The Interventional Endoscopist

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, host Dr. Vinkaval Satdev sits down with Dr. Davinderbir Singh Pannu, a recognized leader in advanced therapeutic endoscopy at McLeod Health. For years, Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) has been the gold standard for en bloc resection of complex mucosal lesions, but steep learning curves and equipment limitations have kept it centralized in m...

Resetting the Metabolic Setpoint: Duodenal Mucosal Resurfacing (DMR) and the Future of Obesity Care with Dr. Harith Rajagopalan Is the duodenum the "early warning beacon" for metabolic disease? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Harith Rajagopalan, MD, PhD, Co-Founder and CEO of Fractyl Health, to discuss the revolutionary shift from treating downstream symptoms of diabetes and obesity to addre...

In this episode, I explore the rapidly evolving world of Endobariatrics. As a bridge between lifestyle intervention and invasive surgery, these endoscopic procedures are fundamentally changing how I look at metabolic health and weight loss. In this episode, I discuss: Why I see endobariatrics as the "middle ground" for weight loss. My breakdown of Endometabolic Endoscopy and its impact on Type 2 D...

EUS gives us phenomenal imaging — but tissue acquisition has historically been the weak link. In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, host Mankanwal Sachdev speaks with Dr. Charles Walther, a Swedish interventional cytopathologist and tumor genetics expert who has sampled 15,000+ patients and helped develop a new approach to obtaining high-quality specimens: EndoDrill. Walther shares th...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, host Mankanwal Sachdev sits down with Dr. Dan Marino , a GI fellow at NYU and future advanced endoscopy fellow, to unpack the real-world pathway to a fourth-year advanced endoscopy fellowship. Dan shares his journey from New Jersey soccer goalie to medical student, resident, fellow and ultimately interventional endoscopy fellow. He discussed how e...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, I sit down with Matt Schwartz, Co-Founder and CEO of Virgo Surgical Video Solutions, a company that transforms procedural video into structured, searchable, AI-ready data. Matt shares the early spark that led him to leave Intuitive Surgical to start Virgo, the challenges of installing early systems in GI units, and how automated, zero-click video...

This conversation traces Dragonfly from an idea “in the back of a cab” to a clinically focused cholangioscopy platform that rotates through the biopsy channel for predictable, millimeter-level control. We delve into the mechanics (≈1.7 mm channel supporting 1.5 mm forceps and 4.5 Fr EHL), exploring how the catheter’s suppleness and internal rigidity enhance distal duct stability and device passabi...

In this deep-dive, Mankanwal Sachdev explores how cholangioscopy moves us from fluoroscopic silhouettes to direct mucosal visualization—and why that changes diagnosis and therapy across indeterminate strictures, PSC dominant lesions, and difficult stones. We walk through the current platform landscape (SpyGlass™ DS2, eyeMAX™, and Dragonfly™), practical biopsy technique to improve yield, and real-w...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist Podcast, I dive into how AI-powered scribing has transformed my clinical workflow. Using Doximity’s AI scribe, I share step-by-step insights into documentation, patient engagement, and time savings in daily practice. I outline the advantages, limitations, and customization strategies while reflecting on the broader role of AI in reducing burnout an...

Description: In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, I dive divs into one of the most impactful developments in advanced GI care: the approval of dedicated Category I CPT codes for Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD). These long-awaited codes, one for upper GI and one for lower GI, go into effect on January 1, 2027 — and could finally unlock broader access, adoption, and reimbursemen...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Widmer—Division Chief of Gastroenterology at NYU Langone Hospital–Long Island—for an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation. Dr. Widmer shares her journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to becoming a leader in interventional endoscopy. We discuss her training path, early exposure to ERCP and cholangioscopy, a...

Join me as I welcome Fritz Haller, CEO and co-founder of Endolastic, to the podcast. Discover the fascinating journey of this medical device innovator, a former world champion, and Olympic coach in whitewater slalom.   Fritz discusses his transition from a decorated athletic career and early experiences in medical devices at Cook Medical to founding Endolastic. Learn about Endolastic's core techno...

