TopMedTalk
TopMedTalk for the latest medical news surrounding Anaesthesia, Perioperative Care and Enhanced Recovery. Live updates from conferences; Journal Club; Techno Talk and Hot-Topic podcasts. Continuing Medical Education (CME) on the go
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Perioperative Medicine Policy, Regions, and Integrated Care Boards: Localising a National Strategy
03/16/2026
Perioperative Medicine Policy, Regions, and Integrated Care Boards: Localising a National Strategy
At the Royal College of Anaesthetists’ Centre for Perioperative Care (CPOC) Perioperative Leads Day in London, host Andy Cumpstey speaks with James White, a perioperative medicine clinician (and qualified general practitioner) working within the NHS in Cheshire and Merseyside, serving as Clinical Lead for Perioperative Medicine and contributing to national improvement work with the Centre for Perioperative Care, Simon Rang, consultant anaesthetist at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Trust who also contributes to national healthcare improvement work including with the Centre for Perioperative Care, and Denny Levett, Director of the Centre for Perioperative Care, and a Professor of Perioperative Medicine and Critical Care and Consultant at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Southampton. The conversation covers how UK perioperative medicine policy is implemented through evolving NHS structures. They explain the relationship between national policy (Department of Health, NHS England) and delivery via regions, integrated care boards (ICBs), and local trusts, emphasizing integrated pathways spanning primary and secondary care, particularly post-COVID. James outlines five core requirements: early perioperative screening, proactive optimization/prehabilitation, maintaining health while waiting, listing patients only when medically fit, and shared decision-making. The guests discuss how regional and ICB networks share solutions, address variation and barriers (including finances and culture), and use CPOC guidance and resources alongside initiatives like GIRFT to support consistent implementation. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Adrian Gelb on Neuroanesthesia, Global Patient Safety, and WFSA-WHO International Standards
03/09/2026
Adrian Gelb on Neuroanesthesia, Global Patient Safety, and WFSA-WHO International Standards
At the ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 meeting in San Antonio, TopMedTalk hosts Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie interviewed Professor of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care at University of California, San Francisco, Adrian Gelb, this year’s Ellison Pierce Lecturer. Dr Gelb recounts training in South Africa, work in England and Canada, and how he was steered into neuroanesthesia at a high-volume cerebral aneurysm center, becoming engaged by understanding surgical outcomes and encouraging trainees to learn the operative field. He describes developing global health interests, joining the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) through Alan Merry and others, and progressing from the patient safety committee to WFSA president. Gelb outlines updating WFSA standards with WHO involvement, emphasizing additive “minimum” requirements (e.g., oxygenation and pulse oximetry) and clarifying differences among policies, guidelines, and legally binding standards, urging implementation-focused sequencing. He also highlights AI’s potential to advance decision-making, documentation, data, and feedback. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Postoperative Care, Communication, Failure to Rescue, AI Monitoring, and Robotics with ASGBI Leaders
03/05/2026
Postoperative Care, Communication, Failure to Rescue, AI Monitoring, and Robotics with ASGBI Leaders
Andy Cumpstey is joined by Christian Macutkiewicz Consultant General, HPB and Hernia Surgeon at Manchester Royal Infirmary, Director of The Gallstone Clinic and Manchester Hernia at Spire Manchester Hospital and the incoming President of the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland, and Dimitris Damaskos Consultant General Surgeon within the Department of Surgery at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (NHS Lothian), Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh. They discuss the postoperative period as a critical part of the perioperative journey, emphasizing the importance of clear postoperative communication, reassurance even after “successful” operations, and explaining complications and expected recovery timelines. They highlight challenges in recognizing deterioration, including reduced reliance on clinical examination skills among junior doctors and the systems-based concept of “failure to rescue,” arguing that consistent ward-based recognition systems and high-volume units help detect complications earlier. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways are cited, including using day-3 CRP thresholds to trigger CT imaging for early detection of anastomotic leak. They note post-COVID pressures to clear surgical backlogs have increased situations where patients are operated on by surgeons who did not initially see them, potentially weakening trust and continuity when complications occur, and they discuss flattening hierarchy so trainees can do ward rounds with consultant support. The conversation covers future technology, including AI for risk stratification and imaging interpretation, and remote continuous vital-sign monitoring, while acknowledging data governance challenges and potential deskilling. The episode closes with a discussion of robotic surgery: improved optics and precision and usefulness for more complex cases (including abdominal wall reconstruction), but with concerns about cost, rollout, training implications, and differing adoption between the UK, US, and New Zealand. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Addressing Drug Allergy Labels: Insights and Implications
