European Society for Vascular Surgery

In this episode of the ESVS Podcast, host Vaiva Dabravolskaite speaks with Judith Gilroy (Ireland), a medical educator and clinician working on training culture, psychological safety, and fairness in career progression. They reflect on everyday discrimination, belonging, allyship, and the hidden curriculum in surgery. Inspired by research on sexual misconduct and microaggressions, this conversation invites honest self-reflection on how culture shapes careers and how we can do better for each other.Literature sources to be shared if possible (divided into two groups) : 1. Key Report & Ongoing Work• Breaking the Silence: Addressing Sexual Misconduct Prof Carrie Newlands, Ms Tamzin Cuming, Ms Philippa Jackson University of Surrey / RCSI presentation (2024) https://openresearch.surrey.ac.uk/esploro/fulltext/report/BREAKING-THE-SILENCE-Addressing-Sexual-Misconduct/99944566102346• Workplace Sexual Misconduct in Surgery (WPSMS) – updates & research https://www.wpsms.org.uk/2. Reflection & Allyship Videos• “That Little Voice” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll56imVATLk• What is Intersectionality? – Peter Hopkins https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1islM0ytkE• How are Microaggressions Like Mosquitoes? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emz49wSnNcs• Heartbreaking Moment When Kids Learn About White Privilege https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1I3wJ7pJUjg

Want to know why Prof. Tsilimparis says “the dissection membrane is not always your enemy”? Tune in to this ESVS Podcast for an in-depth discussion on indications, decision-making, technical tips and tricks, and what the future may hold for the evolving field of aortic dissection management.Recorded live at LMU University Hospital in Munich, this episode of the ESVS Podcast features host Laurence Bertrand in conversation with Prof. Tsilimparis, Head of Vascular Surgery and an internationally recognised expert in aortic dissection management.

Can exercise really make a difference after deep vein thrombosis? We talk with Professor Marie José van Rijn from Erasmus University Medical Center about how physical activity can influence recovery, reduce complications like post-thrombotic syndrome, and improve quality of life. From early mobilisation to long-term exercise strategies, discover how “get moving” may change the way we manage DVT.Join us for this insightful conversation!References:1. Martins, A; Junior L; Oliveira, J. (2023). Benefits of early mobilization in patients with deep venous thrombosis: a scope review. Heart, Vessels and Transplantation.2. Rook B, van Rijn MJE, Jansma EP, van Montfrans C. Effect of exercise after a deep venous thrombosis: A systematic review. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 3. Kahn SR. The post-thrombotic syndrome. Hematology Am Soc Hematol Educ Program. 4. Liu Z, Tao X, Chen Y, Fan Z, Li Y. Bed rest versus early ambulation with standard anticoagulation in the management of deep vein thrombosis: a meta-analysis. PLoS One. 5. Anderson CM, Overend TJ, Godwin J, Sealy C, Sunderji A. Ambulation after deep vein thrombosis: a systematic review. Physiother Can. 6. Kahn SR, Comerota AJ, Cushman M, Evans NS, Ginsberg JS, Goldenberg NA, Gupta DK, Prandoni P, Vedantham S, Walsh ME, Weitz JI; American Heart Association Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease, Council on Clinical Cardiology, and Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing. The postthrombotic syndrome: evidence-based prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association.Circulation. 2014 Oct 28;130(18):1636-61. doi: 10.1161/CIR.0000000000000130. Epub 2014 Sep 22. Erratum in: Circulation. 7. Kakkos SK, Gohel M, Baekgaard N, Bauersachs R, Bellmunt-Montoya S, Black SA, Ten Cate-Hoek AJ, Elalamy I, Enzmann FK, Geroulakos G, Gottsäter A, Hunt BJ, Mansilha A, Nicolaides AN, Sandset PM, Stansby G, Esvs Guidelines Committee, de Borst GJ, Bastos Gonçalves F, Chakfé N, Hinchliffe R, Kolh P, Koncar I, Lindholt JS, Tulamo R, Twine CP, Vermassen F, Wanhainen A, Document Reviewers, De Maeseneer MG, Comerota AJ, Gloviczki P, KruipMJHA, Monreal M, Prandoni P, Vega de Ceniga M. Editor's Choice – European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2021 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Venous Thrombosis. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 8. Jasionowska S, Turner BRH, Machin M, Onida S, Gwozdz AM, Shalhoub J, Davies AH. Systematic review of exercise therapy in the management of post-thrombotic syndrome. Phlebology. 9. Steiner D, Nopp S, Pabinger I, Dassler E, Koppensteiner R, Müller M, Weber B, Ay C, Schlager O. Impact of thrombosis location on walking capacity: a cohort study of patients with acute deep vein thrombosis. Res Pract Thromb Haemost. 10. Wu C, Li X, Zhao H, Ling Y, Ying Y, He Y, Zhang S, Liang S, Wei J, Gan X. Resistance exercise promotes the resolution and recanalization of deep venous thrombosis in a mouse model via SIRT1 upregulation. BMC Cardiovasc Disord. 11. Mota GR, Simim MAM, Dos Santos IA, Sasaki JE, Marocolo M. Effects of Wearing Compression Stockings on Exercise Performance and Associated Indicators: A Systematic Review. Open Access J Sports Med.

