Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast First Incision

This episode covers the topic of chest trauma, with the James Mckay, an incredible general surgeon, trauma surgeon, and dual trained intensive care physician.

Topics covered include:
- rib fractures
- flail chest
- blunt cardiac injury
- chest drains
- resuscitative thoracotomy
And more!   
 
Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2024

This guest episode with colorectal surgeon Chris Wakeman focuses on the common familial cancer syndromes. For each we go through diagnosis, genetics, surveillance, management, decision making and more. Topics include:
- Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
- Lynch Syndrome
- Serrated Polyposis Syndrome
- Oligopolyposis
Here are some resources Dr Wakeman suggested might be helpful when covering this topic:

Lynch syndrome - InSiGHT (insight-group.org)

 Adenomatous polyposis syndromes - InSiGHT (insight-group.org)

 Serrated polyposis syndrome - InSiGHT (insight-group.org)

 Chris Wakeman is also happy for e-mails with any questions at: Christopher.Wakeman@cdhb.health.nz

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2024

This episode is the first  part of a series that has been produced in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand Training Board in Colon and Rectal Surgery (ANZTBCRS). It has come out of work prepared for the Colorectal Fellow's Training Weekend held in Adelaide in August 2023.

Henry Drysdale won the Phillip Douglas Prize for his presentation on malignant colorectal polyps and is our guest for this episode.
We cover:
- definition
- endoscopic features correlated with malignant polyps
- endoscopic management
- staging
- histopathological classification and risk factors
- determining the risk of residual local or nodal disease
- definitive management 

For images discussed in this episode please check out our Instagram page @first_incision

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam and as educational material for doctors.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author, ANZTBCRS, publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this podcast.
The author and ANZTBCRS provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam or other examinations.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or ANZTBCRS in relation to the performance of any person in examination.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam or other clinical roles.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author, publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2024

For this guest episode we are joined by Dr Simon Richards, as colorectal surgeon from Christchurch New Zealand.

This episode is a masterclass in Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT) for Rectal Cancer. We cover:
- the traditional paradigm of rectal cancer management and how it's progressed to where we are now
- what is TNT
- what is 'watch and wait' and 'organ preservation'
- the main three trials you need to know!
- some cases and why you might consider different approaches for different patients
AND MORE!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2024

On this guest episode we are joined by Dr Carla Gillespie, an UGI, bariatric and general surgeon from Sydney to cover the topic of bariatric surgery.

We cover:
- pathophysiology
- types of operations
- considerations when deciding what operation
- complications - immediate and late
- how to remove a lap band
- and some general exam and career advice!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2024

From the vault (courtesy of Tara who found it).

This episode covers the topic of intestinal failure. It includes:
- definition
- classification
- pathophysiology
- prevention
- the three phases
- intestinal adaptation
- management
- complications (short and long term)

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2024

In this week's 'Christmas Special' episode I am joined by Ashwini Pondicherry and Jamie Crichton to reflect on our first year of fellowship.
We discuss some of the good things about this transition, but also some of the more difficult and formative aspects and how we negotiated them.
The step from registrar to fellow/consultant is a HUGE one and we hope that by talking about some of these topics it will make it slightly easier for you.
We also discuss the application processes for ANZHPBA, Breast Surg ANZs and CSSANZ (ANZTBCRS) post-fellowship training programs.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2023

Our first episode back (in a while - sorry!) is an incredible guest episode that is worth the wait.
We talk through a series of breast cancer cases with Ashwini Pondicherry, the current breast fellow at Christchurch hospital, to cover a wide range of topics in breast cancer. This includes some updates from the original breast cancer episodes (which were published over 2 years ago now).
This episode not only covers content, but is presented in long viva style taking you through a number of cases with some model answers by Ashwini.

