Guest Episode on Chest Trauma with James McKay

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

Guest Episode on Familial Cancer Syndromes with Chris Wakeman

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: [email protected]

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

Guest Episode on Malignant Colorectal Polyps with Henry Drysdale

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

Guest Episode on Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT) for Rectal Cancer with Simon Richards

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

Guest Episode on Bariatric Surgery with Carla Gillespie

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

Intestinal Failure

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

Guest Episode on Fellowship with Ashwini Pondicherry and Jamie Crichton

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

Breast Cancer Cases - Guest Episode with Ashwini Pondicherry

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

Guest Episode on Operative Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Michael Johnston

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

Salivary Gland Pathology and Neck Space Infections

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

Financial Guest Episode with DPM Financial

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

Salivary Gland Anatomy and Tumours

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

Guest Episode on Urology with Dr Anita Clarke

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

Guest Episode with A/Prof Phil Carson

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

A/Prof Kellee Slater Guest Episode on HPB and Liver Transplant

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

Introduction to Transplant

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

Appendix - acute appendicitis, appendiceal tumours and pseudomyxoma peritonei

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

Urology - Testicular Tumours, Varicocles, Hydroceles and Epididymal Cysts

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

Urology Anatomy and Embryology

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

Pathophysiology Exam Quiz - sepsis and critical care, nutrition, skin and soft tissue, trauma, vascular and abdominal compartment syndrome

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

Pathophysiology Exam Quiz - UGI, Breast, Colorectal, Emergency and Head and Neck

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

Pathophysiology Exam Quiz - Endocrine, Small Bowel, Bariatric and HPB

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

Critically Ill Surgical Patient: Sepsis, Shock, SIRS, MODS

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

Surgical Oncology - Genetic Syndromes Exam Quiz

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

Exam Recap with Ben Finlay

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

Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Featuring Julie Howle

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

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Featuring Julie Howle

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

Anatomy of the popliteal fossa and leg

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

Anatomy of the thigh and gluteal region

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

Anatomy of the wrist, carpal tunnel and hand

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

Anatomy of the forearm and cubital fossa

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

Anatomy of the shoulder, brachial plexus and arm

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

Aneurysmal Disease

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

Diabetic Foot

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

Venous disease

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

Acute Limb Ischaemia

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

Chronic Limb Ischaemia

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

Hyperhidrosis and Hidraadenitis Suppurativa

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

Basal Cell Carcinoma

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

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

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

Merkel Cell Carcinoma feat. Julie Howle

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

Guest Episode on Melanoma with Julie Howle

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

Management of Melanoma

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

Introduction to Melanoma

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

Introduction to Skin

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

Topical Haemostatic Agents and Anticoagulants

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

Burns, Blasts, and Extremity Compartment Syndrome

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

Hollow Viscus and Pelvic Trauma

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

Abdominal Trauma - solid organ and retroperitoneal

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

Neck Trauma

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

Introduction to Trauma

This week's episode introduces us to some concepts in trauma with our new guest host Ben Finlay!
We cover a wide range of topics including:
- Primary and secondary survey
- Trauma adjuncts
- Fast exam
- Pathophysiology of trauma and shock
- Massive transfusion protocol
- Principles of damage control surgery and resuscitation
- Teg and ROTEM
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 2021

Guest Episode on Operative HPB with Michael Crawford

This week's guest episode features Dr Michael Crawford who is a hepatobiliary, hernia and liver transplant surgeon from Sydney.

We cover a wide range of operative topics including:
How to perform gastroenterostomy
Difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy
-       Features preoperatively that make you suspicious it will be difficult
-       Mirrizi syndrome
-       Bail out options for difficult gallbladder including subtotal cholecystectomy
-       Bile duct injury and how to avoid it.
-       We talked about this video of a bile duct injury that was circulated online last week. This video can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0AtJqCj2dI and as Dr Crawford mentioned provides a rare opportunity to learn from this injury. Definitely worth a watch
-       Routine versus selective cholangiography 
Laparoscopic splenectomy: tips, tricks and pitfalls.
Chronic liver failure: tips for operating on patients with ascites, and what to do with umbilical hernias in cirrhotic patients
Transcystic bile duct exploration and laparoscopic choledochotomy

 Dr Crawford’s youtube channel where there are some fantastic operative videos and descriptions can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLzesA4ZAxYpFbuFCRO__uA

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 podcast.
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 2021

Guest Episode with Laurence Webber

This week's guest episode is with Dr Laurence Webber, a hepatobiliary surgeon from Western Australia.

