In this first episode of Beyond the Rounds, host Dr. Nolan Fisher sits down with internationally recognized neurosurgeon Dr. Dilan Ellegala to break down some of the most common conditions in cranial neurosurgery. Together, they walk through real clinical cases and discuss what every clinician should know about indications, imaging, surgical decision-making and how to avoid low-value neurosurgical care.Dr. Ellegala shares insights from his extensive training (University of Washington, University of Virginia, Brigham & Women’s/Harvard) and global health work, offering a grounded, practical lens for both primary care providers and specialists.What we cover in this episode:Meningioma evaluation & management– How vague headaches present– When to image– What MRI findings matter– Treatment pathways and realistic surgical outcomesPituitary tumors– Visual changes, hormonal symptoms & incidental findings– When surgery is indicated– Expected results from modern techniquesAneurysm case (subarachnoid hemorrhage)– Differentiating dangerous headaches from migraine– How CTA findings drive intervention– Red flags not to missTrigeminal neuralgia– Classic symptom patterns– Vascular compression on imaging– Medical vs. surgical managementMyth vs. MedicineDr. Ellegala addresses common patient fears — “brain tumors are always fatal,” “my head will be shaved,” “minimally invasive options don’t exist” — and reframes them with facts, outcomes data and modern neurosurgical approaches.Systems & ReferralsWe also break down:• What multidisciplinary neurosurgical care actually looks like• How coordinated pathways improve outcomes• What makes a high-quality referral (and where patients fall through the cracks)About Our Guest:Dilan Ellegala, MD, is a neurosurgeon specializing in cerebrovascular, skull base and microneurosurgery, with more than 50 publications and international work advancing global neurosurgical care.📌 Subscribe for upcoming episodes featuring real cases, practical insights and collaborative conversations across the spectrum of patient care.
During this episode of Banner Health’s Making the Rounds podcast, we'll discuss shoulder and elbow surgical innovations, from joint-sparing techniques to the latest in recovery and treatment strategies. We'll cover both open and arthroscopic surgery, why surgery might not always be the right approach, and the critical relationship between the referring physician and the surgeon in positive patient outcomes. You'll hear from Dr. Midhat Patel, a shoulder and elbow orthopedic surgeon at Banner – University Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute in Phoenix and Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale, and clinical assistant professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, Department of Orthopedics. To learn more about these topics or other orthopedic-related offerings at Banner Health, please visit BannerHealth.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Banner Health’s Making the Rounds podcast, we’ll explore the world of pediatric orthopedic surgery, from treating complex fractures and limb deformities to innovative solutions for congenital disorders and neuromuscular conditions. We’ll discuss the latest surgical advancements, the importance of early diagnosis, and how collaborative care between pediatricians and orthopedic specialists leads to better outcomes for young patients. You'll hear from Dr. Ahmed Elabd, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Banner - University Medicine Tucson and assistant professor of orthopedics at the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson. Dr. Elabd specializes in treating complex pediatric musculoskeletal conditions, including fractures, hip disorders, limb deformities, congenital abnormalities and more.To learn more about these topics or other pediatric orthopedic services at Banner Health, please visit BannerHealth.com/pediatrics.
From initial symptoms to survivorship, understanding bone cancer care is crucial for primary care providers. During this episode of Banner Health’s Making the Rounds podcast, we’ll explore the complexities of bone cancer diagnoses, treatment pathways and the vital role of primary care providers in supporting patients across every stage of their journey. We’ll cover the different types of bone cancer, the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and how primary care can bridge the gap between oncology specialists and families facing this difficult diagnosis.You'll hear from Dr. Ahmed Elabd, an orthopedic oncology specialist at Banner - University Medicine Tucson and the University of Arizona Cancer Center, and assistant professor of orthopedics at the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson. Dr. Elabd is a specialist in treating both pediatric and adult patients with bone cancer.
