In this insightful episode of the Surgical Assistant Podcast, hosts Kelly and John dive into the intricate world of billing for surgical assistants with expert guest David Bartczak from Houston, Texas. David, an accomplished LSA and orthopedic P.A., shares his extensive knowledge and experience in both clinical practice and billing management. From understanding medical billing codes to navigating the challenges of independent billing, David provides invaluable advice for surgical assistants looking to transition from hospital employment to independent practice. Tune in to learn about the importance of credentialing, the impact of geographic location, and the critical considerations for successfully running a surgical assisting business. David owns Mederi Services LLC; the Largest Surgical Billing Company.
You can reach David at: https://mederiservices.com/
1-877-563-3374 (877-5-MEDERI) Toll Free
Welcome to the Surgical Assistant Podcast! In this episode, hosts John and Kelly are joined by Dr. Karima Reddy, a renowned plastic surgeon from Virginia. They dive deep into various aspects of cosmetic breast surgery, discussing reduction mammoplasty, augmentation mammoplasty, techniques to avoid complications, and the latest in breast implant technology. Dr. Reddy also shares insights into her practice, psychological aspects of plastic surgery, and her experiences with transgender top surgeries. This comprehensive conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the surgical field or those interested in plastic surgery. Tune in for a blend of expert knowledge, professional advice, and personal anecdotes!
https://reddyplasticsurgerygroup.com/
In this episode, John and Kelly interview Rob Blackstone, Program Director of the newly established Surgical First Assistant program at the College of Western Idaho. The discussion covers key aspects of the program, including admission prerequisites, laboratory training, tuition costs, and the structure of the clinical internship.
In this episode Kelly and John discuss traveling and give a few tips and tricks on finding an assignment. They also discuss how to find housing as well as some other pointers for finding your first assignment.
In this anesthesia part 1 episode Kelly and John begin with some practical pointers, tips, and tricks.
In this episode John and Kelly talk about the 2025 Joint NSAA/ASA spring Conference in Dallas, TX. They describe the preconference workshops as well as updates about both organizations. The creation of the American Academy of Surgical Assistants. Then give an overview of the presentations as well as legislative updates.
In this episode Kelly and John discuss and compare the idea of being a "Jack of all Trades" as a Surgical Assistant or having a broad skill base. Is it better to specialize in one surgical discipline or have a broad skill set over many of the common surgical specialties.
In this special episode for Surgical Assistant week John and Kelly interview the ASA President Fred Fisher. Learn about the history of Surgical Assisting as well what the profession was like in the early days. Also, hear Fred's advice for new Surgical Assistants. Learn what "Surgeonese" is and why it is so important for new Surgical Assistants to learn it!
In this episode John and Kelly discuss some of the most common positions for the surgical patient. They also discuss some of the specific devices and techniques for safely positioning a patient. Once you understand the principle behind safe positioning it allows you to be as creative as you need.
Trenguard:
https://www.steris.com/healthcare/products/surgical-table-accessories/trendelenburg-position-accessories/trenguard-trendelenburg-patient-restraint
Pink Pad system:
https://xodusmedical.com/PinkPad
TrenMAX:
https://www.impmedical.com/positioning-products/trenmax-trendelenburg-positioning-gel-sheet/
Safe-T-Secure:
https://www.impmedical.com/positioning-products/trenmax-trendelenburg-positioning-gel-sheet/
Nu Blue foam Wingpad:
https://www.soulemedical.com/trendelenburg-positioners