We cover a wide range of topics including:

Practicalities of post-fellowship exam life including:
- Pathways in surgical training 
- How to get a job after surgical training
00:00 - 00:25 mins

Clinical topics including:
Colorectal liver metastases:
- What to do with disappearing liver metastases
- Chemotherapy
- Liver first?
- Liver remnant and functional assessment
- Criteria of when to resect
MRI liver and when to use gadolinium and primovist
When to operate on patient’s with HCC and cirrhosis
Anatomical factors that determine resectability of hilar cholangiocarcinoma and pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer:
- Neoadjuvant chemotherapy
- Arterial resection 
- ABC of resectability of pancreatic cancer (the MD Anderson model)
- Broad steps of a Whipple’s operation
Bile duct injury
- How to avoid them
- How to identify them
- What do to with them

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 podcast.
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 2021

Genetic Endocrine Disorders

This episode has everything you need to know about genetic conditions that predispose to endocrine tumours. We cover:
- Multiple endocrine noeplasia (MEN) type 1
- MEN types 2a and 2b
- SDH syndromes
- Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome
- Neurofibromatosis type I (and brief mention about type 2)
- Hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumour 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 podcast.
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 2021

The Adrenal Gland: incidentalomas, cancers, and functional tumours

This episode looks at the adrenal gland:
- adrenal incidentalomas
- the important questions to ask about adrenal lesions - is it cancer and is it functional?
- workup of adrenal lesions
- functional tests for corticosteroid hypersecretion (cushing's), catecholamine hypersecretion (pheochromocytoma), primary hyperaldosteronisms (Conn's syndrome) and sex hormone excess
- screening, confirmatory and localisation tests for functional lesions
- imaging characteristics of malignant versus benign lesions
- preoperative optimization of functional tumours
- management of adrenal lesions 

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 podcast.
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 2021

Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours

This episode covers everything you need to know about pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours
- what they are
- classification into functional and non-functional
- risk factors and associated genetic syndromes
- the different types of functional tumours, how they present and their biochemical testing
- how to image localise and stage these tumours
- WHO grading and TNM staging
- management including which ones are suitable for surveillance, surgery, management of unresectable or metastatic disease, and medical management of the functional syndromes
- surveillance

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 podcast.
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 2021

Hyperparathyroidism and calcium homeostasis

This episode covers a range of topics related to calcium:
- pathophysiology of calcium homeostasis
- causes of hypercalcaemia
- workup of hypercalcaemia
- presentation including symptoms and signs of hypercalcaemia
- primary, secondary and tertiary hyperparathyroidism
- diagnostic tests for diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism
- imaging modalities to localise parathyroid adenomas
- medical and surgical management of hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcaemia
- and management of postoperative hypocalcaemia

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 podcast.
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 2021

Thyroid Cancer Management

This episode follows on from last week's episode on thyroid nodules and an introduction to thyroid cancer.

We cover:
- surgery for thyroid cancer
- what to do with the lymph nodes
- tumour markers (calcitonin, thyroglobulin and anti-Tg antibodies)
- risk stratification
- radioactive iodine
- TSH suppression with thyroxine therapy
- treatment of recurrent and palliative disease

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 podcast.
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 2021

Thyroid Nodules and Introduction to Thyroid Cancer

This episode covers the presentation and workup of thyroid nodules. It includes a targeted history, examination, blood tests, and imaging modalities. We also discuss the TI-RADS reporting system for thyroid nodule ultrasound scanning, and the Bethesda classification of thyroid FNA cytology.
The end of this episode introduces us to the different types of thyroid cancer including
- papillary
- follicular
- medullary
- anaplastic
- lymphoma
And summaries the different types, what differentiates them from each other, and a short summary on the management of anaplastic thyroid cancer and lymphoma.

