On today's minisode, Dr. Feroz Osmani reflects on his experience in interventional pain medicine at UChicago Medicine. He discusses the importance of patient selection for effective neuromodulation therapies, how patients can access optimal results, and the benefits of spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain.

He also draws upon an example from his personal life that illustrates the direct impact of neuromodulation therapies for pain management and provides practical advice for new fellows.

In this episode, Professor Konstantin Slavin reads aloud an article by Garston Liang, Alexander Thorpe, and Quentin F. Gronau, which delves into the Fragility Index (FI) and its significance in evaluating the robustness of p-value-based conclusions in clinical trials.

Key points include:

• Fragility Index (FI): Measures how many participant outcomes need to change to alter the statistical significance of results (e.g., from p < 0.05 to p > 0.05).
• Higher FI is Better: A higher FI indicates more robust conclusions, less dependent on a small number of participant changes.
• Key Considerations: Includes the alpha criterion (e.g., p < 0.05), what counts as a clinical event, and the overall sample size.

The article also addresses the importance of understanding the fragility of study results and provide insights into how FI can be used to assess the reliability of clinical trial outcomes.

Tune in to learn more about the Fragility Index and its application in medical research.

Resources:

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website
2. The Fragility Index article

Dr. Lisa Goodman, assistant professor and FWO postdoctoral researcher, discusses the importance of statistics in the medical field. Statistics is important in every facet of medicine, from evaluating the safety of new therapies to comparing treatment options in clinical trials.

We explore the role of statistics in evidence-based medicine and precision medicine and offer guidance for clinicians to improve their understanding of statistical data to help make informed decisions and develop prediction models for personalized patient care.

Dr. Heather Pinckard-Dover, a neurosurgeon specializing in neuromodulation, shares her personal journey and passion for the field, offering insight for clinicians considering neuromodulation for their career path. She discusses the immediate impact and rewards of neuromodulation in improving patients' lives while also highlighting challenges such as U.S. insurance coverage and the importance of patient selection.

Neuromodulation is the interface between the nervous system and technology, and this episode explores how it can be used to treat a wide range of conditions and how patients can benefit. From awareness and accessibility to common misconceptions and his hope for the future of the field, this episode features Professor Lawrence Poree, MD, PhD, MPH, who addresses the importance of raising awareness about neuromodulation, as it is not widely taught in medical schools, which leads to a lack of awareness among both patients and physicians.

Welcome to The Neuromodulation Podcast, presented to you by the International Neuromodulation Society. Dive into the forefront of today’s emerging neuromodulation techniques, insights, and ethical and clinical applications. Subscribe now to join the multidisciplinary collaboration of medical care providers, scientists, and engineers who are part of the global conversation that’s shaping the future of healthcare.

In this episode, Professor Konstantin Slavin reads aloud an article by Garston Liang, Quentin F. Gronau, and Alexander Thorpe which discusses the p-value, a fundamental concept in statistical analysis, and clarify what it can and cannot tell you about your data. Key points include:

• What a p-value tells you: The probability that a null hypothesis generated the observed data.
• What a p-value cannot tell you: The effect size, the quality of alternative hypotheses, the presence of an effect, details of the sampling plan, or data pre-processing steps.

The hosts explore the limitations of p-values, emphasizing the importance of understanding their context and proper usage in scientific research. Tune in to gain a deeper insight into the role of p-values in hypothesis testing and avoid common misconceptions.

Resources:

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website
2. What a P-value can and cannot tell you article

In this episode, Professor Konstantin Slavin reads aloud an article by Alexander Thorpe, Garston Liang, and Quentin F. Gronau which addresses Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves and the Area Under the Curve (AUC) in evaluating predictive models.

ROC curves help determine how well a model differentiates between two outcomes, and AUC measures model performance.

Key points covered include:

• ROC Curves: Assess model sensitivity and specificity over a range of thresholds.
• AUC: A higher AUC indicates better model performance, with values between 0.5 (chance level) and 1 (perfect performance).
• Interpreting AUC: While higher is better, what counts as a "good" AUC depends on the context.

Join us to learn how ROC curves and AUC can enhance your understanding of model effectiveness and help make more informed predictions in various fields.