03/02/2026
Addressing Drug Allergy Labels: Insights and Implications
In this episode of TopMedTalk, hosted by Andy Cumpstey at the anaesthesia research meeting in Birmingham, we dive into drug allergy and its mislabeling with Louise Savic, consultant anaesthetist and NIHR doctoral researcher at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK, who specialises in drug allergy and peri-operative anaphylaxis, and Tom Abbott, clinical senior lecturer in anaesthesia and peri-operative medicine at Queen Mary University of London, UK, and a consultant anaesthetist whose research uses clinical epidemiology and trials to improve surgical outcomes and reduce peri-operative complications. The discussion highlights the vast disparity between true drug allergies and mislabeling, emphasizing that around 90-95% of penicillin allergy labels are incorrect. Dr. Savic shares her journey in drug allergy research, focusing on the perioperative setting, while Dr. Abbott discusses the linkage between antimicrobial prescribing and resistance. The talk covers results from the Sapphire Project, revealing the high incidence of mislabeled drug allergies and their associated increased postoperative risks. The episode also explores potential strategies for 'de-labeling' patients, the role of multidisciplinary collaboration, and the next steps in research and practice change. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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The Challenges of AI in Healthcare: A Conversation with Dr. Joe Alderman
02/26/2026
The Challenges of AI in Healthcare: A Conversation with Dr. Joe Alderman
Andy Cumpstey welcomes Joseph Alderman, a clinical lecturer in anaesthesia at the University of Birmingham, to discuss the hurdles AI faces in the healthcare sector. Dr. Alderman, who has a background in cell biology and immunometabolism, shares his insights into why AI technologies often fail to reach patients. He identifies three primary challenges: misalignment between AI development and healthcare needs, inadequate resourcing, and premature solution-oriented thinking. The conversation also touches on the importance of involving patients and clinicians in the AI development process and an exciting new initiative by Dr. Alderman’s team to create a health chatbot user guide. The episode concludes with a look into regulatory challenges and the need for better patient empowerment and risk management in AI-driven healthcare. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Perioperative Profiles: Professor Michelle Chew on seizing opportunities in Anaesthesia, research, editing, and guideline work
02/23/2026
Perioperative Profiles: Professor Michelle Chew on seizing opportunities in Anaesthesia, research, editing, and guideline work
Michelle Chew is a Professor of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine at Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden, and editor for the British Journal of Anaesthesia. Hear her sharing her Perioperative Profile on TopMedTalk with Andy Cumpstey. After initial anaesthesia training in Denmark, she moved to Lund University, Sweden, combining clinical work and research, later establishing her own experimental haemodynamics group studying septic and haemorrhagic shock and myocardial changes. She balances academic and family life by prioritizing rather than seeking “life balance,” noting challenges for women in academia despite Scandinavian support. She explains journal editing—from rapid assessment, literature checks, peer review coordination, to feedback synthesis—and entered the field via the European Journal of Anaesthesiology, later serving at BJA and other journals. She also describes developing clinical guidelines, emphasizing expert panels, systematic reviews, consensus, and local adaptation, with involvement in Scandinavian and European anesthesia societies. Throughout, she highlights lessons from mentors and family, especially her grandmother, stresses taking opportunities and putting in the work, and emphasizes that science and clinical medicine ultimately serve patients. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Advancing Patient-Centered Monitoring Outcomes ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
02/19/2026
Advancing Patient-Centered Monitoring Outcomes ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025, the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), and Desiree Chappell hosts Professor Michael Scott from the University of Rochester and Dr Wael Saasouh, director of research for NorthStar Anesthesia. The discussion centers on the evolution of patient-centered monitoring, the importance of continuous hemodynamic monitoring, and the broader implications of hemodynamic instability. The guests delve into their recent consensus paper with the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation and highlight the need for more comprehensive monitoring technologies that are accessible and cost-effective. The conversation also explores international collaborations, differences in practice settings (academic vs. private), and the future of enhanced recovery and post-operative care. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025: Surgical Site Infections, Oxygen Therapy, and Thermoregulation
