CTSNet To Go: Recent Episodes

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Aamir Amin, a cardiothoracic surgery resident at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, UK, about humanoid robots and artificial intelligence (AI) in surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:19 Quadruple-Organ Transplant

02:12 Sublobar Resection NSCLC Consensus

07:25 Ventricular Papillary MI Consensus

14:23 Weather Triggers of Acute Aortic Dissection

15:14 Perivascular Adipose ITA

16:20 Video 1, VATS Hyperparathyroidism

18:22 Video 2, Left VATS Pneumonectomy

20:27 Dr. Amin, Humanoid AI in Surgery

36:08 Upcoming Events

37:17 Career Center

Dr. Amin shares his insights from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA) executive program on AI in healthcare, highlighting the program’s benefits and key takeaways. He also reviewed research on humanoid robots, including a paper titled “In Vivo Feasibility Study of Humanoid Robots in Surgery.” Additionally, they discussed the practical implementation of AI in surgery, its broader benefits, and its specific application within cardiothoracic and intraoperative settings. Finally, they explored the risks associated with humanoid robots and Dr. Amin provided guidance on the initial steps individuals can take to get involved with AI.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the STS expert consensus document (2026) on addressing definition and practices of sublobar resection in non-small cell lung cancer, ventricular free-wall rupture, ventricular pseudoaneurysm, and papillary muscle rupture complicating acute myocardial infarction, a case-crossover study of 293 patients on weather-related triggers of acute aortic dissection, and perivascular adipose on relaxation of internal thoracic artery with surgical implications.

In addition, Joel explores a VATS solution for ectopic primary hyperparathyroidism, left VATS pneumonectomy, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Filip Casselman about aortic valve replacement.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. STS Expert Consensus Document (2026) on Addressing Definition and Practices of Sublobar Resection in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
2. Ventricular Free-Wall Rupture, Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm, and Papillary Muscle Rupture Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction
3. Weather-Related Triggers of Acute Aortic Dissection: A Case-Crossover Study of 293 Patients
4. Perivascular Adipose on Relaxation of Internal Thoracic Artery With Surgical Implications: Better Antispastic Effect of Pedicle Than Skeletal Grafts

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Navigating the Mediastinum: A VATS Solution for Ectopic Primary Hyperparathyroidism
2. The Atrium: Aortic Valve Replacement
3. Left VATS Pneumonectomy

Other Items Mentioned

1. Humanoid Robots in the Operating Room: A Framework for Staged Integration of Embodied AI in Surgery
2. In Vivo Feasibility Study of Humanoid Robots in Surgery
3. Human–Robot Collaboration in Surgery at the Nexus of Knowledge, Agency, and Ownership
4. Northwestern Medicine Performs First Known Quadruple-Organ Transplant Involving Retransplanted Lungs
5. Career Center
6. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Ahmed Ghazy, Head of Minimally Invasive Surgery at Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Germany, about robotic cardiac surgery adoption and training.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:06 SRS Conference

03:57 JANS 1, Surgical Left AA Closure

05:01 JANS 2, Mainstream CTS Research

06:20 JANS 3, Socioec Deprivation Aortic Outcomes

07:55 JANS 4, Standalone & Hybrid AF Ablation

09:54 Video 1, Type A AAR & PA Banding

11:32 Video 2, Off-Pump SVC Reconstruction

13:39 Video 3, Endarterectomy & Off-Pump CABG

14:29 Dr. Ghazy, Robotic Cardiac Training

29:48 Upcoming Events

Dr. Ghazy shares his experience working with Dr. M. M. Yusuf, a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, India. Their conversation covers Dr. Ghazy’s hands-on experience with various robotic systems and simulators, the professional connections he made, and insights into India’s healthcare system. He also details the logistics of organizing the visit, including the application process and the specific procedures he performed. Furthermore, they discuss the difference between robotic systems and the difference between robotic-assisted and traditional minimally invasive surgery.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on methods and criteria for evaluating the success of surgical left atrial appendage closure, evaluating the mainstream influence of cardiothoracic surgical research, insights from a 20-year single-center cohort on the impact of socioeconomic deprivation on early and long-term outcomes after major aortic surgery, and safety and efficacy of stand-alone and hybrid thoracoscopic atrial fibrillation ablation.

In addition, Joel explores Type A interrupted aortic arch repair and pulmonary artery banding through a left posterolateral thoracotomy, off-pump superior vena cava reconstruction with mediastinal mass excision for SVC syndrome, and a 30-year-old bullet injury causing carotid stenosis—simultaneous carotid endarterectomy and off-pump CABG.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Methods and Criteria for Evaluating the Success of Surgical Left Atrial Appendage Closure: A Systematic Review
2. Evaluating the Mainstream Influence of Cardiothoracic Surgical Research: An Analysis of Google Trends Data from 2004 to 2024
3. Impact of Socioeconomic Deprivation on Early and Long-­Term Outcomes After Major Aortic Surgery: Insights From a 20-Year Single­Centre Cohort
4. Safety and Efficacy of Stand-Alone and Hybrid Thoracoscopic Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Type A Interrupted Aortic Arch Repair and Pulmonary Artery Banding Through a Left Posterolateral Thoracotomy
2. Off-Pump Superior Vena Cava Reconstruction With Mediastinal Mass Excision for SVC Syndrome
3. A 30-Year-Old Bullet Injury Causing Carotid Stenosis—Simultaneous Carotid Endarterectomy and Off-Pump CABG

Other Items Mentioned

1. Innovation Video Competition
2. Career Center
3. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Filip Casselman, Staff Surgeon and Co-Director of the Cardiovascular Center at OLV Clinic (AZORG), Aalst, Belgium, about aortic valve replacement (AVR).

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:30 Why CT Surgery?

02:36 Anatomy

03:23 Pathology

06:15 History

09:06 Preoperative Planning

15:12 Indications

16:26 TAVR vs SAVR

20:25 Step-by-Step

41:25 Postop Management & Complications

46:32 Training Advice

The discussion explores the anatomy of the aortic valve, the pathology of aortic stenosis (AS) and aortic regurgitation (AR), and their respective echo grading, including complex cases like low-flow, low-gradient AS and bicuspid aortic valves. The conversation covers the history of AVR, preoperative planning—including prosthesis selection—and clinical indications for intervention in both symptomatic and asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis.

Furthermore, they compare transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVI) with surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Technical aspects of the procedure were also addressed, from preparation and positioning to median or J-sternotomy approaches, cannulation, aortotomy, prosthesis sizing, managing patient-prosthesis mismatch, weaning from bypass, and chest closure. Finally, they provide insights into sutureless devices, postoperative management, and complications.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Keep an eye out for next month’s episode.

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Drs. Michael Mack and Tom Nguyen about the proposed US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services changes to how cardiologists and cardiac surgeons interact during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:21 TAVR Heart Team
04:08 JANS 1+2, JACC TAVR vs SAVR
12:19 JANS 3, TAVR Short-Term Outcomes
14:06 JANS 4, SAVR Life Expectancy
17:44 JANS 5, WSJ TAVR Article
19:19 Video 1, Direct AA Cannulation Technique
21:23 Video 2, Endoscopic Redo TVR After CABG
24:25 Video 3, Gaudiani Cox-Maze III
27:33 Dr. Mack & Nguyen, TAVR Heart Team
51:12 Closing

Dr. Mack explained the current heart team system, established in 2011 through collaboration with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CMS, which has been highly successful in ensuring safe and effective TAVR implementation. He argues that the proposed CMS changes could potentially dismantle this collaborative approach by allowing asynchronous patient evaluation and procedures to be performed by single operators without surgeon involvement. Dr. Nguyen provided insights from a system leader's perspective, noting that while the proposed changes raise significant concerns about patient care and data collection, some cardiologists argue that surgeons are already not actively involved in many programs, making the single operator model the norm in practice. Both expressed concern that without mandatory surgeon participation and TAVR registry involvement, smaller programs may adopt practices that lack proper accountability and could lead to inappropriate patient selection and outcomes, potentially creating more contentious debates between TAVR and surgical approaches.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles including a propensity-matched analysis comparing 10-year outcomes after SAPIEN 3 TAVR in the PARTNER 2 SAPIEN 3 Intermediate-risk Registry with surgery in the PARTNER 2A trial; a single-center retrospective study evaluated 61 patients who underwent cardiac surgery after prior TAVR during a 10-year period at a high-volume academic center; whether surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) should remain the first choice for aortic stenosis in patients with a life expectancy beyond five years; and an article examining the dramatic rise in the popularity of transcatheter aortic valves, early valve failure, and the impact it has on patients’ lives.

In addition, Joel explores axillary cannulation as a primary cannulation strategy, beating-heart endoscopic tricuspid valve replacement for high-risk redo patients after CABG and device-related tricuspid valve injury, and a Cox-Maze III operation combined with a left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to left anterior descending artery (LAD), as well as an ascending aortic replacement and aortic valve resuspension.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. 10-Year Outcomes of SAPIEN 3 Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement or Surgery in Intermediate-Risk Patients
2. A Decade of Cardiac Surgery After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Short-Term Clinical Outcomes at a High-Volume Center
3. Great Debate: Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Is First Choice for Aortic Stenosis in Patients With a Life Expectancy Beyond 5 Years
4. A Breakthrough Heart Procedure Comes With Risky Tradeoffs

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Direct Axillary Artery Cannulation With the Open Seldinger Technique
2. Endoscopic Redo Tricuspid Valve Replacement After CABG
3. The Cox-Maze III Procedure Combined With Valve-Sparing Aortic Surgery and CABG

Other Items Mentioned

1. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Database—TAVR
2. Career Center
3. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Chris Malaisrie, a Professor of Surgery in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at Northwestern University and an Attending Cardiac Surgeon at Northwestern Medicine, about valve-sparing aortic root replacement techniques.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
02:25 TAVR Heart Team Coverage
03:52 JANS 1, TAVR vs SAVR Perspective
10:50 JANS 2, Gene-Edited Transplant Model
13:13 JANS 3, Long-Term Outcomes Atrial Fib
14:31 JANS 4, 147-Minute Drowning Circ Arrest
18:01 Video 1, Double Ann Enlargement Prosth Mis
20:48 Video 2, Reop Aortic Root Reconstruction
22:24 Video 3, Normothermic AA Aneurysm
24:22 Dr. Malaisrie, Aortic Root Replacement
41:42 Closing

The conversation covers a wide range of procedures, including the Bentall, Yacoub, and David operations, as well as the Ross procedure and personalized external aortic root support (PEARS). They further explore approaches to mitral and aortic valve repair, the management of diseased leaky valves, and the advantages of the Stanford modification of the David V procedure. Dr. Malaisrie concludes the discussion by offering advice to surgeons on refining their valve repair skills and shares his prediction for the future of valve repair surgery.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on age vs lifetime perspective on the transcatheter vs surgical aortic valve implantation, gene-edited pig cardiac xenotransplantation as a bridge to allotransplantation in infants, long-term outcomes of postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery, and a case on ice water drowning survival after 147-minute submersion and 7 °C hypothermic circulatory arrest.

In addition, Joel explores double annular enlargement as an effective technique to overcome patient-prosthesis mismatch, reoperation for aortic root reconstruction, and normothermic treatment of an aortic arch aneurysm.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Implantation: Age vs Lifetime Perspective
2. Gene-Edited Pig Cardiac Xenotransplantation as a Bridge to Allotransplantation in Infants: Progress in a Pig-to-Baboon Model
3. Long-Term Outcomes of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery: Results From 19,000 Patients
4. Ice Water Drowning Survival After 147-Minute Submersion and 7 °C Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Double Annular Enlargement as an Effective Technique to Overcome Patient-Prosthesis Mismatch
2. Reoperation for Aortic Root Reconstruction
3. Normothermic Treatment of an Aortic Arch Aneurysm

Other Items Mentioned

1. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Database—TAVR
2. Career Center
3. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Dr. Rawn Salenger, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, USA, spoke with Drs. V. Seenu Reddy, a cardiothoracic surgeon at HCA’s TriStar Cardiovascular Surgery in Nashville, TN, USA, and Kevin Lobdell, Professor and Director of Regional Cardiovascular and Thoracic Quality, Education, and Research at Atrium Health, NC, USA, about postoperative rehabilitation and readmission prevention.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:51 Readmission Risk Factors

05:17 Discharging Patients Living Alone

07:31 Importance of Readmission Reduction

10:21 Reducing Readmissions

15:45 Postop Rehabilitation

19:36 Bringing Rehab to Patients

23:43 Behavior Modification & Engagement

25:55 Coordination of Care

26:36 Personal Engagement

They explore various factors influencing patient readmission following cardiac surgery, encompassing both medical and social determinants. A significant focus is placed on the challenges faced by patients living alone, the associated risks, and the mitigation strategies that can be implemented to support them, noting how success is higher if patients have a social structure around them. Furthermore, the conversation highlights the importance of reducing readmission rates and using remote monitoring. They also examine the survival benefits of rehabilitation and barriers of postoperative rehabilitation, including transportation.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services proposed decision memo regarding the national coverage analysis for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:17 TAVR National Coverage
06:05 JANS 1, EPOCH CardioLink-10 Trial
10:20 JANS 2, Dacron Ross Autograft Analysis
12:23 JANS 3, Mech vs Biopros Valve Outcomes
15:53 Video 1, Ross Procedure I/E Reduction
19:18 Video 2, Hemi-Commando Procedure
22:14 Video 3, Left VATS Enucleation Leiomyoma
24:15 Dr. Meguid, Intraop Molecular Imaging
35:52 Closing

He outlines crucial deadlines, actionable steps for surgeons, the importance of submitting public comments, and the necessity of data collection.

Additionally, he spoke with Dr. Robert Meguid, Professor of Surgery at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA, about intraoperative molecular imaging. They explore how this technology identifies small nodules, the functionality and use cases of the specialized camera, the associated learning curve, and other available systems. The conversation also touches on robotics, lymph node staging, and cost. Furthermore, Dr. Meguid shares insights on his frequency of use of this technique.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a systematic review and meta-analysis on how complete Dacron reinforcement of Ross autograft does not increase neo-aortic valve regurgitation, a randomized trial on superficial parasternal intercostal plane block with ropivacaine vs placebo for opioid exposure after cardiac surgery, and outcomes after conversion from mechanical to bioprosthetic valves for anticoagulation-related complications.

In addition, Joel explores the Ross procedure with internal and external reduction annuloplasty using autologous tissue rings, hemi-commando procedure for bioprosthetic aortic valve endocarditis, and left-sided uniportal VATS enucleation of a large esophageal leiomyoma.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Complete Dacron Reinforcement of Ross Autograft Does Not Increase Neo-Aortic Valve Regurgitation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
2. Superficial Parasternal Intercostal Plane Block With Ropivacaine Versus Placebo for Opioid Exposure After Cardiac Surgery (EPOCH CardioLink-10): A Multicentre, Double-Blind, Randomised Trial
3. Outcomes After Conversion From Mechanical to Bioprosthetic Valves for Anticoagulation-Related Complications

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Ross Procedure With Internal and External Reduction Annuloplasty Using Autologous Tissue Rings
2. Hemi-Commando Procedure for Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Endocarditis
3. Left-Sided Uniportal VATS Enucleation of a Large Esophageal Leiomyoma

Other Items Mentioned

1. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Database—TAVR
2. Career Center
3. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this edition of the CTSNet podcast, The Lifeline, host and nurse educator Jill Ley, Clinical Professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Founder of the Essentials of Cardiac Surgical Resuscitation, and former Cardiac Surgery Clinical Nurse Specialist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, USA, speaks with expert guest Amy Hackmann, adult cardiac surgeon at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. Together, they explore extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) vs emergency resternotomy for cardiac surgical arrest.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:36 Resuscitation Algorithm

02:14 Current State of ECMO

04:25 Speed, Quality Assurance

08:28 ECMO Concerns

12:16 Performance Metrics, Decision-Makers

15:08 Prime Circuits

15:24 Non-Surgical Arrest Training

17:42 MCS Devices

18:41 Instances to Avoid ECMO

20:16 Time Targets

21:58 Avoiding Complications, VIS Score

25:09 Key Points

The discussion covers quality assurance metrics, patient-specific decisions regarding ECMO vs resternotomy, and chest compressions. The experts also review the importance of advanced preparation, common causes of cardiac arrest following cardiac surgery, and small-incision surgeries, including the use of surgical saws. Furthermore, the discussion emphasizes the importance of mock drills and team training, as well as the use of ECMO on patients who have not experienced cardiac arrest. Finally, they explore scenarios where ECMO would not be used, vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS), and lactate levels.

Every month, The Lifelinefeatures intensive care specialists sharing their expert insights into the rapid and effective management of critically ill cardiac surgical patients. Don’t miss next month’s episode!

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) heart team potentially losing a member. He explores the current composition of the TAVR heart team, proposed changes, the thoughts of cardiothoracic societies, and future actions regarding this issue.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:53 TAVR Heart Team

07:48 JANS 1, Base Editing of PCSK9

09:47 JANS 2, High Volume Valve Sparing ARR

12:03 JANS 3, Western Rheumatic Heart Disease

14:05 JANS 4, Non-Intubated Uniportal VATS SL

15:38 Video 1, Miami Method-Bentall

17:02 Video 2, ALCAPA Repair

18:29 Video 3, Robotic Cardiac Podcast

22:17 Dr. Sundt, Mantle Radiation Patients

31:17 Upcoming Events

Additionally, he spoke with Dr. Thoralf Sundt, Chief of the Division of Cardiac Surgery and Director of the Corrigan Minehan Heart Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA, about patients who have undergone mantle radiation. They discuss the challenges these patients face postoperatively, including the mortality rate associated with reoperations. The conversation also highlights the significance of employing a heart team approach for these patients, emphasizing the importance of preoperative planning and the application of TAVR, which is potentially suitable for these patients. Furthermore, they touch upon topics such as mechanical valves, porcelain aorta, and the importance of conducting careful operations on these patients.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on in vivo base editing of PCSK9 with VERVE-102 for hypercholesterolemia, defining high-volume centers using prospective data for valve-sparing aortic root replacement, insights from the Netherlands Heart Registration on surgical care for rheumatic heart disease patients, and a cohort study on surgical techniques and outcome analysis of non-intubated uniportal VATS sleeve lobectomy.

In addition, Joel explores a step-by-step technique for a minimally invasive Bentall procedure via right axillary access, the repair of an anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery via direct coronary transfer, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Husam Balkhy about multi-spectrum robotic cardiac surgery. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. In Vivo Base Editing of PCSK9 With VERVE-102 for Hypercholesterolemia
2. Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement: Defining High-Volume Centres Using Prospective Data
3. Surgical Care for Rheumatic Heart Disease Patients: Insights From the Netherlands Heart Registration
4. Surgical Techniques and Outcome Analysis of Non-Intubated Uniportal VATS Sleeve Lobectomy: A Cohort Study

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Minimally Invasive Bentall Procedure via Right Axillary Access: A Step-by-Step Technique
2. Repair of Anomalous Left Coronary Artery From the Pulmonary Artery via Direct Coronary Transfer
3. The Atrium: Multi-Spectrum Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

1. Cardiac Reoperations in Patients With Prior Thoracic Radiation: A Single-Center Analysis of Outcomes and Key Lessons
2. CTSNet Innovation Video Competition
3. Career Center
4. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Isaac George, CTSNet Board Member and Co-Director of the Structural Heart and Valve Center, Surgical Director of Structural Heart Disease, and Co-Director of the Mitral and Tricuspid Center at Columbia University Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian, NY, USA, about the lifetime management of aortic valve disease.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:11 AATS-CTSN Randomized Trials

04:37 JANS 1, Consensus Statement ALAD

10:28 JANS 2, Lung Re-Transplantation Outcomes

12:19 JANS 3, Aortic Homografts, EURECAH

15:15 JANS 4, Lobectomy Cost Analysis

18:10 Video 1, Anomalous L Coronary Artery

19:38 Video 2, Pulm Valve Replacement Reop

21:38 Video 3, Giant Pulm Artery Aneurysm

23:28 Dr. George Discussion

33:18 Upcoming Events

34:05 Closing

They explored the expansion of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), emphasizing the crucial role of the heart valve team in this process. The discussion highlighted the necessity for surgeons to be actively involved in the decision-making process surrounding TAVR, particularly in the early stages. They also addressed the importance of lifetime management of the valve, selecting the appropriate valve, and valve durability. Additionally, they discussed the significance of providing patients with multiple surgical options, the Ross procedure, mechanical valves, and explored which procedures patients are choosing.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the ISHLT consensus statement on acute lung allograft dysfunction, aortic homografts for native and prosthetic aortic valve and root endocarditis, how outcomes after lung re-transplantation for restrictive allograft syndrome have not improved over two decades, and the financial burden of postoperative adverse events following lobectomy.