Kelly and John Discuss some of the available professional educational resources for Surgical Assistants. Kelly and John also share what resources they have and use. They discuss textbooks, conferences, podcasts, as well as other educational resources.00:00 "Scrubbing Up on Educational Resources"00:13 Introduction and Welcome00:23 Overview of Professional Resources00:57 Conferences: A Must-Attend for Surgical Assistants03:33 Highlighting Specific Conferences06:44 The Value of Networking and CEUs14:12 Leveraging Reps for Educational Opportunities18:37 Textbooks: An Old-School Resource23:21 Exploring Netter's Anatomy and Surgical Resources24:57 Orthopedic Surgical Guides and Tax Deductions26:30 Podcasts for Surgical Assistants27:53 Behind the Knife and Other Educational Podcasts31:05 YouTube Channels and Online Resources36:46 Interactive Anatomical Apps from Emory University39:52 Conferences and Professional Development43:27 New Textbook for Surgical Assistants44:38 Final Thoughts and EncouragementNSAA/ASA Conference Linkhttps://asa-nsaa.org/index.php/about/Blumgart's Surgery of the liver, Biliary Tract, and Pancreashttps://evolve.elsevier.com/cs/product/9780323697842?role=studentSurgical Assisting textbookhttps://www.mhprofessional.com/the-practice-and-principles-of-surgical-assisting-9781264264377-usaSchwartz's Textbook of Surgeryhttps://www.mhprofessional.com/schwartz-s-principles-of-surgery-absite-and-board-review-11th-edition-9781260469752-usaSurgical Recallhttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/surgical-recall-lorne-blackbourne/1118618720Advanced Surgical Recallhttps://www.abebooks.com/9780683008340/Advanced-Surgical-Recall-Blackbourne-Fleischer-068300834X/plpCampbell's Operative Orthopedicshttps://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/campbells-operative-orthopaedics-4-volume-set-9780323672177.html?refSrc=68335&nosto=nosto-page-product3Netter's Anatomyhttps://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/netter-atlas-of-human-anatomy-classic-regional-approach-hardcover-9780323793735.html?srsltid=AfmBOooLF3giuB-lFnLiYt2B2YaewCUSRyRrjRcgfNvdUEiJD5Tyc_-oNetter's PRNhttps://www.us.elsevierhealth.com/netters-surgical-anatomy-review-prn-9780323447270.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqKJB0d9CLhBkI-k4xncAquFBZu-PFraaDBUiDyfZUFtKKFPxIcHoppenfeld's Surgical Approaches in Orthopedicshttps://shop.lww.com/Surgical-Exposures-in-Orthopaedics--The-Anatomic-Approach/p/9781975168797?srsltid=AfmBOoovQeVsMs0Cv8QI4VSjd2Nz_gpdtqtwIpbroWXtAIo7bMcNmTAaZollinger's Atlas of Surgical Operationshttps://www.abebooks.com/9780071797559/Zollingers-Atlas-Surgical-Operations-Tenth-0071797556/plpSurgery 101 Podcasthttps://surgery101.org/podcast/Curious Clinicians https://curiousclinicians.com/Husky Orthopedics Grand Roundshttps://www.youtube.com/user/HuskyOrthopaedicsRobotic Surgery Collaborationhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1522777931338325/
In this episode Kelly and John discuss the importance of reviewing the Patient's H&P before surgery.
00:00 Episode 10 H&P
00:09 Introduction and Greetings
00:36 Upcoming Conference Announcement
02:05 Importance of Attending Conferences
03:58 Introduction to Patient History and Physical (H&P)
04:45 Key Elements of H&P for Surgical Assistants
06:00 Challenges and Best Practices in Reviewing H&P
08:55 Assessing the Patient Pre-Operatively
17:59 Understanding Surgical History and Its Implications
24:08 Medications and Their Impact on Surgery
33:26 Discussing Patient History and Communication with Surgeons
34:38 Physical Signs and Symptoms of Appendicitis
35:46 Importance of Knowing Patient's Age and Body Habitus
36:42 Making Informed Decisions During Surgery
40:54 Understanding and Reviewing Lab Values
46:07 Contraindications and Patient Medications
53:34 The Role of Allergies in Patient Care
58:03 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In this Episode John and Kelly are joined by Jason Bonvito, CSA, to discuss the post mastectomy patient and the different options available for reconstruction. Jason shares his experience, insights as well as tips and tricks. This is the second in a three part series.