For imaging discussed in this episode please check out our Instagram page @first_incision

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2023

This guest episode covers the essentials you need to know when talking about operative surgery in inflammatory bowel disease.
We are joined by colorectal and general surgeon Mr Michael Johnston who has significant experience in looking after these patients.
We talk about:
- ileocolic resections
- what to do with crohn's fistulas to the sigmoid
- stricturoplasty techniques
- how to handle the crohn's mesentery
- what join to do and why
- when to operate on acute colitis
- how to do a subtotal colectomy
And more! 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2023

In this episode we go into some of the pathologies that can affect the salivary gland, as well as the different neck infections we need to know about.

Topics covered include:
Salivary Gland Pathology
- Salivary gland calculi (sialolithiasis)
- Infections / Inflammation including sialadenitis
- Plunging ranulas
Cervical Infections
- Compartments of the neck
- Different infections and neck abscesses

As I mentioned in the first episode of this series I can highly recommend the Open Access Atlas of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Operative Surgery as a study resource for head and neck surgery. This is a free online resource which has great articles on each operation including relevant anatomy and pictures of each step of the surgery. I found this super useful to use during my preparation. Here is the link to the whole atlas:
http://www.entdev.uct.ac.za/guides/open-access-atlas-of-otolaryngology-head-neck-operative-surgery/
Here are some topics covered in this episode:
Sialolithiasis: https://vula.uct.ac.za/access/content/group/ba5fb1bd-be95-48e5-81be-586fbaeba29d/Sialolithiasis%20and%20sialendoscopy.pdf
Ranula: https://vula.uct.ac.za/access/content/group/ba5fb1bd-be95-48e5-81be-586fbaeba29d/Ranula%20and%20sublingual%20salivary%20gland%20excision.pdf
Parapharyngeal space: https://vula.uct.ac.za/access/content/group/ba5fb1bd-be95-48e5-81be-586fbaeba29d/Access%20to%20parapharyngeal%20space-1.pdf
Deep neck abscesses: https://vula.uct.ac.za/access/content/group/ba5fb1bd-be95-48e5-81be-586fbaeba29d/Surgical%20drainage%20of%20deep%20neck%20abscesses.pdf

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2023

On this guest episode, we talk to Anthony Payne, a financial and tax consultant with DPM Financial about some of the financial changes we will face transitioning from being a registrar to fellowship and consultancy.

Some of the topics we cover include:
- Transitioning from employee to sole trader, and the implications on this for Tax, Super, Insurances and Leave. 
- What an ABN is and why you need it
- GST as a sole trader and what you need to know
-  The typical financial set-ups of private practice including setting up your own rooms or joining an existing group
- Legal and financial aspects of setting up your own private group and how to get it right from the get-go.
- A variety of different strategies to minimise your tax
And so much more!

Anthony Pane obviously has significant experience and expertise helping doctors manage their finances and transition through all stages of their careers. If you want to learn more or reach out for an obligation-free appointment you can find them on their website dpm.com.au.

Disclaimer
The information discussed in this episode is of a general nature and is not intended to serve as individual advice. The views and opinions expressed are the views of DPM and not First Incision. DPM Financial services recommends you obtain advice concerning specific matters before making any decisions.
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam. This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2023

In this first episode from the Head and Neck module of our curriculum we touch on salivary gland pathology. Including:
- Salivary gland anatomy - including the parotid and submandibular glands. As part of this we cover the important anatomical relations and the parasympathetic supply (highly examinable!)
- Common tumours of the salivary glands and how to treat them
- Some operative tips and how to describe how you would perform a superficial parotidectomy and submandibular gland extirpation
- Common complications of these operations including Frey's syndrome

I can highly recommend the Open Access Atlas of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Operative Surgery as a study resource for head and neck surgery. This is a free online resource which has great articles on each operation including relevant anatomy and pictures of each step of the surgery. I found this super useful to use during my preparation. Here is the link to the whole atlas:
http://www.entdev.uct.ac.za/guides/open-access-atlas-of-otolaryngology-head-neck-operative-surgery/
Parotidectomy: https://vula.uct.ac.za/access/content/group/ba5fb1bd-be95-48e5-81be-586fbaeba29d/Parotidectomy-1.pdf
Submandibular gland excision: https://vula.uct.ac.za/access/content/group/ba5fb1bd-be95-48e5-81be-586fbaeba29d/Submandibular%20gland%20excision.pdf