In addition, Joel explores the surgical repair of an anomalous left coronary artery from the right pulmonary artery, minimally invasive pulmonary valve replacement in reoperative settings, and surgical management of giant pulmonary artery aneurysm using a T-shaped graft-valve strategy.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. ISHLT Consensus Statement on Acute Lung Allograft Dysfunction (ALAD): Definition, Etiology, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches, and Research Priorities
2. Aortic Homografts for Native and Prosthetic Aortic Valve and Root Endocarditis: Results From the EUropean REgistry of Cryopreserved Aortic Homografts EURECAH
3. Outcomes After Lung Re-Transplantation for Restrictive Allograft Syndrome Have Not Improved Over Two Decades
4. Financial Burden of Postoperative Adverse Events Following Lobectomy: Cost Analysis From 10 High-Volume Canadian Hospitals

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Surgical Repair of an Anomalous Left Coronary Artery From the Right Pulmonary Artery
2. Minimally Invasive Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Reoperative Settings
3. Surgical Management of Giant Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm Using a T-Shaped Graft-Valve Strategy

Other Items Mentioned

1. CTSNet Innovation Video Competition
2. Career Center
3. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Husam Balkhy, Professor of Surgery and Director of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery at the University of Chicago, IL, USA, about multi-spectrum robotic cardiac surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:04 Why CT Surgery?

04:08 History

08:09 Benefits

10:00 Challenges

13:56 Multispectrum Robotic Surgery

16:15 Patient Selection

24:33 Work Up, Port Placement

29:47 Valve Surgery

31:11 Coronary Surgery

32:38 Other Surgery

37:15 Complications

39:13 Training, Simulations

45:07 Future of Robotics

49:00 Key Takeaways

49:34 Surgery Training Advice

The discussion focuses on the history of robotics in cardiac surgery, emphasizing the benefits and challenges associated with robotic surgery. It explores the concept of multi-spectrum robotic cardiac surgery and provides an overview of robotic surgery as it currently stands, including the types of valves involved and the various approaches utilized. The conversation also highlights specific techniques in robotic surgery, such as totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass (TECAB). Additionally, it addresses potential complications, including peripheral cannulation injuries and phrenic nerve injury. Furthermore, they discussed training in robotics and the future of robotics.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Keep an eye out for next month’s episode. Related Resources

1. Multi-Spectrum Robotic Cardiac Surgery: Early Outcomes

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Joseph Coselli, Executive Vice-Chair of the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, the Cullen Foundation Endowed Chair, and a Professor in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA, about thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:21 JANS 1, Ethical Leadership in CTS

07:36 JANS 2, Dual Antiplatelet RCT

10:27 JANS 3, Robotic MV Program

12:00 JANS 4, Time of Day Outcomes

15:34 Video 1, MI AV Replacement via RAM

17:04 Video 2, LA & Pulm Cuff Dissection

18:34 Video 3, LVOTE Master Class

21:09 Dr. Coselli Discussion

29:35 Upcoming Events

29:59 CTSNet Profiles Update

They discussed the increasing use of endovascular techniques and the declining prevalence of open surgery. Additionally, they emphasized the necessity of maintaining open surgery skills for certain cases and provided specific examples where these skills are essential. The conversation also covered the best spinal protection treatment, preconditioning the spinal cord, and hybrid approaches that combine open and endovascular techniques. Furthermore, they highlighted the importance of surgeons being involved in patient follow-up. Dr. Coselli also shared insights on future approaches and recommendations for individuals considering which subspecialty to pursue in cardiothoracic surgery.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on ethical leadership in cardiothoracic surgery in an era of consolidation, efficacy of dual antiplatelet therapy for three months vs 12 months after coronary artery bypass grafting, outcomes following the first 100 cases of a new robotic mitral valve program, and time of day of cardiac surgery and postoperative outcomes in the UK.

In addition, Joel explores minimally invasive aortic valve replacement via right anterior minithoracotomy, left atrial and pulmonary cuff dissection after heart and lung en-bloc procurement, and a master class with Drs. Sameh Said and Vince Gaudiani on the Konno procedure and left ventricular outflow tract enlargement.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Ethical Leadership in Cardiothoracic Surgery in an Era of Consolidation: A Framework for Trust, Transparency, and Workforce Stability
2. Efficacy of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy for Three Months Versus 12 months After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Multicentre, Double Blinded, Randomised Controlled Trial
3. Outcomes Following the First 100 Cases of a New Robotic Mitral Valve Program
4. Time of Day of Cardiac Surgery and Postoperative Outcomes in the UK: A Secondary Analysis of Linked National Datasets

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement via Right Anterior Minithoracotomy
2. Left Atrial and Pulmonary Cuff Dissection After Heart and Lung En-Bloc Procurement
3. Master Class: The Konno Procedure and LVOT Enlargement With Sameh Said and Vince Gaudiani

Other Items Mentioned

1. Career Center
2. CTSNet Events

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Dr. Rawn Salenger, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, engages in a conversation with Dr. Shuba Chatterjee, Associate Professor of Surgery and Director of Thoracic Surgical ICU and ECMO Program at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX, USA, and nurse practitioner Amanda Rea, Lead of Advanced Practice and Clinical Program Manager in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in Townson, MD, USA. Their conversation focused on hemodynamics and atrial fibrillation.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:17 Vasoplegia/Vasodilatory Shock

06:13 Vasopressors, Cost Considerations

07:32 Vasoplegia Misconceptions

08:41 Defining Vasoplegia

10:54 Blood Pressure Target Variable

12:54 Inotropes

17:03 Approach to Atrial Fibrillation

19:08 Patient Monitoring

19:27 Surgical/Concomitant Ablation

23:13 Postop AFib, Preventive Strategies

28:37 Example Scenario, High Heart Rate

29:56 Out of AFib Into Sinus Rhythm

33:01 Anticoagulation

39:43 Key Points

Key topics include vasoplegia, vasodilatory shock, and the use of vassopressors, including norepinephrine. They address common misconceptions surrounding vasoplegia shock, the role of epinephrine, and the use of methylene blue. Their conversation further delves into approaches for atrial fibrillation, concomitant surgical ablation, and postoperative atrial fibrillation. They highlight the best preventative strategies for atrial fibrillation and the use of beta blockers for atrial fibrillation. Finally, they discuss current guidelines and the role of anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Nikki Stamp, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Mount Private Hospital in Perth, Western Australia, who also serves as an Adjunct Clinical Senior Lecturer at Curtin University, Australia, about shifting healthcare policy in surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:45 ESTS 2026

02:01 Presidential Address

02:52 Keynote, Emerging Surgical Technologies

05:21 Segmentectomy vs Lobectomy

10:18 Other Key Presentations

11:34 JANS 1, Propensity Score Analysis

12:30 JANS 2, FILONEX Hemodiafiltration

13:21 JANS 3, Transplant Surgery at Night

14:29 Video 1, Aortic Dissection Presentations

15:36 Video 2, Endoscopic AV & AA Replacement

16:45 Video 3, Tetralogy Repair in an Infant

18:12 Dr. Stamp, Health Media & Policy

33:46 Career Center

34:03 Closing

They begin by discussing Dr. Stamp’s professional background, including her experiences working with the media and the lessons she learned from it. They also explore the positive effects of social media for surgeons, such as networking and learning from peers. Additionally, they identify areas for improvement in aortic surgery and transplants. Dr. Stamp then shares her vision for the future of cardiothoracic surgery, emphasizing the need to reduce fragmentation of care and encourage professionals to focus their efforts on their specific specialties.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a propensity score matching analysis on the risk of sternal wound infection in bilateral skeletonized internal thoracic artery in coronary artery bypass grafting, a prospective, randomized controlled pilot safety study evaluating the addition of hemodiafiltration to EVLP in marginal donor lungs, mechanical load inhibits cancer growth in mouse and human hearts, and outcomes of lung transplantation surgery performed at night

In addition, Joel explores totally endoscopic aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement, tetralogy repair in an infant, and a presentation from the 2026 Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain and Ireland Annual Meeting on aortic dissection.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Risk of Sternal Wound Infection in Bilateral Skeletonized Internal Thoracic Artery in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
2. FILONEX—A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Pilot Safety Study Evaluating the Addition of Hemodiafiltration to EVLP in Marginal Donor Lungs
3. Mechanical Load Inhibits Cancer Growth in Mouse and Human Hearts
4. Outcomes of Lung Transplantation Surgery Performed at Night

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. SCTS 2026 | Aortic Dissection
2. Totally Endoscopic Aortic Valve and Ascending Aorta Replacement
3. Tetralogy Repair in an Infant

Other Items Mentioned

1. Career Center
2. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this edition of the CTSNet podcast, The Lifeline, host and nurse educator Jill Ley, Clinical Professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Founder of the Essentials of Cardiac Surgical Resuscitation, and former Cardiac Surgery Clinical Nurse Specialist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, USA, speaks with expert guest T. Sloane Guy, Director of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Cardiac Surgery at the Georgia Heart Institute. Together, they delve into crisis management after minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:19 Min Inv Approach vs Protocol

03:06 Potential Emergencies, Bleeding

06:44 Adjusting Bleeding Parameters

09:56 Limb Ischemia

11:10 Cardiac Arrest

13:35 Pacing vs Sternotomy

15:07 Arrythmias, Defibrillation

15:51 Tamponade

16:49 Tension Pneumothorax

17:05 Stroke

17:50 Myocardial Infarction

18:27 Bleeding in Pleural Space

19:24 Nurse Response to Bleeding

21:53 Case of Persistent Bleeding

22:48 Chest X-Ray Check

24:22 LV Dysfunction in Post-Op Period

The discussion covers critical topics such as the cardiac surgical resuscitation algorithm, managing port-side and groin bleeding, and Dr. Guys’ protocols for these situations. They emphasize the importance of monitoring for bleeding in unexpected areas, such as the abdomen, checking pulses, and the significance of practicing with surgical saws before emergencies arise. Additional topics include tamponade, stroke management, the importance of pacing, chest wall bleeding, and protocols for addressing left ventricular dysfunction in the postoperative period.

Every month, The Lifeline features intensive care specialists sharing their expert insights into the rapid and effective management of critically ill cardiac surgical patients. Don’t miss next month’s episode!

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Bo Yang, a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon at the University of Michigan Health in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, about aortic root enlargement.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
02:37 JANS 1, WhatsApp for Patients
08:27 JANS 2, DCD Heart Transplant
11:07 JANS 3, TIGHT K Trial
13:18 JANS 4, RecoverHeart Calculator
15:57 Video 1, Self Constructed Valve
18:52 Video 2, MVR Sandwich Technique
20:43 Video 3, Distal Coronary Anastomosis Podcast
23:04 Dr. Yang, Annular Enlargement
36:31 Upcoming Events
37:26 Closing

They explored Dr. Yang’s participation in a debate regarding the use of aortic root enlargement for the majority of patients, addressing the opposing views against root enlargement and discussing the percentage of patients who undergo this procedure. The conversation also covered important topics such as the mean gradient dropping and the lifelong management of aortic valve disease. They emphasize the importance of maximizing the initial valve size for optimal outcomes. Additionally, Dr. Yang shared insights on his Y-incision technique, highlighting its advantages and effectiveness. They also examined whether this technique increases the length of the surgical procedure.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on exploring the use of instant messaging groups in the postoperative period for pectus excavatum patients, a multicenter retrospective study comparing DCD heart transplantation in Europe and the United States, six-month outcomes of a trial of potassium supplementation thresholds after cardiac surgery, and determining the individualized probability of myocardial recovery.

In addition, Joel explores self-constructed tubular heart valve using bovine pericardium for surgical treatment of tricuspid valve endocarditis, mitral valve repair using the sandwich technique for symmetrical bileaflet prolapse, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Elan Burton about distal coronary anastomosis. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Exploring the Use of Instant Messaging Groups in the Postoperative Period for Pectus Excavatum Patients
2. A Comparison of DCD Heart Transplantation in Europe and the United States: A Multi-Centre, Retrospective Study
3. Six-Month Outcomes of a Trial of Potassium Supplementation Thresholds After Cardiac Surgery
4. Determining the Individualized Probability of Myocardial Recovery: The Multicenter RecoverHeart Calculator

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Self-Constructed Tubular Heart Valve Using Bovine Pericardium for Surgical Treatment of Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis
2. Mitral Valve Repair Using the Sandwich Technique for Symmetrical Bileaflet Prolapse
3. The Atrium: Distal Coronary Anastomosis

Other Items Mentioned

1. Career Center
2. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Gilbert Tang, Editor-in-Chief of Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC): Case Reports, professor in the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, surgical director of the Structural Heart Program at Mount Sinai Health System, and the director of Structural Heart Education at the Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York, NY, USA.

They were joined by Drs. Mateo Marin-Cuartas, associate editor of JACC: Case Reports, CTSNet JANS Editor, and cardiac surgeon at Leipzig Heart Center, Germany, and Tsuyoshi Kaneko, Chair of American College of Cardiology (ACC) Cardiac Surgery Member Section and Chief of Cardiac Surgery at Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA, to discuss JACC: Case Reports.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:45 Instructional Video Competition
05:30 JANS 1, Lung Cancer Metastasis
09:08 JANS 2, Uncorrected Pectus
11:29 JANS 3, Ambulatory VV Life Support
13:38 JANS 4, EuroSCORE II
14:28 Video 1, TAVR Removal Double Patch
16:09 Video 2, ROK Procedure AF
17:46 Video 3, RATS Lobectomy
19:11 JACC Case Reports
35:28 Upcoming Events
36:03 Career Center

They discussed the mission of the journal and the types of submissions it receives. They also covered the types of cases accepted and the various categories within the journal has, such as the "How We Did It" section. Additionally, they talked about the upcoming partnership between JACC: Case Reports and the ACC, as well as past collaborations that JACC has undertaken. Dr. Marin-Cuartas shared insights about his role as an associate editor and highlighted the most interesting case he has encountered in JACC: Case Reports. Furthermore, Dr. Kaneko discussed being the Chair of the ACC Cardiac Surgery Member Section.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the evolutionary characterization of lung cancer metastasis, the impact of severe uncorrected pectus excavatum on outcomes after aortic surgery in Marfan syndrome, determining an optimal central cannulation strategy for ambulatory veno-venous extracorporeal life support, and refitting EuroSCORE II for 120-day mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting using nationwide registry data. In addition, Joel explores complex imaging TAVR removal double patch double valve, RATS extended left upper lobectomy with intrapericardial vascular control and bronchoplasty, and ROK procedure for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Evolutionary Characterization of Lung Cancer Metastasis
2. Impact of Severe Uncorrected Pectus Excavatum on Outcomes After Aortic Surgery in Marfan Syndrome
3. Determining an Optimal Central Cannulation Strategy for Ambulatory Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Life Support
4. Refitting EuroSCORE II for 120-Day Mortality After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Using Nationwide Registry Data

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Complex Imaging TAVR Removal Double Patch Double Valve
2. RATS Extended Left Upper Lobectomy With Intrapericardial Vascular Control and Bronchoplasty
3. ROK Procedure for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

Other Items Mentioned

1. JACC: Case Reports
2. 2026 Instructional Video Competition Winners
3. Career Center
4. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Elan Burton, clinical associate professor in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Stanford University School of Medicine and Section Chief for Stanford Medicine Affiliates, about distal coronary anastomosis.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:08 Why CT Surgery?

03:01 Overview & History

05:02 Geometric Planning & Hemodynamics

10:40 Sequential & Composite Configurations

16:23 Y or T Grafts

21:21 Step-by-Step, Suturing

30:37 Endarterectomy

36:37 Intraop Quality Assurance

40:29 Failed Mechanisms & Pitfalls

43:18 Future Trends

45:54 Summary

47:03 Surgery Training Advice

They discuss the history of distal coronary anastomosis, geometric planning, and hemodynamics, as well as sequential grafting and composite configurations, including Y and T grafts. The conversation also covers arteriotomy, suturing techniques, and the continuous parachute method. Additionally, they delve into the traction technique, open direct vision, and intraoperative quality assurance, including pulsatility index. Furthermore, they examine failure mechanisms such as graft kinking and explore future trends.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Keep an eye out for next month’s episode.

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Enoch Akowuah, an academic consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at Newcastle University and South Tees NHS Foundation Trust, UK, and Dr. Matthias Raschpichler, a cardiac surgeon at Leipzig Heart Center, Germany, about the REPEAT trial.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:21 JANS 1, NOBLE Trial

07:14 JANS 2, Ischemic Mitral Regurg MVR

08:58 JANS 3, Pregnancy Outcomes AVR

11:19 JANS 4, MCS LVAD Candidates

13:06 Video 1, Thoracoplasty

14:58 Video 2, Nuss Procedure After Ravitch

16:42 Video 3, Traumatic Right Main Bronchus

19:04 REPEAT Trial, Bioprostheses

32:22 Upcoming Events

32:46 Closing

They discussed the trial’s objectives, including what it is, why it is needed, and its overall goals. The setup of the trial was also examined, covering aspects such as funding, composite outcome, and follow-up procedures. Additionally, they addressed the target number of patients required for recruitment and the efforts involved in recruiting patients and centers to participate in the trial. They emphasized the overall significance of the trial, outlining what is necessary for its success and highlighting the importance of collaboration among heart teams.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on percutaneous coronary intervention vs coronary artery bypass grafting for unprotected left main stenosis, a two-decade experience on the outcomes of mitral valve repair in ischemic mitral regurgitation, maternal, valvular and fetal outcomes of pregnancy following aortic valve replacement, and temporary mechanical circulatory support in left ventricular assist device candidates with right ventricular dysfunction.