Resources:

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website

2. Receiver Operating Characteristics & the Area Under the Curve article

In this episode, Professor Konstantin Slavin reads aloud an article by Alexander Thorpe, Quentin F. Gronau, and Garston Liang which explores the various types of data and the appropriate statistical tests for each. Understanding data types is crucial for designing studies and analyzing data accurately. Key points include: - Data Categories: Data is broadly categorized into numerical (quantitative) and categorical (qualitative) types. - Numerical Data: Includes discrete, continuous, and ratio data. Common in quantitative research for measuring outcomes. - Categorical Data: Divided into ordinal (with inherent order) and nominal (without order) data. Examples include age groups (ordinal) and sex (nominal). The article also provide guidance on selecting the right statistical tests based on the combination of data types, helping listeners make informed decisions in their research and data analysis. Tune in to enhance your understanding of data classification and the corresponding statistical methods, ensuring accurate and meaningful research results.

Resources:

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website
2. Types of Data and the Appropriate Tests for them article

In this episode, Prof. Konstantin Slavin reads aloud an article by Garston Liang, Quentin F. Gronau, and Alexander Thorpe which addresses the use of N-of-1 trials in neuromodulation and personalized medicine. N-of-1 trials are a powerful method for investigating treatment effects on an individual basis, making them ideal for patients with stable symptoms and chronic disorders.Key points covered include:- N-of-1 Trial Design: Involves repeated cycles of treatment and placebo, with the patient serving as their own control.- Personalization: Tailors treatment decisions to individual outcomes, offering a high level of evidence for treatment efficacy.- Double-Blinding: Ensures both patient and clinician are unaware of the treatment phase to maintain objectivity.- Crossover Design: Alternates between treatment and placebo phases, often randomized to prevent time-related biases.- Wash-In/Out Periods: Important for avoiding carry-over effects, especially in pharmaceutical interventions.The article also highlights the statistical considerations for analyzing N-of-1 trials, emphasizing the importance of proper design and analysis to ensure valid conclusions. Tune in to learn how N-of-1 trials can enhance personalized treatment strategies in neuromodulation and beyond.

Resources:

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website
2. N-of-1 Trials & Their Use in Neuromodulation

In this episode, Professor Konstantin Slavin reads aloud an article by Quentin F. Gronau, Garston Liang, and Alexander Thorpe on how to interpret risk ratios, odds ratios, and hazard ratios in clinical studies. These measures are crucial for understanding the effectiveness of treatments and the association between risk factors and outcomes.

Key points include:

• Risk Ratios: Compare the probability of an event occurring in two groups. A risk ratio less than 1 indicates reduced risk with the treatment.
• Odds Ratios: Compare the odds of an event occurring versus not occurring in two groups. Often used in logistic regression, odds ratios should not be interpreted as risk ratios unless the event risk is low.
• Hazard Ratios: Compare the instantaneous rate of an event occurring in two groups over time. They address the changing risk over different time points.

The article also discuss common misconceptions, such as misinterpreting odds ratios as risk ratios and hazard ratios as risk ratios, and provide practical advice for accurate interpretation.

Join us to gain a clearer understanding of these essential statistical tools and their applications in medical research.

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website:
2. How to Interpret Risk Ratios, Odds Ratios and Hazard Ratios

In this episode, Prof. Konstantin Slavin provides a live reading of a paper produced by Quentin F. Gronau, Garston Liang, and Alexander Thorpe that explore Bayes factors as an alternative to p-values for hypothesis testing. They explain how Bayes factors (BF10) measure evidence for an effect versus no effect, with BF10 > 1 indicating evidence for an effect, and BF10 < 1 indicating evidence against it.

The discussion highlights the advantages of Bayes factors, such as quantifying evidence for both the null and alternative hypotheses and allowing for continuous evidence monitoring. Using simple analogies, the article provides clear guidance on interpreting Bayes factors and address common misconceptions.

Join us to discover how Bayes factors can improve your understanding and interpretation of statistical data.

1. Biostatistics articles on the INS website
2. How to Interpret a Bayes Factor article

Season 1 Episode 5 of the show is available wherever you get your podcasts!

➕ Neuromodulation for Neuropathic Pain ➕

Join us as Dr. Dalia Elmofty, Associate Professor of Anesthesia and Critical Care at UChicago Medicine, delves into the transformative role of neuromodulation in the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Neuropathic pain is characterized by a disarray in pain processing and presents unique challenges. Dr. Elmofty explains how neuromodulation offers a groundbreaking approach by precisely targeting specific areas, minimizing the side effects typically associated with pharmacological methods.

Tune in now to learn about the practical challenges and considerations in implementing neuromodulation therapies and the potential of emerging technologies to further enhance patient outcomes!

• More about Dr. Elmofty
• Global Events Calendar
• Glia Study via The Arlotta Lab at Harvard University

Dr. Alexios Carayannopoulos discusses the field of neurorehabilitation and its intersection with neuromodulation, addressing topics including his approach to multidisciplinary care and the importance of effective communication between specialists, accessibility of care, the impact of cultural barriers on patient outcomes, the process of device implant trials, and the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the future of the field.