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week we are joined by the incredible urologist Dr Anita Clarke to talk about all things urology!
We cover:
- the benefits of multidisciplinary surgical approach
- putting in a ureteric stent
- the diagnosis and management of bladder cancer (for general surgeons)
- management of intra-operative ureteric injuries
- the difficult urinary catheter and inserting a suprapubic catheter
As well as other life advice, insight into the life of a surgeon, and exam advice (from a previous chief examiner).
I hope you enjoy this special guest episode :) 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

Welcome to this guest episode with A/Prof Phil Carson. A/Prof Carson is a general surgeon from Darwin and the most recent ex-censor in chief of RACS. We are lucky enough to have him for this special episode to cover a range of topics filled with pearls and insights from his varied and interesting career.
We cover:
- some background into his life as a rural generalist in Darwin.
- what to do to prepare for practice if you are considering a career as a rural general surgeon.
- we gain some insights into RACS and its role in surgical training and exams through A/Prof’s position on the college council and as the censor in chief.
- we hear from the other side what the college really wants us to get out of the exam process!
- through his rewarding career in the territory we hear about working with Australia’s Aboriginal people.
- he shares how he keeps calm and clear-headed when faced with difficult clinical and administrative situations as a surgeon.
- we also cover the clinical topic of necrotising fasciitis, and how to approach a question in the exam you feel you haven’t prepared for.
- as well as finish with advice for trainees once they’ve passed their exam!
I'm so excited to share this episode with you!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

We are lucky enough this week to be joined by the incredible Kellee Slater - HPB and hernia surgeon from Queensland. In addition to being an incredible surgeon, researcher, published author and presenter, A/Prof Slater has been extremely generous and joined us to cover topics from the hepatobiliary and transplant modules.

I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as I enjoyed recording it. Once again I'm overwhelmed by the time surgeons spend working with us to help us prepare for exams and am so grateful for A/Prof Slater's time and expertise. 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

I'm back! After a nice break holidaying around Italy I bring you an introduction to the transplant module!
Hopefully this covers enough background to get started with the module including transplant immunobiology, immunosuppressive medications, criteria for organ donation and complications of immunosuppression.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

I know I promised you all a series on urology but I'm taking a break this week and releasing a bonus episode from the vault!

This episode covers all the appendiceal pathologies from the 'emergency' module of the curriculum:
- acute appendicitis
- appendiceal tumours including adenocarcinoma, mucinous adenocarcinoma, mucinous neoplasms, goblet cell adenocarcinoma, and neuroendocrine tumours.
- and we also touch on pseudomyxoma peritonei 

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode continues our foray into the urology topics we need to know for our general surgical exams. We cover:
- testicular tumours including the presentation, subtypes, workup, radical inguinal orchidectomy and management
- Varicoceles
- Hydroceles (including some operative points on Jaboulay and Lord's procedures)
- and epididymal cysts

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

From the abdominal wall, retroperitoneum and urogenital module from the curriculum I bring you the first in a series of podcasts covering urology!
We have to know quite a few urology topics for our exam, but where better to start than by covering anatomy and embryology.
In this episode we cover the clinically relevant anatomy of:
- the kidneys
- ureter
- bladder
- testes
- vas deferens
- seminal vesicles
And some embryology of the kidneys and testes.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode is number 3 in our series of pathophysiology quiz episodes.
We cover pathophysiology topics from the following modules:
- sepsis and critical care
- nutrition
- skin and soft tissue
-  trauma
- vascular, and
- abdominal compartment syndrome

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode is number 2 in our series of pathophysiology quiz episodes.
We cover pathophysiology topics from the following modules:
- Upper GI
- Breast
- Colorectal
- Emergency
- Head and Neck

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

After the success of our Genetic Syndrome's Quiz episode, we bring you the first in a series of Pathophysiology quiz episodes!
This episode is in a question and answer format - where I ask a question and give you time to think of the answer before giving it to you.
We cover a variety of pathophysiology questions from the endocrine, small bowel, bariatric and hepatobiliary modules from the general surgery curriculum.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

After a short hiatus First Incision is back!