In addition, Joel explores if forgotten techniques of thoracoplasty with latissimus dorsi myoplasty are relevant today, the Nuss procedure after previous Ravitch operation, and uniportal VATS repair of traumatic right main bronchus transection following blunt chest injury.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Unprotected Left Main Stenosis: 10-Year Final Results From the Randomised, Open-Label, Non-Inferiority NOBLE Trial
2. Outcomes of Mitral Valve Repair in Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation: A Two-Decade Experience
3. Maternal, Valvular and Foetal Outcomes of Pregnancy Following Aortic Valve Replacement
4. Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Left Ventricular Assist Device Candidates With Right Ventricular Dysfunction: Acuity Without Long-Term Futility

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Are the Forgotten Techniques of Thoracoplasty With Latissimus Dorsi Myoplasty Relevant Today?
2. Nuss Procedure After Previous Ravitch Operation
3. Uniportal VATS Repair of Traumatic Right Main Bronchus Transection Following Blunt Chest Injury

Other Items Mentioned

1. The REPEAT Trial
2. Career Center
3. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Dr. Rawn Salenger, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, spoke with Dr. Nadia Hensley, Associate Professor and Physician Advisor for Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at John Hopkins School of Medicine; Dr. Nawwar Al-Attar, consultant cardiac surgeon at NHS Golden Jubilee National Hospital in Scotland; and Dr. Serdar Gunadyin, Head of Department at the University of Health Sciences in Turkey. The focus of their conversation was on surgical bleeding.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:35 Case 1, Diffuse Coagulopathy

03:26 Bleeding Scale

08:13 Team-Wide Bleeding Language

11:07 Alternative Approaches

14:09 Standardizing Test Results Response

18:04 No Access to Visoelastic Testing

19:55 Topical Hemostatic Agents

23:08 Case 2

24:14 Coagulopathy vs Surgical Bleeding

28:08 Passive Hemostatic Agent

29:10 Visoelastic Testing

31:29 Closing Points

They discussed two different cases, including patient details and case specifics: one involving diffused coagulopathy and the other concerning focal bleeding. While examining these cases, they talked about hemostasis and the hemostasis checklist. They also discussed the validated intraoperative bleeding (VIBe) scale and its purposes, and the importance of being on the same page as your team. Additionally, they delved into viscoelastic testing and algorithms and addressed scenarios where access to viscoelastic testing may not be available. They also explored the thresholds for guided therapy, including functional fibrinogen levels. Lastly, the experts touched on passive hemostatic and how to teach residents coagulopathy and surgical bleeding.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Brad Leshnower, Director of Aortic Surgery at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, GA, USA, about the first implantation of the Gore Ascending Stent Graft in the ARISE III trial for the treatment of an acute type A dissection.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:26 New CTSNet Website

03:31 JANS 1, Thromboendarterectomy Fellowship

05:28 JANS 2, Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor

07:36 JANS 3, Type A Acute Aortic Dissections

09:51 JANS 4, Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis at 10 Years

11:46 Video 1, Nuss Procedure w Chrondrotomies

13:08 Video 2, Cardiac Redo Surgery

14:52 Video 3, Uniportal Lobectomy Bronchial Reimplantation

16:13 Dr. Leshnower, Ascending Stent Grafts

32:51 Career Center

33:52 Closing

They discussed Dr. Leshnower’s experience with this groundbreaking implantation, including the case details such as the patient’s medical history, the assessment of the patient’s high-risk status, and the criteria for determining their suitability for the procedure. Imaging techniques and the contributions of the other surgeons involved in the case were also highlighted. Furthermore, they delved into the use of the stent in previous ARISE trials and what Dr. Leshnower learned from those early experiences. The conversation also covered topics such as proximal placement, the innominate artery, and the preoperative planning required for the trial. Dr. Leshnower also shared what he learned from this case and discussed the future of the stent graft and this technique.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the safety and efficacy of a dedicated pulmonary thromboendarterectomy fellowship, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor use and outcomes after surgical aortic valve replacement, association between surgical timing and postoperative outcomes in type A acute aortic dissection, and early surgery or conservative care for asymptomatic aortic stenosis at 10 years.

In addition, Joel explores the Nuss procedure with midline chrondrotomies in severe pectus excavatum, redo surgery for failed MVr, iatrogenic ASD, tricuspid valve regurgitation, and aorta replacement, and uniportal VATS left lower sleeve lobectomy with upper lobe bronchial reimplantation for typical carcinoid tumor.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Safety and Efficacy of a Dedicated Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy Fellowship: The UK Experience at a High-Volume Center
2. Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor Use and Outcomes After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement
3. Association Between Surgical Timing and Postoperative Outcomes in TypeAAcute Aortic Dissection
4. Early Surgery or Conservative Care for Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis at 10 Years

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. The Nuss Procedure With Midline Chrondrotomies in Severe Pectus Excavatum
2. Redo Surgery for Failed MVr, Iatrogenic ASD, Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation, and Aorta Replacement
3. Uniportal VATS Left Lower Sleeve Lobectomy With Upper Lobe Bronchial Reimplantation for Typical Carcinoid Tumor

Other Items Mentioned

1. ARISE III Trial of Gore Ascending Stent Graft Begins Enrollment
2. How to Navigate the New CTSNet Website
3. Career Center
4. CTSNet Events

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this edition of the CTSNet podcast, The Lifeline, host and nurse educator Jill Ley, Clinical Professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Founder of the Essentials of Cardiac Surgical Resuscitation, and former Cardiac Surgery Clinical Nurse Specialist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, USA, speaks with expert guest Jan Headley, Principal at Consultants in Acute and Critical Care. They explore the use of functional hemodynamics in the postoperative management of cardiothoracic surgical patients.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:26 Case Study

04:28 Fluid Responsiveness, Dynamic Parameters

07:37 Variability Within Normal Limits

09:34 Determining Responsiveness Efficiently

12:45 No PA-Catheter Patients

15:35 Reassessing Values

17:22 First Step

19:20 No-Fluid Patient

20:27 Stroke Volume Trends

21:13 Key Takeaways

The discussion includes a case study illustrating how functional hemodynamics can guide clinical decisions in this context. They delve into the concepts of fluid management and fluid responsiveness, comparing dynamic parameters and static parameters, and the importance of increasing stroke volume. Key topics also include pulse pressure variation, stroke volume variation, variability, and delta stroke volume. The conversation further covers techniques such as the passive leg raise maneuver and the pulmonary occlusive maneuver.

Every month, The Lifeline features intensive care specialists sharing their expert insights into the rapid and effective management of critically ill cardiac surgical patients. Don’t miss next month’s episode!

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Andrea Steely, an Assistant Professor of Cardiac Surgery in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA, about aortic surgery and long-term patient follow-up.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:43 New CTSNet Website

02:36 AATS 2026

09:15 EJCTS News

10:15 Video 1, Left Ventriculotomy

10:51 Video 2, 3-Vessel TECAB

12:24 Video 3, AV Disease in Young Patients

13:14 Andrea Steely, Aortic Surgery & Follow-Up

29:14 Upcoming Events

They discussed the critical importance of educating both patients and surgeons about aortic disease, and the most effective strategies for follow-up care after aortic surgery. The conversation also covered testing genetic factors and stabilizing the aortic arch. They also explored reintervention and the importance of a multidisciplinary follow-up approach. Additionally, they addressed topics such as lung cancer screening, the training of non-MDs to evaluate screening charts, and the development of an aortic pathology sheet for each patient.

In addition, Joel explores an underutilized approach for closing multiple apical ventricular septal defects, robotic-assisted three-vessel minimally invasive coronary artery bypass, and a presentation from Emile Bacha on the "Surgical Management of Aortic Valve Disease in Young Patients."

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Left Ventriculotomy: An Underutilized Approach for Closing Multiple Apical Ventricular Septal Defects

2. Robotic-Assisted Three-Vessel Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass

3. SCTS 2026 | Surgical Management of Aortic Valve Disease in Young Patients

Other Items Mentioned

1. How to Navigate the New CTSNet Website

2. Career Center

3. CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Zhi Lin, Chief Director of Cardiovascular Surgery Division 1 at Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University in Xiamen, China, and Dr. Oscar A. Flores Flores, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Hospital Civil de Guadalajara Fray Antonio Alcalde in Guadalajara, Mexico, about The Heart Sapling Visiting Scholar Program.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:22 AATS, UAE Conference, King Faisal

05:28 JANS 1, LAA Closure vs Therapy AF

09:53 JANS 2, Thrombus-Free LAA Occlusion

11:49 JANS 3, Immunosuppression & Retransplantation

13:06 JANS 4, Biomarkers & Outcomes Isolated CABG

15:18 Video 1, Rheumatic MV Reconstruction

17:02 Video 2, Morgagni Hernia

18:07 Video 3, Robotic Excision Anterior Mediastinal

19:35 Lin Zhi & Oscar Flores, Chinese Fellowship & Surgery

34:25 Upcoming Events

35:13 Closing

Dr. Flores discusses what the program entails, sharing his experience as a fellow and the opportunities he gained from it. Dr. Lin then outlines the program’s goals and the various procedures that can be learned at Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital of Xiamen University, which hosts the program. They also cover how to join the program and the application process. Furthermore, they discuss minimally invasive procedures in China and how this approach is growing in popularity.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on left atrial appendage closure or medical therapy in atrial fibrillation, long-term thrombus-free left atrial appendage occlusion via magnetofluids, implications of immunosuppression and retransplantation for donor-derived cell-free DNA associated with increased risk of chronic lung allograft dysfunction and mortality, and immunosenescence biomarkers and outcomes in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting.

In addition, Joel explores rheumatic mitral valve reconstruction, tips for the surgical management of a Morgagni hernia, and right robotic excision of anterior mediastinal mass. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Left Atrial Appendage Closure or Medical Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation

2. Long-Term Thrombus-Free Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Via Magnetofluids

3. Donor-Derived Cell-Free DNA Associated With Increased Risk of Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction and Mortality: Implications of Immunosuppression and Retransplantation

4. Immunosenescence Biomarkers and Outcomes in Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Rheumatic Mitral Valve Reconstruction

2. Tips for the Surgical Management of a Morgagni Hernia

3. Right Robotic Excision of Anterior Mediastinal Mass

Other Items Mentioned

1. Endoscopic Cone Repair in an Adult Patient With Ebstein Anomaly

2. CTSNet Website Redesign: Important Updates and Transition Details 

3. Career Center

4. CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Frank Tamru, author of Power: A Memoir and owner of Frank Tamru Consultants LLC, about aortic valve technology throughout the years.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:51 New Website Preparation

02:53 AATS 2026 Overview

11:59 Video 1, Robotic Right-Sided MIDCAB

13:08 Video 2, Extra-Anatomic IAA Repair

14:29 Video 3, Double-Decker Procedure

16:38 Video 4, Aortic Disease Awareness

19:53 Video 5, Robotic Culmen in Situs Inversus

21:30 Frank Tamru, Aortic Valve Technology

35:32 Upcoming Events

36:03 Closing

They explored Tamru’s professional background and involvement with heart surgeons and cardiovascular leaders. The conversation covered various topics, including heart valves and the evolution of open-heart centers. They also discussed the advancements in aortic valve replacement technologies and the critical role of surgeons as decision-makers in the field. Additionally, Frank shared his experience as the founding publisher of the Asian Cardiovascular and Thoracic Annals.

In addition, Joel explores a robotic-assisted right-sided minimally invasive coronary artery bypass for anomalous origin of the right coronary artery, a transdiaphragmatic aorto-supraceliac extra-anatomic bypass for interrupted aortic arch with collateralizations, double-decker procedure for partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection, robotic-assisted right upper segmentectomy (culmen) in situs inversus totalis, and an interview with Gareth Owens and Dr. Ben Youdelman on Think Aorta and aortic disease awareness.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Robotic-Assisted Right-Sided Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass for Anomalous Origin of the Right Coronary Artery 

2. A Transdiaphragmatic Aorto-Supraceliac Extra-Anatomic Bypass for Interrupted Aortic Arch With Collateralizations 

3. Double-Decker Procedure for Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection 

4. Think Aorta and Aortic Disease Awareness: An Interview With Gareth Owens and Dr. Ben Youdelman 

5. Robotic-Assisted Right Upper Segmentectomy (Culmen) in Situs Inversus Totalis 

Other Items Mentioned

1. Power: A Memoir

2. Website Maintenance Alert!

3. The Lifeline

4. Career Center

5. CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Zain Khalpey, an assistant attending surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY, USA, adjunct assistant professor of surgery at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY, USA, and Chief Medical AI Officer, Chair of Applied Clinical AI, and Director of Applied Translational Artificial Research Institute (ATARI), AZ, USA, about utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiothoracic surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:42 Upcoming CTSNet Activities
03:01 Website Transition
03:54 JANS 1, Mech vs Bio AVR in 50–70 YO
08:16 JANS 2, Abnormal Bleeding in OR
10:26 JANS 3, Intraop Assessment RV Function
11:54 JANS 4, Laser Anastomosis System CABG
14:49 Video 1, RAMT AVR Hemiarch Replacement
16:23 Video 2, Big Cyst & Small Incisions
17:33 Video 3, Left VATS Pneumonectomy
19:55 Dr. Khalpey, AI in CT Surgery
30:28 Upcoming Events
31:48 Closing

They discuss the importance of ethical AI being and address risk scores. The conversation also covers the application of AI in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative settings, as well as predictive algorithms and the benefits of integrating AI within cardiothoracic surgery. Additionally, they emphasize that there will always be a need for surgeons, as AI cannot replace human expertise.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a systematic review and meta-analysis on mechanical vs biological aortic valve replacement in patients aged 50-70 years, an observational study of inter-rater reliability between anesthetists and surgeons on abnormal bleeding in the cardiac operating room, advancing intraoperative assessment of right ventricular function, and the excimer laser assisted non-occlusive anastomosis (ELANA) anastomotic system surgical technique to construct distal anastomoses using a novel device in coronary artery bypass grafting.

In addition, Joel explores a right anterior minithoractomy aortic valve replacement, ascending aorta, and hemiarch repair, thoracoscopic resection of a large mediastinal cyst, and left VATS pneumonectomy in pediatric pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Mechanical Versus Biological Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Aged 50-70 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2. Abnormal Bleeding in the Cardiac Operating Room: An Observational Study of Inter-Rater Reliability Between Anesthetists and Surgeons

3. Echocardiographic Correlates of Pressure-Volume-Derived Indices: Advancing Intraoperative Assessment of Right Ventricular Function

4. The Excimer Laser Assisted Non-Occlusive Anastomosis (ELANA) Anastomotic System Surgical Technique to Construct Distal Anastomoses Using a Novel Device in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Right Anterior Minithoractomy Aortic Valve Replacement, Ascending Aorta, and Hemiarch Repair 

2. When Size Is Not a Limitation: Thoracoscopic Resection of a Large Mediastinal Cyst

3. Left VATS Pneumonectomy in Pediatric Pulmonary Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma 

Other Items Mentioned

1. Website Blackout Notice!

2. Career Center

3. CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Amanda Rea, a nurse practitioner and Lead of Advanced Practice and Clinical Program Manager in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in Townson, MD, USA, spoke with Kali Dayton, a critical care nurse practitioner, host of the Walking Home From the ICU and Walking You Through the ICU podcasts, and CEO of Dayton ICU Consulting, about early mobility, verticalization, and delirium.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:04 Patient Philosophy

02:45 Early Sedation-Delirium Relationship

05:23 RASS Scale, Sedation

07:06 Cardiac ICU Patients

08:35 Lack of Delirium Tracking or Data

10:56 ROI from Good Care & Data

14:44 Preventative Approach

16:16 Convincing Hesitant Adopters

18:59 Patient Case Study

21:19 Cultural Paradigm

24:48 Mobilization

27:07 Verticalization Beds

30:03 Gravity on Patient Health

32:14 Mobility Screening

33:14 Defining Walking

34:47 Mobility Responsibility

36:55 Standardization & Predictability

38:23 Key Points

They discussed what an awake and walking intensive care unit (ICU) is, how early mobility and sedation tie in with delirium, and the history of critical care medicine. The conversation also covered the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) and deep sedation, as well as risk factors for delirium, outdated sedation practices and mobility management, and the importance of having a high reliability environment. Additionally, they explored the ABCDEF bundle and a case study of a patient experiencing delirium. The episode further addressed verticalization beds, walking pads for verticalization, nurse screening tools, and ambulation.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this edition of the new CTSNet podcast, The Lifeline, host and nurse educator Jill Ley, Clinical Professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Founder of the Essentials of Cardiac Surgical Resuscitation, and former Cardiac Surgery Clinical Nurse Specialist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, USA, speaks with expert guest Rakesh Arora, Director of Cardiothoracic Critical Care and a professor in the Department of Surgery and Anesthesia at Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA. They discuss managing arrest in patients with temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS), focusing on a paper Arora authored titled “EACTS/STS/AATS Guidelines on Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Adult Cardiac Surgery.”

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:08 Guidelines Background

02:02 Resuscitation, Monitoring Parameters

07:37 Approach to Patients in Extremis

11:39 Quality Assurance, Internal Data

12:22 End-Tidal

13:17 Bleeding Management

15:33 Arrhythmia, Defibrillation

17:21 Optimizing Tissue Perfusion

18:09 Key Points

20:26 Devices & Flow Patterns

They began by exploring how this paper was developed and how Arora became involved in this project. They discussed the importance of expediting the resuscitation process and examined the recommendations for a tMCS implantation in patients experiencing post-procedural low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS). Key considerations included oxygen saturation levels (SpO2) and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), as well as the significance of pulsatility. Additionally, they discussed the interaction between devices and patients and the importance of team training and simulation. They also addressed crucial topics such as coagulation, anticoagulation, and defibrillation. Finally, they examined optimizing tissue perfusion for better patient outcomes.

Every month, The Lifeline features intensive care specialists sharing their expert insights into the rapid and effective management of critically ill cardiac surgical patients. Don’t miss next month’s episode!

Related Resources

1. EACTS/STS/AATS Guidelines on Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Adult Cardiac Surgery

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Adam Greenbaum, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Emory School of Medicine and Co-director of the Emory Structural Heart and Valve Center, Atlanta, GA, USA, about the groundbreaking percutaneous coronary artery bypass graft procedure he developed called the ventriculo-coronary transcatheter outward navigation and reentry (VECTOR) procedure.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:46 FDA Device Recall

03:52 JANS 1, CDC WONDER Aortic Stenosis

06:10 JANS 2, Free vs In-Situ RIMA-CABG

08:04 JANS 3, AF Worsens Outcome of MVR

09:52 JANS 4, EXCEL Trial

12:29 New Website

13:43 Video 1, Ross Procedure Technique

16:16 Video 2, Total Arch Replacement

18:38 Video 3, Pleural Sepsis Podcast

20:51 Dr. Greenbaum, VECTOR Procedure

40:34 Upcoming Events

41:18 Career Center

41:43 Closing

They delved into the development and rationale behind this innovative technique, which aims to provide a solution for patients with no other options, particularly those with narrow sinuses or low-lying coronaries. Additionally, they discussed other leaflet modification methods and the criteria for patient selection for the VECTOR procedure. The conversation also covered the technical steps involved in the procedure, along with specific cases in which it has been utilized, as well as the challenges faced and troubleshooting done by the surgeons. Finally, they explored the future of this procedure.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on concerning trends seen in aortic stenosis-related mortality, a meta-analysis on free vs in-situ right internal mammary artery as a conduit in coronary artery bypass surgery, if atrial fibrillation worsens outcome of mitral valve repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation, and the EXCEL trial on spontaneous myocardial infarction after left main revascularization.

In addition, Joel explores the Ross procedure with annular stabilization, interposition graft, and loose-jacket technique, total arch replacement with a novel dual stent device, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Professor Eric Lim about pleural sepsis. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. ‘Concerning’ Trends Seen in Aortic Stenosis-Related Mortality: CDC WONDER

2. Free vs In-Situ Right Internal Mammary Artery as a Conduit in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: A Meta-Analysis

3. Atrial Fibrillation Worsens Outcome of Mitral Valve Repair for Degenerative Mitral Regurgitation: Long-Term Follow-Up of 959 Patients

4. Spontaneous Myocardial Infarction After Left Main Revascularization: The EXCEL Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Ross Procedure With Annular Stabilization, Interposition Graft, and Loose-Jacket Technique 

2. Total Arch Replacement With a Novel Dual Stent Device 

3. The Atrium: Pleural Sepsis 

Other Items Mentioned

1. Percutaneous Aorto-Coronary Bypass Graft to Prevent Coronary Obstruction Following TAVR: First Human VECTOR Procedure

2. Website Blackout Notice!

3. Career Center

4. CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Sameer Hirji, an associate surgeon at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA, USA, about a paper he presented on at the 62nd Society of Thoracic Surgeons Annual Meeting titled “Concerning Trends Seen in Aortic Stenosis-Related Mortality: CDC WONDER.”