This episode is a precursor to next week's episode on the management of thyroid cancer!

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 podcast.
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 2021

Thyroid - physiology, hyper and hypothyroidism, thyroid function tests, thyroiditis and thyrotoxicosis

This week's episode kicks off the endocrine content with the thyroid. In this episode we cover:
- Physiology of thyroid hormone and iodine metabolism
- Hyper and hypothyroidism
- Interpreting thyroid function tests 
- Thyroiditis, covering: hashimoto's subacute, reidel's, postpartum, radiation and amiodarone thyroiditis
- Thyrotoxicosis, covering: grave’s disease including thyroid eye disease, the toxic multinodular goitre, toxic adenoma/toxic solitary nodule, and amiodarone thyroiditis

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 podcast.
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 2021

Endocrine Anatomy and Embryology

Hi everyone!
It's time to change tack and tackle the endocrine module from our curriculum.
I have a feeling this will be a wild, feedback-cycle kind of ride, so let's ease ourselves into it with the anatomy and embryology of our favourite endocrine organs: the thyroid, parathyroids and adrenal glands.

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 podcast.
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 2021

Chronic Liver Failure and Perioperative Management

This week's episode covers chronic liver failure:
- the causes
- pathophysiology of what actually happens when the liver fails
- diagnosis of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis
- portal hypertension diagnosis and management
- grading classification systems (Child-Pugh-Turcott and MELD scoring)
- the perioperative management of a patient with chronic liver disease

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 podcast.
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 2021

Liver Infections

This week's episode covers liver infections, including pyogenic liver abscesses, hydatid cysts, amoebic abscesses and other rarer types of liver infections.
We discuss the pathophysiology, lifecycle of the hydatid parasite, microbiology, diagnosis and treatment of these infections.

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 podcast.
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 2021

Spleen

Chronic Pancreatitis

This week's episode covers chronic pancreatitis
- what is it
- risk factors
- pathophysiology of it's aetiology and complications
- how it presents
- diagnosis
- imaging findings
- complications
- 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 podcast.
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 2021

Acute Pancreatitis

This episode covers acute pancreatitis.
- risk factors
- aetiology
- pathophysiology (a beloved question in the exam)
- workup
- severity classification (including the apache score, modified glasgow critiera, ranson's criteria, IAP/APA guidelines, and revised Atlanta classification)
- radiological classification (revised Atlanta) and radiological severity classification systems
- management of pancreatitis
--- including acute management which addresses fluid resuscitation, nutrition, ERCP, as well as when to do the lap chole.
--- and management of complications including how to do a cystgastrostomy, how to manage pancreatic necrosis, and more!

Pancreatitis is a favourite question in the exam so this is a high yield 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 podcast.
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 2021

Pancreatic Cancer

This episode covers pancreatic cancer. Topics discussed include:
- risk factors
- familial pancreatic cancer syndromes
- pathophysiology
- presentation
- workup
- staging
- and treatment including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and palliative approaches

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 podcast.
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 2021

Liver Metastases and Liver Surgery

This episode delves into liver metastases and liver surgery. We discuss both colorectal and non-colorectal liver metastases

For colorectal liver metastases we cover:
- epidemiology
- how they are diagnosed and how to work them up
- medical treatment including chemotherapy both neoadjuvantly and adjuvantly
- the decision making on who to operate on, and the treatment sequence when considering the colorectal primary
- other liver targeted treatments

We talk about liver surgery including:
- preoperative considerations such as the future liver remnant quality and quantity to prevent postoperative liver failure
- how to improve the future liver remnant
- what is postoperative liver failure
- postoperative surveillance
Principles of liver surgery:
- liver mobilisation
- inflow control
- outflow control
- low CVP
- parenchymal dissection

For non-colorectal liver metastases we have a quick summary at the end of the episode about which ones would be considered for surgery.