00:00 Introduction to the Surgical Assistant Podcast
00:37 Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy
01:22 Expert Insights with Jason Bon Vito
02:45 Understanding Mastectomy and Reconstruction Options
11:11 The Importance of Blood Perfusion in Reconstruction
18:01 Flap Techniques in Breast Reconstruction
31:55 Direct to Implant (DTI) Reconstruction
34:33 Sterile Techniques and Hemostasis
35:41 Choosing the Right Implant
37:13 Spy Technology in Mastectomy
41:36 ADM Preparation and Implantation
46:04 The Role of a First Assistant
54:09 Patient Positioning and Safety
57:41 Preoperative and Postoperative Care
01:06:16 Understanding Seroma and Healing Challenges
01:06:49 Recent Advances in Surgical Techniques
01:07:04 Patient Activity and Healing
01:07:26 Complications and Management
01:07:57 Dressing and Post-Op Care
01:12:01 Tissue Expanders and ADM
01:21:12 Patient Expectations and Psychological Impact
01:23:33 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
John and Kelly in part 1 of a 3 part podcast series on the breast discuss some of the diagnosis criteria and what it means for the Surgical Assistant. They also discuss positioning, equipment, as well as relevant anatomy.
Stay tuned for part 2 which will cover post mastectomy reconstruction with a special guest.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:17 Overview of Breast Surgery Series
02:20 Breast Anatomy and Blood Supply
02:56 Venous Drainage and Batson's Plexus
03:58 Innervation of the Breast
04:53 Characteristics of Breast Tissue
07:14 Anatomical Borders in the Axilla
16:20 Common Nerve Injuries During Surgery
22:06 Benign Breast Conditions
30:04 History and Evolution of Breast Surgery
35:26 Therapeutic Mastectomy and Lumpectomy
36:42 Lymph Node Dissection Techniques
37:38 Tumor Localization Methods
38:23 Savvy Scout and Other Localization Tools
46:18 Mastectomy Procedures and Incisions
49:06 Positioning and Equipment for Breast Surgery
56:48 Closure Techniques and Post-Op Care
01:05:19 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics
In this episode Kelly and I talk about C-sections. Where it originated, Why we do them, and how you can help. We also share a story or two from our experience. We also give you some tips and tricks.
00:00 Introduction to the Surgical Assistant Podcast
00:25 Personal Experiences with C-Sections
02:06 The Emotional Impact of C-Sections
03:59 History of C-Sections
07:17 Global Statistics on C-Sections
09:06 Indications for C-Sections
23:29 Urgency and Types of C-Sections
28:21 Surgical Approach and Techniques
40:13 Preparing for the Uterine Incision
41:33 Delivering the Baby's Head
42:27 Using Tools for Difficult Deliveries
44:13 Communicating with the Patient
47:00 Assessing the Newborn
52:38 Delivering and Inspecting the Placenta
59:11 Closing the Uterus and Abdominal Layers
01:07:02 Final Steps and Post-Operative Care
01:14:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this Episode Kelly and I discuss some of the situations and dynamics that can occur in the Operating Room. We share some experiences and maybe a little wisdom.
00:00 Introduction to the Surgical Assistant Podcast
00:19 Meet Your Hosts: John and Kelly
00:32 Today's Topic: Dynamics in the Operating Room
00:57 Staff Roles in the Operating Room
17:01 The Role of the Surgical First Assistant
29:23 Challenges and Team Dynamics
34:35 Anesthesia's Role in Patient Positioning
35:48 Navigating Team Dynamics and Safety
36:30 Learning and Humility in the OR
37:23 Case Study: Radial Head Fracture Positioning
38:26 Handling Disagreements and Ego
43:54 Educating and Learning on the Job
53:20 Final Thoughts and Best Practices
01:01:31 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
01:02:26 Disclaimer
In this episode Kelly and I discuss the personal decision to work in the scrub after becoming a Surgical Assistant. We also talk about working in a Dual Role.
00:00 Welcome to the Surgical Assistant Podcast
00:32 Upcoming Conference Announcements
02:26 Importance of Professional Involvement
05:27 Controversial Topic Introduction
07:29 Primary Responsibilities of CSTs
09:32 Differences Between CSTs and Surgical Assistants
16:22 Personal Motivations and Professional Growth
25:13 Challenges and Experiences in the Field
31:12 Unacceptable Behavior and Professionalism
31:52 The Unique Role of Surgical Assistants
32:49 Building Trust with Surgeons and Patients
34:04 Encouragement for Surgical Assistants
38:41 The Scrubbing Debate
40:42 Professional Boundaries and Legal Considerations
46:41 Role Evolution in Healthcare
49:48 Fostering Unity in the Profession
52:52 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
57:09 Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action
In this podcast Kelly and I talk about surgery starting before the use of anesthetics up to the discovery of Ether for use in surgery. We talk about the three barriers to modern surgery. WE mention the Fathers of modern surgery people like Joseph Lister, Robert Liston, and William Halsted. We even mention an interesting link to "Jack the Ripper".