In our special holiday podcast we take a look at the current controversy surrounding PFAS or Forever chemicals. Were you aware that one of the most commonly used compounds in vascular surgery, PTFE, actually falls into this category of substances? Is there anything to worry about? What should we be telling patients? All of these burning questions will be answered. With Justin Woolgar.

In this episode, we focus on the trainee perspective in vascular surgery across Europe.Trainees and young vascular surgeons share what works in training, what doesn’t, and what they would change if they could, touching on structure, mentorship, autonomy, soft skills, and everyday challenges.We’re also joined by Dr David Wippel, who presents insights from his research on the training experience of young vascular surgeons, including burnout, fulfilment, and professional development.Get involvedIf you’re a trainee or young vascular surgeon and would like to take part in the survey discussed in this episode, you can join here: Link to the Trainee Survey: https://redcap.link/8ubj206vIf you’re a consultant in vascular surgery with over 5 years of experience and would like to take part in the survey discussed in this episode, you can join here: Link to the Trainer Survey: https://redcap.link/shp8nthlYour input helps shape the future of vascular surgery training.

In Part 1 of our ESVS training series, we speak with Professor Elena Iborra and Professor Igor Končar about the realities of training young vascular surgeons across Europe. They discuss expectations, mentorship, and how to shape safe, effective learning environments for the next generation.A concise, insightful look at what defines good vascular training today.

How can a global, imaging-rich registry powered by AI reshape surveillance and quality of life after EVAR and TEVAR?In this episode of the ESVS Podcast, host Egle Kavaliunaite speaks with Prof. Kak Khee Yeung (Amsterdam UMC, ESVS President 2026–27-elect) and Prof. Timothy Resch (Copenhagen University Hospital) about the TOGETHER Registry, a large, prospective, long-term aortic registry capturing real-world data on EVAR, TEVAR and iliac branch devices, including hostile as well as standard anatomy.In this conversation, they explore:What makes TOGETHER different from previous aortic registries (central imaging, longer follow-up, global scope)How advanced imaging and AI-ready data may help predict which patients need intensive surveillance – and who may safely need lessThe clinical meaning of sac regression, endoleaks and durability when viewed through patient quality of lifeThe strengths and limitations of a single-brand registry in a multi-device treatment landscapeHow remote monitoring, mobile tools and future biomarkers could transform aortic follow-upListen now, and subscribe to the ESVS Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or SoundCloud, and explore more aortic content in the ESVS Library.

