BackTable Urology
The BackTable Urology Podcast is a resource for practicing urologists to learn tips, techniques, and practical advice from their peers in the field. Listen here or on the streaming platform of your choice.
Episodes
Ep. 335 Diagnosis & Management of Neurogenic Bladder with Dr. Benjamin Brucker
How do you decide if a neurogenic bladder is a safety problem or a quality of life problem for each patient, and how do you move from guideline risk categories to a real surveillance plan? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Anjali Kapur interviews Dr. Benjamin Brucker, professor of urology and director of neuro-urology at NYU Langone Health, about navigating neurogenic lower urinary tract d
Ep. 334 Optimizing Professional Growth with Career Coaching with Dr. Emilie Johnson and Dr. Angie Smith
What is the difference between mentorship, sponsorship, and coaching in a physician’s career, and how can coaching influence your professional development? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Helen Bernie interviews Dr. Emilie Johnson and Dr. Angie Smith about the transformative impact of career coaching for urologists. They break down how coaching differs from mentorship and sponsorship, wh
Ep. 333 Evaluating Adrenal Incidentalomas: A Urologist's Guide with Dr. Chris Anderson and Dr. Ben Ristau
Adrenal lesions now turn up on four to ten percent of cross-sectional scans, and every urologist needs a reliable way to sort out the harmless ones from the dangerous ones. On this episode of BackTable Urology, co-hosts Dr. Gina Badalato and Dr. Chris Anderson speak with Dr. Ben Ristau to share a practical, case-based framework for evaluating adrenal lesions. They walk through imaging criteria, th
Ep. 332 The Basics of Advanced Prostate Cancer Management for Urologists with Dr. Kristen Scarpato and Dr. Jason Hafron
What does a urologist actually need to know to confidently manage advanced prostate cancer in the clinic? On this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Ruchika Talwar interviews Dr. Kristen Scarpato, director of the advanced prostate cancer clinic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Dr. Jason Hafron, chief medical officer of the Michigan Institute of Urology. They break down how the land
Ep. 331 Transitioning an Independent Practice to an Academic Urology Program with Dr. Javier Castillo
How can private practice and academic residency programs work together to shape the next generation of urologists? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Jose Silva interviews Dr. Javier Castillo about launching an academic residency within a busy private urology group in Puerto Rico. They highlight the business, training, and research challenges involved, as well as the innovations that make r
Ep. 330 Establishing a Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Practice with Dr. Hiren Patel
How can reconstructive urologists improve quality of life for cancer survivors beyond the initial cure? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. George Koch interviews Dr. Hiren Patel about building a comprehensive survivorship practice that addresses the long-term needs of patients following genitourinary cancer treatment. They discuss moving beyond post-prostatectomy ED and incontinence to incl
Ep. 329 Surgical Approaches to Bladder Outlet Obstruction with Dr. John DiBianco
With so many treatment options for bladder outlet obstruction, how do you select the best approach for each patient? On this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Jose Silva is joined by Dr. John DiBianco for a practical discussion on evaluating lower urinary tract symptoms and matching patients with the right intervention. They emphasize confirming that symptoms are truly due to benign prostatic
Ep. 328 Shared Decision-Making in Overactive Bladder Care with Dr. Jannah Thompson
Can shared decision-making and patient support change the treatment journey for overactive bladder? On this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Suzette Sutherland and OAB expert Dr. Jannah Thompson discuss how patient education, clear counseling, and ongoing follow-up improve care for patients with overactive bladder and urge incontinence. They cover practical strategies for building an effecti
Ep. 327 Clinical Approaches to Testicular Cancer Management with Dr. Sean Kern and Dr. Sam Funt
What are the key considerations for choosing between surveillance, surgery, and chemotherapy in testicular cancer? On this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Rich Matulewicz is joined by Dr. Sean Kern and Dr. Sam Funt for an in-depth discussion on clinical approaches to testicular cancer. They start with a real-world case, reviewing initial evaluation, imaging, tumor markers, and counseling on
Ep. 326 Strategies for Surgical Training During High-Stakes Operations with Dr. Kelvin Moses
How can high-stakes surgical cases be optimized for teaching while ensuring patient safety and trainee growth? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ruchika Talwar interviews Dr. Kelvin Moses about intentional strategies for surgical education, especially during complex urologic oncology operations. They discuss workflows that prioritize preoperative planning, structured debriefs, and progress
Ep. 325 Navigating the PSA Maze in Urology with Dr. Tarik Benidir
Is an elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) the beginning or the end of the prostate cancer workup? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ruchika Talwar interviews Dr. Tarik Benidir to explore the “PSA problem,” explaining why PSA is biologically useful but clinically imprecise, often leading to false positives, unnecessary biopsies, and detection of indolent disease. They discuss a rationa
Ep. 324 Recurrent UTI: Diagnostics & Management Strategies with Dr. Glenn Werneburg