During this episode of Banner Health’s Making the Rounds podcast, we discuss the intricacies of orthopedic injuries and how personalized treatment can make a difference. You'll hear from Dr. Rafael Buerba Siller, an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon specializing in knee and shoulder orthopedic surgery with Banner - University Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute. Dr. Buerba brings extensive experience from his work with top-tier sports teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins, and he applies a patient-focused, evidence-driven approach to his care for patients at Banner Health.To learn more about these topics or other orthopedic-related offerings at Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we're on-site at Spring Training in Goodyear, Arizona, with Dr. Grant Padley, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine provider with TOCA at Banner Health and a team physician for the Cincinnati Reds Major and Minor League Baseball teams for the past 16 seasons. Dr. Padley shares his experience treating athletes at all levels – from professional baseball players to young competitors – diving into common shoulder and elbow injuries, cutting-edge rehabilitation techniques and how sports medicine supports long-term performance and recovery. We'll also discuss the importance of multi-sport participation, advancements in imaging and surgery and what's ahead with Banner's new clinic that is coming to Goodyear later this year. On behalf of Dr. Padley, we extend special thanks to several Cincinnati Reds team members and leaders for their collaboration and partnership: Dr. Andrew Razzano (medical director), Dr. Tim Kremchek (head orthopedic consultant), Nick Krall (president of Baseball Operations) and Sam Grossman (vice president and assistant general manager). Watch the podcast to learn more about Dr. Padley's history with the team – an experience he truly values and looks forward to continuing for many years to come. To learn more about this topic or other orthopedic related services provided at Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Banner Health’s Making the Rounds podcast, we'll be discussing foot and ankle reconstruction, mastering joint sparing vs. joint sacrificing strategies and arthroplasty innovations. You'll hear fromDr. Damien Richardson, an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon with Banner - University Medicine and Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale, and assistant professor at the University of Arizona College Medicine - Phoenix, Department of Orthopedics. To learn more about these topics or other orthopedic-related offerings at Banner Health, please visitbannerhealth.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we discuss a groundbreaking treatment transforming the way we address chronic tendon conditions in orthopedics and sports medicine -- TenJet. This innovative approach is providing patients with renewed optimism and improved results. You'll hear from Dr. Elizabeth Batterton, a non-operative sports medicine physician at Banner - University Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. To learn more about this topic or other orthopedic related services provided at Banner Health, please visit banner health.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we are discussing advancing treatments transforming the way we address injuries and chronic conditions in orthopedics and sports medicine, orthobiologics. You'll hear from Dr. Elizabeth Batterton, a non-operative sports medicine physician at Banner - University Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. To learn more about this topic or other orthopedic related services provided at the Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/orthopedics.
In this episode of Making the Rounds, we discuss complex joint replacement surgeries. You'll hear from renowned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Kirk Kindsfater. With more than 29 years of experience and 33,000+ successful joint replacements under his belt, Dr. Kindsfater and his dedicated team bring world-class expertise in hip and knee replacement to our community at The Joint Replacement Center of Northern Colorado at Banner Health. This innovative center combines the latest in surgical technology with personalized patient care to help people regain mobility and live pain-free. To learn more about this topic or other orthopedic related services provided at the Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll be discussing diagnostic advancements for prostate cancer, medical treatment options, surgical interventions and prevention strategies. You'll hear from Dr. Alex Bowman, a medical oncologist specializing in genitourinary cancers at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center and the co-director of the genitourinary cancer program at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. To learn more about this topic or other oncology related services provided at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, please visit bannerhealth.com/cancer.
In this episode of Making the Rounds, we discuss a topic that's crucial for both health care providers and patients: breast cancer. We talk through innovative treatments, updated screening guidelines, how to identify high-risk patients, and provide a deeper understanding of inflammatory breast cancer and how it's diagnosed.
You'll hear from Dr. Hung Khong, a medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer, section chief of medical oncology and co-director of the Comprehensive Breast Cancer Program at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center.