This episode goes through the definitions of all the conditions which may affect our critically ill surgical patients. It also goes through the pathophysiology of these conditions.
We finish off by talking a little bit about some of the medications that may be used by the ICU for these critically ill patients.

In my exam pathophysiology VIVA they asked me what the definition and diagnostic criteria for sepsis were so this is definitely examinable!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

Hi everyone! We're trying something different this week with a new format for the podcast.
This episode covers a range of genetic syndromes that we need to know for the exam.
The format is a 'call and respond' or 'question-answer' type format where I ask a question and give you a chance to see if you know the answer before telling you myself!
You might find this useful in the few months leading up to the exam to practice recalling answers, and to identify what you've forgotten and what has stuck.
Let me know what you think and if you want more like this!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

Spoiler alert - We Passed!

In this week's episode we reflect on the exam and the whole process of preparation for and actually sitting the exam. We are joined by Ben Finlay (circa the trauma podcasts) to share his experience as well!
 
We discuss:
- exam preparation
- study group
- tutorials and other resources
- the written exam
- the viva exam
- practicalities from travelling for the exam and how we structured our leave, to timing for the written questions
- the exam ceremony and life post exams!

We hope you learn something from our experience - send us any questions you have about the exam and I'll try and do another episode so you can hear from a range of people about their experience.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers retroperitoneal sarcoma. Another difficult sarcoma topic most trainees wouldn't see during their training.

This episode covers the presentation, subtypes, workup and management of these tumours.
It also features a discussion with Dr Julie Howle, a medical oncologist from Westmead Hospital who has been so helpful discussing many difficult surgical oncology topics with us. I hope you enjoy this episode and learn as much as I did!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers everything we need to know about soft tissue sarcomas.

There are so many sarcomas it can feel a bit overwhelming, so this episode breaks it down into what we need to know as general surgeons, and for the exam. It features some of my discussions on this topic with the incredible Dr Julie Howle - a surgical oncologist from Westmead Hospital in Sydney.

In particular we cover:
- soft tissue sarcoma subtypes, presentation,  workup, and management
- when to investigate a lipoma (which could be an atypical lipomatous tumour)
- and finish off with desmoids (which came up in our recent VIVA exam!!)

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode finishes our series on limb anatomy!
This is an area of anatomy which is not as frequently encountered by general surgeons so is a great topic to revise before the exam.
These episodes covered the anatomy and also the clinically and surgically relevant anatomy for each area.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode continues our series on limb anatomy.
This is an area of anatomy which is not as frequently encountered by general surgeons so is a great topic to revise before the exam.
These episodes aim to cover the anatomy and also the clinically and surgically relevant anatomy for each area.

Also happy birthday to me! :)

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode completes the upper limb component of our series on limb anatomy.
Limb anatomy is not as frequently encountered by general surgeons so is a great topic to revise before the exam.
These episodes aim to cover the anatomy and also the clinically and surgically relevant anatomy for each area.

Good Luck to everyone sitting their clinical VIVA exams this week! 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode is the second in our series on limb anatomy.
This week we cover the anatomy of the forearm and cubital fossa.
This is an area of anatomy which is not as frequently encountered by general surgeons so is a great topic to revise before the exam.
These episodes aim to cover the anatomy and also the clinically and surgically relevant anatomy for each area.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode kicks off a series on limb anatomy.
This is an area of anatomy which is not as frequently encountered by general surgeons so is a great topic to revise before the exam.
These episodes aim to cover the anatomy and also the clinically and surgically relevant anatomy for each area.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode covers the topic of aneurysmal disease from the vascular module of the general surgical curriculum.
We cover:
- definition
- classification
- pathogenesis
- risk factors
- natural history focussing on abdominal aortic aneurysms
- management

