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  • Thoracic endometriosis occurs in about 12% of patients with advanced endometriosis. Due in part to its lower incidence and inherent diagnostic challenges, many providers are not well-versed in the workup and management of this advanced disease. In this episode of The BackTable OBGYN Podcast, host Dr. Mark Hoffman interviews Dr. Shanti Mohling, a gynecologic surgeon at Northwest Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery, regarding her approach to thoracic endometriosis.

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    PearsonRavitz
    https://pearsonravitz.com/backtable

    ---

    SYNPOSIS

    The physicians discuss the embryological and congenital theories of endometriosis etiology, the impacts of retrograde menstruation, and epigenetic factors. Dr. Mohling shares insights into her advanced surgical techniques for treating endometriosis, including diaphragmatic and thoracic disease, and the importance of a comprehensive history, exam, and diagnostic imaging. Her practice patterns, patient care strategies, and interdisciplinary collaborations for optimal outcomes are also highlighted.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    06:40 - Pelvic Pain Workup
    08:09 - Thoracic Endometriosis
    14:12 - Medical Management Post-Surgery
    18:48 - In-Office Ultrasound Techniques
    23:33 - Collaboration in Surgery
    24:59 - Preparing for Thoracic Endometriosis Surgery
    36:44 - Managing Postoperative Care
    41:13 - Theories on Endometriosis Etiology
    46:31 - Concluding Thoughts

  • Can cranberry juice prevent UTIs? In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, Dr. Suzette Sutherland and Dr. Anne Cameron discuss various strategies for preventing recurrent UTIs, including which supplements are effective. They cover the efficacy of cranberry supplements, emphasizing the importance of quality and proper compound concentration in products like Ellura. The discussion also addresses the limitations of cranberry juice and the resurgence of methenamine hippurate as a non-antibiotic preventive measure, supported by recent studies. Additionally, they outline comprehensive approaches, including lifestyle modifications, hydration, vaginal estrogen, and hygiene practices, while aiming to destigmatize the condition.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:28 - Cranberry Supplements for UTI Prevention
    01:22 - Choosing the Right Cranberry Product
    03:05 - Effectiveness and Dosage
    05:27 - Cranberry Juice vs. Supplements
    06:45 - Exploring Hiprex and Vitamin C
    07:08 - Methenamine Hippurate: An Old Medication Revisited
    08:59 - Overall Strategy for Managing Recurrent UTIs
    11:09 - Vaginal Estrogen
    11:48 - Final Thoughts

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep. 42 - Recurrent UTIs: Controlling Those Nasty Little Bladder Infections
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/42/recurrent-utis-controlling-those-nasty-little-bladder-infections

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  • Vulvovaginal disorders can be very complex to manage, and many OBGYNs struggle with diagnosis and treatment, especially if topical steroids don’t improve symptoms. In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN Podcast, guest host Dr. Jessica Ritch welcomes Dr. Hope Haefner, a leading expert in women’s health, to discuss diagnosis and management of several vulvovaginal diseases.

    ---

    CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

    PearsonRavitz
    https://pearsonravitz.com/backtable

    ---

    SYNPOSIS

    The discussion covers the importance of accurate diagnosis through physical exams and intake surveys, approaches to pain and symptom management, the significance of vestibulectomy, and the implementation of different treatments for conditions such as vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Dr. Haefner emphasizes the importance of early treatment, the multidisciplinary approach in their clinic, the use of different types of steroids for lichen sclerosus, and innovative treatments and diagnostics. She discusses next-step treatments if common treatments aren’t working, such as the “lichen sclerosus cocktail.” Finally, the episode highlights the need for ongoing professional education and provides resources for further learning.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    04:21 - Common Symptoms and Initial Diagnosis
    07:19 - Examination and Workup
    13:44 - Treatment Approaches for Vulvodynia
    20:27 - Managing Lichen Sclerosus
    32:27 - Products to Avoid
    36:29 - Anoscopy for HPV
    40:34 - Addressing Hidradenitis Suppurativa
    44:39 - Final Thoughts and Resources