02/16/2026
Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025: Surgical Site Infections, Oxygen Therapy, and Thermoregulation
Desiree Chappell, Kate Leslie, and Mike Grocott welcome Harriet W. Hopf, a physician-scientist and professor of anesthesiology and adjunct professor of biomedical engineering at the University of Utah, UK. Dr Hopf is known for her leadership in academic governance, medical education, and healthcare research. She shares insights on her distinguished career focusing on surgical site infections and faculty development. We discuss pivotal research on the importance of oxygen in wound healing, mechanisms behind surgical site infections, and the significance of maintaining normothermia during surgery. The conversation also touches on the impact of thermoregulation, volume status, and the use of oxygen in improving patient outcomes. Dr. Hopf emphasizes the necessity of hand hygiene and proper surgical practices to mitigate infections. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Understanding Medical Errors: Cognitive Basis and Systemic Solutions at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
02/12/2026
Understanding Medical Errors: Cognitive Basis and Systemic Solutions at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
This piece takes us to The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) annual meeting in San Antonio, ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 where Andy Cumpstey is joined by co-host Desiree Chappell and guest Dr Joyce A. Wahr — Professor Emeritus of Anesthesiology at the University of Minnesota Medical School (Minneapolis, USA) and former Executive Medical Director of Perioperative Services at M Health Fairview and Vice-Chair for Quality & Safety. Joyce shares her journey from surgery residency to becoming a cardiac and thoracic anesthesiologist, and her involvement in patient safety. She discusses her Severinghaus Lecture titled 'It's Not Your Fault: The Cognitive Basis of Error,' discussing how subconscious processes generate errors beyond our control, and how we can implement barriers to prevent these errors from harming patients. The conversation delves into the cognitive mechanisms behind errors, the importance of system-level protections, and the role of technology in enhancing patient safety. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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The Impact and Intricacies of Peer Review: Insights from BJA Editorial Fellows
02/09/2026
The Impact and Intricacies of Peer Review: Insights from BJA Editorial Fellows
Kate Leslie and Andy Cumpstey join special guests at the British Journal of Anaesthesia’s annual meeting in Dublin, Ireland. The discussion focuses on the experiences and motivations of three BJA editorial fellows; Allison Janda, Anesthesiologist and Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan; Brett Doleman, clinical academic and anaesthetist from the University of Nottingham; and Christina Boncyk, critical care anesthesiologist and Associate Professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The conversation delves into their roles, the peer review process, and the mentorship that shapes their contributions to medical science. They emphasize the importance of constructive feedback, scientific rigor, and encouraging participation from new reviewers. The episode underscores the professional growth afforded by editorial roles and highlights ways to enhance the author and reviewer experience in academic publishing.
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Advancing Perioperative Screening
02/05/2026
Advancing Perioperative Screening
Andy Cumpstey discusses the significance of perioperative screening in improving patient outcomes with three experts from the field: Helen Andersen from University Hospitals Plymouth, Ruth de La Casas from Norfolk Norwich University Hospitals, and Neelaksi Desai from the Golden Jubilee National Hospital in Glasgow. They delve into the challenges and advancements in preoperative screening methods, with a particular focus on digital approaches and interdisciplinary cooperation. Key themes include optimizing patient care through early assessments, leveraging digital tools for efficient triage, and overcoming obstacles such as funding and system fragmentation. The discussion also highlights the importance of collaboration between primary and secondary care and the potential of digital solutions to streamline the screening process. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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The Role of AI in Anaesthesia: Insights from James Bowness
02/02/2026
The Role of AI in Anaesthesia: Insights from James Bowness