What should you do differently when a UTI becomes a recurring problem? In this episode of the Backtable Podcast, host Dr. Anjali Kapur is joined by physician-scientist Dr. Glenn Werneburg to discuss the latest approaches to recurrent urinary tract infections, including key updates from the 2025 AUA, CUA, and SUFU guidelines. They use real clinical cases to explore diagnosis, prevention, antibiotic
Ep. 323 Managing Intermediate-Risk Bladder Cancer with Dr. Charles Peyton
Recurrent low-grade, intermediate-risk bladder cancer presents a unique treatment challenge: recurrence is common, progression is uncommon, and the burden of repeated procedures can add up quickly. On this episode of the BackTable Urology Podcast, Dr. Ruchika Talwar interviews Dr. Charles “Chas” Peyton about how to manage intermediate-risk bladder cancer patients while balancing disease control an
Ep. 322 Social Media's Role in Urologic Education with Dr. Rena Malik & Dr. Fenwa Milhouse
How can you use social media to educate, empower, and inspire as a physician while staying true to your professional values? On this episode of BackTable Urology, guest host Dr. Maheetha Bharadwaj talks with Dr. Rena Malik and Dr. Fenwa Milhouse about building an authentic online presence that educates, inspires, and connects. The conversation highlights the power of visibility, the challenges of
Ep. 321 Exploring Hypospadias: Treatment Approaches and Patient Care with Dr. Vinaya Bhatia
Hypospadias can be surgically corrected early in life, but many patients drop out of care before puberty or adulthood, leaving important urinary and sexual health concerns unaddressed. On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Arthi Hannallah and Dr. Nicco Passoni talk with Dr. Vinaya Bhatia about improving lifelong engagement for people with hypospadias. They highlight advances in surgical techni
Ep. 320 Gem-iDRS for BCG Unresponsive Bladder Cancer: A Deep Dive with Dr. Sarah Psutka
Can a drug-eluting bladder device change the treatment algorithm for BCG-unresponsive non–muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ruchi Talwar interviews Dr. Sarah Psutka to explore the emerging role of a novel intravesical device that delivers sustained gemcitabine therapy for patients refusing or ineligible for cystectomy. They highlight new FDA-approved
Ep. 319 Reconstructive Techniques for Adult Buried Penis with Dr. Paul Rusilko
The definitive treatment for adult acquired buried penis is surgery, but successful treatment depends on having a well-coordinated network of patient support, multidisciplinary care teams, and reconstructive urologic surgery expertise. This episode of Backtable Urology overviews this multifaceted disease and dives into reconstructive surgery techniques, featuring Dr. George Koch and Dr. Paul Rusil
Ep. 318 Exploring Neuromodulation: Sacral vs Tibial Approaches with Dr. Ken Peters and Dr. Tracey Wilson
More neuromodulation options mean more opportunities to personalize care. In this episode, Dr. Ken Peters and Dr. Tracey Wilson join Dr. Jannah Thompson to discuss the latest implantable tibial nerve stimulation and sacral neuromodulation technologies for OAB and UUI. They compare available devices, share practical insights on patient selection, and explore how shared decision making, advanced pra
Ep. 317 Focal Therapy in Prostate Cancer Treatment with Dr. George R. Schade
Can focal therapy truly “thread the needle” between active surveillance and radical prostate cancer treatment? In this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Tiwa Akinsola is joined by Dr. George Schade from the University of Washington to explore focal therapy as a middle ground between active surveillance and radical treatments. Dr. Schade reviews non-radiation energy modalities including HIFU,
Ep. 316 Bladder Cancer in the Community: Meeting Patients Where They Are with Dr. Adam J. Gadzinski
As bladder cancer treatment options expand, so do the challenges of delivering them in real-world practice. On this episode of BackTable Urology, community urologic oncologist Dr. Adam Gadzinski joins Dr. Ruchika Talwar to discuss how evolving therapies for non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) are changing the landscape for both patients and providers. They explore the financial, logistical,
Ep. 315 Private Equity's Impact on Urology Practices with Dr. Benjamin Lowentritt
What opportunities and challenges does private equity bring to urology practices, and how can physicians engage in ways that strengthen their practice and preserve clinical priorities? On this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ruchika Talwar interviews Dr. Benjamin Lowentritt of Chesapeake Urology and United Urology Group to unpack the realities of private equity involvement in medicine. They disc
Ep. 314 Exploring PARP Inhibitor Combinations in Prostate Cancer with Dr. Rana McKay and Dr. Emmanuel Antonarakis
With multiple clinical trials evaluating PARP inhibitor combinations, how do clinicians determine the best approach for advanced prostate cancer? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Alan Tan is joined by Dr. Rana McKay and Dr. Emmanuel Antonarakis to discuss how evolving evidence, patient selection, timing, toxicity, and genetic testing are shaping the use of PARP inhibitor combinations in c
Ep. 313 Approaches to Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection in Contemporary Prostate Cancer Surgery with Dr. Kristen Greene
Is pelvic lymph node dissection still necessary in the era of PSMA PET imaging? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ruchi Talwar interviews Dr. Kirsten Greene about how advanced imaging is influencing decisions for radical prostatectomy. They examine the strengths and limits of PSMA PET, the risks and benefits of PLND, and why careful, evidence-based decision-making remains essential.