    ---

    RESOURCES

    Resources for Everything Vulvovaginal Disorder (by Dr. Haefner):
    https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r8nhr1j8c19tn9n/AACRLvxGGSgEtZCi6Zzh-yBQa?e=2&dl=0

  • OBGYN Brief - Definition and Diagnosis of a Clinical UTI

    Cultures are key when it comes to managing UTIs. In this brief, Dr. Anne Cameron discusses the definitions, symptoms, prevalence, and management of urinary tract infections (UTIs). They delve into the differences between bladder infections and kidney infections, the importance of symptomatology along with bacterial evidence for proper diagnosis, and the higher susceptibility of women to UTIs compared to men. The brief emphasizes the complexities of recurrent UTIs, including the challenges in treatment due to improper antibiotic use, persistence of infection, and anatomical or physiological risk factors. Dr. Cameron also explains the necessity of urine cultures in ensuring effective treatment and the various factors that contribute to recurrent UTIs.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:15 - Definitions and Symptoms of UTIs
    01:49 - Prevalence of UTIs in Women and Men
    02:44 - Recurrent UTIs: Definitions and Challenges
    04:48 - Investigating and Treating Persistent UTIs

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep. 42 - Recurrent UTIs: Controlling Those Nasty Little Bladder Infections
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/42/recurrent-utis-controlling-those-nasty-little-bladder-infections

  • Women’s health has a history of being underfunded in the United States, leading many women to receive suboptimal care. In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN podcast, hosts Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Amy Park engage in a detailed discussion with Dr. Louise P. King, a minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon, and Christopher Robertson, a law professor at Boston University, regarding the inequitable reimbursement structures that persist within the field of OBGYN.

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    SYNPOSIS

    The guests emphasize the systemic discrepancies between gynecologic and other surgical disciplines. The conversation delves into the origins of these disparities, the complexities of revising current codes and creating new codes, and potential legislative and legal remedies to address gender-based inequities. The guests also stress the importance of patient care outcomes and the role of proper reimbursement in enhancing healthcare delivery.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    06:28 - Background on RVUs and Disparities in OBGYN
    12:39 - Gender Disparities in Medical Billing
    18:00 - Efforts to Address Inequities
    31:22 - RUC Structure and Surgical Specialties
    32:42 - Billing and Reimbursement Inequities
    35:15 - Diagnosis Related Groups
    36:42 - Turnover Times and Gender Disparities
    40:21 - Advocacy and Legislative Solutions
    48:23 - Legal Approaches for Change
    52:44 - Conclusion

    ---

    RESOURCES

    Watson KL, King LP. Double Discrimination, the Pay Gap in Gynecologic Surgery, and Its Association With Quality of Care. Obstet Gynecol. 2021 Apr 1;137(4):657-661. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000004309. PMID: 33706362.

    Robertson, Christopher T. and Kupke, Annabel and King, Louise P., Structural Sex Discrimination: Why Gynecology Patients Suffer Avoidable Injuries and What the Law Can Do About It (May 9, 2024). Emory Law Journal, Forthcoming, Boston Univ. School of Law Research Paper Forthcoming, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4800783 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4800783

  • With contemporary treatment options, your female patients don’t have to live with urinary incontinence! In this crossover episode of BackTable Urology and OBGYN, host Dr. Suzette Sutherland from University of Washington interviews Dr. Sarah Boyles, a urogynecologist at The Oregon Clinic, regarding female urinary incontinence, its diagnostic criteria, and various treatment options to help improve quality of life in the incontinence patient.

    ---

    CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

    PearsonRavitz
    https://pearsonravitz.com/backtable

    ---

    SYNPOSIS

    First, Dr. Boyles explains the importance of patient history and physical examination, along with the need for certain diagnostic tests for proper characterization of the type of urinary incontinence in a patient. She also explores behavioral treatments, pelvic floor physical therapy, vaginal pessaries, and advanced interventions such as urethral bulking and surgery for stress incontinence. The doctors further discuss innovative pharmaceutical and neuromodulation options for urge incontinence.