In today’s TopMedTalk Andy Cumpstey interviews James Bowness, consultant anaesthetist, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and an Honorary Associate Professor of Anaesthesia at University College London (UCL), at Anaesthesia Research 2025 in Birmingham. They discuss the definition and scope of AI, its applications in healthcare, and its potential to improve medical practices. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clinicians' involvement in the development and implementation of AI technologies. It also highlights ongoing efforts to identify and address key clinical problems through multidisciplinary collaboration, aiming to advance AI's role in anaesthesia, preoperative medicine, and acute pain management. The conversation underscores the need for a strategic, coordinated approach to integrate AI into healthcare effectively. -- Join us at Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London. Be part of a global conversation as clinicians from around the world gather between 7-9th July at the British Library in London. Three days of evidence-based perioperative medicine, global insights, and expert debate—featuring speakers including Michael Marmot and Ken Rockwood. Register here -
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Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025: Enhancing Research and Publishing in Obstetric Anesthesia
01/29/2026
Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025: Enhancing Research and Publishing in Obstetric Anesthesia
ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025, Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie speak with Ruthi Landau, Virginia Apgar, Professor of Anesthesiology, Columbia University Medical Center and recently appointed editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia. The conversation dives deep into the importance of writing, reviewing, and publishing high-quality research. Dr. Landau highlights the significance of addressing relevant research questions, improving patient outcomes, and the evolving landscape of scientific publishing. The episode also explains strategies for reviewers and authors aiming to contribute impactful studies and the value of editorials in contextualizing research. The discussion concludes with the importance of social media and digital tools in disseminating and engaging with published content. -- Super Early Bird registration is now open for The Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London, but it ends on 31 January! We are right now offering the best available rates to attend the Congress. We encourage you to register early and take advantage of this opportunity while you still can. Register here -
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Perioperative Profile, Lee Fleisher
01/26/2026
Perioperative Profile, Lee Fleisher
Andy Cumpstey takes the chair to speak with Professor Lee Fleischer, Emeritus Professor of Anesthesia and Critical Care at the University of Pennsylvania and the former Chief Medical Officer and Director of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Lee shares his remarkable journey, from his early interest in science and medicine to his pivotal roles in clinical research, healthcare policy, and national advisory boards. He discusses his efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of balancing professional commitments with family life, and his ongoing passion for advancing evidence-based perioperative practice. The conversation also explores his work with the CMS, contributions to healthcare policy, and his future aspirations. -- Super Early Bird registration is now open for The Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London, but it ends on 31 January! We are right now offering the best available rates to attend the Congress. We encourage you to register early and take advantage of this opportunity while you still can. Register here -
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The Role of Social Media in Scientific Dissemination with Tom Abbott, BJA
01/22/2026
The Role of Social Media in Scientific Dissemination with Tom Abbott, BJA
Kate Leslie and Andy Cumpstey report from the British Journal of Anaesthesia meeting held in Dublin, Ireland. They are joined by guest Tom Abbott, a clinical senior lecturer in anaesthesia and social media editor for the BJA. We discuss the growing importance of social media in scientific communication, the impact of alternative metrics such as altmetrics, and the operational challenges of maintaining a presence across various social media platforms. The conversation also touches on platform trials in clinical research, where Abbott highlights his current research initiatives, including trials on ibuprofen for postoperative pain and high-flow nasal oxygen. -- Super Early Bird registration is now open for The Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) World Congress 2026 in London, but it ends on 31 January! We are right now offering the best available rates to attend the Congress. We encourage you to register early and take advantage of this opportunity while you still can. Register here -
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Leadership and Value: Insights from NorthStar Anesthesia
01/19/2026
Leadership and Value: Insights from NorthStar Anesthesia
Desiree Chapell hosts an insightful discussion featuring colleagues from NorthStar Anesthesia; Dr. Josh Lumley, Chief Quality Officer at NorthStar Anesthesia, Adam Spiegel, Chief Executive Officer of NorthStar Anesthesia and Romeo Kaddoum, Chief Medical Officer, NorthStar Anesthesia We delve into the impacts of workforce issues, hospital financials, the value of outsourced anesthesia services, and the importance of leadership and clinical engagement at NorthStar Anesthesia. The discussion also covers their commitment to providing clinicians with growth opportunities and ensuring a high level of patient care.