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:38 JANS 1, Female CT Surgeons NYT Article

04:38 JANS 2, Biopros vs Mech SAVR >65 YO

07:32 JANS 3, Fissure Last Tech, Randomized Trial

09:58 JANS 4, Ozaki Procedure, Perf & Durability

12:46 Video 1, MI Left Atrial Myxoma Resection

14:43 Video 2, Conduction System-Sparing Modified AVR

16:42 Video 3, RCAA w Coronary SF

18:55 Dr. Hirji, CDC WONDER Aortic Stenosis

31:40 Upcoming Events

32:11 Closing

They discussed the study itself, including its overall results, as well as the demographic factors analyzed—such as race, gender, and location—and the results related to these demographics. They also addressed the limitations of the data used and explored possible reasons for the observed results, such as intervention strategies, underdiagnosis, and the prevalence of asymptomatic patients. The conversation further emphasized the importance of patient selection and the heart team.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on female cardiothoracic surgeons, unlocking the male fortress, bioprosthetic versus mechanical surgical aortic valve replacement in patients ≥65 years of age, results from a prospective randomized controlled trial on if the fissure last technique really reduces postoperative air leak after lung resection, and mid-term valve performance and durability of the Ozaki procedure in patients on chronic dialysis.

In addition, Joel explores a minimally invasive left atrial myxoma resection, safety and efficacy of a cardiac conduction system-sparing modified aortic valve replacement, and a surgical approach to right coronary artery aneurysm with coronary sinus fistula. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1. Female Cardiothoracic Surgeons, Unlocking the Male Fortress

2. Bioprosthetic Versus Mechanical Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients ≥65 Years of Age

3. Does the Fissure Last Technique Really Reduce Postoperative Airleak After Lung Resection? Results From a Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial 

4. Mid-Term Valve Performance and Durability of the Ozaki Procedure in Patients on Chronic Dialysis

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1. Minimally Invasive Left Atrial Myxoma Resection

2. Safety and Efficacy of a Cardiac Conduction System-Sparing Modified Aortic Valve Replacement 

3. Surgical Approach to Right Coronary Artery Aneurysm With Coronary Sinus Fistula 

Other Items Mentioned

1. ‘Concerning’ Trends Seen in Aortic Stenosis-Related Mortality: CDC WONDER 

2. Career Center

3. CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Professor Eric Lim, Professor of Thoracic Surgery at Imperial College London and Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London, UK, about pleural sepsis.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:30 Dr. Lim Background

01:26 Why CT Surgery & Clinical Research?

05:09 Definition & Overview

07:50 Causes

09:29 Clinical Presentations & Investigations

16:03 Management, RAPID Score

19:49 Medical Management

22:15 Chest Tube Management (ICD)

25:12 IF, Medical Decortication

25:48 Surgical Management

29:30 History

30:34 Debridement & Decortication, Approach

34:30 Patient Positioning

35:18 Thoracotomy

38:43 VATS

39:37 Technical Steps

43:18 Postoperative Management

49:37 Complications

50:58 Summarizing Points

51:50 Surgery Training Advice

They provide an overview of pleural sepsis, highlighting its three stages: the exudative stage, fibrinopurulent stage, and organizing stage. The discussion covers its history and causes, including complications from pneumonia. They also examine symptoms, failure to progress, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound. Additionally, they delve into pleural fluid analysis, the RAPID score, and management strategies, including medical interventions, chest tube drainage, and intrapleural fibrinolytics. Various surgical management strategies are discussed as well, including thoracotomy, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), and robotic approaches. Finally, they address chest tube management, respiratory physiotherapy, acute complications, and long-term complications.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Keep an eye out for next month’s episode.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Shanda Blackmon, a thoracic surgeon and Professor of Surgery, as well as the Director of the Lung Institute at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA, about an article from The New York Times in which she was featured, titled “Female CT Surgeons, Unlocking the Male Fortress.”

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:35 JANS 1, Fractured Sternal Wires Post-Surgery

05:21 JANS 2, ERAS Protocols in Spain, Consensus Study

07:00 JANS 3, Preserving Native MVs in VSD & MR Patients

09:53 JANS 4, Sternal Closure After Norwood

12:15 Video 1, LIMA Harvest, Robotic Harmonic Scalpel

13:55 Video 2, Butterfly Resection for MV Leaflets

15:26 Video 3, Bidirectional Glenn via Axill Thorac

17:18 Dr. Blackmon, Women in CT Surgery

33:17 Upcoming Events

35:13 Closing

They discussed her experience working with The New York Times and the goal of the article. Key highlights included the pay disparity, with women cardiothoracic surgeons receiving lower pay than their male counterparts, as evidenced by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) compensation survey. Additionally, they addressed the rewarding aspects of cardiothoracic surgery, the challenges surgeons face, and the initiatives that women cardiothoracic surgeons are starting to tackle, such as the pay equity and leadership opportunities.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a cross-sectional study examining wire configurations, sternal locations, and breakage sites for fractured sternal wires post-coronary surgery, a Delphi consensus study on the standardized recommendations for the implementation of enhanced recovery protocols in thoracic surgery in Spain, surgical strategy for preserving native mitral valves in infants with ventricular septal defects and mitral regurgitation, and routine primary sternal closure after the Norwood procedure.

In addition, Joel explores robotic-assisted left internal mammary harvest with the robotic harmonic scalpel, butterfly resection for prolapsed posterior mitral valve leaflets, and minimally invasive bidirectional Glenn via vertical right axillary thoracotomy. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Fractured Sternal Wires Post-Coronary Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study Examining Wire Configurations, Sternal Locations, and Breakage Sites

2.) Standardized Recommendations for the Implementation of Enhanced Recovery Protocols in Thoracic Surgery in Spain: A Delphi Consensus Study

3.) Surgical Strategy for Preserving Native Mitral Valves in Infants With Ventricular Septal Defects and Mitral Regurgitation

4.) Routine Primary Sternal Closure After the Norwood Procedure

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic-Assisted Left Internal Mammary Harvest With the Robotic Harmonic Scalpel​ 

2.) Butterfly Resection for Prolapsed Posterior Mitral Valve Leaflets 

3.) Pushing Boundaries in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery: Minimally Invasive Bidirectional Glenn Via Vertical Right Axillary Thoracotomy 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Female Cardiothoracic Surgeons, Unlocking the Male Fortress

2.) Instructional Video Competition   

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Vicki Morton, Director of Clinical and Quality Outcomes at Providence Anesthesiology Associates in North Carolina, USA, spoke with Drs. Rakesh Arora, Director of Perioperative and Cardiac Critical Care and Research Director in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, and Rawn Salenger, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, about preoperative optimization of cardiac patients.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:27 Vulnerable Patients, Identifying Risk

04:24 Assessing Patients, Biological Prep

09:57 Psychological & Cognitive Prep

12:09 Time Between Discharge & Follow-Up

15:40 Anemic Patients, Iron Studies

20:12 Nutrition Screening & Malnutrition

25:30 Future Optimization Topics

They discussed the importance of identifying risks, conducting thorough assessments before the operation, and preoperative education. They also emphasized psychological and cognitive preparation, as well as the time frame between discharge and follow-up. Additionally, they addressed issues related to iron deficiency without anemia, anemic patients, and iron studies. Furthermore, they highlighted the importance of nutrition screening and addressing malnutrition as essential aspects of preoperative care.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. John Forrest, a cardiologist and Director of both Interventional Cardiology and the Structural Heart Disease Program at Yale Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA, about a paper he authored titled “Six-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis,” published by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:38 TAVR vs SAVR Context

03:54 CDC WONDER Data, TAVR SAVR

05:37 JANS 1, TAVR vs SAVR 5-Year Outcomes

07:31 JANS 2, Temporary MCS Devices Landscape

09:17 JANS 3, Pulm Resection Post-CABG

10:23 JANS 4, PRE-HIIT Randomized Trial

12:36 Career Center

13:10 Video 1, Redo MVR After VIV TAVR

15:37 Video 2, Repair After Acute Intramural Hematoma

18:01 Video 3, Acute Severe MR Repair

19:36 Dr. Forrest, 6-Year TAVR vs SAVR

44:49 Upcoming Events

45:33 The Lifeline Podcast

They explored other randomized trials involving high-risk and intermediate-risk patients with aortic stenosis and examined the specific goals of this low-risk trial. The discussion then delved into the trial’s results, highlighting that there was no significant difference in the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality or disabling stroke. However, a noteworthy finding was that the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) arm experienced a higher reintervention rate compared to surgery, primarily due to an increased incidence of aortic regurgitation. They also addressed factors such as valve dilation, stents, and various reasons for surgical valve failure. Additionally, they examined the similarities between this trial and other partner trials and the future for low-risk patients with aortic stenosis.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the updated five-year outcomes of transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement in patients with severe aortic stenosis at low- to intermediate-surgical risk, a United States nationwide analysis on the changing landscape of temporary mechanical circulatory support devices in the new heart allocation system, pulmonary resection post-coronary artery bypass grafting, and a randomized controlled trial on the preoperative exercise to improve fitness in patients undergoing complex surgery for cancer of the lung or esophagus (PRE-HIIT).

In addition, Joel explores redo mitral valve replacement after previous valve-in-valve mitral TAVR, aortic repair after acute intramural hematoma, and repair of acute severe mitral regurgitation due to iatrogenic papillary muscle rupture. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Updated 5-Year Outcomes of Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis at Low- to Intermediate-Surgical Risk

2.) The Changing Landscape of Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices in the New Heart Allocation System—A United States Nationwide Analysis

3.) Pulmonary Resection Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Feasible, but Right-Sided Procedures Demand Caution

4.) Preoperative Exercise to Improve Fitness in Patients Undergoing Complex Surgery for Cancer of the Lung or Esophagus (PRE-HIIT): A Randomized Controlled Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Redo Mitral Valve Replacement After Previous Valve-in-Valve Mitral TAVR

2.) Aortic Repair After Acute Intramural Hematoma 

3.) Repair of Acute Severe Mitral Regurgitation Due to Iatrogenic Papillary Muscle Rupture

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Six-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis

2.) The Lifeline: End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide Monitoring in Cardiac Surgical Emergencies

3.) Instructional Video Competition   

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Drs. Mateo Marin-Cuartas, CTSNet JANS Editor and cardiac surgeon at the University Department of Cardiac Surgery at Leipzig Heart Centre University Hospital in Leipzig, SN, Germany; and Samuel Heuts, a cardiothoracic surgeon in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Maastricht University Medical Center in Maastricht, LI, about a paper they authored titled “Updated 5-Year Outcomes of Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis at Low- to Intermediate-Surgical Risk,” published in Heart, a journal produced by the British Medical Journal.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:51 JANS 1, 6-Year Outcomes TAVR vs SAVR
06:45 JANS 2, Evolut THV Postdilation
09:22 Video 2, TAVI in SAVR Explantation
11:10 JANS 3, High Risk Increasing Adoption of DCD
13:17 JANS 4, Lobar Quantitation for Assessment
15:16 Video 1, Narayana Robotic AVR
17:23 Video 3, Extended Resections Podcast
18:30 Dr. Marin-Cuartas & Heuts, TAVR vs SAVR
36:42 Upcoming Events
37:32 Instructional Video Competition
38:55 Career Center

They discussed the motivations behind the creation of this paper and provided insights into its Bayesian hierarchical design. Key findings included the five-year all-cause mortality rates and the risk of stroke associated with the procedures. They also referenced other studies with similar findings, such as a recently published paper from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology on the “Six-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis.” Finally, they explored the future of transcatheter aortic valve implantation and surgical aortic valve replacement.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the six-year outcomes after transcatheter vs surgical aortic valve replacement in low-risk patients with aortic stenosis, postdilation of Evolut transcatheter heart valves, insights into current practices in the United States regarding increasing adoption of donation after circulatory death in high-risk heart transplant recipients, and the value of V/Q SPECT/CT lobar quantitation for pre-treatment assessment of lung malignancy.

In addition, Joel explores robotic-assisted aortic valve replacement, TAVI in SAVR explantation, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Maninder Kalkat about extended resections. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Six-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis

2.) Postdilation of Evolut Transcatheter Heart Valves: Insights From Bench Testing

3.) Increasing Adoption of Donation After Circulatory Death in High Risk Heart Transplant Recipients: Insights Into Current Practices in the United States

4.) The Value of V/Q SPECT/CT Lobar Quantitation for Pre-Treatment Assessment of Lung Malignancy

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic-Assisted Aortic Valve Replacement 

2.) TAVI in SAVR Explantation: A Two-Step Technique for Successful Removal 

3.) The Atrium: Extended Resections 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Updated 5-Year Outcomes of Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis at Low- to Intermediate-Surgical Risk

2.) The Lifeline

3.) Instructional Video Competition   

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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In this first edition of the new CTSNet podcast, The Lifeline, host and nurse educator Jill Ley, Clinical Professor at the University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, Founder of the Essentials of Cardiac Surgical Resuscitation, and former Cardiac Surgery Clinical Nurse Specialist at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, USA, speaks with expert guest Barbara McLean, a Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, GA, USA. They discuss end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) monitoring in cardiac surgical emergencies.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:30 End-Tidal CO2 Monitoring Overview

09:16 Case 1

13:52 Case 2

19:57 Outlier Cases

21:01 Global Application

Mclean began by providing an overview of EtCO2, including bedside interpretation, values for rapid non-invasive cardiopulmonary evaluation during acute decompensation, critical values that warrant intervention, and how to differentiate ventilation and perfusion abnormalities, metabolic acidosis, hypoventilation, hyperventilation, and arterial CO2. They then discuss various case studies outlining postoperative outcomes and the symptoms patients were experiencing emphasizing this important monitoring modality to aid in accurate and timely clinical assessment during complex emergencies.

Every month, The Lifeline features intensive care specialists sharing their expert insights into the rapid and effective management of critically ill cardiac surgical patients. Don’t miss next month’s episode!

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Niv Ad, Editor-in-Chief of the journal Innovations: Technology and Techniques in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery and professor of surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, about the journal.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:04 JANS 1, Adverse Effects Statin Therapy

06:21 JANS 2, Mortality & Reintervention, Robotic MR

09:15 JANS 3, Balloon vs Self Expanding Transcath Valves

11:41 JANS 4, Transcath Aortic Valve in MV Replacement

13:54 Career Center

14:33 Video 1, Endo Cone Repair w Ebstein Anomaly

16:26 Video 2, Retrograde Cardioplegia Cath Placement

17:19 Video 3, Standardized Strategy, Rheumatic MV Disease

20:31 Dr. Ad, Innovations Journal

31:05 Upcoming Events

31:38 New Podcast, The Lifeline

32:15 Closing

They discussed the main topics and procedures covered by Innovations, highlighting its double-blind peer-review process and the special feature section. Additionally, they provided tips for those interested in submitting to the journal.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a meta-analysis of double-blind randomized controlled trials for the assessment of adverse effects attributed to statin therapy in product labels, mortality and reintervention after robotic mitral repair in the United States, the three-year results of the LYTEN trial on balloon- vs self-expanding transcatheter valves for failed small surgical aortic, and the first-in-human study on transcatheter aortic valve-in-mechanical valve replacement.

In addition, Joel explores an endoscopic cone repair in an adult patient with Ebstein anomaly, an alternative cannulation site for the placement of a retrograde cardioplegia catheter, and a standardized surgical management strategy for rheumatic mitral valve disease. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Assessment of Adverse Effects Attributed to Statin Therapy in Product Labels: A Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Randomised Controlled Trials

2.) Mortality and Reintervention After Robotic Mitral Repair in the United States

3.) Balloon- Versus Self-Expanding Transcatheter Valves for Failed Small Surgical Aortic Bioprostheses: 3-Year Results of the LYTEN Trial

4.) Transcatheter Aortic Valve-in-Mechanical Valve Replacement: A First-in-Human Study 

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Endoscopic Cone Repair in an Adult Patient With Ebstein Anomaly 

2.) Placement of a Retrograde Cardioplegia Catheter: An Alternative Cannulation Site

3.) Standardized Surgical Management Strategy for Rheumatic Mitral Valve Disease

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Innovations: Technology and Techniques in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery

2.) The Lifeline

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Maninder Kalkat, a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon in the Regional Department of Thoracic Surgery at University Hospital Birmingham, about extended resections.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:07 Inspiration & Areas of Interest

03:23 Definition & Classification

09:28 History

10:16 Preop Considerations

19:07 Operating Team Plan

22:23 Fitness for Surgery

23:55 Airway Resections

31:33 Chest Wall Resections

36:17 Reconstructive Material

38:43 Vascular Resections

43:53 Postoperative Care

47:59 Future of Extended Resections

50:15 Summary

50:48 Surgery Training Tips

They provided an overview of extended resections, including the definition, indications, and examples, as well as the history of extended resections. They also discussed preoperative considerations and examined airway resections, detailing what it is, indications, and the technical principles of the operation. Additionally, they explored chest wall resections, including the definition, indications, and technical principles. Drs. Copperwheat and Kalkat also examined vascular resections, highlighting what they are, indications, and the technical aspects involved. They also reviewed postoperative considerations, complications, and outcomes. Finally, they shared training tips, future directions, and key principles in extended resections.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Keep an eye out for next month’s episode.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Puja Khaitan, thoracic consultant at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Founder and Congress Chair of the Emirates International Thoracic Surgery Congress, about thoracic surgery in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:35 JANS 1, Therapy & Risk in Idiopathic Pulm Fibrosis

04:18 JANS 2, Sex-Related Treatment Effects

06:03 JANS 3, Endoscopic vs Open RAH in CABG

08:14 JANS 4, Textbook Outcome in MV Surgery

11:16 Career Center

12:08 Video 1, AMDS to FET Conversion

13:13 Video 2, Constrictive Pericarditis & Pericardiectomy

14:42 Video 3, Right Axillary Thoracotomy

16:17 Dr. Khaitan, Thoracic Surgery in the UAE

23:46 Upcoming Events

24:46 Instructional Video Competition

They discussed her professional background and training, as well as the differences in cases between the UAE and United States. They also delved into research in the UAE, the state of thoracic hospitals, general surgical residency programs, and the future of fellowships in the country.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a large retrospective propensity-weighted cohort study on antifibrotic therapy and lung cancer risk in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sample size considerations to assess sex-related treatment effects, endoscopic or open radial artery harvest in coronary artery bypass surgery, and results from the Netherlands Heart Registration on mitral valve surgery.