    Dr. Boyles concludes with a mention of patient education resources that are available on her platform, thewomensbladderdoctor.com.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    02:35 - The Women’s Bladder Doctor Initiative
    07:03 - Types of Urinary Incontinence
    11:49 - Diagnostic Approaches to Urinary Incontinence
    28:39 - Treatment Algorithms for Urinary Incontinence
    31:12 - Bladder Retraining and Pelvic Floor Therapy
    40:00 - Urethral Seals and Vaginal Pessaries
    50:47 - Treatment for Urgency
    57:51 - Future Directions

    ---

    RESOURCES

    Pearson Ravitz
    https://pearsonravitz.com/

    The Women’s Bladder Doctor
    https://thewomensbladderdoctor.com/

  • Often the first practical thing we’re taught in medical school is the importance of taking a thorough patient history. In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Ted Lee bring us back to the basics and emphasize the importance of conducting a quality patient interview to elucidate symptoms of endometriosis.

    The physicians first explore the limitations and practicalities of patient surveys, and move on to discuss the importance of thorough history taking along with specific symptoms to look for. The conversation also delves into the diagnostic challenges and delay of diagnosis in endometriosis patients. They explain the role of surgical diagnosis in endometriosis, emphasizing the necessity of listening to and believing patients’ experiences with chronic pelvic pain.

    TIMESTAMPS: 

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:14 - Initial Patient Workup: Surveys and History
    01:19 - Key Patient History Indicators
    04:24 - Endometriosis Symptoms
    07:49 - Treatment Approaches and Surgical Considerations
    09:32 - Barriers to Diagnosis

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep. 30: Ambulatory Workup of Endometriosis Patients
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/30/ambulatory-workup-of-endometriosis-patients

  • In the modern era of rapid technological progress and AI, the medical community is abuzz with discussions on how medicine will change and how practice will adapt. In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN podcast, hosts Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Amy Park welcome Dr. Arnold Advincula, a leading figure in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, to discuss the evolution and impact of robotic surgery in the field of gynecology.

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    SYNPOSIS

    Dr. Advincula shares his journey from training to pioneering robotic-assisted procedures, emphasizing the benefits and challenges faced along the way. The conversation delves into the future of robotics, including the potential of AI in surgery and the integration of digital tools to enhance surgical outcomes. Listeners gain insights into the importance of ergonomic surgery, the advancements in robotic technology, the future of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, and the collaborative efforts required to elevate patient care in gynecology.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    06:05 - Pioneering Robotic Surgery
    12:50 - Challenges and Innovations
    24:43 - Allure of Robotic Surgery
    28:05 - Challenges in Rural Healthcare
    35:00 - Future of Minimally Invasive Surgery
    42:00 - Advancements in Surgical Training
    43:35 - Ergonomics
    49:28 - The Future of Gynecologic Surgery
    53:06 - Closing Thoughts

    ---

    RESOURCES

    BackTable OBGYN Ep. 2: Surgeon Ergonomics
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/2/surgeon-ergonomics

  • In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Ted Lee discuss the clinical approach to diagnosing endometriosis through physical exam and imaging, and the collaborative surgical approach to treating it. 

    Dr. Lee explains the importance of detailed patient history and various examination techniques, including palpation and rectovaginal exams, to identify potential signs of endometriosis. He emphasizes the specificity of these exams in differentiating endometriosis pain from other causes. The discussion also covers the role of imaging, such as MRI, particularly in advanced cases, and the collaborative approach with colorectal surgeons for bowel-related complications. Dr. Lee shares insights on the use of physical therapy and managing musculoskeletal pain related to endometriosis, highlighting the importance of multi-disciplinary care for optimal patient outcomes.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:15 - Initial Patient Assessment for Endometriosis
    01:00 - Detailed Physical Exam Techniques
    07:00 - Imaging and Further Diagnostic Steps
    10:55 - Collaborative Surgical Approach

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep. 30: Ambulatory Workup of Endometriosis Patients
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/30/ambulatory-workup-of-endometriosis-patients

  • In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN podcast, host Dr. Mark Hoffman is joined by MIGS specialist Dr. Uchenna Acholonu to discuss the intricacies of complex gynecologic surgeries, focusing particularly on handling large uteruses during total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH).