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Ep. 312 Managing Intravesical Therapy Toxicities in Bladder Cancer with Dr. Meredith Donahue and Mary Dunn, NP
How can clinics minimize toxicity and maximize outcomes in intravesical bladder cancer treatment? In this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Vignesh Packiam talks with nurse practitioners Mary Dunn (UNC) and Meredith Donahue (Vanderbilt) about how advanced practice providers (APP) workflows and hands-on management are transforming care for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The discussion hig
Ep. 311 Career Diversification for Urologists Beyond the Clinic with Dr. Pat Keegan and Dr. Kelly Parsons
What happens when urologists look beyond the clinic and take on leadership in the life sciences industry? In this episode of BackTable Urology, host Dr. Raj Pruthi talks with Dr. Kelly Parsons and Dr. Pat Keegan about their journeys from academic urology to executive roles in biotech and pharma. They discuss what motivated their transitions, how physician expertise adds value in industry, and the
Ep. 310 Bladder Cancer Risk Stratification: Best Practices with Dr. Sunil Patel and Dr. Kristen Scarpato
Why does up to 10% of bladder cancer pathology change on expert review, and what does that mean for your intermediate and high-risk patients? In this episode of BackTable, Dr. Bogdana Schmidt interviews urologists Dr. Kristen Scarpato and Dr. Sunil Patel to explore the complexities of diagnosis and risk assessment in non–muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). They discuss the real-world challeng
Ep. 309 Advancing Urologic Reconstruction with Robotics with Dr. Ziho Lee
Robotic technology is expanding what’s possible in reconstructive urology, prompting surgeons to rethink traditional approaches and consider new minimally invasive procedures. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ziho Lee joins host Dr. George Koch to explore the rapid evolution of robotic reconstructive surgery and its expanding role in complex pelvic and retroperitoneal procedures.They disc
Ep. 308 Navigating Shared Decision-Making in Bladder Cancer Treatment with Dr. Kelly Bree, Dr. Meredith Donahue, and Dr. Saum Ghodoussipour
What matters most to patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Kelly Bree, Dr. Saum Ghodoussipour, and Meredith Donahue, N.P., join host Dr. Vignesh Packiam to discuss the power of shared decision-making across the NMIBC spectrum. They explore risk-adapted treatment selection, when to escalate or de-escalate therapy, and how to navigate con
Ep. 307 Germline & Somatic Testing in Prostate Cancer Therapy with Dr. Tanya Dorff and Dr. Evan Yu
Can you really treat prostate cancer effectively without knowing the genetics? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Evan Yu and Dr. Tanya Dorff join host Dr. Alan Tan to discuss why genetic testing is essential in personalized prostate cancer care. They discuss when and how to perform germline and somatic testing, address common barriers, and share best practices for counseling patients.