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 2021

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Intraoperative Pitfalls

This week's operative episode covers laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and some of the intraoperative pitfalls they might throw your way in the exam.

Topics covered, how to avoid them, and how to deal with them if they happen include every way your day can go from bad to worse when doing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy:
- bleeding (hepatic artery, portal vein, middle hepatic vein)
- anatomical variations
- ureteric catheter not flushing
- the 'difficult' gallbladder'
- the dreaded bile duct injury
- common bile duct stones and how to do a transcystic laparoscopic bile duct exploration, open choledochotomy and laparoscopic choledochotomy and exploration

Here's to hoping you avoid these intraoperative issues, but at least you will be prepared if they do happen!

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 2021

Guest Episode on Maximising Exam Performance with Sarah Dalton

We're taking a break this week from the HPB module to talk about the exam. Specifically how to manage your stress and maximise your performance in this awesome discussion with Dr Sarah Dalton. Dr Dalton is a performance coach and works with trainees on how to use the power of their mindset and thinking to overcome the issues we all face leading up to these sorts of exams.
I really enjoyed our discussion and hope you get something out of this episode that helps you as well!

This is the 'ABC Conversations' podcast episode we kept mentioning which interviews Ben Crowe, Ash Barty's performance coach. It's a great listen: https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/conversations/ash-barty-sports-mentor-ben-crowe/13418314

Dr Sarah Dalton works with Capstan Partners if you want to look into coaching for your exam: https://capstan.com.au/about-us/

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 2021

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

This episode covers hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Topics covered include:
- Epidemiology
- Risk factors
- Presentation
- Surveillance
- Histopathology including of pre-neoplastic / precursor lesions such as microscopic dysplastic foci and macroscopic dysplastic nodules
- Diagnosis and imaging (including LIRADS)
- Staging (TNM and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Staging System)
- Treatment options
- Follow-up
- and Prognosis

Happy studying!

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 2021

Non-Malignant Liver Lesions

Ever wanted to know how to differentiate all the different types of non-malignant liver lesions? Us too! Don't fret - this is the episode for you!

It covers:
- liver cysts
- focal nodular hyperplasia
- hepatocellular adenomas
- haemangiomas
And more!

Learn what they are, how to diagnose them and differentiate them on imaging, and what to do with them on this episode of 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 2021

Benign Biliary Strictures and Choledochal Cysts

This episode briefly covers the various causes of benign biliary strictures. This includes:
Iatrogenic causes
- Bile duct injuries at cholecystectomy
- Trauma, post-liver transplant, and hepaticojejunostomy
Gallstone related
- Mirrizi syndrome
Inflammatory causes
- Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
- Parasitic infections including liver flukes, echinococcus and roundworm
- HIV/AIDS-associated cholangiopathy
- IgG4 related cholangiopathy
Congenital
- Biliary atresia
- Choledochal 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 2021

Cholangiocarcinoma

This episode covers cholangiocarcinoma:
- the different types (intrahepatic, hilar and distal bile duct)
- classification systems (Bismuth, TNM)
- risk factors
- presentation
- imaging / workup
- features of operability
- management: including, operative, medical, interventional and palliative

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 2021

Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms

This episode covers pancreatic cystic neoplasms including:

Neoplastic mucinous cystic lesions
- Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs)
- Mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs)

Neoplastic non-mucinous cystic lesions
- Serous cystic neoplasms / serous cystadenomas
- Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms

We cover their workup, radiological appearance, demographic information, FNA results, likely cytology and management of these lesions

We also briefly mention non-neoplastic cystic lesions including simple cysts and pseudocysts, as well as the potential that ductal adenocarcinomas and neuroendocrine tumours have to have cystic degeneration.

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 2021

Gallbladder adenomyomatosis, polyps and cancer

This week's episode covers three gallbladder pathologies from the hepatobiliary module of the curriculum:
- gallbladder adenomyomatosis
- gallbladder polyps
and
- gallbladder cancer

This episode covers the histopathology, pathophysiology, imaging findings, and what to do when you suspect gallbladder cancer preoperatively, intraoperatively and post-operatively.