In addition, Joel explores a safe and reproducible redo aortic surgery approach on AMDS to frozen elephant trunk conversion, an approach to constrictive pericarditis and pericardiectomy from diagnosis to definitive surgical, and right axillary thoracotomy. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Antifibrotic Therapy and Lung Cancer Risk in Patients With Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Large Retrospective Propensity-Weighted Cohort Study

2.) Sample Size Considerations to Assess Sex-Related Treatment Effects

3.) Endoscopic or Open Radial Artery Harvest in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

4.) Textbook Outcome in Mitral Valve Surgery—Results from the Netherlands Heart Registration

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) AMDS to Frozen Elephant Trunk Conversion: A Safe and Reproducible Redo Aortic Surgery Approach 

2.) From Diagnosis to Definitive Surgical Therapy: An Approach to Constrictive Pericarditis and Pericardiectomy

3.) Right Axillary Thoracotomy: A Minimally Invasive Gateway to Multiple Defects

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Emirates International Thoracic Surgery Congress

2.) Instructional Video Competition

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Dr. Daniel Engelman, Medical Director of the Cardiac Surgical Critical Care & Inpatient Services at Baystate Health, Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School—Baystate, and President of the ERAS Cardiac Society; and co-moderator Dr. Kevin Lobdell, Professor and Director of Regional Cardiovascular and Thoracic Quality, Education, and Research at Atrium Health spoke with Dr. Rawn Salenger, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center and Dr. Serdar Gunaydin, Head of Department at the University of Health Sciences in Turkey, about patient blood management.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:14 Transfusion as a Risk Factor

07:08 Hemoglobin Drugs

08:24 Pillars of Blood Management

09:56 Anesthesia

12:30 Transfusion Triggers

17:33 O2 Delivery, Hemoglobin Number

22:20 Non-Transfusion Patients

23:22 Anemic Level Bottom Number

25:06 Bleeding Checklist

29:41 Anemia Tolerance

They discussed independent risk factors for blood transfusion, the role of hemoglobin as a predictor for blood transfusion, and considerations related to anemic patients and hemoglobin levels. Additionally, they explored the key pillars of blood management, treating preoperative anemia, and anesthesia. They examined transfusion triggers, oxygen delivery, and the care of non-transfusion patients. Finally, they emphasized the importance of a bleeding checklist and anemia tolerance.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Hani Shennib, a Clinical Professor of Vascular and Cardiothoracic Surgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, USA, about catheters as a language.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:48 UK Thoracic Forum

06:11 JANS 1, Detecting AF Using Watch

07:44 JANS 2, End-to-End Anastomotic Stapler

09:24 JANS 3, Improving Patient Selection NSCLC

12:05 JANS 4, 5-Year Women Outcomes TAVR vs SAVR

13:30 Video 1, MVR Tips & Tricks

14:43 Video 2, Ruptured SVA w Hemi-Yacoub Remodeling

16:32 Video 3, Modified Inclusion, Autograft in a Vest

18:04 Dr. Shennib, Catheters as a Language

48:25 Upcoming Events

48:52 Career Center

They explore the importance of making catheters a language by learning, speaking, and practicing it daily. They also discuss how cardiac surgeons have lost the role of “gatekeepers,” with cardiologists now controlling more of the decision-making process. Dr. Shennib emphasizes the need for surgeons to be involved in decision-making from diagnosis to treatment and highlights the significance of patient-centered decision-making and the human aspect of these choices. They also compare coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), examining which procedure is more appropriate in different circumstances. Furthermore, they explore the reasons behind the shrinking cardiac specialty and discuss how to save it. Finally, they discuss the future of cardiac surgery.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a randomized controlled trial on the enhanced detection and prompt diagnosis of atrial fibrillation using an Apple watch, the results of a human cadaver study on a novel aortic end-to-end anastomotic stapler device, improving patient selection for minimally invasive lobectomy or stereotactic ablative radiotherapy based on clinical characteristics, and a systematic review and meta-analysis on the five-year outcomes of transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement in women.

In addition, Joel explores tips and tricks for mitral valve repair from a Brussels experience, treatment of ruptured sinus valsalva aneurysm with hemi-Yacoub remodeling technique, and a Ross procedure with modified inclusion technique. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Enhanced Detection and Prompt Diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation Using Apple Watch: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2.) A Novel Aortic End-to-End Anastomotic Stapler Device—Results of a Human Cadaver Study

3.) Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Improving Patient Selection for Minimally Invasive Lobectomy or Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy Based on Clinical Characteristics

4.) Five-Year Outcomes of Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis 

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Mitral Valve Repair—Tips and Tricks From Brussels Experience: 2025 London Core Review Cardiothoracic Surgery Course 

2.) Treatment of Ruptured Sinus Valsalva Aneurysm With Hemi-Yacoub Remodeling Technique 

3.) Ross Procedure With Modified Inclusion Technique: An Autograft in a Vest

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Instructional Video Competition

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Louise Kenny, a consultant pediatric and adult congenital cardiothoracic and transplant surgeon at Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, about congenital heart transplants.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:24 JANS 1, VECTOR Procedure

07:38 JANS 2, Combined Inflation & Cooling

08:26 JANS 3, Caring for VIP Patients

11:43 JANS 4, Country Wealth & Min Inv Correlation

12:57 Career Center

13:37 Video 1, Debranching AAV Step-by-Step

15:14 Video 2, Abramson Technique

16:59 Video 3, Min Inv Cardiac w Dr. Chitwood

18:54 Dr. Kenny, DCD-HOPE Congenital Transplant

31:58 CKD & CSA-AKI Podcast Episode

34:12 Upcoming Events

35:13 Closing

They discussed the complexities surrounding congenital heart transplants, donation after brain death (DBD), and donation after circulatory death (DCD). They also explored the benefits of hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) for children, particularly in DCD pediatrics patients, and highlighted the first case where this model was used. Additionally, they examined the future of HOPE and its potential for more complex procedures. Moreover, they discussed implanting ventricular assist devices (VAD) in children, along with what other countries are doing regarding congenital heart transplants, including ongoing studies in this field.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the first human VECTOR procedure for percutaneous aorto-coronary bypass graft to prevent coronary obstruction following TAVR, combined inflation and cooling method improves lung function in uncontrolled donation after circulatory death, caring for VIP patients in cardiothoracic surgery, and the national wealth and the global spread of minimally invasive thoracic surgery.

In addition, Joel explores a step-by-step guide for debranching of aortic arch vessels through a cervical approach for aortic arch aneurysm, a master class with Horacio Abramson on the Abramson technique, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Randolph Chitwood about the future of minimally invasive cardiac surgery. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Percutaneous Aorto-Coronary Bypass Graft to Prevent Coronary Obstruction Following TAVR: First Human VECTOR Procedure

2.) Combined Inflation and Cooling Method Improves Lung Function in Uncontrolled Donation After Circulatory Death

3.) Caring for VIP Patients in Cardiothoracic Surgery: Navigating Bias, Pressure, and Protocol

4.) National Wealth and the Global Spread of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery: Insights From the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Debranching of Aortic Arch Vessels Through a Cervical Approach for Aortic Arch Aneurysm: A Step-by-Step Guide

2.) Master Class: The Abramson Technique With Horacio Abramson and Joel Dunning

3.) The Atrium: The Future of Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

1.) HOPE for Children: Successful Pediatric DCD Heart Transplantation Using Hypothermic Oxygenated Perfusion

2.) Instructional Video Competition

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Drs. Daniel Engelman, Medical Director of the Cardiac Surgical Critical Care & Inpatient Services at Baystate Health, Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School—Baystate, and President of the ERAS Cardiac Society, and Marlies Ostermann, consultant in critical care and nephrology at Guy's and St. Thomas Foundation Trust and a Director of Research for the Intensive Care Society, about chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI).

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:11 Definition & Background

10:55 Burden of CSA-AKI

12:58 Unmet Medical Need

19:47 Identification & Collaboration

26:07 KDIGO, O2 Delivery

32:15 CKD CSA-AKI Final Remarks

35:10 JANS, Success in African CT Surgery

38:49 Video, Modified Root Inclusion Technique

40:53 Closing

They delve into the complexities of CSA-AKI, exploring the percentage of patients affected, defining the condition, and highlighting the overall significance of this issue. They also address creatinine as a late marker for AKI, the long-term scarring that can occur from AKI, and the critical need for thorough preoperative assessments to identify high-risk patients. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of a complete health assessment before surgery. Furthermore, they discuss the dangers of reaching stage 3 AKI, the increased costs of care once that point is reached, and what actions to take if a patient has a positive marker but appears stable. They also highlight the premature use of diuretics contributing to AKI and hyperbilirubinemia. Moreover, they consider how CKD along elevates mortality risk and the importance of developing targeted therapies in the future. Finally, they discuss approaches to reduce ischemia-reperfusion (IR) AKI and the optimization of hemodynamics, as well as potential drugs for treating AKI effectively.

Joel also highlights a recent JANS article on aligning training, patient profiles, and outcomes to redefine success in cardiac surgery in Africa. In addition, he explores the modified root inclusion technique for a fourth sternotomy with Ross/Konno after previous mechanical aortic valve replacement.

Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Redefining Success in Cardiac Surgery in Africa: Aligning Training, Patient Profiles, and Outcomes

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Fourth Sternotomy With Ross/Konno After Previous Mechanical Aortic Valve Replacement: The Modified Root Inclusion Technique

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

3.) Instructional Video Competition

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Randolph Chitwood, retired cardiac surgeon and Founding Director of the East Carolina Heart Institute at East Carolina University, about the future of minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS).

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:58 Dr. Chitwood Background

04:20 Inspiration for MI

07:12 Reason for Mitral Valve Robotics

07:38 Strong Resistance from Specialty

08:35 Beginning Training

10:24 Origins of MI

13:37 Developmental Research

16:19 Steps in MI Mitral Valve Surgery

17:00 Bypass

17:57 Aortic Valve Surgery

19:10 Root Replacement & Dissection

19:27 Extracurricular Hobbies

20:23 Surgery Training Advice

They delve into Dr. Chitwood’s professional background and why he chose to study cardiothoracic surgery. They also discuss the evolution of minimally invasive surgery, including incisions and instruments. Additionally, they highlight robotics, minimally invasive techniques for the mitral valve, and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). They also cover aortic valve replacement (AVR) and minimally invasive techniques for the aortic valve. Furthermore, Dr. Chitwood provides advice for trainees, including how they can get involved in using minimally invasive techniques.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on extended resection with Dr. Maninder Kalkat.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Drs. Jan Vojacek, a cardiac surgeon in the department of cardiac surgery at University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic, and president of the Czech Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, and Maral Ouzounian, cardiac surgeon and head of the division of cardiac surgery at the Peter Munk Cardiac Center, Toronto, Canada, and president of the Canadian Society of Cardiac Surgeons, about the EACTS expert consensus statement on the Ross procedure in adult patients.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:21 JANS 1, ARISE III Stent Graft Enrollment

04:25 JANS 2, Mech vs Biopros Valves in Hemodialysis

07:37 JANS 3, Surgical Sealants After Pulm Resection

09:54 JANS 4, Constrictive Pericarditis Procedures

12:45 Video 1, VATS CO2 Insufflation Technique

14:03 Third Place, Ascending Aortic Stenting Repair-Bridge

15:05 Second Place, Mustard & En Bloc Rotation of Tracts

16:49 First Place, Supracardiac Anomalous Pulm Ven Return

19:43 Drs. Vojacek & Ouzounian, Ross Procedure

42:02 Upcoming Events

42:21 Instructional Video Competition

42:49 Career Center

They discussed the task force and process of getting this statement published, as well as important elements of the guidelines. Additionally, they addressed the significance of shared decision-making with patients, survival rates following the Ross procedure, and overall quality of life. They also compared the Ross procedure to mechanical and biological aortic valve replacements. They explored various surgical techniques related to the Ross procedure, including the native inclusion technique and the prosthetic inclusion technique, emphasizing the importance of technical details, patient selection, and intraoperative management. Furthermore, they discussed the Ross centers of excellence and how to start them.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the ARISE III trial of gore ascending stent graft begins enrollment, mechanical vs bioprosthetic heart valves in hemodialysis patients, an individual patient data meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on the clinical efficacy of surgical sealants after pulmonary resection, and radical pericardiectomy and use of cardiopulmonary bypass for constrictive pericarditis.

In addition, Joel explores a new approach for thymic pathologies, robotic-assisted repair of supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous return, and combined Mustard and en bloc rotation of the outflow tracts. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) ARISE III Trial of Gore Ascending Stent Graft Begins Enrollment

2.) Mechanical Versus Bioprosthetic Heart Valves in Hemodialysis Patients

3.) Clinical Efficacy of Surgical Sealants After Pulmonary Resection: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

4.) Radical Pericardiectomy and Use of Cardiopulmonary Bypass for Constrictive Pericarditis

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) A New Approach for Thymic Pathologies: VATS CO₂ Insufflation Technique

2.) Robotic-Assisted Repair of Supracardiac Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return 

3.) Combined Mustard and En Bloc Rotation of the Outflow Tracts 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) EACTS Expert Consensus Statement on the Ross Procedure in Adult Patients 

2.) Winners of the 2025 CTSNet Resident Video Competition

3.) Instructional Video Competition

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Dr. Daniel Engelman, Medical Director of the Cardiac Surgical Critical Care & Inpatient Services at Baystate Health, Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School—Baystate, and President of the ERAS Cardiac Society, spoke with Drs. Kevin Lobdell, Professor and the Director of Regional Cardiovascular and Thoracic Quality, Education, and Research at Atrium Health; Rawn Salenger, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center; Marjan Jahangiri, Professor of Cardiac Surgery at St. George's Hospital, University of London; and Serdar Gunaydin, Head of Department at the University of Health Sciences in Turkey, about the attitudes toward and realities of ERAS across the globe.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:19 ICU & Early Extubation

05:07 Acceptance of ERAS Protocols

09:38 Lead Staff Advocate for ERAS

12:59 Sternotomy Perception

14:43 QoL Data Collection

17:09 Rehabilitation

19:04 Discharged Patients & Monitoring

They discussed the intensive care unit and early extubation, highlighting differences between countries. They also covered the acceptance of the ERAS protocol and the regions that are more hesitant to implement it, as well as its application in cardiac surgery specifically. Additionally, they explored who leads the charge within the team responsible for implementing ERAS and addressed perceptions regarding sternotomy. The conversation also included improving quality of life, reducing complications, and patient-reported outcomes measures, emphasizing the importance of shared decision-making. Furthermore, they discussed rehabilitation, discharging patients, and remote monitoring.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Michael Lanuti, Director of Thoracic Oncology in the Division of Thoracic Surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital and an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, and thoracic surgeon and CTSNet Senior Editor Leanne Ashrafian about Dr. Lanuti’s thoughts on the JCOG0802 trial and how he believes the wrong parameters were measured.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:52 JANS 1, ESTS Guidelines

05:09 JANS 2, Resident-Led Operating

06:57 JANS 3, Fasting Impact on Pulm Aspiration

10:02 JANS 4, What Does a Dr Look Like

12:00 Video 1, Robotic Resection & Reconstruction

13:31 Video 2, Neonatal Off-Pump Shunt DORV

15:11 Video 3, Min Inv Bi-IMA OPCAB

16:12 Dr. Lanuti, JCOG0802 Results

44:58 Upcoming Events

45:38 Instructional Video Competition

45:49 Career Center

They discussed local recurrence rates, pulmonary function, and the subtypes of adenocarcinoma. Additionally, they explored how to apply these results to future patients, central and peripheral lesions, and other randomized trials. They also covered the five-year results of the JCOG0802 trial and future studies and the implications for future studies, focusing on the parameters that should be considered. Furthermore, they addressed pulmonary function tests and wedge resection.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on European Respiratory Society and European Society of Thoracic Surgeons clinical practice guideline on fitness for curative intent treatment of lung cancer, a 10-year propensity-matched analysis on the impact of resident-led operating on outcomes in adult cardiac surgery, a systematic review and meta-analysis on no association between preprocedural fasting and witnessed pulmonary aspiration, and asking AI what a doctor looks like.

In addition, Joel explores robotic anterolateral approach for left secondary carinal tumor resection and reconstruction, neonatal Blalock-Taussig-Thomas shunt for double outlet right ventricle with RVOTO, and minimally invasive Bi-IMA OPCAB via left thoracotomy. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) European Respiratory Society and European Society of Thoracic Surgeons Clinical Practice Guideline on Fitness for Curative Intent Treatment of Lung Cancer

2.) Impact of Resident-Led Operating on Outcomes in Adult Cardiac Surgery: A 10-Year Propensity-Matched Analysis

3.) No Association Between Preprocedural Fasting and Witnessed Pulmonary Aspiration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

4.) What Does a Doctor Look Like? Asking AI

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic Anterolateral Approach for Left Secondary Carinal Tumor Resection and Reconstruction 

2.) Neonatal Off-Pump Blalock-Taussig-Thomas Shunt for Double Outlet Right Ventricle With RVOTO 

3.) Minimally Invasive Bi-IMA OPCAB Via Left Thoracotomy 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Instructional Video Competition

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Gavin Wright, thoracic surgeon and Director of Surgical Oncology at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Australia, and thoracic surgeon and CTSNet Senior Editor Leanne Ashrafian about Dr. Wright’s thoughts on the JCOG0802 trial and why he prefers segmentectomy over lobectomy.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
02:59 JANS 1, Chest Tube Removal Review
05:33 JANS 2, Tricuspid Ann Remodeling
07:53 JANS 3, The Cost of Gender in MV Surgery
09:42 JANS 4, Endo Balloon vs Clamping
11:53 AVR & LIMA to LAD via Bi Minithorac
13:13 Surgical Reimplant ARCAPA
14:14 Editors Picks 2025
20:41 Gavin Wright, Segmentectomy vs Lob
44:33 Upcoming Events
45:56 Instructional Video Competition
46:12 Career Center
46:35 Closing

They discussed the findings of the JCOG0802 trial and compared it to the CALGB 140503 trial. They also covered the use of FEV1 as an assessment tool, the significance of p-values, local recurrence, and Type I errors. Additionally, they reviewed The Lancet paper addressing segmentectomy vs lobectomy. Furthermore, they explored potential future trials, including the debate over wedge resection vs segmentectomy.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a systematic review and meta-analysis on chest tube removal after cardiac surgery in first vs. second postoperative day, tricuspid annular remodeling in tachycardia induced cardiomyopathy with functional tricuspid regurgitation, a propensity-score matched analysis on the silent cost of gender in mitral valve surgery, and endo-aortic balloon occlusion versus transthoracic clamping in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery.

In addition, Joel explores endoscopic AVR and LIMA to LAD via bilateral minithoracotomy, surgical reimplantation of the anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ARCAPA), and the 2025 CTSNet Editors' Picks. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Chest Tube Removal After Cardiac Surgery in First vs. Second Post-Operative Day: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2.) Tricuspid Annular Remodeling in Tachycardia Induced Cardiomyopathy With Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation

3.) The Silent Cost of Gender in Mitral Valve Surgery: A Propensity-Score Matched Analysis 

4.) Endo-Aortic Balloon Occlusion Versus Transthoracic Clamping in Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Endoscopic AVR and LIMA to LAD Via Bilateral Minithoracotomy

2.) Surgical Reimplantation of the Anomalous Origin of the Right Coronary Artery From the Pulmonary Artery (ARCAPA)

3.) CTSNet Summarized—Editors’ Picks 2025

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Instructional Video Competition

2.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning reflects on the most popular content of 2025 on CTSNet.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:15 Top Interview

03:52 Top Webinar

05:23 Top Clinical Video

06:24 Top JANS Article

07:01 Top Video Series

08:02 Top Contributor

08:59 Top Cardiac Procedures

12:14 Top Podcasts

17:02 JANS 1, Doctor Story

21:28 JANS 2, Ex Vivo Heart Perfusion

22:41 JANS 3, PCI vs CABG

24:04 JANS 4, NEOpredict-Lung

25:29 2026 Plans

He discusses the top interview, the most popular webinar, and reveals the leading CTSNet contributor of the year. He also highlights the most-read JANS article, the most viewed CTSNet series, the top clinical videos in cardiac surgery, and the leading podcast episodes of 2025 from both The Beat and The Atrium. Additionally, he shares key statistics about CTSNet, including website viewership, YouTube subscribers, and listener demographics.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on if ex vivo heart perfusion offsets ischemic penalties with six-hour or greater preservation in adult donation after brain death heart transplantation, an impactful article titled “This Man Saved My Life—I Live by His Example,” the long-term outcomes for women with chronic coronary artery disease after percutaneous coronary intervention vs coronary artery bypass grafting, and the long-term outcomes of preoperative nivolumab with or without relatlimab in patients with resectable non-small-cell lung cancer (NEOpredict-Lung).  

