BackTable Cardiology

BackTable Inc.
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

BackTable Cardiology is a podcast for clinical and interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals involved in cardiovascular care. This show brings together expert voices from across the field to explore the latest in cardiology—from evolving guidelines and innovative devices to real-world case discussions and multidisciplinary collaboration. BackTable Cardiology delivers practical insights and forward-thinking conversations to keep you connected and current in a rapidly changing specialty.

  1. 5d ago

    Ep. 51 Advancements in Pulmonary Embolism Algorithm and Management with Dr. David Dexter and Dr. Maya Serhal

    How are new aspiration thrombectomy systems and real-time hemodynamic monitoring enabling safer, more effective pulmonary embolism treatment? On this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Ally Baheti welcomes Dr. Maya Serhal and Dr. David Dexter for a deep dive into modern pulmonary embolism (PE) management, with a focus on advances in large-bore aspiration thrombectomy. They discuss evolving PE triage algorithms, real-world procedural strategies, and the clinical impact of next-generation aspiration systems on safety, efficiency, and patient recovery. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- This podcast is supported byImperative Care https://www.imperativecare.com/ --- Timestamps00:00 - Introduction02:03 - PE Response Workflow05:32 - Symphony Device07:07 - Sizing and Blood Loss10:00 - Multi-Port Hemodynamics14:45 - Procedure Endpoints17:01 - IVUS Guided Strategy20:02 - ProHelix and Lollipopping25:48 - Case Studies34:12 - Closing Thoughts --- More about this episodeThe conversation explores multidisciplinary PE response workflows, lab and imaging triggers for escalation, and technical considerations in catheter sizing, blood loss management, and real-time hemodynamic monitoring. Dr. Dexter reviews his use of intravascular ultrasound for precise clot localization, and Dr. Serhal shares practical tips for adjusting aspiration power to avoid complications. Together, they discuss procedural endpoints, mechanical assist devices for difficult clots, and present case examples demonstrating rapid improvement in hemodynamics and oxygenation. The episode emphasizes the importance of teamwork, patient selection, and ongoing innovation in optimizing PE care. --- Resources American Society of Hematology 2020 Guidelines for Management of Venous Thromboembolism: Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolismhttps://ashpublications.org/bloodadvances/article/4/19/4693/463998/American-Society-of-Hematology-2020-Guidelines-for Prospective Multicenter IDE Study of the Next-Generation Precision Aspiration Thrombectomy System for Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism: The SYMPHONY-PE Trial https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.125.015815 Is There a Golden Hour for Thrombectomy in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism? Insights From SYMPHONY-PEhttps://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.126.016573 --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.► https://www.backtable.com/app

    Ep. 51 Advancements in Pulmonary Embolism Algorithm and Management with Dr. David Dexter and Dr. Maya Serhal

  2. Sep 1

    Ep. 50 Managing Pulmonary Embolism: Guidelines and Clinical Decisions with Dr. Timothy Fernandes and Dr. Robert Lookstein

    Once your PERT is assembled, how do you navigate the evolving pulmonary embolism (PE) literature to improve patient outcomes at all risk levels? In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, interventional radiologist Dr. Robert Lookstein (Mount Sinai) and pulmonary critical care specialist Dr. Timothy Fernandes (UC San Diego) join host Dr. Harris Chengazi to examine the latest evidence and multidisciplinary strategies for managing acute pulmonary embolism. The discussion highlights the complexities of catheter-directed therapies in intermediate- to high-risk PE, evolving guidelines in the face of new trial data, and prioritization of improving patients’ clinical trajectories. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- This podcast is supported byPenumbrahttps://www.penumbrainc.com/ --- Timestamps00:00 - Introduction03:57 - PERT Structure and Activation08:24 - PE Risk Stratification Tools12:02 - Patient Selection for IR Intervention15:21 - Assessing Clot Chronicity21:03 - Standardizing Workup26:38 - Managing Unstable PE28:31 - STORM-PE and HI-PEITHO Trial Data35:49 - Guidelines vs. New Evidence40:12 - Determining Therapeutic Endpoints45:05 - Upcoming Trials and Future Directions51:46 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks --- More about this episodeThe physicians explore the nuances of validated PE risk stratification tools, assessing the relationship between various PE scoring systems and the 2026 ACC/AHA classification for acute PE. They emphasize that the integration of clinical assessment, serial lab work, and patient history must take precedence over static imaging alone in guiding care. The doctors go on to review new trial data, including the improved RV-to-LV ratio and 90-day functional gains seen with mechanical thrombectomy in STORM-PE and reduced clinical deterioration observed with ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis in HI-PEITHO. The conversation concludes with a call for collaborative, safety-first management that focuses on the patient’s clinical status and long-term post-PE functional recovery. --- Resources 2026 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ACEP/CHEST/SCAI/SHM/SIR/SVM/SVN Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism in Adultshttps://doi.org/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001415 Composite Pulmonary Embolism Shock (CPES) Scorehttps://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.124.014088 FOCUS studyhttps://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehac206 STORM-PE trialhttps://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.125.077232 HI-PEITHO trialhttps://doi.org/10.1056/nejmoa2516567 PE-TRACT studyhttps://petractstudy.org/homepage PEERLESS II studyhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06055920 PERSEVERE trialhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06588634 --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.► https://www.backtable.com/app