Dr. Shruti Agashe interviews section editor, Prof. Carayannopoulos, on essential tips for authors looking to submit to the INS journal, Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface. This is a excellent mini-sode for researchers and medical care providers interested in the advancement of neuromodulation through research.

Dr. Shruti Agashe interviews Dr. Rod Taylor to discuss the significance of socioeconomic factors and cost-effectiveness in neuromodulation research. They explore the policies and challenges in the UK and the US, providing key insights for authors preparing manuscripts for the journal Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface. The conversation aims to educate researchers on integrating economic considerations into clinical studies to enhance the understanding of health disparities.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, we welcome back Professor Marc Russo, Immediate Past President of the INS. Dive into his reflections and insights on research in neuromodulation and discover how to get started in this fascinating field. From his beginnings in Sydney, Australia, to establishing one of the largest multidisciplinary pain clinics globally, Professor Russo's contributions have been monumental. Tune in as he shares his thoughts on recent advancements, challenges in the field, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring researchers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode is packed with information to inspire and guide your neuromodulation research journey.

• Full Bio: ⁠https://www.neuromodulation.com/ins-board⁠
• ResearchGate: ⁠https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marc-Russo
• Hunter Pain Specialists: ⁠https://hunterpainspecialists.com.au/⁠

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, Professor Marc Russo, the Immediate Past President of the International Neuromodulation Society, shares his reflections on his three-year tenure, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and advancements in the field of neuromodulation. From the implementation of closed-loop monitoring techniques to navigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Prof. Russo provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of neuromodulation. Tune in to learn about the ethical considerations of emerging technologies, the importance of mentorship, and beyond.

• Full Bio: https://www.neuromodulation.com/ins-board
• ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marc-Russo
• Hunter Pain Specialists: https://hunterpainspecialists.com.au/

Dr. Shruti Agashe interviews Dr. Kristl Vonck, a leading expert in vagus nerve stimulation an Head of Department, Head and Skin at  Ghent University. Dr. Vonck shares her insights on the current and upcoming research in vagus nerve stimulation, including overcoming unexpected research findings, and the challenges and triumphs of her research.

Dr. Shruti Agashe interviews Dr. Lisa Goudman, an Assistant Professor at Vrije University in Brussels and Section Editor for Biostatistics at the journal Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface. Dr. Goudman shares essential biostatistics tips for researchers preparing to submit their articles to journals, discusses the role of AI in neuromodulation research, and addresses the importance of transparency and reproducibility in research methodologies.

This live recording features Neurotech Business Report Editor, James Cavuoto, presenting the opening session of the 2024 Neurotech Leaders Forum in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Cavuoto covers recent advancements, major industry events, market trends, regulatory approvals, and the latest scientific research in neurotechnology.

The Neurotech Leaders Forum is a two day neurotechnology conference that offers a unique space for industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to connect.

Sessions cover topics such as advancements in neuromodulation, neuroprosthetics, neurodiagnostics and more, with a focus on practical applications like brain computer interfaces and stroke rehabilitation devices.

Learn more: Neurotech Leaders Forum

Learn more: Neurotech Business Report

Professor Robert Levy is a distinguished neurosurgeon, Past President of the International Neuromodulation Society and Editor-in-Chief of Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface. In this episode, he shares insights the importance of originality, peer review, ethical considerations, and key components of a well-prepared manuscript when submitting to a medical journal. He also discusses the evolving landscape of medical publishing, the significance of high-quality research, and technological advancements in the field.

Recommended Reading:

Storytelling with Data

Check out the journal:

Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface

Credentials

Robert M. Levy, M.D., Ph.D. Professor of Neurosurgery, Physiology and Radiation Oncology (ret) Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University Past President, International Neuromodulation Society Editor-in-Chief, Neuromodulation:Technology at the Neural Interface

Editorial Office

Ms. Mary Price Managing Editor Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface

Contact: mprice@neuromodulation.com

In this episode of The Neuromodulation Podcast, we're joined by renowned pain medicine pioneer Dr. Peter Staats, who has authored over five hundred articles, abstracts, and book chapters, and his esteemed clinical mentee and researcher with numerous publications, Dr. Sean Lee. Learn tactics to develop a strong referral network, effective communication with referrers, and integration of advanced clinical practices. Listeners will also gain insights into the latest research, patient selection, and the future of neuromodulation in addressing chronic pain.

Don't miss this engaging conversation that highlights the multidisciplinary collaboration essential for advancing healthcare.

Subscribe now to stay updated with cutting-edge insights from the world of neuromodulation.