To learn more about this topic or other oncology related services provided at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, please visit bannerhealth.com/cancer.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll discuss normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), how it's diagnosed as well as challenges with the diagnostic process, non-surgical treatment options and surgical interventions. We'll also share information about the new Center for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus at Banner Health in Phoenix. You'll hear from Dr. Robert Bina, a neurosurgeon specializing in epilepsy surgery and restorative neurosurgery at Banner - University Medicine Phoenix and assistant professor of neurosurgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix. To learn more about this topic or other neurological related services provided at Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/brainandspine.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll discuss a topic crucial for both primary care physicians and pulmonologists - the management of lung nodules, encompassing their diagnosis, treatment and overall care. You'll hear from Dr. Stephanie Worrell, a thoracic surgical oncologist at Banner - University Medicine Tucson and the University of Arizona Cancer Center. She is also a clinical associate professor and thoracic section chief in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery with the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson. To learn more about this topic or other oncology related services provided at the University of Arizona Cancer Center, please visit cancercenter.arizona.edu.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll discuss micro-invasive surgery, minimally invasive techniques and the latest advancements in spine surgery treatments. You'll hear from Dr. Andrew Chung, a spine surgeon specializing in micro-invasive spine surgery at Banner Health in Phoenix, Arizona. To learn more about this topic or other spine surgery related services provided at Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/brainandspine.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we discuss the bariatric surgery and weight management services offered at Banner Health.
You'll hear from a panel of experts specializing in the treatment of patients in the field of obesity medicine and bariatric surgery, including Dr. Farah Husain, bariatric surgeon at Banner - University Medical Center - Phoenix and division chief of bariatric surgery at University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Dr. David Podkameni, bariatric surgeon at the Banner Bariatric Clinic at Banner Gateway Medical Center and Banner Estrella Medical Center, and Dr. Joyce Lee-Iannotti, a neurologist specializing in sleep medicine and stroke at Banner - University Medical Center - Phoenix and Banner Desert Medical Center.
For more information on this topic or other services related to bariatric and weight loss surgical services provided by Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll discuss neurodegenerative disorders, deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease and the neurological treatment options that are on the horizon.
You'll hear from Dr. Julie Pilitsis, a neurosurgeon specializing in neurodegenerative diseases at Banner - University Medicine Tucson. She is also the chair of the Department of Neurosurgery and physician executive for Functional Neurosurgery for the Banner Neurosciences Service Line.
To learn more about this topic or other neurosurgery related services provided at Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/brainandspine.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll be discussing the intricacies of care for cleft palates and cleft lips in the pediatric population. We'll look at challenges, innovations, and collaborative efforts that are defining the landscape of care for these patients.
You'll hear from Dr. Jonathan Skirko, a pediatric otolaryngologist and craniofacial plastic surgeon at Diamond Children’s Banner Children’s in Tucson. Dr. Skirko is also the Director of the Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, and Medical Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program at Banner – University Medicine Tucson.
To learn more about this topic and other pediatric offerings available at Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/pediatrics.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we’ll discuss complex shoulder surgeries. Whether it's a torn rotator cuff, degenerative arthritis or a complex instability issue, finding the right treatment path is crucial for patients.
Join us as we talk with Dr. Anup Shah, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, knee arthroscopy and shoulder surgery at Banner - University Orthopedic and Sports Medicine.
To learn more about this topic or other orthopedic related services provided at the Banner Health, please visit bannerhealth.com/orthopedics.
During this episode of Making the Rounds, we discuss the importance of early triage in Achilles tendon injuries and explore the latest advancements in Achilles tendon care.
Join us as we talk with Damien Richardson, MD, MPH, a former NFL strong safety for the Carolina Panthers turned distinguished orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon with Banner - University Medicine and Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale. Dr. Richardson also serves as an assistant professor at the University of Arizona College Medicine - Phoenix in the Department of Orthopedics. Listen as Dr. Richardson brings his unique perspective from the sports field to the operating room, offering valuable insights in Achilles tendon care.
To learn more about the orthopedic services available at Banner Health, visit www.bannerhealth.com/orthopedics.