  3. Aug 25

    Ep. 49 Aortoiliac Arterial Disease Treatment with Dr. Eric Secemsky

    How do you decide between a dedicated aortic scaffold and kissing stents in complex aortoiliac bifurcations? On this episode of the BackTable Podcast, Dr. Sabeen Dhand and Dr. Eric Secemsky discuss the management of a female smoker presenting with rapidly progressive bilateral hip pain, ultimately revealed to be severe aortoiliac arterial disease. The case highlights the value of noninvasive vascular studies, CTA, and IVUS for precise diagnosis and procedural planning, as well as the nuanced decision-making process between different device options. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction01:56 - Patient History05:42 - CTA and Angio Findings09:30 - Strategy Access and IVUS13:17 - IVUS Sizing and Lesion Review16:38 - IVL Angioplasty Technique18:28 - Stenting and Final Result22:50 - Post-procedure Meds and Outcome24:34 - Wrap Up --- More about this episode Dr. Secemsky reviews access strategy, lesion sizing, and the use of intravascular lithotripsy to reduce rupture risk in heavily calcified arteries. The doctors explain their rationale for choosing kissing covered stents over a dedicated aortic scaffold, details the technical steps of ballooning and stenting, and discusses the transition from dual antiplatelet therapy to rivaroxaban and aspirin postprocedure. The episode concludes with key insights into device selection, procedural technique, and patient-centered decision-making for successful aortoiliac interventions. --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty. ► https://www.backtable.com/app

  4. Aug 18

    Ep. 48 Understanding Transcaval Access for Cardiac Procedures with Dr. Pedro Villablanca

    How can transcaval access transform options for patients with challenging vascular anatomy undergoing TAVR and other cardiac procedures? On this episode of the BackTable Cardiology Podcast, host Dr. Hady Lichaa interviews Dr. Pedro Villablanca, a structural interventionalist at Henry Ford Hospital, about the expanding role of transcaval techniques. They discuss how transcaval access leverages the IVC and aorta to bypass small or diseased vessels, offering transfemoral-like ergonomics, conscious sedation, and less radiation exposure for carefully selected patients. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction02:35 - What Is Transcaval Access?09:34 - Crossing Site Measurements17:17 - Step-by-Step Procedure20:26 - Electrosurgery Setup28:04 - Troubleshooting Scenarios34:36 - Lost Wire Recovery39:19 - Balloon Tamponade Planning44:00 - Step-by-Step Closure53:31 - Hydration and Hemoglobin01:00:42 - Training and Proctorship01:04:42 - Conclusion --- More about this episode The conversation offers a step-by-step walkthrough of transcaval TAVR, covering pre-procedural planning with CT and fluoroscopy, device selection, and troubleshooting for complications like lost wires and bleeding. Dr. Villablanca details closure strategies, balloon tamponade, and the use of cover stents as bailouts. They discuss the importance of multidisciplinary planning, anatomic considerations, and practical pearls from real cases. The episode closes with advice for operators new to transcaval access and emphasizes the value of preparation, collaboration, and continuous learning in mastering this advanced technique. --- Resources Dr. Hady Lichaa Physician Profilehttps://healthcare.ascension.org/find-care/provider/1336267533/hady-lichaa Dr. Pedro Villablanca Physician Profilehttps://www.henryford.com/physician-directory/v/villablanca-spinetto-pedro SCAI Structural Heart Disease Courseshttps://www.scai.org/clinical-practice/structural --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty. ► https://www.backtable.com/app

