DiepCJourney Podcast

About DiepCJourney Podcast

Breast Reconstruction options after mastectomy, healthy lifestyle factors after breast cancer, survivorship, shared decision-making, and supporting SDG3.

Publisher

Terri Coutee

Category

education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 Dec 2020

Latest episode

17 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

134 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Sept 2026

   Episode 105: Breast Neurotization Using Nerve Tape® with Dr. Serletti

   What role does breast neurotization play in restoring sensation after breast reconstruction, and how are advances in microsurgical nerve repair helping surgeons approach this important aspect of patient care? In Episode 105 of the DiepCJourney® podcast, I am joined by Dr. Joseph Serletti, Chief of Plastic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania (https://www.pennmedicine.org/), to discuss his experience using Nerve Tape® (https://www.biocircuit.com/nervetape), a suture-free solution for connecting nerves during microsurgical procedures. Dr. Serletti is a pioneer in free flap autologous breast reconstruction, using a patient's own tissue to reconstruct the breast, and is internationally recognized for his work in reconstructive microsurgery, including breast, head and neck, and extremity reconstruction. In this episode, we discuss: Challenges with traditional suture and conduit nerve repair techniques Dr. Serletti's experience using Nerve Tape® for nerve repair How using Nerve Tape® has changed aspects of his surgical practice The potential impact on operating-room time and efficiency What Dr. Serletti would tell surgeons considering Nerve Tape® Why restoring sensation after breast reconstruction matters The importance of restoring protective sensation and the potential for returning erogenous sensation The role sensory restoration may play in the future of breast reconstruction Sensation may not be one of the first topics patients think to ask about during a breast reconstruction consultation, but it is an important part of the conversation. The return of protective sensation can be an important patient safety consideration, while neurotization may also provide the opportunity for patients to regain other forms of sensation in the reconstructed breast. This episode provides patients, caregivers, and medical professionals an opportunity to learn more about breast neurotization, advances in nerve repair, and why sensation deserves a place in conversations about breast reconstruction. Published data on the efficacy of Nerve Tape® can be found through BioCircuit Technologies at biocircuit.com. Listen, learn, and share Episode 105 with someone who may benefit from understanding more about breast neurotization and restoring sensation after breast reconstruction.

2. 

   14 Sept 2026

   Episode 104: Understanding Risk-Reducing Mastectomy & Reconstruction

   In this episode of the DiepCJourney® podcast, Terri sits down with Dr. James Craigie of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction for an important and compassionate conversation about risk‑reducing mastectomy, genetic mutations, and the reconstructive options available to those navigating increased breast cancer risk. Dr. Craigie brings years of microsurgical expertise and a deeply patient‑centered approach to help listeners understand when and why risk‑reducing surgery may be considered, what the process looks like, and how women can make informed decisions that support long‑term survivorship. Episode Highlights • What BRCA Genetic Mutations Mean for Risk Dr. Craigie explains what the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations are, how they increase lifetime breast cancer risk, and why individuals who test positive may choose to explore risk‑reducing mastectomy with reconstruction as a proactive option. • When There's No BRCA Mutation but Family Risk Is High Not everyone with elevated breast cancer risk carries a BRCA mutation. Dr. Craigie discusses how strong family history can still warrant enhanced surveillance or consideration of prophylactic surgery, depending on individual circumstances. • Recommended Screening Before Surgery For those considering risk‑reducing mastectomy, Dr. Craigie outlines the surveillance tools typically recommended beforehand, including mammography, MRI, and clinical breast exams, to ensure comprehensive monitoring during the decision‑making process. • Other Genetic Mutations That Increase Risk Beyond BRCA, Dr. Craigie touches on additional genetic mutations associated with higher breast cancer risk and how they factor into decisions about prophylactic mastectomy and reconstruction. • Steps to Begin the Risk‑Reducing Surgery Journey Dr. Craigie walks listeners through the consultation process, including what to expect, how to prepare, and the importance of meeting with a reconstructive surgeon early to understand all available options. • Common Fears and Concerns About DIEP Flap Reconstruction From recovery time to surgical complexity, Dr. Craigie shares the most frequent concerns patients bring to their consults when exploring prophylactic DIEP flap or other reconstruction methods and how these fears can be addressed with education and support. • How Much Risk Is Reduced After Prophylactic Surgery Dr. Craigie explains the percentage of breast cancer risk reduction achieved through prophylactic mastectomy and why this option can be life‑changing for individuals with significantly elevated risk. Why This Conversation Matters Risk‑reducing mastectomy is a deeply personal decision. This episode offers clarity, compassion, and credible information for anyone navigating genetic risk, family history, or the emotional weight of preventive surgery. Dr. Craigie's insights help empower listeners to make choices aligned with their values, health needs, and long‑term survivorship goals. Listen, Learn, and Share If you or someone you love is exploring genetic testing, elevated breast cancer risk, or reconstruction options, this episode is a powerful resource. Share it with your community because at DiepCFoundation (https://diepcfoundation.org/) we belive education can help saves lives. Connect with Dr. Cragie and his practice. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natural.breast.reconstruction/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naturalbreastreconstruction LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-center-for-natural-breast-reconstruction/posts/?feedView=all

3. 

   1 Sept 2026

   Episode 103: Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Conversation with Dr. Ann Chuang

   In this episode of the DiepCJourney®podcast, we welcome Dr. Ann Chuang, a fellowship‑trained, board‑certified breast surgeon with the Premier Surgical Network (https://www.premiersurgicalnetwork.com/) in Glen Rock and Westwood, New Jersey. Dr. Chuang specializes in oncoplastic breast surgery, skin‑sparing and nipple‑sparing mastectomies, and hidden‑scar approaches. She joins us to bring clarity to a topic that affects countless breast cancer patients: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). We revisit the landmark Women's Health Initiative of 1991, explore how research has evolved, and discuss what patients and clinicians need to understand today about menopausal hormone therapy after a breast cancer diagnosis. Key Topics Covered Why Women Use HRT We explore the symptoms and quality‑of‑life concerns that lead many women to consider hormone therapy during and after breast cancer treatment. Who Can Safely Take HRT and Who Should Not Dr. Chuang outlines patient profiles, risk factors, and the nuanced decision‑making involved in determining whether HRT is appropriate. Understanding Delivery Methods A clear breakdown of terms like systemic, topical, oral, and transdermal and how each interacts with the body. How Physicians Counsel Patients on HRT Dr. Chuang shares how she approaches conversations with patients who ask whether HRT is safe for them, and what questions patients should bring to their healthcare team. Variability in Physician Messaging We discuss how guidance may differ between gynecologic oncologists, primary care physicians, and breast surgeons and how patients can navigate conflicting information. Why This Conversation Matters As research evolves, so does our understanding of hormone therapy for breast cancer patients. This episode offers grounded, evidence‑based insight to help listeners feel informed, empowered, and supported in their decision‑making. Watch the video version on the DiepCFoundation YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbxDsgpHtMQ&t=67s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbxDsgpHtMQ&t=67s) Connect with Dr. Ann Chuang Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorchuang/ Facebook: Premier Surgical Network

Who has been a guest on DiepCJourney Podcast

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• James Craigie
• Margaret Tueller Proffitt
• Rori Zura

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

313,678

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

9 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 66 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

66

Social presence

0

YouTube

86

Engagement

77

Contact DiepCJourney Podcast

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Shows with a similar audience

• 

  The Mel Robbins Podcast

• 

  unPAUSED with Dr. Mary Claire Haver

• 

  The Daily

• 

  This American Life

• 

  Criminal