EAU Podcasts European Association of Urology

In this podcast, UROONCO RCC associate editor Dr. Riccardo Bertolo (IT) interviews a recognised world leader in the research and treatment of kidney cancer, Prof. Ketan Badani (US), from Mount Sinai Hospital.  He answers questions on robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) after his live surgery session at ERUS23 in Florence, Italy. 

Prof. Badani elaborates on the concept of complexity in RAPN.

Another point in the discussion is the decision algorithm in counselling the patient to multi-port vs. single port robotics. 

Finally, Prof. Badani also shares some personal experience on training for the future of robotic surgery and how single-port can teach surgeons how to operate more autonomously when operating multi-port, which has historically relied on a significant bedside team/assistance. 

This is 'Episode 1' of a new podcast series on "Uro-oncologic surgery driven by new technologies."  Prof. Ricardo Autorino (IT) talks to expert Dr. Enrico Checcucci (IT) about 3D models and augmented reality for prostate cancer surgery.

In the realm of prostate cancer surgery, 3D models and augmented reality (AR) are emerging as transformative technologies. Surgeons are utilising 3D models generated from patient imaging data (mp-MRI in particular for prostate cancer) to create precise visualisations of the prostate and its surrounding structures. These models offer detailed insights into tumour location, aiding in surgical planning and decision-making.
 
AR takes this a step further by overlaying virtual information onto the surgeon's field of view during the procedure. This real-time augmentation provides surgeons with vital data, such as tumour boundaries and critical blood vessels, enhancing surgical accuracy and reducing the risk of complications.

Ultimately, the integration of 3D models and AR in prostate cancer surgery holds the potential to revolutionise the way surgeries are planned and executed, leading to improved patient outcomes and more precise interventions. Lastly, the advent of artificial intelligence and its integration with AR platforms will allow for the improvement of the precision of the overlapping with more dynamic assistance for the surgeon.

This podcast is made in collaboration with the YAU Urotechnology group.

This is 'Episode 4' of the special podcast series on "Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative new technological tools for urologists". Assoc. Prof. Juan Gómez Rivas (ES) talks to expert Dr. Karl-Friedrich Kowalewski (DE) on laparoscopy procedures and the emergence of advanced robotic platforms. 
 
Over the years laparoscopy has become the standard for various interventions, such as gallbladder removal, appendectomy  and certain gynaecological procedures. However, recent advancements in robotic surgical platforms have revolutionised the field, offering enhanced precision, dexterity, and 3D visualisation for complex surgeries. 
 
Dr. Kowalewski analyses the benefits and limitations of both laparoscopic and robotic approaches. This information can help with decision-making to determine the most suitable surgical method for specific interventions based on patient characteristics and procedure complexity.
 
This podcast is made in collaboration with the YAU Urotechnology group.

In this third episode of the special podcast series on "Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative new technological tools for urologists", Assoc. Prof. Juan Gómez Rivas (ES) talks to Assoc. Prof. Stefano Puliatti (IT) from the University Hospital of Modena, about new technology for surgical training. 
 
Assoc. Prof. Puliatti shares details of psychologist Prof. Anthony Gallagher's development of the proficiency-based progression (PBP) methodology for surgical training, whereby metrics for a single specific procedure are followed (including critical errors and steps for standardised procedures). Once the training in the lab is mastered, trainees can progress. 
 
New technologies that are really game-changing are recordings and sharing platforms so you can find surgeries done by experts and learn from these, as well as watching your own recordings to look for mistakes. Also, virtual or augmented reality, and 3D printing models, which help with reconstruction and surgical planning. 5G and telementoring will allow for communications from experts via real-time. Devices such as Google glasses may also prove useful in the future. 
 
Assoc. Prof. Puliatti elaborates on the expense and accessibility of training with these new technologies, and some potential solutions. 
 
 This podcast is made in collaboration with the YAU Urotechnology group.

In this second episode of the special podcast series on "Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative new technological tools for urologists", Assoc. Prof. Juan Gómez Rivas (ES) talks to the distinguished Prof. Dmitry Enikeev (IL) about new lasers that are shaping the future of endourology. 

Prof. Enikeev elaborates on how lasers work, and the different types of lasers (thulium, holmium, green light). He shares details on usage, settings and the important aspects of distance of incision and speed. 

Cutting-edge lasers in endourology have significantly improved the management of kidney stones, bladder tumours and other urological disorders. They allow for safer and faster procedures, reducing patient recovery time and hospital stays. Additionally, the improved energy delivery systems enable better control and accuracy during surgery, leading to fewer complications and improved outcomes.

This podcast is made in collaboration with the YAU Urotechnology group.

This is 'Episode 1' of a new podcast series on "Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative new technological tools for urologists." Assoc. Prof. Juan Gómez Rivas (ES) talks to expert Assoc. Prof. Severin Rodler (DE) about the role of telemedicine and applications for the management of cancer patients. 

Telemedicine and healthcare applications have revolutionised patient management by offering remote healthcare services and personalised tools for patients. Assoc. Prof.  Rodler discusses the benefits of these innovations such as increased accessibility to healthcare, as well as reduced hospital visits, cost savings, and empowering patients to take a proactive role in monitoring and managing their health.

Nevertheless, Assoc. Prof. Rodler shares details the significant challenges to consider also. These include the limited capability for physical examinations, accuracy of diagnoses, potential for misdiagnosis, improper treatment, technological barriers, and privacy issues. 

When looking at the future of telemedicine, Assoc. Prof. Rodler expresses the importance of guidelines, the need for level one evidence in a remote setting, and the formation of a secure data infrastructure. 

This podcast is made in collaboration with the YAU Urotechnology Working Group.