  5. Aug 11

    Ep. 47 Navigating Private Practice in Cardiology with Dr. Jon George

    Can independent private practice offer greater efficiency, better patient care, and a more balanced physician lifestyle? On this episode of the BackTable Cardiology Podcast, host Dr. Hady Lichaa talks with Dr. Jon George about his journey from academic cath lab leadership to launching an ambulatory surgery center and thriving as a solo practitioner. They discuss the business, regulatory, and clinical realities of building a modern private practice in today’s changing healthcare environment. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction02:51 - Private Practice Landscape05:17 - Pendulum Swing to Independent Practice10:04 - Making the Move to Solo Practice15:24 - Training and Research Beyond Hospitals17:55 - MBA and Business Skills20:02 - Building a Broad Practice23:35 - Income, Ownership, and Mindset Shifts27:28 - Administrative Load and Management Help32:35 - Launching the ASC Cath Lab38:24 - Boosting Efficiency, Lifestyle, and Preventing Burnout43:17 - Advice for Fellows48:15 - Call Coverage and Negotiation49:52 - Closing Reflections and Takeaways --- More about this episode Dr. George shares how his frustrations with hospital financial transparency, procedural limitations, and the pandemic’s impact on patient willingness to come to hospitals motivated his transition to a solo practice in 2020. He explains why only about 30 percent of U.S. cardiologists remain independent, highlighting the shift toward lower-cost outpatient sites, recent CMS approvals for more ASC procedures, and state differences in certificate-of-need laws. Dr. George discusses strategies for scaling through hospital affiliations, negotiating teaching and research support, and partnering with management companies to streamline operations. He also describes building a state-of-the-art cath lab and imaging center, improving efficiency and physician lifestyle, and offers a practical five-question framework for clinicians considering the move to private practice. --- Resources ReVaMP Heart and Vascular Institutehttps://www.revascmed.com/ University of Cincinnati Ohio College of Medicinehttps://med.uc.edu/ University Hospitals Case Medical Centerhttps://www.uhhospitals.org/locations/uh-cleveland-medical-center Temple University Hospital https://www.templehealth.org/locations/temple-university-hospital --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty. ► https://www.backtable.com/app

  6. Aug 4

    Ep. 46 Cardiology Procedures and Ambulatory Surgery Centers: Key Insights with Dr. Fadi Saab

    What are the real-world challenges and rewards of running an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)? On this episode of BackTable Cardiology, host Dr. Hady Lichaa interviews Dr. Fadi Saab about his transition from an outpatient-based lab (OBL) to an ASC, focusing on business, regulatory, and clinical considerations that go beyond procedural technique. They discuss how rising healthcare costs are driving ASC expansion, the benefits of improved patient experience, efficiency, convenience, and physician autonomy, as well as concerns about private equity influence and systemic pressures to shift cases out of hospitals. ---Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- Timestamps00:00 - Introduction 03:10 - Why ASCs Are Expanding 05:36 - Autonomy, Efficiency, and Key Concerns10:43 - Ensuring Safety and Outcomes14:07 - OEIS Registry and Certification17:02 - Managing Complications and Transfers22:36 - EP Procedures in the Outpatient Setting 27:09 - OBLs Under Pressure34:43 - Reimbursement Challenges and Burnout39:22 - Business Skills and Consultants44:07 - Income Reality and Partnerships50:12 - Reflection on the Transition55:46 - Closing Thoughts and Advice --- More about this episodeDr. Saab outlines critical safety oversight measures including state regulations, registry reporting, transfer agreements, ACLS-trained teams, and peer review. He shares data showing that PCI outcomes in ASCs are comparable to those in outpatient hospitals, and reviews the expansion of electrophysiology procedures into ASCs enabled by CMS codes. The conversation highlights infrastructure needs, differences in OBL versus ASC reimbursement, and the importance of hiring experienced leaders and consultants. Dr. Saab provides practical advice on partnering with like-minded physicians, understanding Stark and anti-kickback rules, and setting realistic expectations for profitability, which may take 18 to 30 months. The episode closes with reflections on mentorship, operational excellence, and how ASCs are adapting to the changing landscape of cardiovascular care. --- ResourcesInterventional Cardiologists' Perspectives on Percutaneous Coronary Intervention at Ambulatory Surgical Centershttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41088884/ OEIShttps://oeisweb.com/ Administrative Expenses In The US Health Care System https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2785479#google_vignette --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty.► https://www.backtable.com/app

  7. Jul 28

    Ep. 45 Optimizing Interventional Cardiology Practice Efficiency with Dr. Craig Walker