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Ep. 306 Ep. 306 Launching Co-Managed APP/MD Clinics for Bladder Cancer with Dr. Amy Luckenbaugh and Meredith Donahue DNP
Are traditional bladder cancer care models falling behind as new therapies flood the field and reshape the landscape? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Bogdana Schmidt talks with Dr. Amy Luckenbaugh and DNP/APP Meredith Donahue about building a co-managed intravesical therapy clinic that rethinks care for patients with non–muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). With innovative agents incr
Ep. 305 Immune Therapy Innovations for BCG Unresponsive Cancer with Dr. Sam Chang
Ready to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” for BCG-unresponsive NMIBC? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ruchika Talwar hosts Dr. Sam Chang to discuss the evolving treatment landscape for BCG-unresponsive non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). They explore why BCG may fail, the science and clinical rationale behind new immunotherapies and gene therapies, practical approaches to patient
Ep. 304 Optimizing Office Protocols for Urological Incontinence Procedures with Dr. Michael Kennelly and Dr. Jason Kim
How do you keep no-shows low and patient satisfaction high in an office-based overactive bladder (OAB) practice? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Michael Kennelly and Dr. Jason Kim join guest host Dr. Polina Reyblat to share practical strategies for improving efficiency, reducing cancellations, and optimizing the patient experience for OAB and urinary incontinence procedures.
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Ep. 303 PARP Inhibitors: Clinical Trials & Real-World Applications with Dr. Neeraj Agarwal and Dr. Arun Azad
Keeping patients on PARP inhibitors long enough to see real benefit often comes down to proactive side effect management. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Neeraj Agarwal and Dr. Arun Azad join host Dr. Alan Tan to discuss practical, evidence-based strategies for managing hematologic and GI toxicities in advanced prostate cancer patients receiving PARP inhibitors.
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Ep. 302 Male Infertility: Diagnosis & Guidelines Update with Dr. Robert E. Brannigan
Male factor infertility accounts for nearly half of all infertility cases, yet male evaluation is often delayed or overlooked. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Robert Brannigan joins guest host Dr. Catherine Nam to unpack the 2024 AUA/ASRM Male Infertility Guideline update and discuss how the field is evolving beyond basic semen analysis.
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Ep. 301 Integrating Biomarkers in Prostate Cancer Treatment with Dr. Udit Singhal
Are biomarkers the missing link in personalized prostate cancer care? What is the practical role of biomarkers across the prostate cancer treatment continuum? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Udit Singhal (University of Michigan) joins Dr. Ruchika Talwar (Vanderbilt University) to explore the evolving role of genomic classifiers and biomarkers in prostate cancer care.
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Ep. 300 Renal Cell Carcinoma and Venous Thrombus: A Deep Dive with Dr. Vidit Sharma
When Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) invades the veins, the stakes and the surgical challenges rise. Are you prepared? In this episode, Dr. Vidit Sharma (Mayo Clinic) joins guest host Dr. Daniel Roberson to review Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) with Venous Tumor Thrombus (VTT), seen in 4 to 10% of cases. They review Mayo level classification and how CT and MRI venography guide surgical planning by defining
Ep. 299 Clinical Decision-Making in Urodynamics: From Stress Incontinence to Neurogenic Bladders with Dr. Howard Goldman and Dr. David Ginsberg
When does urodynamics actually change management and when is it unnecessary? In BackTable Urology’s latest collaboration with the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU), Dr. Howard Goldman and Dr. David Ginsberg join Dr. Giulia Ippolito to discuss the evidence-based use of urodynamics across a range of clinical scenarios.
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Ep. 298 Saying Yes (and No): Strategic Career Decisions with Dr. Anne Cameron
Is your “yes” advancing your career or just adding to your workload? In collaboration with the Society of Women in Urology (SWIU), this episode of BackTable Urology features timely professional advice from Dr. Anne Cameron (University of Michigan, former SWIU president) and Dr. Helen Bernie (Indiana University) on how to approach yes and no decisions with intention across different stages of your
Ep. 297 How Prostate Artery Embolization Optimizes Radiation Outcomes with Dr. Nainesh Parikh and Dr. Kosj Yamoah
What role does prostate artery embolization (PAE) play in modern prostate cancer care? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Nainesh Parikh (Interventional Radiology at Moffitt Cancer Center) and Dr. Kosj Yamoah (Radiation Oncology at Moffitt Cancer Center) join Dr. Ruchika Talwar (Vanderbilt University) to discuss how PAE could become a key adjunct in optimizing radiation therapy outcomes.
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Ep. 296 Overactive Bladder Management: Updates and Guidelines with Dr. Jason Kim
What if we’re waiting too long to offer our OAB patients the treatments that actually work? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Jason Kim joins host Dr. Anjali Kapur to discuss updates in overactive bladder management and evolving guidelines, including a shift away from rigid stepwise care toward shared decision-making.
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Ep. 295 How to Manage Genitourinary Injuries: ACS Best Practices Explained with Dr. Niels Johnsen
What are the key decision points in managing renal, bladder, and urethral trauma? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Niels Johnson (Vanderbilt University Medical Center) joins host Dr. George Koch (Ohio State University) to discuss the 2025 American College of Surgeons (ACS) best practice guidelines for genitourinary trauma.
