The Interventional Endoscopist

Mankanwal Sachdev
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I am an interventional endoscopist in Phoenix and in this Podcast, I attempt to explore new technologies and techniques as well as issues facing the practice of therapeutic endoscopy

  1. 7 JAN

    Episode 41: The one where I explore EndoDrill with Dr. Charles Walther

    EUS gives us phenomenal imaging — but tissue acquisition has historically been the weak link. In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, host Mankanwal Sachdev speaks with Dr. Charles Walther, a Swedish interventional cytopathologist and tumor genetics expert who has sampled 15,000+ patients and helped develop a new approach to obtaining high-quality specimens: EndoDrill. Walther shares the “lightbulb moment” that shaped the device: instead of advancing a needle by punching forward (“stabbing”), use high-RPM rotation to advance with low forward force — aiming for one pass and a more cohesive sample. They discuss how EndoDrill works in practical terms (setup, foot pedal activation, specimen expulsion), contamination concerns, compatibility across major scope platforms, and why tissue quality is becoming even more important in an era of precision medicine, molecular profiling, and organoids. They also cover early human experience, the learning curve, optimization for different tumor biologies, and the key cost/value debate: when does a premium tool make sense—especially for cases like nodules, GISTs, and lymphoma where yield can be inconsistent? Plus: Rapid-fire questions, technique pearls, and a reminder to seek help if you’re struggling with mental health.     Links: https://bibbinstruments.com/en/

    53 min

  2. 16/12/2025

    Episode 40: The one where I explore building a path to Advanced Endoscopy with Dan Marino, MD

    In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, host Mankanwal Sachdev sits down with Dr. Dan Marino, a GI fellow at NYU and future advanced endoscopy fellow, to unpack the real-world pathway to a fourth-year advanced endoscopy fellowship. Dan shares his journey from New Jersey soccer goalie to medical student, resident, fellow and ultimately interventional endoscopy fellow. He discussed how early mentorship, showing up in the endoscopy suite, and consistently doing excellent work shaped his trajectory. Together, they walk through how to think about competitiveness, building a portfolio (clinical performance, procedural exposure, research, and leadership), and how to strategically approach the ASGE Advanced Endoscopy Match—from choosing programs and asking for letters to understanding program culture, case volumes, and general GI expectations. They also dive into wellness, boundaries, and the “human side” of a very long training road, including protecting physical health, finding community, and keeping hobbies alive. Dan closes with concrete advice for residents and fellows: be present, do excellent work, say yes early in your career, and leverage mentors who genuinely want to see you succeed. This is a practical, candid roadmap for anyone seriously considering a career in advanced endoscopy.   https://www.asge.org/home/education-meetings/training-trainees/advanced-endoscopy-fellowship-(aef)

    56 min

  3. 02/12/2025

    Episode 39: The one where I interview Matt Schwartz, CEO of Virgo

    In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, I sit down with Matt Schwartz, Co-Founder and CEO of Virgo Surgical Video Solutions, a company that transforms procedural video into structured, searchable, AI-ready data. Matt shares the early spark that led him to leave Intuitive Surgical to start Virgo, the challenges of installing early systems in GI units, and how automated, zero-click video capture evolved into a massive national dataset powering the next generation of AI in endoscopy. We dive into: Why video is one of the most overlooked datasets in medicine The medicolegal reality (and why video can actually protect physicians) Foundation models for endoscopy and site-level customization The future of training, credentialing, and outcome prediction from routine colonoscopy and EGD video Leadership lessons from building a healthcare startup If you're interested in digital endoscopy, AI, clinical training, or med-tech innovation, this episode offers a look into the future of how GI will be practiced.   Helpful links referenced in the podcast https://virgosvs.com https://endoml.ai EndoDINO foundation model manuscript

    54 min

  4. 18/11/2025

    Episode 38: The one where I speak to Jeremy Starkweather and Jason Ylizarde, co-creators of the Dragonfly Cholangioscope

    This conversation traces Dragonfly from an idea “in the back of a cab” to a clinically focused cholangioscopy platform that rotates through the biopsy channel for predictable, millimeter-level control. We delve into the mechanics (≈1.7 mm channel supporting 1.5 mm forceps and 4.5 Fr EHL), exploring how the catheter’s suppleness and internal rigidity enhance distal duct stability and device passability, and why micro-movements and neutral ergonomics are crucial for case efficiency. We map where cholangioscopy shifts the algorithm—medium/large stones, altered anatomy, tight distal duct work, and stricture evaluation with larger bites—and talk learning curve (~3–5 cases), setup tips, and the Medtronic distribution partnership. Finally: adoption math, fair-use evaluations despite contracting realities, and a look toward accessory innovation and AI-aided visualization. Key takeaways Rotation-first control → faster targeting, less wall fighting, better stability in tight anatomy. Larger working channel enables bigger biopsies and higher-energy lithotripsy. Aim for complete fragmentation in session one; repeat procedures should be the exception. Ergonomics: neutral hand position and micro-movements reduce fatigue. Practical adoption requires training support and a fair, multi-case evaluation window. Links Dragonfly Endoscopy: https://dragonflyendoscopy.com Medtronic: https://www.medtronic.com/en-us/healthcare-professionals/products/digestive-gastrointestinal/ercp-devices/dragonfly-pancreaticobiliary-system.html