00:00 The Surgical Assistant Podcast Episode: 4 The History of Surgery 00:33 The Significance of October 16th in Surgical History 00:33 The Significance of October 16th in Surgical History 01:02 Ancient Surgical Practices and Discoveries 01:02 Ancient Surgical Practices and Discoveries 02:28 The Evolution of Surgical Techniques 02:28 The Evolution of Surgical Techniques 11:41 The Advent of Anesthesia and Modern Surgery 11:41 The Advent of Anesthesia and Modern Surgery 17:28 Robert Liston: The Fastest Knife in the West End 17:28 Robert Liston: The Fastest Knife in the West End 36:51 The Dark Period of Surgery and Its Challenges 36:51 The Dark Period of Surgery and Its Challenges/ 38:46 The First Use of Anesthesia in Childbirth 38:46 The First Use of Anesthesia in Childbirth 39:11 Robert Liston: The Compassionate Innovator 39:11 Robert Liston: The Compassionate Innovator 40:03 The Black Period of Surgery 40:03 The Black Period of Surgery 40:36 Joseph Lister and the Birth of Antisepsis 40:36 Joseph Lister and the Birth of Antisepsis 42:12 The Evolution of Surgical Tools and Techniques 42:12 The Evolution of Surgical Tools and Techniques 48:12 The Impact of Anesthesia in the Civil War 48:12 The Impact of Anesthesia in the Civil War 49:55 The Rise of Modern Surgery 49:55 The Rise of Modern Surgery 52:50 The Role of Blood Transfusions in Surgery 52:50 The Role of Blood Transfusions in Surgery 01:05:57 The Importance of Anatomy Knowledge 01:05:57 The Importance of Anatomy Knowledge 01:07:44 Conclusion and Reflections
In this episode Kelly and I talk with Shannon Smith the lab director of Meridian institute of Surgical Assisting. We also talk with Candice Spencer who is the externship coordinator. We discuss Meridian's program of Surgical Assisting, the prerequisites, cost, surgical skills lab, and the certification exam.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:32 Meet Shannon Smith: Lab Director 01:36 Meet Candace Spencer: Clinical Externship Coordinator 02:34 Addressing Externship and Clinical Questions 03:04 Overview of Meridian's Program 04:04 Admissions and Program Requirements 06:07 Clinical Externship Details 14:00 Affiliation Agreements and Clinical Sites 17:28 Hands-On Lab Experience 25:36 Introduction and Initial Discussion 25:57 Proud of Our Pass Rates 27:52 Learning Management System and Support 30:06 Hands-On Lab Experience 32:58 Preparing for Certification Exams 39:40 Encouraging Professional Membership 41:16 Final Questions and Closing Remarks
In this episode Kelly and I talk about becoming a Surgical First Assistant. The education, programs, clinicals and eventually testing and licensure if applicable.
00:00 Welcome to the Surgical Assistant Podcast 00:21 Introduction of Hosts and Episode Topic 00:32 Pathway to Becoming a First Assistant 01:09 Importance of Clinical Experience 02:59 Educational Programs and Resources 03:55 Finding the Right Program 08:47 Setting Up Clinical Training 11:19 Personal Experiences and Advice 16:31 Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles 17:16 Building Relationships with Surgeons 20:07 Settling Down for Education 20:37 Balancing Work and Clinicals 20:47 Hospital Support and Sacrifices 23:07 Facing Challenges and Hostility 24:41 Navigating Clinical Requirements 25:59 Preparing for Certification Exams 28:59 Transitioning to a First Assistant Role 33:07 Job Hunting Tips for New First Assistants 35:44 Conclusion and Future Topics
In this Episode Kelly and I give a brief background of ourselves and how we became Surgical Assistants. We also talk about how you can become a surgical Assistant. We discuss why we created this podcast and what the is the purpose.