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Ep. 294 Updated Vasectomy Guidelines & Patient Counseling Best Practices with Dr. Akanksha Mehta
What are the key practice changes introduced in the new American Urological Association (AUA) vasectomy guidelines? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Akanksha Mehta (Emory University), Vice Chair of the AUA Vasectomy Guidelines Committee, joins Dr. Catherine Nam (University of Michigan) to discuss the latest updates to vasectomy practice.
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SYNPOSIS
Dr. Mehta and Dr. Nam review the ke
Ep. 293 Clinical Approaches to Managing Male LUTS with Dr. Craig Comiter and Dr. Ben Brucker
When a male patient presents with lower urinary tract symptoms, should you blame the bladder or bust the prostate? In this SUFU-sponsored episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Benjamin Brucker (NYU) and Dr. Craig Comiter (Stanford) join host Dr. Chris Tenggardjaja (Kaiser Permanente) for a discussion on evaluating and treating male LUTS using a bladder-and-outlet framework.
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This podcast was deve
Ep. 292 Nuances in Pediatric Urological Trauma Management with Dr. Travis Pagliara
Not every pediatric GU injury fits neatly into the guidelines. In this episode of BackTable Urology, trauma reconstructive urologist Dr. Travis Pagliara (Hennepin County Medical Center) joins hosts Dr. Arthi Hannallah and Dr. Niccolo Passoni to walk through practical management of pediatric renal, bladder, urethral, and genital injuries. Through case-based discussion, they highlight diagnostic dec
Ep. 291 Pelvic Pain Syndromes: Clinical Assessment & Strategies with Dr. Susan MacDonald
What do the 2025 AUA guidelines change about how we evaluate and manage chronic male pelvic pain? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Susan MacDonald (Penn State) joins host Dr. George Koch (Ohio State University) to break down the new American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines on chronic male pelvic pain, including chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome and chronic scrotal
Ep. 290 Urothelial Carcinoma: Consolidative Surgery & Treatment Approaches with Dr. Abhinav Khanna
What do you do when metastatic urothelial cancer responds dramatically to systemic therapy? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Abhinav Khanna (Mayo Clinic) speaks with host Dr. Daniel Roberson about the growing question of consolidative surgery after enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab. They discuss how EV-pembro has reshaped treatment expectations, why unexpected complete or near-complet
Ep. 289 Insights into Urethroplasty & Reconstructive Care with Dr. Benjamin N. Breyer
Is transecting urethroplasty still the default, or is reconstructive urology moving beyond it? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Ben Breyer (University of California San Francisco) joins host Dr. George Koch (Ohio State University) to discuss evolving approaches in reconstructive urology with an emphasis on complex stricture cases.
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SYNPOSIS
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Breyer re
Ep. 288 Active Surveillance for Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer with Dr. Claire de la Calle
When is active surveillance the right choice for intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Claire de la Calle, Assistant Professor of Urology at the University of Washington, joins Dr. Ruchika Talwar to unpack how active surveillance has evolved beyond low-risk disease and why select Grade Group 2 patients may be appropriate candidates now with thoughtfu
Ep. 287 Urothelial Carcinoma: Understanding CTDNA and Precision Medicine with Dr. Amanda Nizam and Dr. Brad McGregor
Is the era of cisplatin over, or are we simply becoming more precise about who benefits from it? As perioperative strategies in bladder cancer continue to evolve, emerging tools like circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) are playing a bigger role in how clinicians assess recurrence risk and tailor treatment. In this episode of BackTable Tumor Board, host Alan Tan, medical oncologist at Vanderbilt-Ingram C
Ep. 286 Antibiotic Stewardship in Reconstructive Urology with Dr. Joshua Sterling
In reconstructive urology, preventing infection often means prolonged antibiotic exposure, raising important questions about stewardship and long-term harm. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Joshua Sterling of Yale University joins host George Koch to examine how antibiotic stewardship and emerging insights into the urinary microbiome are reshaping infection management in reconstructive practi
Ep. 285 Guide to Vaginal Rejuvenation: Myths, Realities, & Medical Insights with Dr. Ariana Smith and Dr. Karyn Eilber
Vaginal rejuvenation is often misunderstood, misrepresented, and overdue for honest conversations in medicine. In this crossover episode between BackTable Urology and BackTable OBGYN, Dr. Nirit Rosenblum, a urology and OBGYN professor at NYU Langone Medical Center, is joined by Dr. Karyn Eilber, Chair of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Group Department of Surgery, and Dr. Ariana Smith, Chief of Urology a
Ep. 284 Integrating Gender Affirming Care Into Urology with Dr. Eric Walton
Gender affirming surgery is becoming a more visible part of urologic practice, raising practical questions about surgical training, case volume, and multidisciplinary support. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Eric Walton of The Ohio State University joins Dr. George Koch to examine how gender affirming surgery is being integrated into contemporary urology. Dr. Walton discusses his path in
Ep. 283 Early Careers in Urology: Strategies for Success with Dr. Raveen Syan and Dr. Helen Hougen
What determines success in the early years of urology practice? In this BackTable Urology episode, produced in collaboration with the Society of Women in Urology (SWIU), this episode of the BackTable Urology Podcast brings on Dr. Raveen Syan, Dr. Helen Hougen, and host Dr. Michelle Van Kuiken to discuss the transition to early career practice in urology.
