures to the future of digital surgery, they explore what surgeons may gain and what they risk losing, as the field continues to evolve. 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

  • S7 · E5
    July 13 · 31 min

    Reshaping from Within: The Endoscopic Revolution in Obesity Care

    In this episode, host Alice Tsai talks with surgeons Dr. Maria Vannucci and Dr. Rita Rodríguez Luna, trained under Professor Perretta in Strasbourg, about endo-bariatric procedures like endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG)—a suturing technique that reshapes the stomach without cutting tissue. With only about 1% of eligible obese patients opting for traditional bariatric surgery, ESG offers a less invasive alternative, often sparing the fundus to improve satiety and reduce reflux risk. The guests discuss combining ESG with drugs or fundic ablation, the demanding learning curve (25–60 procedures for proficiency), and its partial reversibility. They highlight obesity as a complex, multifactorial disease requiring multidisciplinary care, while Rita emphasises prevention and nutrition education, especially for children. A compelling look at how endo-bariatrics is reshaping obesity treatment. 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

  • S7 · E4
    June 8 · 19 min

    Literature review: An international Delphi consensus with Dr Amila Cizmic and Dr Monica Ortenzi

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr Alice Tsai speaks with Dr Amila Cizmic and Dr Monica Ortenzi about a 2023 paper published in Surgical Endoscopy, exploring surgical quality assessment in minimally invasive total gastrectomy for gastric cancer. They discuss how the project developed from an EAES Research Sandpit idea into an international Delphi consensus, and reflect on some of the decisions and challenges behind the research process. The conversation also touches on expert selection, questionnaire design, collaboration, and how studies like this can help shape future work in surgical quality assessment. The episode offers an insight into the realities of developing surgical research, from early ideas and methodology choices to publication and future applications, including the growing role of AI in surgery. Read full article here. 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

  • S7 · E3
    May 25 · 29 min

    Subject Editors for EAES

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr Alice Tsai speaks with Professor Young-Woo Kim (Section Editor for Surgical Endoscopy, based at the National Cancer Center Korea, and a leading gastric cancer surgeon specialising in minimally invasive and robotic surgery) and Professor Nicolò de Manzini (Section Editor for Surgical Endoscopy, Professor of Surgery at the University of Trieste, with expertise in general, colorectal, and surgical education). They discuss the role of subject editors and how they act as the first filter for submitted papers, deciding whether manuscripts should go to peer review or be rejected early. This protects reviewers’ time and ensures that only papers with clear value, relevance, and quality move forward. Both guests explain what a paper needs to be relevant to surgical practice. Professor Kim highlights scientific rigour, avoiding selection bias, and clinically useful AI and prospective studies, while Professor de Manzini values practical papers on complications, safety, difficult cases, and everyday surgical improvements. Overall, this episode shows what it means to publish in Surgical Endoscopy. 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

  • S7 · E2
    May 11 · 32 min

    Hot topics in Surgery: AI with Professor Andrew Gumbs

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr. Alice Tsai speaks with Professor Andrew Gumbs, a world-renowned minimally invasive, robotic HPB surgeon and Editor-in-Chief of Artificial Intelligence Surgery, about the future of AI, robotics, and surgical autonomy. Professor Gumbs reflects on his international training across the US and Europe, his humanitarian surgical work in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Haiti, and how those experiences shaped his belief that AI and affordable robotics could help reduce global inequalities in access to surgery. The conversation explores the difference between fully robotic systems and collaborative robotics, with Professor Gumbs arguing for more affordable, bedside robotic tools that keep the surgeon directly involved with the patient. He discusses his work with collaborative robots, AI-guided camera systems, and the need for safe, stepwise adoption of autonomy in the operating room. Professor Gumbs highlights the importance of surgeons gaining AI knowledge, supporting research in the field, and working alongside computer scientists, ethicists, lawyers, business experts, and policymakers. 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