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Exploring Viscoelastic Testing and Patient Blood Management at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
01/15/2026
Exploring Viscoelastic Testing and Patient Blood Management at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
Desiree Chappell and Mike Grocott are joined by Klaus Gorlinger, Medical Director at TEM Innovations GmbH in Munich, Germany at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025. This conversation focuses on patient blood management (PBM) and viscoelastic testing (VET) delving into the significance of VET in managing bleeding during surgeries, the evolution of testing techniques, and their impact on patient outcomes. Klaus explains the importance of whole blood testing over standard coagulation tests and discusses different protocols and global practices around this technology. The conversation also highlights the economic benefits of reducing unnecessary blood transfusions and improving patient care through advanced hemostasis testing. Further reading: “Last year at the ASA, we presented a poster, about the need to analyze what does changing from just to transfuse by a goal direct approach on mortality in cardiac surgery. And it reduces mortality by 47%" Reference: Goerlinger K, Petricevic M, Lier H, Karkouti K. Effect of Viscoelastic Testing on Mortality in Cardiovascular Surgery, Lung Transplant, and ECMO: A Meta-Analysis. (Abstract 2050). The Anesthesiology Annual Meeting; Oct 19, 2024, Philadelphia, USA. .
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Unraveling the Autonomic Nervous System's Role in Exercise and Surgical Outcomes
01/12/2026
Unraveling the Autonomic Nervous System's Role in Exercise and Surgical Outcomes
Recorded in Dublin, Ireland, and hosted by The British Journal of Anaesthesia at their annual meeting, this week’s TopMedTalk focuses on translational research. Presented by Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie with their guest Professor Gareth Ackland Clinical Professor of Perioperative Medicine at the William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL). The conversation delves into the autonomic nervous system's role in exercise capacity and its implications for postoperative outcomes. Why specifically does exercise help? Professor Ackland explains groundbreaking work involving neural control, genetic modifications, and translational models, shedding light on how parasympathetic function affects fitness and recovery from surgery. The conversation underscores the importance of personalized medicine and mechanistic research in understanding human physiology and improving clinical practices. It also explains why anaesthesia journals publish high quality translational studies as well as clinical research.
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Optimizing Pediatric Blood Health: Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
01/05/2026
Optimizing Pediatric Blood Health: Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 in San Antonio, TopMedTalk’s Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie talks with Susan Goobie, Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at Harvard Medical School and a Senior Associate in the Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Medicine at Boston Children's Hospital in Boston, USA. They discuss the specialty of non-cardiac pediatric surgery and her focus on patient blood management. Dr Goobie highlights the importance of 'blood health,' describing its three pillars: preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases. She emphasizes preoperative anemia management, particularly in children, and shares strategies like iron supplementation and erythropoietin use. The discussion also covers key research papers on blood management and the practical applications of these strategies. BJA 2025; 135:375-81. doi: 10.1016/j.bja.2025.04.050 BJA Open 2025; 13:100372. doi: 10.016/j.bjao.2024.100372
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Perioperative Profile, Steven Shafer
12/29/2025
Perioperative Profile, Steven Shafer
Perioperative Profiles is a new series on TopMedTalk. We aim to continue to release a profile each month, spotlighting the professional — and personal — journeys of leading perioperative practitioners and researchers. Each month we talk to a prominent figure in perioperative medicine, exploring how they came into the field, what shaped their careers, key challenges and successes, and how their work has contributed to evidence-based perioperative practice. Steven Shafer is a world renowned Emeritus Professor of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Stanford University Medical Center. In this episode of Top Med Talk, recorded live at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025, Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie discuss Dr. Shafer’s incredible career in anesthesia. Hear about the journey from software engineering to being a pivotal figure in anesthetic pharmacology and becoming involved in a trial involving one of the world’s most iconic pop stars. Shafer speaks about his groundbreaking work in drug research, the mentorship of Donald Stanski, and his pride in the achievements of his fellows. The episode also delves into his tenure as the editor-in-chief of Anesthesia & Analgesia, uncovering major fraudulent research cases, and culminates with his expert testimony in the highly publicized Michael Jackson case. A blend of professional insights and personal stories, highlighting the challenges and triumphs in the field of anesthesia. If you enjoyed this piece why not explore TopMedTalk’s archive? We have over 2000+ unique podcasts covering the last seven years of perioperative medicine news and research. Start with one of these from the Perioperative Profiles series: Paul Myles: Ramani Moonesinghe: Kate Leslie: Monty Mythen:
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Exploring the Future of Perioperative Care: Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
12/22/2025
Exploring the Future of Perioperative Care: Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
Desiree Chappell is joined by Mike Grocott, Sol Aronson, and their guest Guy Ludbrook, Professor of Anaesthesia at the University of Adelaide, at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. The discussion covers exciting developments in perioperative medicine, focusing on the Perioperative Quality Initiative (POQI) and the newly coined term 'Enhanced Postoperative Care Units' (EPOCH), a new initiative aiming to bridge the gap between ward care and intensive care by providing specialized care for medium-risk postoperative patients. The guests share their experiences and insights, including ongoing projects, the impact of advanced monitoring technology, and the potential future of perioperative care globally. They also preview upcoming events, like the World Congress of Anesthesiology and the first World Congress of Enhanced Postoperative Care.