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode covers what we need to know about the diabetic foot - a favourite topic for the general surgical exam.
- background
- pathophysiology
- workup and important factors to consider
- classification systems 
- management
- some information about charcot neuroarthropathy

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers the topic of venous disease. This includes varicose veins and venous hypertension (chronic venous insufficiency).
- the epidemiology
- anatomy of lower limb veins
- pathophysiology of chronic venous htn and the consequences of this disease (haemosiderin deposition, lipodermatosclerosis and venous eczema)
- classification systems
- risk factors
- presentation
- workup
- management

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode covers everything we need to know about acute limb ischaemia.
- definition
- aetiology
- risk factors
- severity assessment
- pathophysiology
- presentation
- workup
- management
Including how to perform embolectomy and fasciotomy 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode starts us off with the vascular module of the general surgical curriculum.

We cover chronic limb ischaemia, also known as chronic arterial disease.
- definition
- presentation
- pathophysiology
- risk factors
- the rutherford classification
- workup
- severity classifications
- management 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers the sweat-gland related pathologies covered in the skin and soft tissue module:

Starting with anatomy of the sweat glands and the autonomic nervous system.
Hyperhydrosis including
- presentation
- primary and secondary causes
- management
Hydraadenitis Suppurativa
- presentation
- pathophysiology
- diagnosis
- classification
- management

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers everything you need to know about basal cell carcinoma including
- presentation
- risk factors
- histological subtypes
- poor prognostic factors
- management including topical treatments, surgery, radiotherapy and targeted treatments

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers everything you need to know about cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

- presentation
- risk factors
- premalignant lesions
- histopathology
- workup and when to stage
- grading
- TNM staging
- poor prognostic markers
- management including topical treatments, surgery, radiotherapy, systemic treatments and nodal treatment

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers the topic of Merkel Cell Carcinoma - a favourite question in the exam.  We have added the discussion we had with Dr Julie Howle onto the end of this episode. Dr Howle a surgical oncologist from Westmead Hospital who has an interest in these rare cancers.

We cover:
- background
- risk factors
- pathogenesis
- presentation
- diagnosis
- staging
- histopathology
- and management 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode welcomes our guest Dr Julie Howle who is a surgical oncologist from Westmead Hospital in Sydney.

We cover a wide range of topics related to management of melanoma including:
- precursor lesions
- whether ulceration relates to the clinical or histopathological diagnosis of ulceration
- when to perform systemic staging for melanoma
- management of in-transit and satellite lesions including whether you need do a sentinel lymph node biopsy if these are present
- sentinel lymph node biopsy
- the role of isolated limb infusion and perfusion in the era of effective systemic therapies
- a brief overview of targeted therapies and immunotherapy
- how to perform an inguinal lymph node dissection

Julie also talks to us about her incredible triathlon achievements and balancing life in surgery and as an athlete. 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode continues on from last week to discuss the management of Melanoma

This episode covers:
- wide local excision and the surgical margin
- lymph node biopsy and when to perform it, as well as a summary of the MSLT 1 and MSLT2 trials
- the role of lymphadenectomy
- the role of radiotherapy in melanoma
- systemic therapy including the targeted therapies (BRAF and MEK inhibitors), and immunotherapies (Anti-PD1, Anti-PD-L1, and CTLA-4)
- when to give adjuvant treatment
- management of in-transit and satellite lesions and some information about isolated limb perfusion and infusion
- follow-up post a diagnosis of melanoma 

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode introduces us to the topic of melanoma

We cover:
- Risk factors
- Precursor lesions
- Histopathology and important histopathological features related to poor prognosis
- Melanoma types and their appearance including superficial spreading, nodular, lentigo maligna melanoma, acral lentiginous, and desmoplastic
- Workup including excisional biopsy and when to stage patients
- Staging with AJCC 8th edition TNM staging classification
- When to perform sentinel lymph node biopsy and lymph node dissection

Keep an eye out for next week's episode where we talk about management of melanoma!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode introduces us to the topic of 'skin'. I know it seems weird that I would do an episode just on this but bear with me! The topics covered include:
- the function of the skin as an organ
- histopathology of the layers of the skin
- Fitzpatrick skin types
- history and examination of a skin lesions
- principles and pathophysiology of flaps and grafts
- topical treatments for skins cancers
Everything we need before taking a deep dive into skin cancers in the coming weeks!