We explore the challenges of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) in women, with two renowned experts: Professor Maarit Venermo and Professor Mirjami Laivuori.Together, we discuss why PAD continues to be underdiagnosed in women despite equal or even higher prevalence, the limitations of the ankle–brachial index (ABI) in female patients, the intricate interplay between estrogen, menopause, and vascular health, the growing trend toward endovascular-first strategies in women, and the conflicting evidence surrounding revascularisation outcomes.An evidence-based and clinically relevant conversation awaits.ReferencesDivakaran S, Krawisz AK, Secemsky EA, Kant S. Sex and Racial Disparities in Peripheral Artery Disease. 2023Jelani QU, Petrov M, Martinez SC, Holmvang L, Al-Shaibi K, Alasnag M. Peripheral Arterial Disease in Women: an Overview of Risk Factor Profile, Clinical Features, and Outcomes. 2018Kozak M, Poredoš P, Blinc A, Kaja Ježovnik M, Poredoš P. Peripheral arterial disease in women. 2024Porras CP, Bots ML, Teraa M, van Doorn S, Vernooij RWM. Differences in Symptom Presentation in Women and Men with Confirmed Lower Limb Peripheral Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. 2022Kavurma MM, Boccanfuso L, Cutmore C, Passam F, Patel S, Hennessy A, Loa J, Figtree GA, Golledge J, Robinson DA, Aitken S. A hidden problem: peripheral artery disease in women. 2023Srivaratharajah K, Abramson BL. Women and Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Review of Sex Differences in Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Outcomes. 2018Pabon M, Cheng S, Altin SE, Sethi SS, Nelson MD, Moreau KL, Hamburg N, Hess CN. Sex Differences in Peripheral Artery Disease. 2022Twine CP, Kakkos SK, Aboyans V, Baumgartner I, Behrendt CA, Bellmunt-Montoya S, Jilma B, Nordanstig J, Saratzis A, Reekers JA, Zlatanovic P; ESVS Guidelines Committee; Antoniou GA, de Borst GJ, Bastos Gonçalves F, Chakfé N, Coscas R, Dias NV, Hinchliffe RJ, Kolh P, Lindholt JS, Mees BME, Resch TA, Trimarchi S, Tulamo R, Vermassen FEG, Wanhainen A; Document Reviewers; Koncar I, Fitridge R, Matsagkas M, Valgimigli M. European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2023 Clinical Practice Guidelines on Antithrombotic Therapy for Vascular Diseases. 2023Nordanstig J, Behrendt CA, Baumgartner I, Belch J, Bäck M, Fitridge R, Hinchliffe R, Lejay A, Mills JL, Rother U, Sigvant B, Spanos K, Szeberin Z, van de Water W; ESVS Guidelines Committee; Antoniou GA, Björck M, Gonçalves FB, Coscas R, Dias NV, Van Herzeele I, Lepidi S, Mees BME, Resch TA, Ricco JB, Trimarchi S, Twine CP, Tulamo R, Wanhainen A; Document Reviewers; Boyle JR, Brodmann M, Dardik A, Dick F, Goëffic Y, Holden A, Kakkos SK, Kolh P, McDermott MM. European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2024 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Asymptomatic Lower Limb Peripheral Arterial Disease and Intermittent Claudication. 2024

In this episode, with Prof. Tilo Kölbel, we discuss the significant risks associated with air embolism during aortic surgery, the innovative technique of CO2 flushing of aortic endografts, and the practical tips and tricks of implementing this technique in clinical practice. The conversation also touches on current guidelines and the future of CO2 flushing in endovascular protocols, emphasising its potential to improve patient outcomes. Unmissable!Also, check out these papers that we mentioned in the podcast:https://www.ejves.com/action/showPdf?pii=S1078-5884%2825%2900409-5https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1526602816633705https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10151986/https://www.ejves.com/action/showPdf?pii=S1078-5884%2818%2930692-0

The war in Gaza has been described as a humanitarian catastrophe. Ever since the war began 2 years ago, following the October 7th attack by Hamas it is estimated that over 68,000 people have been killed, with a further 180,000 injured. Thousands have been displaced, and many have suffered starvation and famine because of the Israeli blockade. The plight of medics trying to treat civilians has also been extremely challenging and dangerous, with health care facilities often targeted by the IDF airstrikes. In this podcast, we talk to Mr Ed Brown, a consultant vascular surgeon from the UK who has recently returned from Gaza and describes his experiences working in a warzone. What does it take to work in such an environment? What are the challenges facing surgeons and other health professionals in Gaza? Ever thought of humanitarian work yourself? These are the questions we hope to answer. With Justin Woolgar.

Aortic stent infections remain among the most feared and complex complications in vascular surgery—rare but devastating when they occur. In episode, recorded live in ESVS Istanbul, Dr. Laurence Bertrand speaks with Dr. Anne Le Jay, about complex aortic reconstruction and graft infection management. Together, they examine how vascular specialists are redefining best practice: from early recognition and imaging to multidisciplinary treatment planning, surgical decision-making, and long-term outcomes.

Recorded live during the ESVS Annual Meeting, this episode brings together two experts shaping the field of oncovascular surgery Dr. Pirkka Vikatmaa and Dr. Stefano Ancetti. We explore how multidisciplinary oncovascular teams are transforming cancer surgery, the expanding role of vascular surgeons in complex tumour resections, and the use of endovascular techniques in oncovascular surgery.

In this episode, recorded live at the 39th ESVS Annual Meeting, we sit down with Prof. Javier Pascual, a podiatrist specialised in diabetic foot care and wound biomechanics. Together, we explore the biomechanical principles behind the most common diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) — why they develop, how abnormal pressure and gait contribute to tissue breakdown, and what clinicians can do to enhance healing and to prevent ulcer recurrence. Dr. Pascual breaks down complex concepts into practical insights, making this a must-listen for vascular specialists, podiatrists, wound-care nurses, and anyone involved in multidisciplinary diabetic foot management.

