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BackTable / Innovation / Podcast / Episode #85
Creativity in Medicine
with Dr. Kieran Murphy
Many physicians are perfectly positioned to recognize areas of clinical need, so why are so few of them involved in medical innovation? In this episode of BackTable MSK, Dr. Kieran Murphy discusses the ideal circumstances and critical characteristics of physician innovators. Dr. Murphy is an interventional neuroradiologist, a professor at the University of Toronto, and a medical device innovator who has made significant contributions to the field, including the development of the Murphy needle for vertebral augmentation.
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BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2025, January 28). Ep. 85 – Creativity in Medicine [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
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Podcast Contributors
Dr. Kieran Murphy
Dr. Kieran Murphy is a physician author and interventional neuroradiologist at Toronto Western Hospital in Toronto, Canada.
Dr. Aaron Fritts
Dr. Aaron Fritts is an interventional radiologist and a Co-Founder of BackTable.
Synopsis
Dr. Murphy talks about his recent book, “The Essence of Invention: Medicine and the Joy of Creativity,” which chronicles key innovations in interventional radiology. The book focuses specifically on the characteristics and circumstances of the innovators themselves. Dr. Murphy became interested in this topic after noticing patterns of innovation that clustered around certain institutions and leaders.
He shares his insights on innovation, including the idea that innovation peaks during fellowship, the importance of uninterrupted reflective time for creativity, and how building long-term relationships can be essential for generating ideas and gaining support. He also discusses his work on ozone therapy, the development of the Murphy needle, and the significance of securing small-scale funding through patient donations for research.
Additionally, Dr. Murphy touches on his upcoming books and explores the essential fusion of medicine and the liberal arts.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast
02:05 - The Role of Creativity in Interventional Radiology
09:52 - Inspiration Behind The Book
14:51 - Environments for Inventors to Flourish
25:18 - Use of Honey in Biopsies
31:32 - Advice for Physician Innovators
45:02 - Balancing Career and Family
51:23 - Upcoming Book
56:31 - Innovations in Radiation Protection
59:45 - The Future of Medical Education
Resources
The Essence of Invention: Medicine and the Joy of Creativity:
https://www.amazon.com/Essence-Invention-Medicine-Joy-Creativity/dp/1459754034
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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