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode covers the useful topics of topical haemostatic agents and anticoagulants.

We discuss principles of haemostasis, the coagulation cascade, how topical haemostatic agents work, the different classes and when to use them.
We also cover anticoagulants, the different types, how they work, when to stop them before surgery and how to reverse them if you need to quickly!

Great high yield topics for the exam.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode is co-hosted by Ben Finlay.
We cover a wide range of topics including:

Burns
- initial resuscitation including the parkland formula
- assessment of depth and extent of burns (rule of nines
- burns management
- frostbite

Blast injuries
- pathophysiology
- management

Extremity compartment syndrome and how to perform fasciotomy

The blast injury talk Ben mentioned was from the recent GSA trainees day and is accessible for general surgical trainees through the GSA website. Go to 'educational webcasts', '2021 Virtual: Trauma and Critical Care', and the Session 5 talk is by Kyle Bender on Blast Injuries.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's trauma episode is presented with our guest host Ben Finlay.

We cover hollow viscus injuries including:
- gastric
- duodenal
- small bowel
- colonic, and
- rectal injuries

We also cover pelvic trauma including:
- pelvic fractures and the Young and Burgess classification
- pelvic bleeding management including how to perform preperitoneal pelvic packing
- bladder injuries, and
- ureteric injuries including how to do a retrograde urethrogram

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This week's episode welcomes back Ben Finlay to help present abdominal trauma.

We go through:
- trauma laparotomy
- liver trauma
- splenic trauma
- pancreatic trauma
- renal trauma
- and retroperitoneal haematomas and what to do with them!
Special mentions include how to do right and left medial visceral rotations, and some operative decision making that will be super high yield for the exam.

The ANZAST (Australian and New Zealand Association for the Surgery of Trauma) has some great recordings from their grand rounds available on trauma topics which we found useful for study: https://anzast.org/anzast-trauma-grand-rounds/

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022

This episode explores blunt and penetrating neck trauma with special guest Ben Finlay.
We discuss:
Blunt cerebrovascular injury including:
- the grading system
- Denver screening criteria
- diagnosis
- management
Penetraing neck trauma
- zones of the neck
- hard and soft signs of vascular and aerodigestive tract injuries
- approaches to management including the 'zonal approach' and 'no-zone' approach
- exposures of zone I, II and II injuries
- repair of carotid and aerodigestive tract injuries
- the dreaded exposure of subclavian injuries

Links:
Kenji Inaba's talk on Subclavian Artery Injuries for the Arizona Trauma Association: https://arizonatrauma.org/subclavian-injuries/
'DSTC' is the Definitive Surgical Trauma Care course which is fantastic and we highly recommend doing if possible! https://dstc.com.au/
And the Top Knife chapter on neck trauma we mentioned is a book entitled 'Top Knife: the Art and Craft of Trauma Surgery' by Hirshberg and Mattox. Another great trauma resource.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is intended as a revision aid for the purposes of the General Surgery Fellowship Exam.
This information is not to be considered to include any recommendations or medical advice by the author or publisher or any other person. The listener should conduct and rely upon their own independent analysis of the information in this document.
The author provides no guarantees or assurances in relation to any connection between the content of this podcast and the general surgical fellowship exam.  No responsibility or liability is accepted by the author in relation to the performance of any person in the exam.  This podcast is not a substitute for candidates undertaking their own preparations for the exam.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the author or publisher or any other person as to the adequacy, accuracy, correctness, completeness or reasonableness of this information, including any statements or information provided by third parties and reproduced or referred to in this document. 
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no responsibility for any errors in or omissions from this document, whether arising out of negligence or otherwise, is accepted.
The information contained in this podcast has not been independently verified.

© Amanda Nikolic 2022