Join us for another episode in our journey into the secret lives of vascular machines and devices. In this episode, we look at the ubiquitous vascular stent. Ever wondered who invented them and when they were first used to treat vascular disease? Ever thought about why they are made of stainless steel or nitinol? In fact, what actually is Nitinol? All your burning questions answered in this podcast that delves into the world of vascular bioengineering. Presented by Justin Woolgar.

Only about 50% of patients with chronic diseases adhere to treatment recommendations, and the consequences can be devastating. In this thought-provoking episode of the ESVS Podcasts, we delve into this important and under-discussed issue. Together with Professor Khadija Hafidh, we analyse some factors that help explain why so many patients struggle with adherence, as well as some strategies that have proved effective in improving patient compliance. Spoiler: empathy, communication, shared decision making, and simplifying the treatment regime are key elements. Join us in this episode that can really help your clinical practice.

As vascular surgeons, we all use various pieces of equipment and technology in our day jobs. Everything from the hand-held Doppler to complex ultrasound machines, CT and MRI scanners. Every time we treat vascular disease we use some form of technology, be it an angioplasty balloon, stent or a vascular graft. We are surrounded by technology and use it all the time, but how many of us actually have any clue as to how it works? In this series of podcasts, we will take a slightly light-hearted look at the biomedical engineering involved in some of the pieces of kit that most of us take for granted. Nothing too overwhelming, but enough to explain the science behind the machine.In the first episode, we will take a look at the humble hand-held Doppler machine and explain how this frequently used machine does what it does. We will explain how the Doppler and piezoelectric effects combine to make an essential tool for clinicians and allied healthcare professionals in the field of vascular surgery.Presented by Justin Woolgar.

In this episode, we’re joined by Prof. Alberto Settembrini and Associate Professor Ashley K. Vavra to discuss the application of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols in the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms.We explore how ERAS principles are adapted for both open and endovascular AAA repair, covering key elements such as preoperative risk assessment, anaesthetic management, early mobilisation, and discharge planning.The conversation underscores the importance of bridging the gap between evidence and clinical practice, as well as the central role of the entire multidisciplinary team, comprising surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, physiotherapists, and dietitians.

In this episode, we’re joined by Prof. Kate McGinigle – vascular surgeon, researcher, and expert in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS).We explore the role of ERAS protocols in optimising outcomes for vascular surgery patients, with a focus on preoperative risk assessment, nutritional support, and structured prehabilitation.Drawing on clinical data and implementation experience, Prof. McGinigle outlines practical strategies that surgical teams can adopt to reduce complications, support recovery, and personalise care pathways.This is Part 1 of a two-part series on perioperative optimisation in vascular surgery.Recommended for surgeons, anesthesiologists, dietitians, physiotherapists, and all healthcare professionals involved in perioperative care.

In Part 2 of our wound care series, we shift focus to what happens on the wound bed itself. From negative pressure therapy to advanced dressings and skin grafts – this episode is all about local treatment strategies.Our expert guests, dermatologist Dr. Magdalena Antoszewska and wound care nurse Kamila Mazuryk, walk us through practical solutions, clinical tips, and the logic behind what works (and what doesn’t) in complex wound care, especially when perfusion is compromised. This episode covers:Skin grafts: when, how, and why they succeed or failThe do’s and don’ts of NPWT in ischemic and grafted woundsHow to approach wound bed preparation with limited vascular supplyDressing selection: infection control, moisture balance, and biofilm managementWhen to avoid debridement – and what to do insteadIncorporating patient quality of life and mental health into long-term wound plansAdvanced materials and smart bandage technologyIf you’re dealing with diabetic feet, graft failures, or wounds that just won’t close, this episode brings frontline advice from the people who live in the wound world every day.Whether you're in theatre, clinic, or at the bedside, this is the practical wound wisdom you need.

In a short series of podcasts, we are going to explore the evolving field of complex thoracic aortic repair, with a particular focus on complex endovascular devices implanted in the aortic arch or even the ascending aorta, that is, zones 0 to 2. In today’s episode, we are going to dig into proximal landing zone 2, that is, the need to place the TEVAR device between the left carotid and the left subclavian arteries, so over the origin of the LSA, and strategies to preserve left subclavian artery perfusion.