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Insights into Paediatric Cardiac Anaesthesia: EBPOM Dingle
12/15/2025
Insights into Paediatric Cardiac Anaesthesia: EBPOM Dingle
From the Evidence-based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) Conference in Dingle, Ireland, Desiree Chappell and Sol Aronson are joined by Alex Mittnacht, President and Founding Director, International Academy of Cardiac Anaesthesiologists (IACA), and Vice Chair of Anesthesiology and Chief of Pediatric and Adult Cardiac Anesthesia at Westchester Medical Center, New York, USA. Dr Mittnacht shares his fascinating professional journey and delves into the intricacies of paediatric cardiac anaesthesia, including its evolving training pathways, workforce challenges, and the increasing demands for specialized care. Discover how multidisciplinary care and the proper training of anaesthesiologists are crucial for effective patient management, particularly for those with congenital heart disease. What is future of this essential medical specialty?
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Innovations in Anesthesia: GE Healthcare's Advanced Solutions at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
12/08/2025
Innovations in Anesthesia: GE Healthcare's Advanced Solutions at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
Desiree Chappell and Sol Aronson discuss innovations in anesthesia at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 with Brandon Henak, Global Marketing Director, Monitoring Solutions at GE Healthcare and John W Beard, Chief Medical Officer at GE Healthcare - Patient Care Solutions. They unveil GE's new premium anesthesia platform designed for both current and future needs, emphasizing enhanced workflow, patient safety, and adaptable technology. The conversation highlights the platform's advanced features, including a dual compute architecture, innovative vaporization system, and digital solutions for improved perioperative care. Find out more here: Listen to more of John W Beard here: And find more of Brandon Henak here:
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Exciting news from Desiree Chappell
12/04/2025
Exciting news from Desiree Chappell
A bittersweet moment for us, as the wonderful Desiree Chappell moves on to a fantastic new role in industry, after many years in the role of managing editor and anchor for TopMedTalk. This piece was recorded at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 the annual general meeting of The American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) in Chicago. Presented by Andy Cumpstey, Mike Grocott and Kate Leslie with their guest Desiree Chappell. Please make sure you are subscribed to TopMedTalk and find us on social media so we can connect online.
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Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025: New Guidelines for Anesthesiology in Older Adults
12/01/2025
Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025: New Guidelines for Anesthesiology in Older Adults
Join Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie in this broadcast from the ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 meeting. They welcome guests Stacie G. Deiner, an anesthesiologist, professor and vice-chair for research at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Mark D. Neuman, anesthesiologist and Horatio C. Wood Professor of Anesthesiology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. We discuss the new ASA guidelines for older adults. The episode delves into the development, significant recommendations, and implementation of these guidelines, emphasizing the importance of preoperative evaluation and the choice of anesthesia technique. Mark and Stacie also highlight ongoing research and the future of perioperative care for older adults. This conversation underscores the role of shared decision-making and proactive health measures in improving surgical outcomes. The ASA guideline can be found here: The REGAIN study can be found here:
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Perioperative Profile Monty Mythen
11/24/2025
Perioperative Profile Monty Mythen
Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie welcome Professor Monty Mythen to his Perioperative Profile. Recorded at the 2025 Evidence Based Perioperative Medicine (EBPOM) meeting in Dingle, Ireland. Monty discusses his fascinating career, from his childhood in London to becoming Professor of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care at University College London. He notes his involvement in founding EBPOM and his role at BD Advanced Patient Monitoring. The conversation covers Monty's groundbreaking research on gut perfusion and multiple organ failure, his high-altitude research expeditions to Mount Everest, and his transition to a role in the healthcare industry. He shares insights on the intricate process of medical device approval. The episode is a deep dive into the experiences and achievements of a leading medical mind.