  • S7 · E1
    April 27 · 22 min

    Achalasia Guidelines: Evidence, Decisions, and Treatment Pathways

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr. Alice Tsai hands over to surgical resident Dr. Bright Huo (Surgical Resident, McMaster University, Canada) to explore the development of the upcoming 2026 multi-society clinical guidelines on the management of Achalasia. Joined by Dr. Stavros Antoniou (Chair Guidelines Committee, Greece), Prof. Milos Belovich (Bariatric Surgeon, Chair of Education & Training Committee. Serbia), and Assoc. Prof. Sonia Fernandez-Ananin (Consultant Upper GI & Bariatric Surgeon, Spain), the panel discusses how the guidelines were developed using rigorous evidence synthesis and the GRADE methodology, combining statistical analysis, expert consensus, and patient input. The episode covers key treatment recommendations, including the role of Heller Myotomy with Fundoplication as the preferred option for patients with moderate to severe symptoms who are fit for surgery, and POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy) as an important alternative for those who are not surgical candidates or prefer a less invasive approach. Other options such as Pneumatic Dilation and Botox Injection are discussed in the context of symptom severity and long-term effectiveness. A key focus throughout is shared decision-making, with many recommendations being conditional and requiring clinicians to balance evidence, patient preferences, and local access to treatments. The conversation also reflects on the complexity of modern guideline development, the challenges of interpreting evolving evidence, and how participation in the process has influenced clinical practice. 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

  • S6 · E12
    March 8 · 21 min

    Women at the Console: Breaking Barriers in Robotic Surgery

    In this special International Women’s Day episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr Draga Mandi speaks with Ms Gita Lingam and Dr Georgia Kotoreni, surgeons who completed the women only, EAES Intuitive robotics discovery course at the Amsterdam Skills Centre. Ms Lingam, a UK surgical trainee and research fellow in IBD and robotic surgery, and Dr Kotoreni, a general surgeon and PhD candidate in abdominal wall reconstruction in Greece, reflect on their experience in an all-women robotic training programme designed to build both technical expertise and professional community. The conversation explores access to robotic training across different European healthcare systems, the challenges women face in gaining console time and certification, and the importance of mentorship, representation, and supportive learning environments. They discuss the value of high-fidelity simulation, tailored hands-on training, and the unique dynamic created when women surgeons train together. Beyond the technical aspects, this episode examines belonging in surgery, the evolving landscape of robotic certification, and why dedicated spaces for women in surgical innovation remain essential. Released on International Women’s Day, the discussion highlights how community, visibility, and opportunity can shape the future of robotic surgery, and the next generation of women at the console. 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

  • S6 · E11
    February 16 · 32 min

    Telesurgery: Access and Training Without Boundaries

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr Alice Tsai speaks with Dr Youness Ahallal, urologist and robotic surgeon, internationally recognised for pioneering telesurgery and advancing robotic surgery across Africa. Dr Ahallal shares the story behind the world’s longest-distance robotic cancer surgery, performed between Shanghai and Morocco, and explains the four months of preparation required to make transcontinental telesurgery safe and feasible. The conversation explores signal latency, fibre-optic networks, AI-assisted motion stabilisation, and the teamwork required on both ends of a complex radical prostatectomy. Beyond the technical achievement, Dr Ahallal reflects on his journey from Morocco to the United States and France, and his decision to return home to establish the first robotic surgery programme in North Africa. He discusses how telesurgery can shorten the learning curve for surgeons, support mentorship across distances, and improve equitable access to high-quality surgical care. This episode highlights innovation in practice, the future of global surgical collaboration, and how technology can bridge geographic gaps in modern 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