Episode 31, In this episode, we look at redefining Gastroenterology: Mentorship, Innovation, and the Future of Interventional Endoscopy with Dr. Srinadh Komanduri Episode Summary: In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, host Dr. Mankanwal Sachdev reconnects with his longtime mentor, Dr. Srinadh Komanduri of Northwestern University. The two dive into Dr. Komanduri’s unique training path,...

I am excited to share insights from the Interventional Endoscopist podcast featuring Dr. Sachin Wani! The discussion centered on Barrett's esophagus, and strategies to improve detection and risk stratification Key takeaways: • The rising incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma makes early detection crucial. Yet, survival rates remain low, highlighting the need for improved strategies • PEEC and PEE...

Join us for a deep dive into the world of endoscopic oncology with Dr. Toufic Kachaamy! This episode explores the rapidly evolving field of endoscopic oncology, highlighting its importance in cancer care and the need for multidisciplinary collaboration. My second visit with Dr. Kachaamy discussed his innovative endoscopic oncology course, now in its fourth year, designed to bridge the gap between...

In episode 29 of the Interventional Endoscopist Podcast, join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Legett from the Mayo Clinic, Rochester. We delve into his extensive experience in treating esophageal disorders, focusing on Barrett's esophagus. Dr. Legett shares his journey and training at Mayo Clinic, highlighting his expertise in leveraging artificial intelligence and precision medicine, s...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist Podcast, Dr. Stuart Akerman joins host Dr. Mankanwal Sachdev to explore the evolving role of AI in gastroenterology and endoscopy. They dive into AI's impact on polyp detection, note writing, and patient engagement, and how it enhances both efficiency and care quality. Dr. Akerman reviews leading AI systems like GI Genius, Magenta, and Scalp, while...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist, Dr. Mankanwal Sachdev and Dr. Stuart Akerman explore the pivotal role of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and its impact on both patient care and physician work-life balance. Dr. Akerman, a physician advisor for Endosound, shares how EUS has transformed his practice. He also reflects on his unique journey from a ca...

In this episode of The Interventional Endoscopist Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Doug Adler, Director of the Center for Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy at Porter Adventist Hospital. We discuss his transition from a 20-year academic career to a hybrid practice model, blending private practice with academic responsibilities—a trend gaining traction among interventional endoscopists. Dr. Adler shares hi...

In the latest episode of The Interventional Endoscopist Podcast, Dr. Jason B. Samarasena, a prominent figure in the field of endohepatology, shares insights into his background and the innovative developments in this emerging specialty. Dr. Samarasena delves into the evolution of endohepatology, highlighting the potential it holds for transforming patient care. A significant portion of the discuss...

In this exciting episode of "The Interventional Endoscopist," I sit down with Scott Haack, a renowned inventor and innovator in the gastrointestinal (GI) space. With a career dedicated to advancing endoscopic technology and improving patient outcomes, Scott shares his journey, the challenges he has faced, and his vision for the future of GI procedures. Tune in as Scott delves into the intricacies...

Exciting News for Interventional Endoscopy Enthusiasts!  In my latest episode of "The Interventional Endoscopist" podcast, I delve into the rapidly evolving world of interventional endoscopy and its expanding opportunities within ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). Previously, we explored the performance of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in ASCs. Now, I'm thrilled to share insights on a groundbreakin...

In this riveting episode of "The Interventional Endoscopist," we had the privilege to sit down with Dr. Austin Chiang, the Chief Medical Officer of Medtronic GI. Dr. Chiang shared his inspiring journey from academia to becoming the CMO, providing valuable insights into his journey. We also delved into his literary contribution, as he shared the impetus and process behind his book - a must-hear for...

Welcome to another episode where we dive deep into the fascinating world of Interventional Endoscopy. This time, I have the privilege of interviewing Dr. Amandeep K. Shergill, a renowned figure in the field of Gastroenterology. As the Chief of GI at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Francisco and a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Dr. Shergill h...

Welcome to the latest installment of "The Interventional Endoscopist," where we delve into the practical application of the Endorotor device, a novel innovation transforming the landscape of tissue resection. In this episode, I share my personal experiences with Endorotor, discussing its integration into my practice and its current applications. Whether you're an established professional seeking t...