The Surgical Assistant Podcast

In this episode of the Surgical Assistant Podcast, Kelly and John discuss the challenges and solutions for accommodating students in the operating room. They delve into the different types of students such as medical, nursing, and PA students, and share their personal experiences and stories from the OR. They emphasize the importance of being kind, respectful, and professional while teaching and guiding students. This episode offers valuable tips on how to effectively communicate and involve students to ensure a productive learning environment without compromising patient care.

In this episode of the Surgical Assistant Podcast, hosts Kelly and John welcome back special guest Jason Bonavito, a certified surgical first assistant from Charleston, South Carolina. The discussion focuses on the physical challenges faced by surgical assistants and the significance of fitness and well-being in the profession. They delve into practical tips and exercises to manage physical demands during surgeries, the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and the benefits of routine check-ups. Jason shares his personal journey of weight loss and fitness, emphasizing the transformative power of consistent exercise, proper nutrition, and good sleep. The episode is packed with valuable insights for both new and seasoned surgical professionals looking to enhance their physical and mental health to perform at their best.https://www.instagram.com/djbonavito/profilecard/?igsh=MW15Zng0ajl3cjA2Zw==http://www.mediprofitness.comhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1CUAaJDdfN/

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. Karishma 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/PinkPadTrenMAX: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&P00:09 Introduction and Greetings00:36 Upcoming Conference Announcement02:05 Importance of Attending Conferences03:58 Introduction to Patient History and Physical (H&P)04:45 Key Elements of H&P for Surgical Assistants06:00 Challenges and Best Practices in Reviewing H&P08:55 Assessing the Patient Pre-Operatively17:59 Understanding Surgical History and Its Implications24:08 Medications and Their Impact on Surgery33:26 Discussing Patient History and Communication with Surgeons34:38 Physical Signs and Symptoms of Appendicitis35:46 Importance of Knowing Patient's Age and Body Habitus36:42 Making Informed Decisions During Surgery40:54 Understanding and Reviewing Lab Values46:07 Contraindications and Patient Medications53:34 The Role of Allergies in Patient Care58:03 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 Podcast00:37 Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy01:22 Expert Insights with Jason Bon Vito02:45 Understanding Mastectomy and Reconstruction Options11:11 The Importance of Blood Perfusion in Reconstruction18:01 Flap Techniques in Breast Reconstruction31:55 Direct to Implant (DTI) Reconstruction34:33 Sterile Techniques and Hemostasis35:41 Choosing the Right Implant37:13 Spy Technology in Mastectomy41:36 ADM Preparation and Implantation46:04 The Role of a First Assistant54:09 Patient Positioning and Safety57:41 Preoperative and Postoperative Care01:06:16 Understanding Seroma and Healing Challenges01:06:49 Recent Advances in Surgical Techniques01:07:04 Patient Activity and Healing01:07:26 Complications and Management01:07:57 Dressing and Post-Op Care01:12:01 Tissue Expanders and ADM01:21:12 Patient Expectations and Psychological Impact01:23:33 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 Podcast00:17 Overview of Breast Surgery Series02:20 Breast Anatomy and Blood Supply02:56 Venous Drainage and Batson's Plexus03:58 Innervation of the Breast04:53 Characteristics of Breast Tissue07:14 Anatomical Borders in the Axilla16:20 Common Nerve Injuries During Surgery22:06 Benign Breast Conditions30:04 History and Evolution of Breast Surgery35:26 Therapeutic Mastectomy and Lumpectomy36:42 Lymph Node Dissection Techniques37:38 Tumor Localization Methods38:23 Savvy Scout and Other Localization Tools46:18 Mastectomy Procedures and Incisions49:06 Positioning and Equipment for Breast Surgery56:48 Closure Techniques and Post-Op Care01:05:19 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 Podcast00:25 Personal Experiences with C-Sections02:06 The Emotional Impact of C-Sections03:59 History of C-Sections07:17 Global Statistics on C-Sections09:06 Indications for C-Sections23:29 Urgency and Types of C-Sections28:21 Surgical Approach and Techniques40:13 Preparing for the Uterine Incision41:33 Delivering the Baby's Head42:27 Using Tools for Difficult Deliveries44:13 Communicating with the Patient47:00 Assessing the Newborn52:38 Delivering and Inspecting the Placenta59:11 Closing the Uterus and Abdominal Layers01:07:02 Final Steps and Post-Operative Care01:14:46 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 Podcast00:19 Meet Your Hosts: John and Kelly00:32 Today's Topic: Dynamics in the Operating Room00:57 Staff Roles in the Operating Room17:01 The Role of the Surgical First Assistant29:23 Challenges and Team Dynamics34:35 Anesthesia's Role in Patient Positioning35:48 Navigating Team Dynamics and Safety36:30 Learning and Humility in the OR37:23 Case Study: Radial Head Fracture Positioning38:26 Handling Disagreements and Ego43:54 Educating and Learning on the Job53:20 Final Thoughts and Best Practices01:01:31 Conclusion and Listener Engagement01:02:26 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