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    SYNPOSIS

    The discussion begins with talk of the doctors’ practices and friendship. They then cover comprehensive patient evaluations and various surgical techniques, including skeletonizing the uterines, colpotomy tricks, uterine manipulators, and morcellation. Dr. Acholonu also shares his personal routines and preferences, including the use of a flexible scope to get around the big uterus. The duo exchange insights on surgical techniques, patient-centered care, and the continuous learning necessary in the medical field. They emphasize the significance of safety, adequate planning, and the benefits of engaging in community networks for better surgical outcomes. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted note on their shared experiences and camaraderie, offering both educational value and a glimpse into the dynamic relationship between two seasoned professionals.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    04:01 - Building a Subspecialty Practice
    07:34 - Patient Referrals
    12:41 - Surgical Approach
    16:06- The Big Uterus
    28:36 - Surgical Steps in TLH, Skeletonizing the Uterines
    32:56 - Challenges and Solutions
    36:49 - Energy Sources and Surgical Tools
    42:34 - Colpotomy
    44:43 - Tissue Extraction and Morcellation
    50:27 - Closing and Post-Operative Care
    52:05 - Use of Lupron
    53:16 - Final Thoughts

  • In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, host Dr. Mark Hoffman interviews Dr. Jan Baekelandt from Belgium about vNOTES (vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery) incision placement to allow future vaginal deliveries and prevent dyspareunia. 

    First, Dr. Hoffman discusses the nuances of laparoscopy, particularly the preference for smaller incisions to reduce hernia rates and postoperative pain. The conversation covers the specifics of performing colpotomy and the risks associated with different types of incisions, including vaginal and abdominal. Dr. Baekelandt emphasizes the importance of proper training and starting with simpler cases when introducing new surgical techniques like vNOTES.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:32 - Concerns About Hernia Rates and Incisions
    01:05 - Vaginal Incisions and Their Implications
    02:35 - Vaginal Deliveries After vNOTES
    03:55 - Dyspareunia After vNOTES
    04:13 - Technical Details on Incision Placement
    05:53 - Closing Techniques
    06:45 - Advice for Surgeons Introducing vNOTES

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep 31: The vNOTES Procedure
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/31/the-vnotes-procedure

  • In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, host Dr. Mark Hoffman speaks with Dr. Jan Baekelandt about the specific challenges and complications associated with vNOTES, as well as contraindications to be mindful of.

    They discuss the nuances of uterine artery management and the benefits and risks of the Alexis ring, especially for hemostasis. The doctors go on to discuss contraindications for vNOTES, including complex endometriosis and pelvic scarring. Dr. Baekelandt also shares insights on avoiding ureteric and bladder injuries and future direction of vNOTES.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:14 - Understanding vNOTES Complications
    00:50 - Techniques for Uterine Artery Management
    02:13 - Hemostasis
    03:24 - Challenges with Ureter and Bladder Management
    09:44 - Contraindications to vNOTES
    12:07 - Future Directions

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep 31: The vNOTES Procedure
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/31/the-vnotes-procedure

  • Gynecologic oncology experts Dr. Matthew Powell from Washington University School of Medicine and Dr. Amanda Fader from Johns Hopkins Hospital discuss the increasing rates of endometrial cancer along with future directions of treatments and screenings.

    ---

    SYNPOSIS

    First, the physicians discuss trends in endometrial cancer rates and delve into the factors driving these trends, such as the obesity epidemic and aging population. They explore the differences between endometrioid and non-endometrioid cancers, along with the impact of racial and geographic disparities. The conversation also covers advances in diagnostics and treatments—including immunotherapy and targeted therapies—and the critical need for better awareness, screening practices, and research funding to combat this public health threat.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    03:11 - Types of Endometrial Cancer
    04:44 - Rising Rates and Risk Factors
    08:03 - Disparities in Endometrial Cancer Care
    10:37 - Symptoms and Diagnosis
    13:52 - Ultrasound vs. Biopsy
    16:17 - Challenges in Biopsies
    20:58 - Management/Treatment Approaches
    23:03 - Geographic Disparities/Access to Care
    26:07 - Vaginal Brachytherapy
    32:11 - Innovations in Treatment and Research
    40:34 - Future Directions: Endometrial Screening
    43:54 - AI in Gynecologic Oncology