• More on Dr. Staats
• More on Dr. Li

In this episode of The Neuromodulation Podcast, we welcome Pamela Binkley, a 74-year-old chronic pain patient, and her daughter, Dr. Trissa Babrowski, an expert in vascular surgery at UChicago Medicine. Pamela shares her challenging journey with chronic pain and the life-changing decision to have a spinal cord stimulator implant. Pamela recounts her struggles with debilitating pain and the trials of various treatments before finding relief through neuromodulation. Her daughter, Dr. Babrowski, provides insights from a medical perspective and emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary care and non-pharmaceutical pain management options. Tune in to gain perspectives on the patient and caregiver experience, the significance of mental health in managing chronic pain, and the evolving landscape of pain management technologies.

In this episode of The Neuromodulation Podcast, we welcome Dr. Alexios Carayannopoulos and Dr. Sean Li. They discuss their experiences and insights on mentorship and leadership in the field of neuromodulation, including the development of the global INS Mentorship Program as part of the INS Young Neuromodulators Committee. The conversation delves into the importance of mentorship, early career challenges, and guidance for budding neuromodulators.

• Learn about the INS Mentorship Program
• Learn about the INS Young Neuromodulators Committee

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, we're honored to sit down with Professor Konstantin Slavin, the newly appointed President of the International Neuromodulation Society. Join us as Prof. Slavin delves into his impressive career, from his early days in medical school in the Soviet Union to his current role at the forefront of neuromodulation innovation. He shares insights on the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, the advancements in neuromodulation technology, and the challenges he anticipates in his new role. We also explore how neuromodulation is transforming healthcare, the ethical considerations of new technologies like artificial intelligence, and his vision for the future of the field. Don’t miss this deep dive into the life and work of one of neuromodulation’s leading figures.

In this inspiring podcast episode, Prof. Marc Russo speaks to Prof. Dirk De Ridder about the curiosity and clinical challenges that led him from medical school into neurosurgery, and ultimately to pioneering work in neuromodulation.

Prof. De Ridder recounts how a key insight combined with the idea of “mimicking nature,” led to the development of an innovation. What started as a solution for tinnitus grew, through collaboration, into broader applications in pain and spinal cord therapy.

The discussion goes beyond technology, exploring how creativity actually works and also offers a practical perspective on turning ideas into impact.

In the latest episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, we hear from INS President Prof. Konstantin Slavin on why facial pain is uniquely complex and why accurate diagnosis is critical before considering neuromodulation. 

The conversation highlights key stimulation targets while also exploring programming challenges and the future potential of AI and closed-loop systems.

Don’t miss this focused discussion on clinical decision-making, patient selection, and where neuromodulation fits in the facial pain treatment pathway.

Welcome to the Neuromodulation Podcast by the International Neuromodulation Society. In this episode, host Prof. Marc Russo sits down with Prof. Sam Eldabe to explore what it means to challenge orthodoxy in medicine. 

Their conversation delves into the value of questioning long held assumptions and the risks of rigid thinking in medical practice. Together, they explore how critical reflection and a willingness to think differently can open the door to innovation in neuromodulation and beyond.

If you’re interested in the intersection of science, curiosity, and progress in medicine, this episode offers insights that can challenge and inspire.

In this episode of The Neuromodulation Podcast, we present part three of our series featuring Dr. Christopher Honey and his patient, Larry Gifford of PD Avengers, in a deeply insightful conversation about the clinician-patient relationship in the context of neuromodulation therapy for Parkinson's disease. Focused on deep brain stimulation (DBS), they discuss patient education, the decision-making process, and the journey through pre and post-operative care. The episode highlights the collaborative nature of healthcare and provides guidance for both patients considering neuromodulation and physicians aiming to support their patients effectively. Join us as we explore Larry's care experience, the detailed surgical process, and the advancements in DBS technology.

Learn more about PD Avengers

Explore the Deep Brain Stimulation playlist on Spotify

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, we continue our three-part series exploring Parkinson’s disease and deep brain stimulation (DBS).

Our guest, Larry Gifford, offers a powerful and honest account on living with Parkinson’s and his decision to undergo DBS therapy. He shares the realities of diagnosis, the challenges faced along the way, and the physical and emotional impact of neuromodulation.

Whether you’re a patient, a family member, or a healthcare professional, Larry’s story provides insights that enrich the broader conversation around Parkinson’s care and deep brain stimulation.

For more of Larry’s personal journey and insights into living with Parkinson’s, listen to his podcast, When Life Gives You Parkinson’s, available on Apple Podcasts.