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SYNPOSIS
Together, the doctors explo
Ep. 282 Updates to Microhematuria Workup Guidelines with Dr. Daniel Barocas
The microhematuria guideline just changed. Here’s what clinicians need to know. In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Daniel Barocas (Vanderbilt University) joins host Dr. Ruchika Talwar to break down the 2025 updates to the American Urological Association (AUA) Microhematuria Guideline and why these changes matter in everyday practice.
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SYNPOSIS
They walk through the evidence driving th
Ep. 281 Global Surgery in Urology: Addressing Reconstructive Needs Worldwide with Dr. Jane Kurtzman
How are local and international teams working together to offer reconstructive urology in resource-constrained settings? This week on BackTable Urology, Dr. Jane Kurtzman (University of Utah) joins Dr. George Koch (Ohio State University) to discuss the realities, challenges, and opportunities of international surgical work.
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SYNPOSIS
They break down how global urology programs differ in stru
Ep. 280 Genomic Classifiers in Bladder Cancer Management with Dr. Carissa Chu
Can genomic classifiers close the gap between what we see and what a tumor will do? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Carissa Chu (UCSF) joins Dr. Ruchika Talwar (Vanderbilt) to explore how genomic classifiers are reshaping the way clinicians diagnose and manage bladder cancer.
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This podcast is supported by:
Veracytehttps://www.veracyte.com/decipher-bladder
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SYNPOSIS
They discu
Ep. 279 Parental Leave for Physicians: Challenges & Strategies with Dr. Danielle Velez
If you’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or return-to-work stress, you are not alone. In this BackTable Urology × SWIU collaboration, Dr. Danielle Velez (Rutgers Health) joins host Dr. Helen Bernie (Indiana University Health) for a candid conversation on navigating parental leave, lactation, and the emotional turbulence of stepping back into clinical practice. Together, they unpack boundary-set
Ep. 278 Shared Decision Making in GU Cancer Management with Dr. Hung-Jui "Ray" Tan
When it comes to GU cancers, fear and uncertainty often shape a patient’s treatment decisions well before the clinical data does. Dr. Hung-Jui (Ray) Tan of UNC Health sits down with host Dr. Ruchika Talwar to unpack why decision-making around small renal masses, low-risk prostate cancer, and other GU conditions can be so challenging. Dr. Tan explains the concept of decisional conflict, a patient’s
Ep. 277 NMIBC Tumor Board: Upper Tract Challenges with Dr. Mark Tyson and Dr. Sarah Psutka
One of the most common dilemmas in urologic oncology: what do you do when a patient has T1 disease in both the bladder and the ureter? In the final episode of the 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series, Dr. Vignesh Packiam, Dr. Mark Tyson and Dr. Sarah Psutka share how they approach complex bladder cancer cases with upper tract involvement.
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This podcast is supported by:Ferring Pharmaceuticals
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Ep. 276 Understanding Medical Waste Management in Operating Rooms with Dr. Sunil Patel
Can we reduce OR waste without compromising patient care? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Sunil Patel (Johns Hopkins) joins host Dr. Ruchika Talwar (Vanderbilt) to explore strategies for improving environmental sustainability in surgical practice.