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 2021

Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Anatomy, Embryology and Variations

Welcome to the first episode of our new season! Moving onto hepatobiliary and pancreatic topics.

This week we talk about liver, biliary and pancreatic anatomy, embryology and clinically important variations.

Enjoy!

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 2021

Colitis

This episode covers everything COLITIS!
- infectious colitis - including a quick touch on common infectious causes and how to treat them
- pseudomembranous colitis and clostridium difficile infection
- diverticulitis in all it's glory - be prepared for some pathophysiology, classification systems (Hinchey I'm looking at you), and discussion about treatment
- and to round them off we take a look at ischaemic colitis!

If you want to learn more about ischaemic colitis - feel free to read this awesome review article (by yours truly): Ischaemic colitis: uncertainty in diagnosis, pathophysiology and management. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ans.14237

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 2021

Volvulus and Pilonidal Disease

This week's mismatched topics (brought to you by boredom and Melbourne's 4th COVID lockdown) are:
- Volvulus: including sigmoid and caecal volvulus. What are they, how do they present, and how do we treat them? AND
- Pilonidal disease: what is it, pathophysiology, how it can present, how it is managed, and some operative steps for a Karydakis / Modified Bascom operation.

Thanks for the suggestion of the website pilonidal.org! It's a great resource to send your patients to and has some great resources for surgeons as well. Can recommend checking it out.

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 2021

Perianal Fistulas and Haemorrhoids

Finishing off the perianal content for the colorectal module with perianal fistula and hemorrhoids.  Everything you ever wanted to know about all the classification systems, treatment options, and some operative descriptions for these conditions.

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 2021

Faecal Incontinence and Rectal Prolapse

This week's episode covers the topics of faecal incontinence and rectal prolapse.

These conditions are commonly encountered in the general surgical clinic. We cover the pathophysiology, workup and treatments of these conditions.

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 2021

Anal Cancer and Perianal Paget's Disease

This episode covers anal cancer and perianal paget's disease.

We cover the presentation, workup, aetiology, and treatment of these diseases. Special attention is given to the management of precursor lesions including anal intraepithelial neoplasia (now low and high grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions).

Also a corrections corner about last week's 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 2021

Large Bowel Obstruction and Pseudoobstruction

This episode covers large bowel obstruction and pseudoobstruction.

We go into the causes, presentation, workup, and management of both of these conditions, as well as some great perioperative pearls of wisdom.

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 2021

Perianal Conditions

This episode takes us away from IBD and into the realm of perianal pathology. Although not the prettiest side of general surgery, these topics are commonly encountered and definitely fair game for the exam!

This episode covers:
- Anal fissures
- Perianal abscess, and
- Pruritis ani

We cover the presentation, workup, diagnosis and management of these conditions. We also cover the surgical steps of botox for fissures, lateral internal sphincterotomy, and incision and drainage of perianal abscess.

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 2021

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Special

This special addition to our IBD episodes covers three bonus topics:
- Perianal Crohn's Disease
- IBD and Pregnancy
- Indeterminate Colitis

Enjoy!

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 2021

Crohn's Disease

In this episode we cover Crohn's Disease.
- presentations: both gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal
- differential diagnoses
- workup and diagnosis
- histopathological findings
- macroscopic  features
- management
- surgical tips and pearls
- malignancy risk and surveillance

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 2021

Ulcerative Colitis

We are diving back into the colorectal module from the curriculum this week to talk about Ulcerative Colitis.
This episode goes into the presentation, endoscopy findings, histopathology, medical and surgical treatment options, 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 2021

Guest Episode - The Fellowship Exam with Emily Olive

This week's special guest episode is with Dr Emily Olive - a successful 2020 fellowship exam candidate.   

Just in time for the first sitting of the exam this year, this episode has everything! 
- what to expect when actually sitting the exam.
- great tips for each component of the exam from someone with recent insight into how it runs. 
- what is different about the COVID exam format.
- great tips for those just starting to think about study: including how to keep yourself sane, healthy, and tips on setting up a study group.   
- and more! 
We finish the episode talking about mentoring in surgery and women in surgery.    