In addition, Joel outlines CTSNet’s goals and initiatives to look forward to in 2026. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.)  Ex Vivo Heart Perfusion Offsets Ischemic Penalties With ≥6-Hour Preservation in Adult Donation-After-Brain-Death Heart Transplantation

2.) This Man Saved My Life—I Live by His Example

3.) Women With Chronic Coronary Artery Disease: Long-Term Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention vs Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

4.) Long-Term Outcomes of Preoperative Nivolumab With or Without Relatlimab in Patients With Resectable Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NEOpredict-Lung)

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) CTSNet Summarized—Most Popular Content of 2025

2.) CTSNet Summarized—Most Popular Podcast Episodes of 2025

3.) CTSNet Summarized—Top Cardiac Procedure Videos of 2025

Other Items Mentioned

1.) All CTSNet Summarized Content

2.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses how to get involved with Pace4Life, a charity he supports that provides reconditioned pacemakers to Ghana. He also previews upcoming podcast episodes and guests, including discussions on the Ross procedure guidelines and more interviews related to the JCOG0802 trial.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:31 JANS 1, Ethiopian Surgeon

07:08 JANS 2, RCA to Cor Sinus Fistula

09:30 JANS 3, Y-Incision Hemodynamics

12:38 JANS 4, Endograft Infection

15:06 Instructional Video Competition

16:01 Career Center

16:40 Video 1, Complications Podcast

19:34 Video 2, Totally Endoscopic Case

21:23 Video 3, Post-Infarction VSD Repair

23:15 Closing, Upcoming Events

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a heart surgeon who saved another surgeon’s life as a teen and how they now perform surgeries together, right coronary artery to coronary sinus fistula, a surgical aortic valve replacement with Y-incision aortic annular enlargement provided better hemodynamics than transcatheter aortic valve replacement, and management of endograft infection after thoracic endovascular aortic repair.

In addition, Joel explores totally endoscopic mitral and tricuspid valve repair, ASD with APVR repair, and LAA occlusion, as well as the repair of a post-infarction VSD, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Samer Nashef about complications in cardiothoracic surgery. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.)  A Heart Surgeon Saved His Life as a Teen. Now They Perform Surgeries Together.

2.) Right Coronary Artery to Coronary Sinus Fistula: A Rare Problem With an Elegant Solution

3.) Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement With Y-incision Aortic Annular Enlargement Provided Better Hemodynamics Than Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

4.) Management of Endograft Infection After Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) The Atrium: Complications

2.) Totally Endoscopic Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Repair, ASD With APVR Repair, and LAA Occlusion

3.) Repair of a Post-Infarction VSD

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Pace4Life

2.) MICS and Robotic-Assisted Surgery: A Roundtable Discussion With the Endoscopic Cardiac Surgeons Club

3.) Instructional Video Competition

4.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Nasser Altorki, thoracic surgeon at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, and thoracic surgeon and CTSNet Senior Editor Leanne Ashrafian about the 10-year results from the JCOG0802 trial.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:56 JANS 1, Re-Repair vs Replacement

05:07 JANS 2, Mini Mitral Multicentre RCT

07:01 JANS 3, PERSEVERE Study

08:54 JANS 4, Parietal Pleurectomy vs Pleural Abrasion

11:38 Career Center

12:33 Video 1, Endoscopic Post-Infarction VSD Repair

14:11 Video 2, 3D Dor Procedure & MVR Huge LV Aneurysm

15:19 Video 3, Non-Cardioplegic Myo Protection Robotic

17:16 Nasser Altorki Interview, JCOG

45:16 Upcoming Events

47:20 Closing

They discuss key aspects of the trial, including the noninferiority primary endpoint. Dr. Altorki shares his overall thoughts on the trial, and they also examine topics such as pulmonary function, lobar vs sublobar resection, and segmentectomy vs wedge resection. Additionally, they explore secondary primary lung cancer, the importance of thoracic surgeons presenting data to patients, and best practices for segmentectomy to ensure patient safety. They also examine good wedge resection vs bad wedge resection, planning for segmentectomy, and the future of lobectomy and segmentectomy.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the outcomes of re-repair vs replacement after failed primary mitral regurgitation repair, minimally invasive thoracoscopically-guided right minithoracotomy vs conventional sternotomy for mitral valve repair, one-year results of novel aortic arch hybrid prosthesis for repair of acute DeBakey Type I dissection with malperfusion, and a meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of parietal pleurectomy vs pleural abrasion in treating spontaneous pneumothorax.

In addition, Joel explores endoscopic post-infarction VSD repair, 3D video-assisted endoscopic Dor procedure and MVR for post-infarction huge LV aneurysm, and non-cardioplegic myocardial protection for robotic mitral surgery. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Outcomes of Re-Repair Versus Replacement After Failed Primary Mitral Regurgitation Repair: STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database Analysis

2.) Minimally Invasive Thoracoscopically-Guided Right Minithoracotomy Versus Conventional Sternotomy for Mitral Valve Repair: The UK Mini Mitral Multicentre RCT

3.) One-Year Results of Novel Aortic Arch Hybrid Prosthesis for Repair of Acute DeBakey Type I Dissection With Malperfusion: PERSEVERE Study

4.) A Meta-Analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Parietal Pleurectomy Versus Pleural Abrasion in Treating Spontaneous Pneumothorax

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Endoscopic Post-Infarction VSD Repair

2.) Pushing Surgical Boundaries: 3D Video-Assisted Endoscopic Dor Procedure and MVR for Post-Infarction Huge LV Aneurysm

3.) Non-Cardioplegic Myocardial Protection for Robotic Mitral Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Instructional Video Competition

2.) 2025 Endoscopic Cardiac Surgeons Club Video Competition

3.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Vicki Morton, Director of Clinical and Quality Outcomes at Providence Anesthesiology Associates in North Carolina, USA, spoke with Alexander Gregory, a cardiovascular anesthesiologist and assistant professor in the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, and the Libin Cardiovascular Institute at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada, and Dr. V. Seenu Reddy, a cardiothoracic surgeon at HCA’s TriStar Cardiovascular Surgery in Nashville, Tennesee, USA, about the 10 things they hate about Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS).

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:38 Overcomplication

05:29 Simple Barriers

08:54 Change Obstructionists

10:52 Status Quo

12:49 Messing with Protocol

14:21 Giving Up on Protocol

16:48 Need for Patient-Reported Outcomes

19:18 Struggle Into Cardiac Subspecialty

21:30 Takeaways

The goal of this discussion was to identify specific challenges and propose potential solutions. They emphasize the importance of having two leaders—a champion and a co-champion—to effectively guide ERAS initiatives. Additionally, they discuss creating standing orders and issues related to microbarriers and resistance to change. They also highlight the need for customization of protocols, acknowledging the differences between surgeons who utilize ERAS and those who do not, as well as the tendency to maintain the status quo. Patient perspectives are another key focus, with a call to implement changes that enhance tracking and monitoring of patient outcomes. Furthermore, they explore the role of technology designed for patients, as well as applying ERAS principles to surgeries that fall “outside of the box.”

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Samer Nashef, a consultant cardiac surgeon at Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, about complications in cardiothoracic surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:34 Dr. Nashef Background

04:06 Results Monitoring

08:55 Common Complications

14:40 Mentality

19:18 Identifying Room for Improvement

21:25 Pattern of Response

22:47 Long-Term Complications

26:08 Mortality/Morbidity Meetings

28:28 Perfection, Balance

30:33 Coping w Major Complications

35:06 Learning Your Psyche

35:51 Trainee-Consultant Responsibility

37:51 Resilience

39:19 Key Takeaways

41:07 Training Advice

They delve into early complications that trainees experience, approaches to managing acute complications, and nonacute and postoperative complications. They also highlight learning from complications, coping strategies, and the emotional impact involved in cardiothoracic surgery. Additionally, they discuss the concepts of growth, resilience, and strength in cardiothoracic surgery. Furthermore, Dr. Nashef provides advice to trainees currently navigating difficult cases, and general guidance for those in training.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Be sure to watch for next month’s episode!

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Laurens Ceulemans, thoracic surgeon at the University Hospitals Leuven in Belgium, about lung volume reduction.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:41 Right to Repair, Robotics Re-Use

04:53 REPEAT Trial

06:30 JANS 1, PCI After CABG Randomized Trial

08:01 JANS 2, No-Touch vs Conventional Saph Veins

11:04 JANS 3, Sir Terence English & Keyvyn Mohagissi

12:09 CTSNet Recruitment Guide

12:54 Video 1, JCOG0802 Bombshell & Webinar

16:33 Video 2, Endoscopic Cardiac Foreign Body Extraction

17:56 Video 3, First Europe Robotic AVR Perceval Valve

18:42 Video 4, Bilateral VATS Sympathectomy

20:10 Laurens Ceulemans Interview

34:15 Upcoming Events

34:48 Closing

They highlighted key takeaways from the procedure and addressed the issue of air leaks. They also discussed bilateral lung volume reduction and emphasized the importance of a team approach. Additionally, they focused on why surgeons should be selecting the healthiest patients for this operation rather than the most critically ill, as well as the future of lung volume reduction.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a multicenter, randomized trial on the PCI of native coronary artery vs saphenous vein graft after prior bypass surgery, a meta-analysis of randomized trials on the outcomes of no-touch vs conventionally harvested saphenous veins for coronary artery bypass surgery, and the death of transplant pioneer Sir Terence English at 93.

In addition, Joel explores bombshell 10-year JCOG0802 results showing lobectomy is superior to segmentectomy for lung cancer, endoscopic extraction of a cardiac foreign body, the first robotic aortic valve replacement in Europe using a Perceval valve, and bilateral VATS sympathectomy for ventricular tachycardia electrical storm. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) PCI of Native Coronary Artery vs Saphenous Vein Graft After Prior Bypass Surgery: A Multicenter, Randomized Trial

2.) Outcomes of No-Touch Vs Conventionally Harvested Saphenous Veins for Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

3.) Transplant Pioneer Sir Terence English Dies at 93

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Bombshell 10-Year JCOG0802 Results Show Lobectomy Is Superior to Segmentectomy for Lung Cancer

2.) Military Heart Trauma: Endoscopic Extraction of a Cardiac Foreign Body

3.) First Robotic Aortic Valve Replacement in Europe Using a Perceval Valve 

4.) Bilateral VATS Sympathectomy for Ventricular Tachycardia Electrical Storm

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Restore Robotics

2.) 2025 Endoscopic Cardiac Surgeons Club Video Competition

3.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Christopher McGregor, professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, about the current state of cardiac and kidney xenotransplantation.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:10 Sir Terence English

08:00 JANS 1, Cardiac Xenotransplantation

09:13 JANS 2, Coffee Consumption on AF

11:06 JANS 3, Environmental Factors Acute AD

12:49 JANS 4, PROTHOR Trial

15:15 Video 1, Combined AV & Coronary via LAM

17:08 Video 2, ARCA w MV Prolapse

19:32 Video 3, Redo Elephant Trunk After EAR

22:06 Chris McGregor Interview

48:23 Upcoming Events

50:15 Closing

They discussed the three approved trials for xenotransplantation in 2025, the preclinical efficacy assessment, and the various challenges of xenotransplantation. Additionally, they explored the history of orthotopic transplants, heart failure, and antibody-mediated rejection. They also examined the future of xenotransplantation and the anatomy of pig hearts vs human hearts.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the status of cardiac xenotransplantation including preclinical models, the DECAF randomized clinical trial on if caffeinated coffee consumption or abstinence reduces atrial fibrillation; the impact of environmental factors on acute aortic dissection; and a multicenter, international, randomized, controlled, phase 3 trial on the effects of intraoperative higher vs lower positive end-expiratory pressure during one-lung ventilation for thoracic surgery on postoperative pulmonary complications (PROTHOR).

In addition, Joel explores combined aortic valve and coronary surgery via left anterior minithoracotomy, management of anomalous right coronary artery in a patient with mitral valve prolapse, and redo frozen elephant trunk after endovascular arch repair. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) 2025: Status of Cardiac Xenotransplantation Including Preclinical Models

2.) Caffeinated Coffee Consumption or Abstinence to Reduce Atrial Fibrillation: The DECAF Randomized Clinical Trial

3.) Weathering the Aorta: The Impact of Environmental Factors on Acute Aortic Dissection 

4.) Effects of Intraoperative Higher Versus Lower Positive End-Expiratory Pressure During One-Lung Ventilation for Thoracic Surgery on Postoperative Pulmonary Complications (PROTHOR): A Multicentre, International, Randomised, Controlled, Phase 3 Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Combined Aortic Valve and Coronary Surgery via Left Anterior Minithoracotomy: Clinical Experience With Sutureless Bioprosthesis

2.) Management of Anomalous Right Coronary Artery in a Patient With Mitral Valve Prolapse

3.) Redo Frozen Elephant Trunk After Endovascular Arch Repair

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Resident Video Competition

2.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Evgenij Potapov, a consultant senior surgeon and co-chairman of the mechanical circulatory support program in the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at the German Heart Center in Berlin, about the guidelines on temporary mechanical circulatory support (tCMS) in adult cardiac surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:56 Segmentectomy vs Lobectomy News
18:51 JANS 1, CT Residents Emergency Surgery
20:56 JANS 2, Interventional vs Surgical
22:49 JANS 3, Robotic Vascular Surgery
24:32 JANS 4, Surgery vs Surveillance
26:30 Video 1, Branch-First Arch Replacement
28:19 Video 2, Manougian Technique Double Patch
30:14 Video 3, Bentall Surgery via RAM
31:23 Evgenij Potapov Interview
53:55 Upcoming Events

They discussed the key elements of the guidelines, active unloading, and current trends and outcomes in tMCS. Additionally, they addressed protected cardiac surgery for high-risk patients, cardiac arrest, and the impact of recent changes to the donor heart allocation system on tMCS. Dr. Potapov also shared valuable insights on hints and tips for tMCS, anticoagulation management, and the future of tMCS. Furthermore, Joel elaborated on recent discussions regarding lobectomy vs segmentectomy in a detailed analysis.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a 10-year propensity-matched analysis on if we can safely train cardiothoracic surgical residents to perform emergency surgery, investigating the personality of interventional and surgical cardiovascular specialists, a clinical perspective on robotic-assisted vascular surgery, and a quality-of-life analysis of patients with moderately dilated aortic root or ascending aorta.

In addition, Joel explores branch-first arch replacement, revisiting the Manougian technique with double-patch, and Bentall surgery via right anterior minithoracotomy. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Can We Safely Train Cardiothoracic Surgical Residents to Perform Emergency Surgery? A 10-Year Propensity-Matched Analysis 

2.) Cut From the Same Cloth? Investigating the Personality of Interventional and Surgical Cardiovascular Specialists

3.) Robotic-Assisted Vascular Surgery: A Clinical Perspective

4.) Surgery Versus Surveillance: A Quality-of-Life Analysis of Patients With Moderately Dilated Aortic Root or Ascending Aorta

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Branch-First Arch Replacement: How to Do It 

2.) Revisiting the Manougian Technique With Double-Patch 

3.) Bentall Surgery via Right Anterior Minithoracotomy 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) EACTS/STS/AATS Guidelines on Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Adult Cardiac Surgery 

2.) The Cardiac Recovery Room

3.) Resident Video Competition

4.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Randas Batista, cardiac surgeon and founder of Vilela Batista Heart Foundation, about the surgical treatment of Eisenmenger syndrome.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:51 JANS 1, DAMSUN-HF Study

05:41 JANS 2, TAVR vs SAVR Guidelines

07:45 JANS 3, Myocardial Infarction After CABG

10:31 JANS 4, VAD Bridge-to-Transplant

12:27 New Recruitment Guide

13:54 Video 1, Anomalous Right Coronary Artery

15:27 Video 2, Beating Heart Transplant OCS

17:51 Video 3, Aortic Dissection Podcast w Marc Moon

19:26 Randas Batista Interview

37:38 Upcoming Events

They explored what Eisenmenger syndrome is and outlined the most common causes of the condition. They also delved into the history of this syndrome, highlighting the significant contributions of Viktor Eisenmenger and Paul H. Wood. Furthermore, they discussed the impact of this syndrome on lung function and extracting oxygen within the pulmonary artery. Dr. Batista shared valuable technical tips for performing the surgical procedure as well as solutions for managing this syndrome.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the DAMSUN-HF study on AI-enabled digital auscultation for detecting heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in Sub-Saharan Africa, transcatheter or surgical aortic-valve replacement in low-risk patients at seven years, current clinical practices and future perspectives on periprocedural myocardial infarction after coronary artery bypass grafting, and an analysis of UNOS.

In addition, Joel explores anomalous right coronary artery, beating heart transplantation using the Organ Care "Heart-in-a-Box" System (OCS), and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Marc Moon about aortic dissection. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) AI-Enabled Digital Auscultation for Detecting Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction in Sub-Saharan Africa: The DAMSUN-HF Study

2.) Transcatheter or Surgical Aortic-Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients at 7 Years

3.) Periprocedural Myocardial Infarction After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Current Clinical Practices and Future Perspectives

4.) Analysis of UNOS: Ventricular Assist Device as Bridge-to-Transplant in Paediatric Patients With Congenital Heart Disease

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Anomalous Right Coronary Artery

2.) Beating Heart Transplantation Using the Organ Care "Heart-in-a-Box" System (OCS)

3.) The Atrium: Aortic Dissection

Other Items Mentioned

1.) The Cardiac Recovery Room

2.) Resident Video Competition

3.) 2025 CTSNet Recruitment Guide 

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this inaugural episode of CTSNet’s new podcast, The Cardiac Recovery Room, moderator Dr. Daniel Engelman, Medical Director of the Cardiac Surgical Critical Care & Inpatient Services at Baystate Health, Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School—Baystate, and President of the ERAS Cardiac Society, spoke with Drs. Rakesh Arora, Director of Perioperative and Cardiac Critical Care and Research Director in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, and Michael C. Grant, Associate Professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, about cardiac surgery myths.

Chapters

00:54 Are There Myths?

02:49 Applying Non-Cardiac Surgery Data

04:52 Reducing NPO, Diabetes Carb-Load

08:17 Postop, Crystalloid Volume

10:31 Bicarb Usage

12:10 Hematocrit & Hemoglobin

14:53 Bronchoscopy for Early Extubation

18:54 Routine X-Rays

22:19 Lactates

24:48 Sleeplessness & Delirium

31:14 Final Thoughts

They discuss important topics such as the rationale for reducing nothing by mouth (NPO) guidelines, NPO after midnight, and the implications of carbohydrate loading for patients with type 1 diabetes. They examine critical issues of volume resuscitation, comparing the use of albumin vs crystalloids, as well as bicarb usage. Additionally, they evaluate hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, questioning whether specific thresholds should be established. The conversation also covers bronchoscopy for early extubation, inline suctioning for a bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and the necessity of daily chest x-rays following cardiac surgery. Furthermore, they address topics such as lactates, sleep aids, and delirium.

The Cardiac Recovery Room is the place to hear the conversations colleagues are having after the meetings. Each month, a new episode will be released featuring a leadership panel from the ERAS Cardiac Society.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Zara Shirazi, a congenital cardiac surgery post-fellow at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, about advancing pediatric cardiac surgery in Pakistan using what she learned from her fellowship in Austria.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:28 Vince TAVR Roundtables

03:05 Foreign Body, Case of the Month

03:49 JANS 1, Temporary MCS Guidelines

13:50 JANS 2, Parenting as a CT Surgeon

16:20 JANS 3, Utilization of Long Distance Donors

18:20 JANS 5, Multi-A Grafting in Redo CABG

20:58 Career Center

21:20 Video 1, Pulm & Tricuspid Endocarditis

22:35 Video 2, Valvular Heart Disease Guidelines

27:05 Video 3, Thoraflex Hybrid Graft Insertion

28:16 Zara Shirazi Interview

39:30 Upcoming Events

42:42 Closing

They explored the advantages of working in a hospital in Pakistan compared to Austria, as well as the different techniques and operations, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Dr. Shirazi also shared her experiences as a fellow in Austria and the valuable insights she gained from that experience. Additionally, she discussed her vision for the growth of her unit over the next five years and provided an overview of what a typical surgical week looks like in Pakistan.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the EACTS/STS/AATS guidelines on temporary mechanical circulatory support in adult cardiac surgery, the unique challenges and positive impacts on children raised by cardiothoracic surgeon mothers, evolving changes in center-level utilization of longer distance donors in heart transplantation, and multiarterial grafting in redo coronary artery bypass grafting.