  • S6 · E10
    February 2 · 23 min

    EAES family: Fellowship

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr. Draga Mandi speaks with Dr. Dragoș Eugen Georgescu, Romanian surgical oncologist, lecturer at Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, and EAES Fellowship awardee. Dr. Georgescu reflects on his EAES Fellowship at the National Cancer Institute in Vilnius, sharing how immersive exposure to high-volume minimally invasive oncology reshaped his surgical practice. The conversation explores the value of stepping outside one’s comfort zone, the role of mentorship and technical refinement, and how international fellowships foster long-term professional growth, collaboration, and adaptability in modern European 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

  • S6 · E9
    January 19 · 19 min

    Hot Topics in Surgery: ICG

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr. Draga Mandi speaks with Dr. Ludovica Baldari, a leading voice in fluorescence-guided surgery and the renowned “Baldari protocol.” Dr. Baldari discusses her journey with ICG, the crucial role of mentorship and sponsorship, and the importance of research and engineering collaboration. Together, they explore gender bias in surgical training, highlighting how instrument design often overlooks women’s ergonomics. She emphasizes the need for systemic change, representation, and collective European action to advance equity in 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

  • S6 · E8
    January 5 · 17 min

    UEMS Exam

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, Prof. Tan Arulampalam speaks with Dr. Marek Soltés and Prof. Georg Bischof about the UEMS Board Examination in Minimally Invasive Surgery. They explain the purpose, structure, and value of the exam as a Europe-wide benchmark for surgical excellence, combining logbook assessment, theoretical testing, and practical OSCE skills evaluation. The discussion highlights how the exam supports harmonisation of training across countries, validates surgical mastery beyond national certifications, and enhances professional credibility. With growing international recognition, the UEMS exam is presented as a key step for surgeons committed to quality, lifelong learning, and high standards of patient care. 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

  • S6 · E7
    Dec 22, 2025 · 16 min

    Symposium on Innovation in Surgery 2026

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, Prof. Tan Arulampalam hosts Portuguese surgeons Prof. Helder Ferreira and Prof. Jaime Vilaça to preview the upcoming EAES Symposium on Innovation in Surgery 2026. Held on 22 – 24 January 2026 in Porto, Portugal. They highlight the groundbreaking programme featuring AI-augmented surgical safety, telemonitoring with live demonstrations across Europe, and advances in robotic autonomy, flexible endoscopy, and medical device development. The guests also spotlight immersive hands-on courses in fluorescence-guided surgery, bariatrics, abdominal wall repair, and remote-access thyroidectomy. Set in the scenic Alfândega Congress Centre, the symposium aims to accelerate safe innovation, empower surgical teams, and position Porto as the epicentre of surgical technology this January. The registration for the Symposium on Innovation is Surgery is now open: Register here: https://eaes.eu/symposium-on-innovation-in-surgery/ 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

  • S6 · E6
    Dec 8, 2025 · 23 min

    EAES Research Sandpit

    In this episode of Inside Surgery, host Dr. Draga Mandi speaks with Dr.med Valerie Nottberg and Hans Schmidt, members of the winning team from this year’s EAES Research Sandpit. They share their motivations for applying, the collaborative team-building process, and the creation of their winning project REACT, a digital companion app designed to support patients before and after surgery. They discuss challenges such as time pressure, feasibility, and app-development costs, as well as the crucial role of their mentors. Their story highlights the Sandpit’s unique mix of innovation, teamwork, mentorship, and the confidence it builds in young surgical researchers. The call for the EAES Research Sandpit 2026 is now open for all young EAES members. Apply before 11th January 2026: https://eaes.eu/research-sandpit/ 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

  • S6 · E5
    Nov 24, 2025 · 11 min

    EAES Family: Research Grants

    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

  • S6 · E4
    Nov 10, 2025 · 20 min

    Cholecystitis Guideline

    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

  • S6 · E3
    Oct 27, 2025 · 29 min

    Hot Topics in Surgery: Surgical Patents and Intellectual Property

    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

  • S6 · E2
    Oct 13, 2025 · 22 min

    Breaking Barriers Human & Animal

    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

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