    ---

    RESOURCES

    Beavis, A. L., Blechter, B., Najjar, O., Fader, A. N., Katebi Kashi, P., & Rositch, A. F. (2023). Identifying women 45 years and younger at elevated risk for endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Gynecologic Oncology, 174, 98–105. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.04.019

    Mirza, M. R., Sharma, S., Roed, H., Landrum, L. M., Gilbert, L., Gold, M. A., Novák, Z., Edelson, M., Meirovitz, M., Diaz, J. P., Huygh, G., Buscema, J., Pothuri, B., Eshed, H. D., Coleman, R. L., Slomovitz, B. M., Kostadinov, R., Stevens, S., Ronzino, G., & Powell, M. A. (2024). Post hoc analysis of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) by mechanism of mismatch repair (MMR) protein loss in patients with endometrial cancer (EC) treated with Dostarlimab plus chemotherapy in the ruby trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 42(16_suppl), 5606–5606. https://doi.org/10.1200/jco.2024.42.16_suppl.5606

    Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO):
    https://www.sgo.org/

  • Dr. Aditya Bagrodia sits down with Elie Toubiana, founder and CEO of ScribeMD.ai, to discuss the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical documentation.

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    SYNPOSIS

    Their conversation covers the capabilities and benefits of using an AI-driven medical scribe that ensures HIPAA compliance, reduces physician burnout, and enhances patient interactions. Elie also shares his insights about the technology’s adaptability across various medical fields. Finally, Dr. Bagrodia and Elie discuss ethical considerations surrounding applications of AI in other aspects of healthcare, such as medical workup and diagnosis.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    06:00 - How ScribeMD AI Works
    14:14 - Integration with EMR
    20:31 - Legal Considerations with AI Technology
    26:34 - Cost Implications of AI Scribes
    38:46 - Future of AI in Medical Diagnosis
    41:45 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    ---

    RESOURCES

    ScribeMD.ai
    https://www.scribemd.ai/

  • Hosts Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Amy Park invite Dr. Vadim Morozov, a minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, to discuss the applications and implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in gynecologic surgery both currently and in the future.

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    SYNPOSIS

    Dr. Morozov shares his insights on the basics of AI as well as how it is currently being used in medicine and research. He shares his experiences working with AI to develop algorithms for robotic gynecologic procedures. Furthermore, he predicts the direction AI is going in medicine and highlights the complexities and ethical considerations of integrating AI into medical practice. The conversation delves into the advancements, potentials, and concerns surrounding AI, addressing its impact on surgery, privacy, and the future of medical practice.

    ---

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    03:52 - AI in Gynecologic Surgery
    06:10 - Understanding AI Basics
    13:24 - AI in Medical Applications
    17:09 - Future of AI in Medicine
    33:24 - AI in Surgery
    45:10 - Data and Privacy Concerns
    57:35 - Call to Action: Get Involved

    ---

    RESOURCES

    BUMP Study:
    Goodday, S.M., Karlin, E., Brooks, A. et al. Better Understanding of the Metamorphosis of Pregnancy (BUMP): protocol for a digital feasibility study in women from preconception to postpartum. npj Digit. Med. 5, 40 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-022-00579-9

  • In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, host Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Jan Baekelandt explore the benefits of vNOTES, especially in certain patient populations – obese patients, patients with a history of multiple abdominal surgeries, and those with a large uterus.

    Dr. Baekelandt highlights the aesthetic advantages of minimized scarring in vNOTES alongside clinical benefits such as reduced postoperative pain, lower analgesia use, and shorter hospitalization times. They discuss the outcomes of randomized controlled trials that compare vNOTES with laparoscopy and the specific groups of patients who benefit most from vNOTES. The episode also delves into the technical aspects of vNOTES and its potential advantages in oncology procedures.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:14 - Benefits of vNOTES
    03:21 - Special Patient Groups
    06:10 - Technical Aspects and Surgical Techniques
    08:31 - Oncology Applications and Future Potential

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep 31: The vNOTES Procedure
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/31/the-vnotes-procedure

  • In this BackTable OBGYN Brief, host Dr. Mark Hoffman interviews Dr. Jan Baekelandt about the basics and history of vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES), including its learning curve for surgeons.