    1h 8m

  5. 04/11/2025

    Episode 37: The one where I talk about Cholangioscopy

    In this deep-dive, Mankanwal Sachdev explores how cholangioscopy moves us from fluoroscopic silhouettes to direct mucosal visualization—and why that changes diagnosis and therapy across indeterminate strictures, PSC dominant lesions, and difficult stones. We walk through the current platform landscape (SpyGlass™ DS2, eyeMAX™, and Dragonfly™), practical biopsy technique to improve yield, and real-world lithotripsy choices (EHL vs Holmium laser) with a focus on workflow, cost, and verification of clearance. We also look ahead to AI-assisted interpretation, robotic/telerobotic control, and how training is evolving with ESGE 2025 standards and ASGE/ACG guidance. If you’re building or refining a pancreatobiliary program, this episode offers an evidence-based framework you can put to work tomorrow.   Key takeaways: Use cholangioscopy when results will change management; pair with EUS for maximal diagnostic yield. Standardize biopsy protocols and specimen handling with pathology. Choose energy based on stone density, access, and resources; confirm clearance by direct inspection. Build a training pathway (simulation + supervised volume) and consider tiered credentialing. Selected references: ESGE 2025 (PMID: 40588224); ACG 2023 biliary strictures; ASGE 2023 malignancy in biliary strictures; Amaral 2023 laser vs EHL (PMID: 37203215); Mauro 2023 review (PMID: 37761300).

    45 min

  6. 18/08/2025

    Episode 36: The one where I talk about AI scribing and my workflow using Doximity

    In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist Podcast, I dive into how AI-powered scribing has transformed my clinical workflow. Using Doximity’s AI scribe, I share step-by-step insights into documentation, patient engagement, and time savings in daily practice. I outline the advantages, limitations, and customization strategies while reflecting on the broader role of AI in reducing burnout and enhancing the physician–patient connection. Whether you’re an interventionalist, general GI, APP, or any healthcare professional curious about real-world AI integration, this episode offers a practical look at how scribing can change the way we practice medicine.   https://blog.doximity.com/articles/meet-doximity-scribe

    35 min

  7. 28/05/2025

    Episode 35: The one where I talk about the new CPT codes for ESD

    Description: In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, I dive divs into one of the most impactful developments in advanced GI care: the approval of dedicated Category I CPT codes for Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD). These long-awaited codes, one for upper GI and one for lower GI, go into effect on January 1, 2027 — and could finally unlock broader access, adoption, and reimbursement for ESD in the U.S. I discuss: The clinical value of ESD and why adoption has been slow How reimbursement barriers have held the technique back What Category I CPT code approval by the AMA actually means A detailed timeline of what happens between now and 2027 The role of the RUC, CMS, and commercial payers How GI practices, hospitals, ASCs, and coders should prepare Why this could signal a tipping point for training, education, and device innovation If you’re performing ESD, planning to learn, or managing coding and billing for a GI practice, this episode is your roadmap. 📬 Be sure to subscribe, follow on LinkedIn, and share this episode with colleagues in advanced GI

    24 min

  8. 20/05/2025

    Episode 34, The one where I Interview Dr. Jessica Widmer

    In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Widmer—Division Chief of Gastroenterology at NYU Langone Hospital–Long Island—for an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation. Dr. Widmer shares her journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to becoming a leader in interventional endoscopy. We discuss her training path, early exposure to ERCP and cholangioscopy, and her decision to pursue advanced training at Cornell. She reflects on mentors who shaped her career, including Dr. Stavros Stavropoulos and Dr. Michel Kahaleh, and offers practical tips on teaching and performing cholangioscopy and pancreatoscopy. The episode also touches on the evolution and future of GI, training Challenges women face in interventional endoscopy, and balancing demanding careers with family life. We discuss the value of mentorship and society involvement Whether you're an advanced fellow, practicing endoscopist, or simply curious about the human side of medicine, this conversation delivers wisdom, humor, and heart. Subscribe, rate, and share—and stay tuned for more episodes exploring the minds shaping the future of GI.   Link to the GOLD program: https://www.asge.org/home/education/advanced-education-training/leadership-development/gi-organizational-leadership-development-program

    55 min
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About

I am an interventional endoscopist in Phoenix and in this Podcast, I attempt to explore new technologies and techniques as well as issues facing the practice of therapeutic endoscopy

Information

  • Creator
    Mankanwal Sachdev
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Interventional Endoscopist