Welcome to Season 2 of the Neuromodulation Podcast! Host Mandi Soleil sits down with Dr. Christopher Honey, a leading expert in neuromodulation, to launch a three-part series exploring advances in neuromodulation for Parkinson’s disease.

In this episode, Dr. Christopher Honey talks about the potential of deep brain stimulation (DBS) to address Parkinson’s disease symptoms, current trends in neuromodulation, and how he keeps pace with technological advancements in the field.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil speaks with Dr. Natty Oranicha Jumreornvong whose multidisciplinary work spans medicine, technology, writing, and media consulting. Dr. Jumreornvong shares what led her to specialize in rehabilitation and interventional pain, and to building AI and VR tools for both trainee procedure simulation and patient pain management with multilingual access and ethical safeguards. The conversation also covers neuromodulation’s role in her practice, barriers to adoption among diverse populations, and efforts to make AI and treatment recommendations more transparent.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, Prof. Marc Russo speaks with Dr. Kiran Patel about the state of gender balance in neuromodulation and how overt and subtle biases can influence training, confidence, and career progression. They discuss how concerns around fluoroscopy exposure and challenging workplace environments may deter women from entering the field.

Dr. Patel highlights the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and proactive inclusion efforts, and shares insights on local and international opportunities for structured mentorship and career development support. 

The conversation also explores global variations in barriers and the value of diverse perspectives in strengthening patient care and scientific advancement.

Don’t miss this timely and thoughtful discussion on building a more inclusive and resilient neuromodulation community.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Prof. Marc Russo speaks with Prof. Jean-Pierre Van Buyten to explore the evolution of intrathecal therapy over the past 30 years.

Prof. Van Buyten reflects on his journey from the early days of pain management to the modern advancements shaping neuromodulation today. Discover the implications of microdosing and learn about the critical importance of organized service delivery and interdisciplinary collaboration for optimal patient outcomes.

Tune in for an in-depth exploration of the advancements shaping the future of neuromodulation and pain management.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil is in conversation with Dr. Julie Pilitsis, who shares her remarkable journey into medicine and the field of neuromodulation.

Dr. Pilitsis shares insights on her roles as a clinician, mentor, and educator, and highlights the advances and challenges in neuromodulation therapies. This in-depth interview also touches on navigating career barriers, gender diversity in the field and the evolution of the field.

Tune in now to gain valuable perspectives on strategies for time management, leadership, and team building in both clinical and research settings.

This episode was recorded during The 16th INS World Congress (INS2024) in Vancouver, Canada. At the time, Dr. Konstantin Slavin was President-Elect.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Prof. Marc Russo and Prof. Frank Huygen delve into the complexities of running an academic neuromodulation and pain department. 

Prof. Huygen discusses the multifaceted responsibilities of a departmental head, and shares insights on the work-life balance conundrum, securing research funding, and transitioning leadership roles in academic settings. 

Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on the challenges and rewards of leading in the field of neuromodulation.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil speaks with Rachel Whipp, a registered nurse at Hunter Pain Specialists in Newcastle, Australia.

Rachel shares her 20-year nursing journey, including a decade of experience in neuromodulation, and offers an insider’s perspective on the field.

You’ll hear about the multidisciplinary care approach for patients undergoing spinal cord stimulation, the processes involved in supporting patients and the importance of continued education, mentorship, and international support network for enhancing patient outcomes.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the critical role nurses play in supporting patients with chronic pain and contributing to the evolving field of neuromodulation.

This episode was recorded while Professor Marc Russo was serving as the INS President.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, Prof. Marc Russo is joined by Dr. Lisa Goudman to explore the crucial role of statistics in clinical research and neuromodulation.

The discussion covers the fundamental aspects of statistical analysis, the interpretation of raw data, and the practical application of biostatistics in clinical settings. Dr. Goudman provides insights into the use of number needed to treat, odds ratios, and meta-analysis, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach combining both medical and statistical expertise.

For researchers and clinicians alike, this episode offers valuable advice on improving statistical knowledge and applying it effectively in their work.

Resources mentioned on the show:

Biostatistics in Neuromodulation

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil is joined by Dr. Erkan Kurt and medical student Linda Kollenburg for an in-depth discussion on the transformative power of effective mentorship. You’ll hear about their collaborative work and how curiosity and guidance can drive innovation. 

The conversation delves into the importance of early research experience, the nuances of mentorship relationships, and what the future holds for neuromodulation technologies. 

Whether you’re a student, researcher, or just curious about the future of neuromodulation, this episode is full of inspiration and practical takeaways. Connect with Linda on LinkedIn: Linda Kollenburg | LinkedIn