    Dr. Baekelandt explains the benefits of performing gynecological operations through the vagina rather than the abdominal wall, allowing for quicker recovery and reduced invasiveness. They discuss the historical context of vNOTES, the integration of laparoscopic tools, and the challenges and learning curves associated with mastering this dual-skillset procedure.

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:14 - Understanding vNOTES
    02:10 - Dr. Baekelandt’s Journey with vNOTES
    04:03 - History and Technological Advancements
    05:00 - TLH vs. vNOTES
    07:36 - Challenges and Learning Curve in vNOTES

    CHECK OUT THE FULL EPISODE

    BackTable OBGYN Ep 31: The vNOTES Procedure
    https://www.backtable.com/shows/obgyn/podcasts/31/the-vnotes-procedure

  • This episode of the BackTable OBGYN podcast features Dr. Barbara Levy, an OBGYN and seasoned expert in medical coding and reimbursement, discussing the nuances of medical billing, the process of creating medical codes, and how medical practices and expenses are valued differently.

    ---

    CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR

    Cerene Cryotherapy
    https://cerene.com/healthcare-professionals/

    ---

    SYNPOSIS

    Key topics from this episode include the impact of indirect practice expenses, the role of different organizations in surveying costs and implementing new codes, the importance of coding for procedure reimbursement, and a task force’s findings on gender disparities in coding. The conversation transitions into the practical implications of where procedures are performed (office vs. surgical center vs. hospital) and how this impacts payment and patient costs. Dr. Levy emphasizes the efficiency and patient benefits of office-based procedures, exemplified by the Cerene cryotherapy ablation device. The complexities of the reimbursement system, including work Relative Value Units (RVUs), facility fees, and the push towards bundling services, are unpacked. The episode underscores the importance of understanding healthcare economics to advocate effectively for patient care improvements.

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    02:24 - History of Medical Coding
    11:32 - The Process of Medical Code Creation
    21:15 - Understanding RVUs and Practice Expenses
    26:35 - Challenges of Accurately Valuing Procedures
    32:05 - Changing Codes/Reimbursement: Endometriosis Example
    36:06 - The Art and Science of Medical Coding
    39:26 - Site of Service and Facility Fees
    51:15 - Benefits of Outpatient Procedures
    55:46 - Example: Cerene Cryoablation
    58:14 - Addressing Gender Disparities in Medical Reimbursement

    ---

    RESOURCES

    ACOG Resources on Coding and Billing:
    https://www.acog.org/practice-management/coding

  • In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN podcast, Drs. Kimberly (Kim) Kenton and Margaret (Maggie) Mueller discuss advancements in patient recovery guidelines, particularly after gynecologic surgeries.

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    SYNPOSIS

    The discussion first covers the evolution of post-operative care protocols, emphasizing the lack of evidence behind traditional post-op restrictions and highlighting recent studies that suggest liberal post-operative activities might lead to better recovery outcomes without compromising surgical results. Additionally, the episode touches on the impact of minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as single port surgeries, on patient recovery times and hospital system efficiencies. Finally, the conversation delves into the shift towards team-based care, where nurses and nurse practitioners actively participate in pre-op counseling, educating patients, and enhancing the overall healthcare team’s efficiency. The overarching theme is the crucial role of evidence-based practice in improving patient care and recovery in obstetrics and gynecology.

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction
    02:57 - Exploring Postoperative Restrictions in Gynecologic Surgery
    20:56 - Adapting Postoperative Visits
    26:02 - Recovery Times, Hospital Stays, and the Impact on Patients and Healthcare
    35:58 - Team-Based Care and Communication Strategies
    44:38 - Surgical Techniques and Recovery Insights

    ---

    RESOURCES

    Mueller MG, Kenton K. Activity Restrictions After Gynecologic Surgery. Obstet Gynecol. 2024 Mar 01; 143(3):378-382. PMID: 38207325; PMCID: PMC10863662.