In addition, Joel explores pulmonary and tricuspid valve endocarditis, an interview with Drs. Borger and Marin-Cuartas on the guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease, and Thoraflex Hybrid graft insertion in a patient with Marfan syndrome. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) EACTS/STS/AATS Guidelines on Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Adult Cardiac Surgery 

2.) Parenting From the OR: The Unique Challenges and Positive Impacts on Children Raised by Cardiothoracic Surgeon Mothers

3.) Evolving Changes in Centre-Level Utilization of Longer Distance Donors in Heart Transplantation

4.) Multiarterial Grafting in Redo Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Type of Arterial Conduit and Patient Sex Determine Benefit

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Pulmonary and Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis: A Late Sequelae of Unrepaired Double Chambered Right Ventricle in an Adult

2.) Guidelines for the Management of Valvular Heart Disease: An Interview With Drs. Borger and Marin-Cuartas

3.) Thoraflex Hybrid Graft Insertion in a Patient With Marfan Syndrome

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Adapting Global Innovations to Local Realities: Advancing Pediatric Cardiac Surgery in Pakistan—Lessons From Austria

2.) Roundtable: Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani 

3.) Case of the Month: The Case of a Foreign Body

4.) Resident Video Competition

5.) The Cardiac Recovery Room

6.) Career Center

7.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Marc Moon, Chief of Adult Cardiac Surgery at Texas Heart Institute, Chief of the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, and Chief of Adult Cardiac Surgery section at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, about aortic dissection.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:33 About Dr. Moon

02:51 Overview

03:33 History

05:27 Pathophysiology & Clinical Presentation

12:14 Diagnosis

15:25 Management

15:36 Step-by-Step, Type A

41:29 Step-by-Step, Type B

44:25 Postop Management

46:51 Complications

51:49 Future of Aortic Dissection

54:38 Key Takeaways

55:16 Training Advice

They begin with an overview of aortic dissection, including its history and pathophysiology. They explored imaging techniques and diagnostic approaches, as well as management options. Additionally, they provided the steps for performing aortic dissection for both Type A and Type B, addressing postoperative management and complications. The episode concludes with a look at the future of aortic dissection, and Dr. Moon provides advice to trainees.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on extended resection with Dr. Erinoangelo Rendina.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Liam Burns, CEO of Qaelon Medical, about turning ideas into companies.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:26 JANS 1, Ross Procedure Consensus Statement

13:59 JANS 2, Novel Anastomotic Device

16:03 JANS 3, Tracheobronchoplasty Disorders Analysis

18:32 JANS 4, Revasc Strategies Non-Acute Myocardial

20:22 JANS 5, EACTS Core Curriculum for Cardiac Surgeon

21:51 Video 1, Giant Right Coronary Artery Aneurysm

24:01 Video 2, Bentall-de Bono Procedure

25:29 Video 3, Democratizing MI Mitral Repair

27:01 Liam Burns Interview

37:15 Upcoming Events

38:38 Closing

They explored the challenges faced by innovators and emphasized the importance of having a commercial perspective. Additionally, they discussed product design, the fundraising process, and the challenges that commercial leaders face. Burns also shared valuable advice for aspiring innovators.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the EACTS expert consensus statement on the Ross procedure in adult patients, a human cadaver study on a novel anastomotic device for the sandwich technique in type A aortic dissections, a comparative analysis of distinct airway disorders, revascularization strategies for non-acute myocardial ischemic syndromes, and core curriculum for the cardiac/cardiovascular surgeon.

In addition, Joel explores the surgical repair of a giant right coronary artery aneurysm with saphenous vein interpositional grafting, the Bentall-de Bono procedure, and democratizing minimally invasive mitral repair. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) EACTS Expert Consensus Statement on the Ross Procedure in Adult Patients 

2.) Novel Anastomotic Device for the Sandwich Technique in Type A Aortic Dissections—A Human Cadaver Study

3.) Tracheobronchoplasty for Excessive Dynamic Airway Collapse and Tracheobronchomalacia: A Comparative Analysis of Distinct Airway Disorders

4.) Revascularisation Strategies for Non-Acute Myocardial Ischaemic Syndromes

5.) The European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery—Core Curriculum for the Cardiac/Cardiovascular Surgeon

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Surgical Repair of a Giant Right Coronary Artery Aneurysm With Saphenous Vein Interpositional Grafting 

2.) The Bentall-de Bono Procedure: A Novel, Time-Efficient Mattress-Type Technique for Aortic Root Anastomosis 

3.) Democratizing Minimally Invasive Mitral Repair

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani

2.) Case of the Month: The Case of a Foreign Body

3.) Resident Video Competition

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in writing medical articles.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:56 Using AI in Medical Writing

09:07 JANS 1, AI-Writing Article

14:53 JANS 2, Kidney vs Lung Transplant Outcomes

17:04 JANS 3, Harvesting Tech on ITAG

18:56 JANS 4, Phase 2 NeoCOAST-2 Trial

23:01 Career Center

23:41 Video 1, TAVR Explant After CABG w MVR

25:28 Video 2, Updated Y-Incision AA Enlargement

27:05 Video 3, Carotid Artery Cann for CABG

28:16 Upcoming Events

He reviews guidelines set by the International Committee of Journal Editors Committee regarding publication ethics and emphasizes the benefits of utilizing AI in writing processes. Joel also highlights the crucial necessity of including disclosures when employing AI tools. Additionally, he delves into other ways AI can be used, such as data analysis, and discusses taking accountability when using these technologies. Furthermore, he addresses the limitations of AI, noting that it cannot be cited as a source or used as a coauthor.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on assisted artificial intelligence in medical writing, the impact of kidney transplantation on survival outcomes for lung transplantation, if the harvesting technique affects the production of nitric oxide and endothelin in the internal thoracic artery graft, and the platform phase 2 NeoCOAST-2 trial on perioperative durvalumab plus chemotherapy plus new agents for resectable non-small-cell lung cancer.

In addition, Joel explores a TAVR explant after CABG with MVR, tips and tricks for the updated Y-incision aortic annular enlargement, and carotid artery cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass in minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Assisted Artificial Intelligence in Medical Writing: A Primer for Humans 

2.) The Impact of Kidney Transplantation on Survival Outcomes for Lung Transplantation

3.) The Harvesting Technique Affects the Production of Nitric Oxide and Endothelin in the Internal Thoracic Artery Graft

4.) Perioperative Durvalumab Plus Chemotherapy Plus New Agents for Resectable Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: The Platform Phase 2 NeoCOAST-2 Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) TAVR Explant After CABG With MVR 

2.) Tips and Tricks for the Updated Y-Incision Aortic Annular Enlargement 

3.) Carotid Artery Cannulation for Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing, and Publication of Scholarly work in Medical Journals

2.) Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani

3.) Resident Video Competition

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Fraser Sutherland, a consultant cardiac surgeon at Ross Hall Hospital and the Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Scotland, about the world’s first transcervical robotic aortic valve replacement (AVR) procedures.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:30 JANS 1, CABG After 60 Years

13:53 JANS 2, Endovascular Arch Repair

16:45 JANS 3, Impact of Age on ARR

18:47 JANS 4, Anterior Mediastinal Teratomas

20:28 Career Center

21:02 Video 1, RUL Without Dissecting SPV

22:58 Video 2, Replacement w Double Patch Repair

23:53 Video 3, TAVR & SAVR Removal w LVOR

24:47 Dr. Sutherland Interview

45:26 Closing

They discuss the history and evolution of these cases, along with the preclinical work that led to this innovative technique. Dr. Sutherland addresses initial challenges such as the uniportal incision, the transcervical retractor system, and enhancing dexterity by incorporating a robotic system. They also detail the first clinical case, including postoperative outcomes and the importance of maintaining safety for the patient. Additionally, they explore the benefits for patients undergoing this procedure and its future potential. Furthermore, Dr. Sutherland provides insights into the procedural steps and key aspects of the procedure.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on coronary artery bypass grafting 60 years after its debut, endograft design options and worldwide results for endovascular arch repair, the impact of age on aortic root replacement, and a multicenter retrospective study on if subxiphoid thoracoscopic surgery is safe and feasible for the treatment of anterior mediastinal teratomas.

In addition, Joel explores a multiportal approach for robotic right upper lobectomy without dissecting the superior pulmonary vein, aortic and mitral replacement with double patch repair, and TAVR and SAVR removal with left ventricular outflow reconstruction.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: 60 Years After Its Debut

2.) Endovascular Arch Repair: Endograft Design Options and Worldwide Results

3.) The Impact of Age on Aortic Root Replacement

4.) Subxiphoid Thoracoscopic Surgery Is Safe and Feasible for the Treatment of Anterior Mediastinal Teratomas: A Multicentre Retrospective Study

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic Right Upper Lobectomy Without Dissecting the Superior Pulmonary Vein: A Multiportal Approach 

2.) Aortic and Mitral Replacement With Double Patch Repair 

3.) TAVR and SAVR Removal With Left Ventricular Outflow Reconstruction

Other Items Mentioned

1.) World's First Transcervical Robotic AVR Procedures Successfully Performed in 4 Cleveland Clinic Patients

2.) Resident Video Competition

3.) Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Marc Pelletier, division chief of cardiac surgery for the Department of Surgery at Yale School of Medicine, about patient blood management.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:45 EACTS 2025

07:19 JANS 1, HVD Management Guidelines

16:26 JANS 2, Low-Risk AVR Evidence

19:21 JANS 3, Warden Procedure Selection

20:36 JANS 4, Primary Repair of CAT

21:48 JANS 5, NEWTON-CABG Cardiolink-5

23:20 Video 1, Acute Aortic Syndrome

24:54 Video 2, Redo TVR Under Bypass

27:13 Video 3, Giant Tension Bulla

28:47 Dr. Pelletier Interview

34:25 Outro

They delve into the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) guidelines on patient blood management, along with key tips. They also explore preoperative optimization, provide an example, and discuss cell savers and reducing dead space during surgery. Additionally, they touch on postoperative transfusion and the importance of performing meticulous surgery.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the 2025 ESC/EACTS guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease, low-risk aortic valve replacement at the crossroads of evidence, ideal age and weight for the Warden procedure in patients with partial anomalous pulmonary venous return, a systematic meta-analysis of short- and long-term outcomes of the primary repair of common arterial trunk, and an international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Evolocumab on saphenous vein graft patency after coronary artery bypass surgery.

In addition, Joel explores the surgical treatment of acute aortic syndrome, a redo tricuspid valve replacement technique under right heart bypass for a previously repaired tricuspid valve, and thoracoscopic resection of a giant tension bulla. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) 2025 ESC/EACTS Guidelines for the Management of Valvular Heart Disease: Developed by the Task Force for the Management of Valvular Heart Disease of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) 

2.) Low-Risk Aortic Valve Replacement at the Crossroads of Evidence

3.) Is There an Ideal Age or Weight for the Warden Procedure in Patients With Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return?

4.) Primary Repair of Common Arterial Trunk: A Systematic Meta-Analysis of Short- and Long-Term Outcomes

5.) Effect of Evolocumab on Saphenous Vein Graft Patency After Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (NEWTON-CABG CardioLink-5): An International, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Surgical Treatment of Acute Aortic Syndrome 

2.) Redo Tricuspid Valve Replacement Technique Under Right Heart Bypass for a Previously Repaired Tricuspid Valve 

3.) Thoracoscopic Resection of a Giant Tension Bulla 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) STS/SCA/AmSECT/SABM Update to the Clinical Practice Guidelines on Patient Blood Management

2.) Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Lower-Risk Patients: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

3.) Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning shares insights from his recent trip to Ghana.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:18 Ghana Mission Trip

04:35 Failures of a Heart Surgeon

09:27 JANS 1, Accelerometer-Measured Physical Activity

12:57 JANS 2, Utility of GERAADA Score

14:41 JANS 3, Aortic Valve Neocuspidization

17:33 JANS 4, Procedural Planning in Thoracoscopic Segmentectomy

19:09 JANS 5, The Outlet Orifice Diameter

22:28 Video 1, Clampless Aortic Valve Replacement

24:01 Video 2, Multiportal Robot-Assisted Extended LLS S6

25:13 Video 3, The Atrium

26:00 EACTS 2025 & Upcoming Events

27:35 Footage From Ghana

He discusses the various procedures that he and his team performed during their visit, as well as his overall experience collaborating with the local surgeons. The episode also features surgical footage from his time in Ghana and includes discussion with several surgeons about their work. Additionally, Joel addresses a recent news story from the UK regarding the failures of a heart surgeon that have contributed to multiple patient deaths. He provides an overview of the circumstances surrounding these events and emphasizes the critical importance of teamwork in surgical practice.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on an analysis of the UK mini mitral randomized controlled trial for accelerometer-measured physical activity after mitral valve surgery, the utility of GERAADA score for predicting long-term survival following surgical repair of aortic dissection, early to mid-term results of aortic valve neocuspidization for rheumatic aortic valve disease, a systematic review and meta-analysis for three-dimensional reconstruction and virtual simulation of patient-specific anatomy for procedural planning in thoracoscopic segmentectomy, and the outlet orifice diameter of surgical bioprosthetic aortic stented valves is predominantly much smaller than the inlet orifice diameter.

In addition, Joel explores a clampless aortic valve replacement in a partial porcelain aorta with aortic root enlargement and CABG with two grafts, multiportal robot-assisted extended lower left segmentectomy, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. John D. Puskas about proximal coronary anastomosis. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Accelerometer-Measured Physical Activity After Mitral Valve Surgery: An Analysis of the UK Mini Mitral Randomized Controlled Trial

2.) Utility of GERAADA Score for Predicting Long-Term Survival Following Surgical Repair of Aortic Dissection

3.) Early to Mid-Term Results of Aortic Valve Neocuspidization for Rheumatic Aortic Valve Disease

4.) Three-Dimensional Reconstruction and Virtual Simulation of Patient-Specific Anatomy for Procedural Planning in Thoracoscopic Segmentectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

5.) The Outlet Orifice Diameter of Surgical Bioprosthetic Aortic Stented Valves Is Predominantly Much Smaller Than the Inlet Orifice Diameter 

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Clampless Aortic Valve Replacement in a Partial Porcelain Aorta With Aortic Root Enlargement and CABG With Two Grafts

2.) Multiportal Robot-Assisted Extended Lower Left Segmentectomy: Superior Segment S6 With Lateral S9 Resection

3.) The Atrium: Proximal Coronary Anastomosis 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Joel Dunning YouTube Channel | The Arrhythmia Alliance Hearts of Ghana Mission 2025

2.) Heart Surgeon’s Failures Contributed to Multiple Deaths

3.) The 10 Commandments for Proximal Anastomosis During CABG: Techniques and Technologies for Vein and Arterial Grafts

4.) Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Anders Jeppsson, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, about his paper on “Ticagrelor and Aspirin or Aspirin Alone After Coronary Surgery for Acute Coronary Syndrome,” published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:54 Ghana Mission Trip

06:23 JANS 1, Pig-to-Human Transplant

08:08 JANS 2, CABG Acute Type A AD

10:06 JANS 3, Chylothorax Lymph Node Management

11:22 JANS 4, ICU Resternotomy Adoption

13:38 JANS 5, Octogenarians Repair vs MV Surgery

15:10 Career Center

15:31 Video 1, MVR Patent Bilateral IMammary Grafts

16:36 Video 2, Repeat RA Thoracotomy

17:39 Video 3, Vascular Injuries in Robotics

19:12 Dr. Jeppsson Interview

33:30 EACTS 2025 & Upcoming Events

They began by providing an overview of the study, including the reason for conducting it, the expansion of the study to other Nordic countries, and its results. They also discuss the funding for the research and the recruitment process. Additionally, they cover dual antiplatelet therapy and compare this study with similar research. Finally, they explore registry-based studies and future research on ticagrelor and aspirin, or aspirin alone, following coronary surgery for acute coronary syndrome.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles exploring whether protective coronary artery bypass grafting improves surgical outcomes in acute type A aortic dissection with coronary ostial involvement, the association of chylothorax with aggressiveness of lymph node management during pulmonary resection, if intensive care unit resternotomy should be practiced in all facilities that perform cardiac surgery, transcatheter edge-to-edge repair vs mitral valve surgery in octogenarians, and research using pig-to-human lung xenotransplantation into a brain-dead recipient.

In addition, Joel explores robotic mitral valve replacement in a patient with patent bilateral internal mammary grafts, repeat right axillary thoracotomy as a safe and feasible approach for repair of recurrent LAVVR after previous AVSD repair, and handling vascular injuries in robotic thoracic surgery. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Protective Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Improves Surgical Outcomes in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection With Coronary Ostial Involvement

2.) The Association of Chylothorax With Aggressiveness of Lymph Node Management During Pulmonary Resection

3.) Expert Opinion: Intensive Care Unit Resternotomy Should Be Practiced in All Facilities That Perform Cardiac Surgery

4.) Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair Versus Mitral Valve Surgery in Octogenarians: Comparative Analysis of Safety, Durability, and Survival

5.) Pig-to-Human Lung Xenotransplantation Into a Brain-Dead Recipient

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic Mitral Valve Replacement in a Patient With Patent Bilateral Internal Mammary Grafts: A Case Video

2.) Repeat Right Axillary Thoracotomy Is a Safe and Feasible Approach for Repair of Recurrent LAVVR After Previous AVSD Repair 

3.) Handling Vascular Injuries in Robotic Thoracic Surgery: Real-Life Cases Using a Fibrin-Based Hemostatic Technique

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Ticagrelor and Aspirin or Aspirin Alone After Coronary Surgery for Acute Coronary Syndrome

2.) Perfecting TAVR Removal | Skills Sharpening With Vince Gaudiani

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. John Puskas, professor of surgery at Emory University, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Emory University Hospital Midtown, and Wilton Looney Director at the Emory Carlyle Fraser Heart Center in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, about proximal coronary anastomosis.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:44 About Dr. Puskas

03:35 Background & History

06:56 10 Commandments for PA

10:34 When to Do It?

13:57 Aorta Site Selection

19:32 Step-by-Step

29:21 Sewing Onto Aorta

33:15 Variations & Alternatives

44:50 Key Messages

46:08 Advice to Trainees

They discuss the 10 principles for proximal anastomosis during coronary artery bypass grafting, saphenous vein grafts vs free arterial grafts, as well as the optimal site selection on the aorta. They also explored key aspects of preparation and arteriotomy, and highlighted various variations and alternatives, such as clampless techniques and sequential grafting. Additionally, they examined the pitfalls and complications associated with proximal coronary anastomosis and the future of proximal coronary anastomosis.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on extended resection with Dr. Erinoangelo Rendina.