It was such a pleasure to chat with Emily, she has so many great tips about the exam and advice about life in general. This episode has something for everyone - whether you're sitting in a week or in a few years.  

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 2021

Guest Episode on Colorectal with Carolyn Vasey

This episode has everything:
- Carolyn Vasey (enough said - an incredible colorectal surgeon from Ballarat in Victoria)
- Discussions about colorectal cancer surgery, what to do with the splenic flexure tumour, stomas, parastomal hernias, endoscopy and tattooing for rectal cancers, total neoadjuvant treatment, and watch and wait
- Chats about surgery and parenthood, and male champions of change; and
- Talk about research and manky belly buttons
What more could you want!?

Carolyn's e-mail is [email protected] if you'd like to contact her for a copy of her thesis.
The RCT we discussed regarding lymph drainage from the splenic flexure can be found at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29521825/. It is entitled Lymphatic Drainage of the Splenic Flexure Defined by Intraoperative Scintigraphic Mapping ,  and was published in Diseases of the Colon and Recum in 2018 (Apr;61(4):441-446).

Also, this episode was recorded at the end of 2020 - so references to 'this year' refer to the year that shall not be named

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 2021

Treatment of Rectal Cancer

This episode picks up where episode 4 ((introduction to colorectal cancer) left off  - delving into the treatment of rectal cancer.
This is a fun topic with lots of nuances and 'it depends' management decisions.
We cover:
- neoadjuvant treatment
- adjuvant treatment
- total neoadjuvant treatment
- the 'watch and wait' approach
- surgery for rectal cancer
- surgery for obstructing rectal cancer
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 2021

Treatment of Colon Cancer

This episode continues from our last - 'introduction to colorectal cancer'.
We are exploring the treatment of colon cancer, and specifically the differences in the management of:
- resectable non-metastatic
- resectable metastatic; and
- non-resectable metastatic disease
Some of the topics touched upon include chemotherapy, different types of resections, peri-operative management strategies, and palliative options.

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 2021

Introduction to colorectal cancer

This episode covers everything else you need to know about colorectal cancer (see last 2 episodes!) without talking about treatment options.
This includes epidemiology, risk factors, presentation, investigation, diagnosis, staging 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 2021

Genetic Colon Cancer Syndromes

Be prepared for some knowledge in this episode exploring the different genetic syndromes associated with colorectal cancer. Great episode to cram before the exam!

We will cover:

Polyposis syndromes:
- FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis)
- MAP (MUTYH-Associated Polyposis)
- Peutz-Jegher's syndrome
- Familial juvenile polyposis
- Serrated polyposis
- PTEN tumour syndromes

Non-polyposis syndromes
- HNPCC and Lynch 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 2021

Colorectal polyps, malignant polyps, and genetic pathways in colorectal cancer development

Let's dip our toes into the topic of colorectal cancer by taking a look at different types of colorectal polyps. This includes neoplastic and non-neoplastic types, as well as what to do with malignant polyps (I'm looking at you Haggitt and Kikuchi classification).
Next we take a dive into genetic pathways in colorectal cancer. This includes the CIN, serrated and MSI pathways. This episode gives us all the basics we need before heading into genetic syndromes in colorectal cancer next 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 2021

Anatomy of the colon, rectum and anal canal

We are launching into the colorectal module from the curriculum this week - and starting off with some anatomy!
There is a little bit of physiology and surgical anatomy thrown in there for good measure!
Happy Studying :D

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 2021

Oesophageal perforation, corrosive and caustic ingestions

This episode covers approaches to the workup and management of oesophageal perforation, plus everything you need to know about corrosive and caustic ingestions

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 2021

Oesophageal foreign bodies, diverticulum and benign tumours

Today's episode covers a few smaller topics in oesophageal surgery including:
- oesophageal foreign bodies
- oesophageal diverticulum
- benign oesophageal tumours

References/Resources:
- World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2015, Benign esophageal lesions: endoscopic and pathologic features. Tsai et al.
- Surgical clinics of North America Vol 95, issue 3.  benign esophageal tumours. Ha eg al. 2015

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 2021

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Everything you need to know about peptic ulcer disease you will find right here in this episode.  We cover how to manage uncomplicated presentations, what the go is with helicobacter pylori, and how to approach complications such as perforated ulcers and bleeding. 