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SYNPOSIS
They discuss the scope of OR-generated waste, the impact of plastics and carbon emissions, and emerging data linking environme
Ep. 275 NMIBC Tumor Board: Nuances in Management with Dr. Mark Tyson and Dr. Sarah Psutka
When standard therapy fails, it does not have to be the end of the road for high-risk bladder cancer patients. Modern treatments, biomarkers, and clinical studies have opened up new avenues for treating recurrent non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The penultimate episode of the 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series features urologic oncologists Dr. Vignesh Packiam, Dr. Mark Tyson, and Dr. Sa
Ep. 274 Techniques & Challenges in Bladder Transplant Surgery with Dr. Nima Nassiri
For the first time in history, a human bladder was transplanted. Dr. Nima Nassiri (UCLA) joins Dr. Ruchika Talwar to share how his team completed this landmark operation alongside a kidney transplant. He walks through the clinical scenario, key steps in donor and recipient selection, and how years of preclinical work informed the operative approach.
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SYNPOSIS
The conversation explores the br
Ep. 273 Enhancing Care Coordination in Bladder Cancer Treatments with Brynn Moore and Meredith Donahue
With the right protocols (and the right team!), urology clinics can proactively manage the side effects of intravesical therapy. This in-studio episode from the 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series features unique perspectives from Vanderbilt nurse practitioner Meredith Donahue and surgical neuro-oncology nurse Brynn Moore, both with focuses in urologic oncology. Hosted by Dr. Ruchika Talwar, we cov
Ep. 272 Fournier's Gangrene Management: Timing, Transfers & Best Practices with Dr. Judith C. Hagedorn
What does it take to save both life and function in a rapidly progressing infection? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Judith Hagedorn (University of Washington) joins Dr. George Koch (Ohio State University) to unpack the complexities of Fournier’s gangrene management.
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SYNPOSIS
They discuss advances in surgical techniques like skin-sparing debridement and the value of high-volume ce
Ep. 271 How Biomarkers Enhance Precision Medicine in Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer with Dr. Katie Murray and Dr. Sarah Psutka
As new genetic and AI-powered tools emerge for bladder cancer screening, are we getting closer to reducing the need for invasive cystoscopies? In part five of the 2025 BackTable NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series, host Dr. Vignesh Packiam engages in an insightful discussion with Dr. Sarah Psutka from the University of Washington and Dr. Katie Murray from NYU about the complexities and potential benefit
Ep. 270 Reconstructive Urology: Techniques, Training & Career Pathways with Dr. Rachel Mann
Considering a reconstructive urology fellowship or already in the thick of it? This episode is for you. Dr. Rachel Mann (University of Minnesota) sits down with Dr. George Koch (Ohio State University) to discuss her journey in reconstructive urology and the mentors who shaped it. Together, they explore how creativity, adaptability, and mentorship fuel progress in this evolving subspecialty.---SYNP
Ep. 269 Beyond PSA: The Science Driving Smarter Blood Tests with Dr. Jason Hafron
We have relied on PSA for decades, but what’s next in precision screening for prostate cancer? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Jason Hafron from the Michigan Institute of Urology joins host Dr. Ruchika Talwar to discuss the evolving role of biomarkers and artificial intelligence in prostate cancer screening.---This podcast is supported by:Cleveland Diagnosticshttps://www.isopsa.com/---SY
Ep. 268 Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: Role of Medical Oncology with Dr. Tyler Stewart
With the introduction of checkpoint inhibitors into non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) management, who’s on point for planning, administering, and optimizing combination therapies? Is it still the urologist, or does medical oncology play a more significant role now than it did before? In this episode of the BackTable 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series, host Dr. Bogdana Schmidt sits down wi
Ep. 267 Sequencing Therapies in NMIBC Management with Dr. Mark Tyson and Dr. Suzanne Merrill
New FDA-approved therapies for BCG-refractory non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)–where do they fit in the treatment algorithm, and how do you administer them? This installment of the 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series features host Dr. Bogdana Schmidt, assistant professor of Urologic Oncology at the University of Utah, and leading urologic oncologists Dr. Mark Tyson from Mayo Clinic Arizon
Ep. 266 Guide to Patient-Centered Counseling in NMIBC Care with Dr. Sima Porten and Dr. Patrick Hensley
When a patient is diagnosed with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), how do you tailor the conversation and treatment plan to their individual needs (and fears)? In part two of the 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series, host Dr. Vignesh Packiam is joined by Dr. Sima Porten from UCSF and Dr. Patrick Hensley from the University of Kentucky to discuss patient-centered diagnostic and therapeutic