    What separates a good medical practice from one that consistently delivers exceptional patient care and retains dedicated team members? On this episode of BackTable Cardiology, Dr. Ankit Patel explores this with Dr. Craig Walker of Cardiovascular Institute of the South. Dr. Walker shares how his journey from rural Louisiana to Harvard shaped his approach to building a mission-driven, patient-centered cardiology practice. He discusses the impact of early lifesaving experiences, the value of compassionate communication, and how a clear mission has guided the practice’s growth and lasting impact. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction04:54 - Training And Early Career07:38 - Mission Statement: TRECC10:53 - The Impact of Mentorship13:09 - Why Start NCH Meetings?17:02 - Developing a Practice21:35 - Workflow And Team Culture26:33 - Training The Next Generation32:16 - Venous Disease Gap40:40 - Goals Mission Mindset45:37 - Advice For Trainees54:17 - Conclusion --- More about this episode The conversation dives into the operational strategies that have driven the growth of Cardiovascular Institute of the South, from developing a mission statement focused on technology, research, education, communication, and compassion to building a culture of mentorship and continuous learning. Dr. Walker and Dr. Patel discuss how goal-setting and team engagement have fueled expansion to multiple sites and fostered ongoing clinical innovation. They also highlight the importance of training the next generation, founding New Cardiovascular Horizons meetings to advance peripheral vascular care, and maintaining excitement in medicine by always prioritizing patient needs and collaborative leadership. --- Resources Dr. Craig Walker’s Physician Profilehttps://www.cardio.com/team/craig-walker’-md/ Dr. Ankit Patel’s Physician Profilehttps://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/ankitkumar-kirankumar-patel/1316247 New Cardiovascular Horizonshttps://ncvh.org/ Temporary Occlusion Embolectomy: A Cost-Effective Approach to Distal Embolic Protection in Peripheral Artery Diseasehttps://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/vdm/case-series/temporary-occlusion-embolectomy-toe-cost-effective-approach-distal-embolic --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty. ► https://www.backtable.com/app

  8. Jul 21

    Ep. 44 Coronary Calcium Modification: Treating the Impossible with Dr. Kate Kearney

    When should you keep pushing and when should you walk away during a tough chronic total occlusion (CTO) case with heavy coronary calcification? On this episode of BackTable Cardiology, coronary CTO expert Dr. Kate Kearney from the University of Washington joins Dr. Hady Lichaa to define what makes a coronary PCI truly complex and to break down real-world strategies for managing ambiguous, heavily calcified lesions. The discussion emphasizes the uncertainty of achieving a good outcome and highlights the critical role of troubleshooting and dynamic decision-making in the cath lab. --- Get the BackTable apphttps://www.backtable.com/app --- This podcast is supported by Sponsorhttps://shockwavemedical.com/ --- Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction04:48 - Hard CTO Case Insights 08:43 - CTO vs IVL Safety And Predictability15:18 - Atherectomy Lesion Length for Atherectomy23:13 - Interpreting Calcium on Imaging 27:58 - D-Shaped Stents after Calcium Modification30:19 - Left Main Bifurcation Strategy35:31 - IVL Versus Atherectomy Sequencing39:49 - When To Stop A Case50:28 - Future Of IVL And Imaging53:47 - Conclusion --- More about this episode Dr. Kearney shares practical strategies developed through real CTO case experience, including when to deploy dynamic stop-or-continue decision-making and how to leverage “phone a friend” safety rules for complex cases. She explains how intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) has made balloon-based calcium modification more predictable, improved stent results, and encouraged a multimodal approach, while early atherectomy still plays a role for deliverability and control. The discussion also covers imaging-driven criteria for intervention, D-shaped stent placement, and tailored planning for left main bifurcation or ostial circumflex lesions, highlighting the value of collaborative and evidence-based practice in advanced coronary intervention. --- Resources Dr. Hady Lichaa Physician Profile: https://healthcare.ascension.org/find-care/provider/1336267533/hady-lichaa Dr. Kate Kearny Physician Profile:https://www.uwmedicine.org/bios/kathleen-kearney ECLIPSE trial:https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/clinical-trials/2024/10/25/04/32/eclipse Shockwave Lithoplasty Compared to Cutting Balloon Treatment in Calcified Coronary Disease (Short-Cut Trial): https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06089135 --- BackTable Cardiology is the go-to podcast for interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals that manage cardiovascular conditions. Download the free BackTable app to get early access to new episodes, cases, and courses curated by physicians in your specialty. ► https://www.backtable.com/app

See All (54)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

BackTable Cardiology is a podcast for clinical and interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals involved in cardiovascular care. This show brings together expert voices from across the field to explore the latest in cardiology—from evolving guidelines and innovative devices to real-world case discussions and multidisciplinary collaboration. BackTable Cardiology delivers practical insights and forward-thinking conversations to keep you connected and current in a rapidly changing specialty.

Information

  • Creator
    BackTable Inc.
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    BackTable Cardiology

You Might Also Like