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Nitrous Oxide as a Treatment for Severe Depression: Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
11/17/2025
Nitrous Oxide as a Treatment for Severe Depression: Insights from ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
Andy Cumpstey and Kate Leslie at ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. They interview Peter Nagele, professor of anesthesiology at the University of Chicago, about his groundbreaking trial on the use of nitrous oxide as a treatment for severe depression. The trial aimed to assess the efficacy of nitrous oxide compared to a placebo and explored different doses (25% vs. 50%). They discusses the study's promising results, the neurobiology of depression, and the potential for a phase three international multicenter trial. This episode also highlights the need for novel treatments for treatment-resistant depression and the importance of collaborative research in advancing medical knowledge.
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Insights on the Future of Anesthesia Quality Improvement with AQI
11/10/2025
Insights on the Future of Anesthesia Quality Improvement with AQI
ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025 Desiree Chappell and Mike Grocott discuss the latest advancements and key topics in the field of anesthesiology with special guests Sheila Barnett, Chair of the Department of Anesthesiology at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Professor of Anesthesiology at Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and Patrick Guffey, Professor of Clinical Practice, Anesthesiology-Pediatric Anesthesiology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The conversation centers around the Anesthesia Quality Institute (AQI) and its various initiatives, including the National Anesthesia Clinical Outcomes Registry (NACO) and the importance of integrating electronic health records for improved data collection and quality of care. The guests highlight the challenges and opportunities of using clinical data to drive quality improvements and the future potential of collaborating with electronic health record systems like Epic. The episode underscores the importance of quality data in anesthesia and highlights efforts to enhance patient outcomes and healthcare value.
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Innovations and Achievements at the Center for Perioperative Care (CPOC)
11/03/2025
Innovations and Achievements at the Center for Perioperative Care (CPOC)
TopMedTalk’s Andy Cumpstey recorded this piece recently for us at the Royal College of Anaesthetists' Centre for Perioperative Care's (CPOC) annual meeting in London. The conversation features key figures from CPOC, including: David Selwyn, Acting Chief Executive at Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, appointed as the inaugural Director of CPOC in May 2019, Denny Levett, Professor in Perioperative Medicine and Critical Care at the University of Southampton and a Consultant in Perioperative Medicine at Southampton University Hospital NHS Foundation trust (UHS), Scarlett McNally, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in Eastbourne DGH, UK since 2002, Deputy Director at the COPC (2020-26) and an honorary clinical professor at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Jugdeep Dhesi, Deputy Director for CPOC, Clinical lead for the innovative and award winning POPS (Perioperative medicine for Older People undergoing Surgery) service, Honorary Reader at King’s College London and Associate Professor at University College London, and Lawrence Mudford, who transitioned from a healthcare professional to a patient, following a cancer diagnosis. Following his successful treatment, he took up his current role as a patient representative for CPOC. The panel explore the creation and evolution of CPOC since its inception in 2019, highlighting the collaborative efforts to improve surgical pathways by integrating patient and multidisciplinary voices. They discuss various initiatives, guidelines, and successful practices aimed at enhancing patient-centered care, managing conditions like frailty, diabetes, and anaemia, and promoting shared decision-making. The episode also delves into future goals, such as addressing the implementation gap, fostering digital transformation, and operationalizing educational curricula for healthcare professionals to further support perioperative care.
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Perioperative Profiles - Kate Leslie
10/27/2025
Perioperative Profiles - Kate Leslie
Andy Cumpstey interviews internationally renowned anaesthetist and researcher, Kate Leslie, Head of Research in the Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Management at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Honorary Professor at the University of Melbourne. Kate shares insights into her journey from growing up in Melbourne to leading groundbreaking research and clinical trials. We discuss her professional milestones, including her work with the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) Clinical Trials Network and the global impact of their studies. Additionally, Kate reflects on the challenges and triumphs as a woman in medicine, emphasizing the importance of resilience and personal growth. The episode also highlights Kate's recent accolades, such as the ASA Excellence in Research Award and her work as an editor for major anaesthesia publications.
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