Ep. 265 Managing Ischemic Priapism: Surgical Approaches & Outcomes with Dr. Maia VanDyke
For patients with ischemic priapism, time to treatment can mean the difference between recovery and long-term dysfunction. In this episode, Dr. Maia VanDyke (UT Southwestern Medical Center) joins host Dr. Juan Andino (UCLA Health) for a high-yield discussion on managing this urologic emergency, from early recognition to advanced surgical options.---SYNPOSISTogether, they cover diagnosis, patient d
Ep. 264 Contemporary Diagnostics in NMIBC: Clinical Insights with Dr. Anne Schuckman and Dr. Piyush Agarwal
How are leading urologic oncologists using advanced biomarkers and artificial intelligence to refine the diagnosis and management of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)? In the opening episode of our 2025 NMIBC Creator Weekend™ series, host Dr. Bogdana Schmidt engages in an insightful, in-studio discussion with Dr. Anne Schuckman and Dr. Piyush Agarwal about contemporary strategies and chal
Ep. 263 Renal Cancer Management: Tumor Board Discussion & Treatments with Dr. Raquib Hannan, Dr. Brandon Manley and Dr. Rana McKay
Kidney cancer management is evolving. How are experts adapting? In this installment of BackTable Tumor Board, Dr. Brandon Manley (Urologic Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center), Dr. Raquibul Hannan (Radiation Oncology, UT Southwestern), and Dr. Rana McKay (Medical Oncology, UC San Diego) join guest host Mark Ball (Urologic Oncology, National Cancer Institute) to share their multidisciplinary perspectiv
Ep. 262 Understanding AMA's Advocacy: Medicare, Medicaid &Physician Challenges with Dr. Willie Underwood
What is the role of the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2025 and how does it affect your practice? Join Dr. Ruchika Talwar in this insightful episode of the BackTable Urology podcast as she converses with Dr. Willie Underwood, a urologic oncologist and president-elect of the American Medical Association.---SYNPOSISDr. Underwood shares his journey into medical advocacy, the pivotal role of th
Ep. 261 Managing Complex Kidney Stones in Children with Dr. Scott Sparks and Dr. Nicholas Kavoussi
Kids with kidney stones–how do you treat them, prevent recurrence, and provide effective longitudinal care? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Nicholas Kavoussi and Dr. Scott Sparks join co-hosts Dr. Arthi Hannallah and Dr. Niccolo Passoni for a high-yield discussion on pediatric and adolescent stone disease.---SYNPOSISTogether, they explore best practices for managing complex kidney stones
Ep. 260 Robotics in Reconstructive Urology with Dr. Lucas Wiegand
What does it take to build a successful reconstructive urology practice while balancing the worlds of academia and private practice? In this episode of BackTable Urology, reconstructive urologist Dr. Lucas Wiegand joins host Dr. Jose Silva to explore his career journey from training at the University of South Florida and fellowship at Washington University, to establishing his practice at Orlando
Ep. 259 Prostate Tumor Board: Risk Stratification & Treatment Strategies with Dr. Neeraj Agarwal and Dr. Tyler Seibert
Could ongoing trials redefine the management of oligometastatic and advanced prostate cancer? In this installment of BackTable Tumor Board, leading prostate cancer experts Dr. Neeraj Agarwal, a medical oncologist from the University of Utah, and Dr. Tyler Seibert, a radiation oncologist from UC San Diego, join host Dr. Parth Modi to share their insights on the latest clinical trials and persistent
Ep. 258 The Basics of “How To” for HRT Management: Effective and Safe Prescribing with Dr. Rachel Rubin
When it comes to menopause care, the facts are better than the fears. In this Urology/OBGYN crossover episode of the BackTable Podcast, host Dr. Suzette Sutherland welcomes renowned urologist Dr. Rachel Rubin to explore various aspects of sexual health and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly for menopausal women. ---SYNPOSISDr. Rachel Rubin shares her career journey, expertise in sexua
Ep. 257 Financial Tips for Urology Residents: Budgeting, Saving & Investing with Dr. Sammy Elsamra
Residency teaches you how to save lives, but does it teach you how to save money? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Sammy Elsamra joins host Dr. Gina Badalato to unpack the essentials of financial planning during and after urology residency. From budgeting and managing loans to covering living expenses, Dr. Elsamra emphasizes the importance of building an emergency fund, addressing high-in
Ep. 256 The Role of ctDNA in Bladder Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment with Dr. Alberto Pieretti
Could ctDNA testing allow us to treat bladder cancer earlier, smarter, and more effectively? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Alberto Pieretti, a urologic oncologist at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital, joins host Dr. Jose Silva to explore the emerging role of ctDNA in bladder cancer management.
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This podcast is supported by:
Ferring Pharmaceuticals
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SYNPOSIS
Dr. Pieretti
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