Q: What inspired you to specialize in minimally invasive and robotic surgery? Was there a pivotal moment in your career that guided you toward this field?
From the early days of my medical education, I was drawn to the idea of improving patient outcomes with less invasive techniques. During my residency, I had the opportunity to observe the transformative impact of minimally invasive surgery in reducing recovery times and complications. The first time I saw a robotic surgery system in action, I was captivated by the precision it offered. This technology allowed for better visualization and finer control, which I believed could revolutionize how we approach complex surgeries. Over time, I became more involved in robotic surgeries, and this became a natural area of specialization for me.
Q: What excites you most about the advancements in robotic surgery?
The most exciting part about robotic surgery is its ability to offer unprecedented precision and minimally invasive approaches to complex procedures. The technology allows for smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and quicker recovery times for patients. As we continue to integrate AI and machine learning into these systems, I believe we’ll see even greater advancements in predictive outcomes and real-time decision support. The future of robotic surgery lies in its ability to not just assist but also enhance the surgeon’s capabilities, making procedures safer and more efficient.
Q: How has your global background influenced your approach to surgery and patient care?
I was born and raised in Azerbaijan, and I still have very close ties. My global background has been invaluable in shaping my approach to patient care. Having worked in various countries and interacted with diverse patient populations, I’ve learned that healthcare is deeply personal and influenced by cultural values. I try to understand each patient's unique background and concerns. This allows me to create a treatment plan that not only addresses the medical needs but also respects the patient’s cultural beliefs and preferences. Ultimately, a personalized approach helps build trust and enhances patient outcomes.
Q: As someone fluent in four languages, how has your linguistic ability helped you connect with patients and colleagues?
Being fluent in multiple languages has been incredibly beneficial in establishing rapport with patients and colleagues. It allows me to communicate directly with patients in their native language, which is crucial in providing clear explanations of their conditions and treatment options. This also helps in making them feel more at ease and confident in the care they’re receiving. Additionally, being able to converse in different languages enables better collaboration with international colleagues, which is essential when working in global medical settings
Q: You’ve worked on various research projects. Which project has been the most rewarding, and why?
All my research projects have been rewarding in their own right, but the ones focused on long-term follow-up with bariatric patients and their outcomes have had the greatest impact on my career. Staying involved in research and keeping up to date with the latest developments is crucial for continuous improvement, both for ourselves as surgeons and for the benefit of our patients.
Q: What do you think is the future of bariatric surgery, and how do you see it evolving over the next decade?
Bariatric surgery is evolving rapidly, and I believe the next decade will bring significant innovations in both surgical techniques and patient care. Currently, medications for weight loss have seen dramatic improvement and have been a game changer. Minimally invasive procedures, including robotic-assisted surgeries, will continue to improve, making surgeries safer with quicker recovery times. Additionally, I see the integration of personalized medicine — such as genetic and metabolic profiling — playing a major role in helping us tailor interventions to each individual patient’s needs. The use of AI in preoperative planning and postoperative monitoring will also likely become a standard part of the bariatric surgery process.
Q: What role do you see data and AI playing in shaping the surgical field, and how do you incorporate these technologies into your work?
Data and AI are transforming surgery by enabling surgeons to make more informed decisions, enhance precision, and improve patient outcomes. I envision AI helping us with predictive analytics, allowing us to foresee potential complications before they arise and adjust procedures in real time. In my practice, I incorporate these technologies by utilizing AI-driven tools for patient diagnostics and using data analytics to improve surgical outcomes.
Q: Your curriculum vitae highlights a passion for teaching and mentoring. What drives your commitment to education, and how do you hope to inspire the next generation of surgeons?
My passion for teaching stems from my belief that the knowledge and skills we develop should be shared to benefit the greater medical community. I was raised in family of renowned physicians and educators who have dedicated their lives to future generations. My wife is also a doctor who has worked educating younger doctors. I’ve always been deeply invested in mentoring young surgeons, as I was once in their shoes. My goal is to impart not just technical skills but also the importance of compassionate care and the ability to think critically in high-pressure situations. I hope to inspire the next generation of surgeons to be lifelong learners who push the boundaries of what’s possible while maintaining a patient-centered approach.