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 2021

GIST and other Gastric Tumours

In this episode, we will be covering the rest of gastric tumours. This includes:
- Gastrointestinal Stroma Tumours (GIST)
- Gastric Lymphoma
- Gastric Neuroendocrine Tumours including Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
- and Gastric Polyps

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 2021

Guest Episode on Oesophageal and Gastric Cancer with Mary Ann Johnson

On this episode, we talk with Mary Ann Johnson, an upper gastrointestinal surgeon, about oesophageal and gastric cancer. 

Topics covered include
-        the role of EUS in the workup of eosophageal and gastric cancer? 
-        when to use the different types of oesophagectomy
-        in regards to oesophageal SCC,  what chemotherapy is given? 
-        which patients with oesophageal SCC are treated with 'definitive CRTx' and who gets neoadjuvant to with an aim to subsequently resect?
-        do patient’s with oesophageal adenocarcinoma ever get adjuvant chemotherapy?
-        palliative treatment of oesophageal cancer
-        restaging post neoadjuvant treatment
-        Lymph node stations in gastric cancer

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 2020

Oesophageal Cancer

This episode introduces us to oesophageal (or esophageal for our North American friends) cancer.

We take a look at both adenocarcinoma and SCC in more detail. Including risk factors, presentation, workup, management, follow-up and prognosis.

Keep an eye out for next week's episode where we will be joined by an UGI surgeon to answer some of the burning questions that come up in 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 2020

Gastric Cancer

On this episode, we discuss gastric cancer.

Everything from workup, to risk factors, pathophysiology, and various treatments.  This bigger picture episode will give you the tools you need to answer questions about gastric cancer 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 2020

Deliberate Exam Practice with Alex Craven

In this episode, Dr Alex Craven takes myself and Dr Steven Kunz (SET trainee) through specific exercises and techniques focussed on deliberate practice for the VIVA exam.

Be prepared for some awesome tools you can take with you and apply to your preparation and study groups to get the most out of your time preparing 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 2020

Barrett's Oesophagus, Eosinophilic Oesophagitis and Oesophageal Strictures

In this episode, disorders of the oesophagus (or esophagus for those Northern American listeners) takes centre stage.

We talk about Barrett' Oesophagus, including the diagnosis, classification, seattle protocol of biopsies,  and what to do with different histopathological types of Barrett's.
Next is a quick summary of Eosinophilic Oesophagitis, before we dive into benign oesophageal strictures and talk a little more about A and B rings, Schatzki rings, and peptic strictures.

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 2020

Oesophageal Motility Disorders

This week's episode explores oesophageal motility disorders.

We are covering the topics of:
- Achalasia
- Hypertensive lower oesophageal sphincter
- Diffuse oesophageal spasm
- Nutcracker oesophagus
- Ineffective oesophageal motility
How they present, how to diagnose them, and their different treatments.

We also talk a little about POEM (per-oral endoscopic myotomy) and the surgical principles of heller's myotomy, as well as the risks and benefits of these procedures.

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 2020

Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD), Hiatus Hernia and Gastric Volvulus

Join us this week for our first deep dive into upper gastrointestinal surgery and the oesophagogastric module.

Everything you ever wanted to know and more about gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), hiatus hernia and gastric volvulus

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 2020

Oesophageal and Gastric Anatomy and Embryology

Get ready for a new topic on First Incision! We are going to tackle the massive topic of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery.

To kick it off, lets ease into it by going through the anatomy and embryology of the oesophagus and stomach.

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 2020

VIVA Exam Preparation with Alex Craven

The is the second episode in our series on preparing for, and sitting the fellowship exam.

