EP13 - Surgical Clips, Staples & Marker Removal Surgery for Metal-Allergic Patients w/Dr. Chris Cottrell, MD, FACS

EP13 - Surgical Clips, Staples & Marker Removal Surgery for Metal-Allergic Patients w/Dr. Chris Cottrell, MD, FACS

Dr Chris Cottrell, MD, FACS, has been a general surgeon in practice for decades, currently living in North Texas. He grew to viral fame on TikTok with a video that showcased his surgical acumen with a DaVinci Robot as he tied a cherry stem in a knot with the robot, much to the delight of social media. The short-form video received over 6.3 million views. Dr. Cottrell has a great TikTok page, and enjoys dabbling in photography & videography, along with family & pool time. 

Dr. Cottrell is a member of a busy surgical practice and is well-known for several specialties: reflux & bariatric surgery. He also is a super passionate fan of robotic surgery, and educates other surgeons on effective uses of the surgical robot. In the past few years Dr. Cottrell has stumbled on a niche that has left him in demand by many metal-allergic patients: removing surgical clips, staples, and on occasion biopsy markers from metal-allergic patients. All but several of the patients have made significant recoveries from years and even decades of chronic pain and symptoms, thanks to Dr. Cottrell’s pioneering medical interventions.

Dr. Cottrell goes on to share some of his interesting surgical cases surrounding metal clip & staple removal—many clients travel from out of state to see him. 

A discussion regarding surgical opinions of staples & clips within the surgical industry ensues, and Dr. Cottrell voices that what is really needed for a significant number of medical professionals to get onboard are studies.

We discuss informed consent in medical and surgical settings, reviewing surgical consents and how patients can better advocate for themselves and communicate their allergies going into surgery. The purpose of the surgical time-out is addressed and there is discussion around when it is and is not important to use the surgical time out to address metal allergies. Also the importance of communication between various members of the surgical team is discussed. 

This episode provides VALUABLE information for anyone with chronic symptoms wondering if they have clips, staples or markers and if the same should be considered for removal. Dr. Cottrell is willing to consult with patients, physicians and surgeons around the world.