Q: As program director of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowship at your current medical center, what do you hope your fellows take away from their experience under your mentorship?
I hope my fellows come away with a deep understanding of the technical aspects of minimally invasive surgery, but also an appreciation for the importance of patient care, ethics, and continuous improvement. The fellowship is not just about mastering tools and techniques; it’s about developing the critical thinking skills necessary to handle complex surgical scenarios. I also want them to feel empowered to challenge the status quo and innovate within their own practices, advancing the field for the next generation.
Q: You’ve been involved in pediatric grand rounds on adolescent obesity. What unique challenges or opportunities do you see in addressing this issue with young patients?
Adolescent obesity is a complex issue that requires a multidisciplinary approach. The challenge is that it’s not just about treating the physical aspects of obesity; we need to address the psychological, social, and behavioral factors that contribute to it. Surgery, particularly bariatric surgery, can be a life-changing intervention for adolescents struggling with severe obesity. I would say this is probably the most rewarding part of my career: changing the life of a teenager that will impact rest of their life. However, it’s crucial that it be part of a comprehensive care plan that includes counseling, nutritional support, and long-term follow-up. The opportunity here is to help young patients develop healthier lifestyles and prevent long-term health complications related to obesity
Q: Can you share a memorable surgical case that tested your skills and left a lasting impact on you?
One of the most memorable and challenging cases I worked on involved a patient who had received multiple interventions for his reflux at an outside institution and was still suffering significantly, so much so that even saliva was difficult to tolerate. We performed robotic repair of his complex hiatal hernia. The intricacy of the repair, combined with the delicate nature of the patient’s prior surgical history, made it a high-risk procedure. The surgery was a success, and the patient recovered well. It reinforced for me the importance of advanced technology and teamwork in overcoming even the most difficult cases.
Q: Your career spans diverse surgical procedures and fields. How do you balance staying at the forefront of multiple specialties?
Staying at the forefront of multiple surgical specialties requires a commitment to continuous learning and collaboration. I make it a priority to engage in ongoing education — whether that’s through attending international conferences, participating in specialized courses, or collaborating with colleagues who bring fresh perspectives to the table. Maintaining an interdisciplinary approach allows me to apply the best techniques and insights from different fields to my practice, ensuring I provide comprehensive care while remaining effective in each specialty.
Q: You’ve received multiple awards throughout your career. Is there one that holds special significance for you? If so, why?
One of the most meaningful awards I received was by the surgical residents, the “Teacher of the Year” award. While I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition in various aspects of my career, this award was significant because it reflected my dedication to teaching. On a personal level, it was a reminder that the work we do as surgeons truly makes a difference in people’s lives, as well as affects future generations.
Q: What advice would you give to medical students or young professionals considering a career in minimally invasive or robotic surgery?
My advice would be the same as what my father, past chief of ENT of Azerbaijan, once gave me at a young age: Before becoming a physician, you need to become compassionate human. My advice to young professionals interested in minimally invasive or robotic surgery would be to cultivate both technical and interpersonal skills. While robotic surgery requires excellent hand-eye coordination and a deep understanding of the technology, it’s equally important to develop communication skills. You need to be able to explain complex procedures to patients and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team. Additionally, stay curious and open to innovation. The field is advancing rapidly, and the ability to adapt and embrace new technologies will set you apart as a leader in this space
Q: What do you see as the most exciting opportunities or challenges for surgeons in the coming decade?
The next decade will likely bring even greater advances in minimally invasive surgery and robotics. One of the most exciting opportunities is the potential for personalized medicine, where we can tailor surgical interventions based on a patient’s genetic and metabolic profile, leading to even more precise and effective treatments. Another interesting aspect would be endoluminal surgery. To navigate this, I plan to continue my involvement in research and training, helping to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday clinical practice.
Dr. Talishinskiy’s story shows the impact a doctor can make by pairing advanced medical skills with compassion and cultural understanding. From transforming surgical techniques to guiding the next generation of surgeons, his journey shows what’s possible with an AUC education. AUC could be the first step on your path to making a real difference too.