Dr Alex Craven tells us everything we need to know about the VIVA exam. He goes through what to expect in each of the different sections, and shares practical tips about how to get the most out of studying and preparing for this 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 2020

Written Exam Tips with Alex Craven

The first in our series on preparing for, and sitting the fellowship exam.

In this first of two episodes with Dr Alex Craven, he tells us everything we need to know about the written exam - covering the spots and short answer questions.  But more importantly, he shares some practical tips about how to get the most out of our study.

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 2020

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

This weeks' episode explores everything you need to know about the subtypes, classification, workup and management of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS).

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 2020

Special populations in Breast Cancer

Join us today for a discussion about special populations in breast cancer.

This includes:
- pregnancy associated breast cancer
- considering fertility in breast cancer treatment, and
- what to do if you encounter a positive axillary node but an unknown primary.

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 2020

Guest Episode on Breast Surgery and Operative Vivas with Caroline Baker

Caroline Baker is the director of Breast Surgery at St Vincent's Hospital in Melbourne. 

She has taken the time to talk about operative breast surgery with us, going over the four core operations for the Breast Curriculum:

- Wide Local Excision
- Mastectomy
- Axillary Lymph Node Dissection, and
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

We cover not only the operative steps, but key information to consider in your approach, and some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

VCCC education program mentioned by Caroline at the end of the episode: https://www.viccompcancerctr.org/events/breast-cancer-education-series1/

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 2020

Male Breast Diseases

For our lucky number SEVEN episode this week we talk about male breast diseases, including:
- gynaecomastia: the various causes, who to workup, and how to treat it. 
- and male breast cancer

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 2020

Nipple Discharge, Breast Infections and Galactoceles

This episode covers everything you need to know about three high-yield breast topics.
- Nipple Discharge
- Breast Infections
- Galactocele

Reference:
https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0601/p1073.html Evaluation and Management of Galactorrhea. Huang et al. Am Fam Physician. 2012. Jun 1;85(11): 1073-1080

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 2020

Guest Episode on Breast Cancer with Jocelyn Lippey

This guest episode with Dr Jocelyn Lippey answers all of the questions we had about breast cancer, as well as covers some practical tips for preparing for the fellowship exam.

Jocelyn is an incredible breast surgeon who is passionate about providing expert care to her patients.  She is also a fantastic teacher, researcher and all-around lovely person, and we are so grateful to her for giving up her time and expertise for 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 2020

Early Breast Cancer - Treatment

Let's talk about the treatment of early breast cancer.

This episode covers:
- the importance of the MDT in breast cancer treatment
- surgery
- what to do with the axilla
- radiotherapy
- the MDT approach
- chemotherapy
- endocrine therapy
- neoadjuvant versus adjuvant treatment
And the importance of the MDT approach in breast cancer treatment

This area is super complex - but this episode aims to cover the key concepts and themes, with the more complex decision making left for the specialists.

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 2020

Early Breast Cancer - An Introduction

This week we're staying with the theme of 'Breast Pathology' with an introduction to Early Breast Cancer.

We cover the epidemiology, presentation, workup, hormone expression, classification, staging, gene expression profiling, and genetic breast cancers.

This episode is content heavy for the study-lovers! And is a great introduction to the next episode where we'll delve deeper into 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 2020

Benign Breast Diseases

Continuing the 'breast' module from the general surgical curriculum, this episode takes a deep dive into benign breast diseases.

We talk about non-proliferative, proliferative and atypical proliferative lesions, exploring what they are, and what to do about them.  Special mention at the end about papillomas and phyllodes tumours.

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 2020

Breast Anatomy and Embryology

We're kicking off our study with the 'breast' module from the general surgical curriculum.
Our first episode gives us an introduction to this topic by covering clinically relevant breast anatomy and embryology.
This episode also introduces me, why I'm doing this podcast and what to expect in the future.

References
Last's Anatomy Ninth Edition. R. McMinn. Churchill Livingstone 1998.
Gray's Anatomy for Students Second Edition. R Drake et al. Churchill Livingstone 2010.

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 2020