Related Resources

1. The 10 Commandments for Proximal Anastomosis During CABG: Techniques and Technologies for Vein and Arterial Grafts

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Drs. Daniel Brockman, Professor of Small Animal Surgery at The Royal Veterinary College, London, England, and Matteo Rossanese, Senior Lecturer in Small Animal Surgery at The Royal Veterinary College, about performing cardiothoracic surgery in animals.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:44 Innovation Competition Results

07:18 JANS 1, Modified Bio-Bentall

08:45 JANS 2, External Aortic Root

11:53 JANS 3, Re-Redo Pulm Valve

13:19 JANS 4, Tracheal Regeneration Model

16:15 Career Center

16:56 Video 1, EXIT-to-Open Atrial Septectomy

17:16 Video 2, Incision Repair of Tetra Fallot

19:40 Video 3, Isolated Pulm Leaflet Autograft

22:33 Dr. Brockman and Rossanese Interview

51:11 Upcoming Events

53:30 Closing

They explore the evolution of cardiothoracic surgery in veterinary medicine, discussing a variety of cases and the techniques employed, including mitral valve repair. Additionally, they highlight the anatomical differences between animals and humans, explaining how surgical techniques must be adapted accordingly. They also cover methods for testing valves, measuring the quality of repairs, and monitoring postoperative outcomes and follow-ups. Furthermore, they touch upon various conditions, such as tetralogy of Fallot, heart valve defects, etc.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on modified Bio-Bentall operation with a rapid deployment valve, personalized external aortic root support, clinical success of re-redo pulmonary valve and pulmonary trunk homograft replacement during the second trimester of pregnancy, and lessons learned from various 3D-printed tracheal grafts in an extensive porcine model for de novo tracheal regeneration.

In addition, Joel explores an EXIT-to-open atrial septectomy for hypoplastic left heart syndrome with intact atrial septum, incision of the moderator band during repair of tetralogy of Fallot, and a new solution for aortic valve repair, isolated pulmonary leaflet autograft. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Modified Bio-Bentall Operation With A Rapid Deployment Valve

2.) Personalized External Aortic Root Support: The Dutch Experience

3.) Clinical Success of Re-Redo Pulmonary Valve and Pulmonary Trunk Homograft Replacement During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy

4.) Lessons Learned From Various 3D-Printed Tracheal Grafts in an Extensive Porcine Model for De Novo Tracheal Regeneration

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) EXIT-to-Open Atrial Septectomy for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome With Intact Atrial Septum: Gone in 90 Seconds!

2.) Incision of the Moderator Band During Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot 

3.) Isolated Pulmonary Leaflet Autograft: A New Solution for Aortic Valve Repair

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Alexis Shafii, professor of surgery and surgical director of heart transplantation at The Texas Heart Institute at Baylor College of Medicine, about the first in-human BiVACOR total artificial heart implantation.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:54 JANS 1, Validation of SYNTAX
04:58 JANS 2, Long-Distance ECMO Bridge
09:05 JANS 3, Segmentectomies Made Easy
10:49 JANS 4, MI Total Arterial BG
12:56 Career Center
13:46 Video 1, MI ASD Closure
15:43 Video 2, Basics of MV Surgery
17:03 Video 3, Construct Autologous P MV
20:19 Dr. Shafii Interview
33:37 Upcoming Events
34:56 Closing

They discuss the preclinical work and the history behind the development of this innovative device. Dr. Shafii also showcases the device and explains its functionality in detail. They also highlight the first patient who received the BiVACOR total artificial heart implantation and provide insights into learning the nuances of this operation. Additionally, they explore the critical aspects of explanting the device and the importance of understanding how to explant the heart. Furthermore, they discuss the next steps for gaining approval of the BiVACOR total artificial heart, including the feasibility trial, and speculate on where we might be in five years regarding total artificial heart implantation.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the external validation of SYNTAX score II in a real-world cohort undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting, successful extracorporeal membrane oxygenation bridge to lung transplant with a patient transported from Hawaii to Nashville, Tennessee, USA, robotic-assisted left S3 segmentectomy, and minimally invasive total arterial bypass grafting via left minithoracotomy in obese patients.

In addition, Joel explores direct cannulation for minimally invasive ASD closure, an instructional video for residents on the basics of mitral valve surgery, and how to construct an autologous pericardial mitral valve for infants and small children. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) External Validation of SYNTAX Score II in a Real-World Cohort Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

2.) Successful Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Bridge to Lung Transplant With a Patient Transported From Hawaii to Nashville, Tennessee

3.) Segmentectomies Made Easy Series: Robotic-Assisted Left S3 Segmentectomy

4.) Minimally Invasive Total Arterial Bypass Grafting via Left Minithoracotomy in Obese Patients

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Minimally Invasive ASD Closure: Direct Cannulation 

2.) Basics of Mitral Valve Surgery: An Instructional Video for Residents 

3.) How to Construct an Autologous Pericardial Mitral Valve for Infants and Small Children 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Adanna Akujuo, a cardiothoracic surgeon and the surgical director of the Structural Heart Program at UVA Health University Medical Center, about the Voom Foundation and its trips to Africa.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:39 Dr. Akujuo, Medical Missions

21:57 JANS 1, Ticagrelor and Aspirin Coronary

25:20 JANS 2, Long-Term MVR Durability Model

27:37 JANS 3, Duration of Donor Ventilation

29:18 JANS 4, Min Inv Concomitant Tri VR

31:40 JANS 5, Soft Robotic Artificial Hybrid Heart

33:32 Career Center

34:20 Video 1, RVOT Injury During Dissection

37:05 Video 2, Min Inv ASD Closure

38:31 Video 3, Redo AVR via Partial U Resternotomy

40:08 Upcoming Events

40:54 Closing

They explore the foundation’s goals, including training and educating local medical staff and providing essential care. Additionally, Dr. Akujo offers insights into the upcoming trip, discussing what a typical day entails, transportation logistics, accommodation, and the expenses that surgeons participating in the trip will need to cover, as well as what costs are taken care of by the foundation. The conversation also covers security measures in place, the average number of staff members on these trips, the daily surgical volume, and the most common cases.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on which is best, ticagrelor and aspirin or aspirin alone after coronary surgery for acute coronary syndrome; an artificial intelligence and machine learning model for personalized prediction of long-term mitral valve repair durability; effect of duration of donor ventilation on lung transplant outcomes; surgical decision-making for concomitant tricuspid valve repair in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery; and a soft robotic total artificial hybrid heart.

In addition, Joel explores right ventricular outflow tract injury during deep dissection in valve-sparing aortic root replacement, a minimally invasive approach for atrial septal defect closure, and redo aortic valve replacement via partial upper resternotomy. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Ticagrelor and Aspirin or Aspirin Alone After Coronary Surgery for Acute Coronary Syndrome

2.) An Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Model for Personalized Prediction of Long-Term Mitral Valve Repair Durability

3.) Effect of Duration of Donor Ventilation on Lung Transplant Outcomes

4.) Surgical Decision-Making for Concomitant Tricuspid Valve Repair in Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery

5.) A Soft Robotic Total Artificial Hybrid Heart

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Injury During Deep Dissection in Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement 

2.) Minimally Invasive Approach for Atrial Septal Defect Closure

3.) Redo Aortic Valve Replacement Via Partial Upper Resternotomy

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Voom Foundation

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Nicholas Smedira, a cardiac surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic, about mitral valve-induced left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction with minimal septal hypertrophy.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:25 JANS 1, Transcervical Robotic AVR

07:49 JANS 2, Post Cor-Knot vs Manual Tying

10:18 JANS 3, Valve Therapy vs Volume Reduction

12:55 JANS 4, Cardiac Early Extraction vs Management

15:17 Career Center

16:18 Video 1, Repair of Ruptured RCAA

17:57 Video 2, Right Atrial Myxoma from IVC Junction

20:05 Video 3, Modified Re-Do Commando

22:43 Dr. Smedira Interview

45:44 Upcoming Events

46:58 Closing

They discuss the importance of understanding the anatomy and physiology of the papillary muscles, as well as flow vortices. They also cover various techniques for mitral valve repair and replacement, emphasizing the importance of making the leaflet coaptation zone as posterior as possible. Additionally, they explore how learning techniques for mitral valve-induced LVOT obstruction with minimal septal hypertrophy have evolved through exposure and experience.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the world's first transcervical robotic AVR procedures successfully performed in four Cleveland Clinic patients, a comparison of outcomes post Cor-Knot vs manual tying in valve surgery, endobronchial valve therapy vs lung volume reduction surgery in the United States, and early extraction vs conservative management in patients with noninfected cardiac implantable electronic devices undergoing cardiac surgery for left-sided infective endocarditis.

In addition, Joel explores the repair of a ruptured right coronary artery aneurysm, removal of a right atrial myxoma from the IVC junction with patch repair using the left atrial appendage, and a modified redo Commando procedure in a patient with septic shock due to aortic and mitral valve endocarditis. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) World's First Transcervical Robotic AVR Procedures Successfully Performed in 4 Cleveland Clinic Patients

2.) Comparison of Outcomes Post Cor-Knot Versus Manual Tying in Valve Surgery: Our 8-year Analysis of Over 1000 Patients

3.) Endobronchial Valve Therapy Versus Lung Volume Reduction Surgery in the United States

4.) Early Extraction Versus Conservative Management in Patients With Noninfected Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices Undergoing Cardiac Surgery for Left-Sided Infective Endocarditis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Repair of Ruptured Right Coronary Artery Aneurysm

2.) Removal of a Right Atrial Myxoma From the IVC Junction With Patch Repair Using the Left Atrial Appendage

3.) Modified Re-Do Commando Procedure in a Patient With Septic Shock Due to Aortic and Mitral Valve Endocarditis

Other Items Mentioned

1.) A Surgeon’s Toolkit for Mitral Valve-Induced Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction With Minimal Septal Hypertrophy

2.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation Series

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Robert Cerfolio, Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery at NYU Langone Health, about NYU Langone Health’s rise in hospital rankings.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:19 Best Hospitals Report

08:52 JANS 1, Physician Compensation

13:54 JANS 2, International Challenges

18:36 Career Center

19:40 JANS 3, Rib Fracture Guidelines

23:16 JANS 4, Endovasc Concepts & Devices

26:05 Video 1, Redo Aortic Root David

26:43 Video 2, Removal of LAM

28:16 Video 3, Posterior MAD Correction

30:23 Dr. Cerfolio Interview

51:29 Upcoming Events

53:18 Resident Video Competition

54:10 Closing

They discuss the process that contributed to this improvement, including the efficiency quality index and the benefits of discharging patients on postoperative day one while maintaining constant communication with them as opposed to keeping them hospitalized for extended stays. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of patients going home to a safe environment, postoperative protocols, and the future of NYU Langone Health.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the 2025 Doximity Physician Compensation Report, the current landscape and challenges facing international medical graduates in cardiothoracic surgery training, Chest Wall Injury Society guidelines for surgical stabilization of rib fractures, and foundational endovascular concepts and devices for cardiac surgeons.

In addition, Joel explores the David procedure in a patient with a previous Type A dissection surgery, removal of a left atrial myxoma with a ministernotomy, and surgical correction of the posterior mitral annular disjunction associated with structural abnormalities of the mitral valve. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery. 

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Physician Compensation Report 2025

2.) The Current Landscape and Challenges Facing International Medical Graduates in Cardiothoracic Surgery Training

3.) Chest Wall Injury Society Guidelines for Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures: Indications, Contraindications, and Timing

4.) Foundational Endovascular Concepts and Devices for Cardiac Surgeons

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Redo Aortic Root Surgery: The David Procedure in a Patient With a Previous Type A Dissection Surgery

2.) Removal of a Left Atrial Myxoma With a Ministernotomy

3.) Surgical Correction of the Posterior Mitral Annular Disjunction Associated With Structural Abnormalities of the Mitral Valve

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Best Hospitals for Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery

2.) NYU Langone Health Leads the Nation with Four No. 1–Ranked Specialties by U.S. News & World Report

3.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation Series

4.) Resident Video Competition

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Agathe Seguin-Givelet, a thoracic surgeon at Ambroise Pare-Hartmann Hospital in France, about segmentectomy.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:09 Choosing CT Surgery

02:52 Background

05:23 Indications

10:20 Evidence & Key Trials

16:52 Preop Planning

20:42 Surgical Anatomy

23:14 Approaches

24:39 Step-by-Step

38:40 Pearls & Pitfalls

41:25 Postop Care & Complications

42:55 Key Points

44:03 Training Tips

They explain what segmentectomy is, the differences between segmentectomy and lobectomy, preoperative planning, and the surgical anatomy of the segments. They also explore various approaches, provide a step-by-step guide on how to perform segmentectomy, discuss potential pitfalls, and share training tips.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on proximal anastomosis with Dr. John Puskas.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Kenneth Liao, professor of surgery and chief of the Division of Cardiothoracic Transplantation and Circulatory Support at Baylor College of Medicine, about performing the world’s first adult robotic heart surgery in the United States using a subxiphoid approach.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:31 JANS 1, Endocarditis Guidelines

13:02 JANS 2, Hybrid vs Catheter

16:16 JANS 3, Full Sternotomy Trial

18:07 JANS 4, Buttressing the BA

19:05 JANS 5, Intraspinal Vasc Perf

20:15 Career Center

20:37 Video 1, Root Replace & Ann Reconstr

21:56 Video 2, Bi-Atrial Cann for BVAD

24:17 Video 3, Pediatric Device Implant

26:23 Dr. Liao Interview

49:07 Upcoming Events

49:39 Closing

They discuss the details of the procedure, including its background, ischemic time, technique, and postoperative outcomes. Additionally, they explore the application of the subxiphoid approach for robotic heart transplants and robotic mitral valve repair vs traditional open-chest (sternotomy) repair. Dr. Liao shares insights into the training and practice required for this operation and discusses the advantages of using robotics in heart transplants. He also reflects on what he would do differently in future procedures.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the surgical implications of the 2023 ESC endocarditis guidelines endorsed by EACTS, the two-year results from the randomized CEASE-AF trial on the durable effectiveness and safety of hybrid ablation vs catheter ablation, a randomized trial on superficial parasternal intercostal plane block and full sternotomy, a comparison of the short- and long-term outcomes in patients undergoing sleeve lobectomy with or without buttressing the bronchial anastomosis, and intraspinal vascular perfusion territories of the descending thoracic aorta.

In addition, Joel explores free-style root replacement and annular reconstruction for destructive aortic root endocarditis, bi-atrial cannulation for biventricular assist device in children, and a device implantation in a 26 kg child. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Surgical Implications of the 2023 ESC Endocarditis Guidelines Endorsed by EACTS: Bridging Guidelines and Practice 

2.) Durable Effectiveness and Safety of Hybrid Ablation Versus Catheter Ablation: 2-year Results From the Randomized CEASE-AF Trial

3.) Superficial Parasternal Intercostal Plane Block and Full Sternotomy; A Randomized Trial

4.) Comparison of Short- and Long-Term Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Sleeve Lobectomy With or Without Buttressing the Bronchial Anastomosis

5.) Intraspinal Vascular Perfusion Territories of the Descending Thoracic Aorta

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Free-Style Root Replacement and Annular Reconstruction for Destructive Aortic Root Endocarditis

2.) Bi-Atrial Cannulation for Biventricular Assist Device in Children

3.) Device Implantation in a 26 kg Child

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Guest Editor Series Webinar: Insights Into Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support

2.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation Series

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Todd Rosengart, professor and chair of the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, about his team performing the world’s first adult robotic heart surgery in the United States.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:27 JANS 1, On-Table Extubation

14:13 JANS 2, Intraop Broncho Biopsies

18:26 JANS 3, Stroke After Transplant

20:51 JANS 4, Pulm Carcinoid Tumors

22:56 Career Center

24:05 Video 1, Robotic LAAO

25:36 Video 2, Bedside VV ECMO

26:44 Video 3, Inverted Y AE

28:01 Dr. Rosengart Interview, Novel Approaches

40:57 Upcoming Events

42:58 Closing

They discuss postoperative outcomes and the 100-day follow-up appointment, the benefits of the robotic technique in transplants, and the surgeons who participated in this procedure. Additionally, Dr. Rosengart shares advice for individuals performing robotic transplants, his experience leading this unit, and its notable accomplishments, including other world-first procedures.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the 10 best practices of on-table extubation after cardiac surgery, if we can rely on intraoperative bronchoscopic biopsies for surgical decision making, increased prevalence of stroke after heart transplant in the new allocation system era, and the surgical management of both stage III and stage IV pulmonary carcinoid tumors confers survival benefit.

In addition, Joel explores robotic left atrial appendage occlusion, bedside veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation technique in an awake patient, and a stepwise surgical approach for inverted Y annular enlargement in the bicuspid aortic valve. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) The 10 Commandments of On-Table Extubation After Cardiac Surgery: Why and How to Increase Adoption

2.) Can We Rely on Intraoperative Bronchoscopic Biopsies for Surgical Decision Making? 78 Single Anesthetic Robotic Bronchoscopy to Anatomic Resections

3.) Increased Prevalence of Stroke After Heart Transplant in the New Allocation System Era

4.) Surgical Management of Both Stage III and Stage IV Pulmonary Carcinoid Tumors Confers Survival Benefit

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion

2.) Bedside Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Cannulation Technique in an Awake Patient

3.) Inverted Y Annular Enlargement in Bicuspid Aortic Valve: A Stepwise Surgical Approach

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Guest Editor Series: Insights Into Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support

2.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation Series

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Mara Antonoff, Associate Professor of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery and Program Director for Education at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and President of Women in Thoracic Surgery, about chest tubes.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:21 JANS 1, Ross Long-Term Outcomes

04:12 JANS 2, Valve Replacement Pregnancy

07:09 JANS 3, Bronchopleural Fistula

09:36 JANS 4, AUTHEARTVISIT Study

11:51 Career Center

13:56 Video 1, Bicuspid AVR & AAR

16:15 Video 2, Cold Head-Warm Body Perfusion

19:00 Video 3, Dr. Kappetein Podcast

20:23 Dr. Antonoff Interview, Chest Tube Management

38:45 Closing

They discuss single chest tube vs double chest tube, the benefits of single chest tubes, and various chest tube sizes. They also explore reducing chest drain pain, stitching the chest tube, and chest tube output thresholds for removal. Additionally, they cover drain removal, air leaks, and clamping.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on whether the Ross procedure in young adults delivers favorable long-term clinical and QOL outcomes, a literature review including new data from the registry of pregnancy and cardiac disease III regarding valve replacement during pregnancy, a multi-institutional analysis of the treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in the ESSG-01 study, and the choice of surgical aortic valve replacement type and midterm outcomes in 50 to 65-year-olds.

In addition, Joel explores bicuspid aortic valve repair and ascending aorta replacement, a guide to isolated cerebral perfusion using two bypass circuits, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Professor Pieter Kappetein about the future of revascularization. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Ross Procedure in Young Adults Delivers Favorable Long-Term Clinical and QOL Outcomes

2.) Valve Replacement During Pregnancy: Literature Review Including New Data From the Registry of Pregnancy and Cardiac Disease III

3.) Bronchopleural Fistula: A Multi-Institutional Analysis of the Treatment Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in the ESSG-01 Study

4.) The Choice of Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Type and Mid-Term Outcomes in 50 to 65-Year-Olds: Results of the AUTHEARTVISIT Study

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Bicuspid Aortic Valve Repair and Ascending Aorta Replacement 

2.) Cold Head-Warm Body Perfusion: A Guide to Isolated Cerebral Perfusion Using Two Bypass Circuits

3.) The Atrium: The Future of Revascularization 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Guest Editor Series: Insights Into Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support

2.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation Series

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Joseph Zacharias, a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at the Lancashire Cardiac Center in Blackpool, England, about lifetime management of heart valve disease.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:13 Early Intervention, Disease Management

04:40 JANS 1, Sept on Placental Support

07:04 JANS 2, Surgeon Well-Being

09:41 JANS 3, Cardiac

10:58 JANS 4, PPM in SAVR

12:57 JANS 5, Cardiac Registry

14:22 Video 1, Close U Ministernotomy

15:19 Video 2, Endo AVR & MVR

16:03 Video 3, VATS

17:20 Dr. Zacharias Interview, HVD

38:04 Upcoming Events

38:51 Closing

They delve into Dr. Zacharias’s recent paper titled “Lifetime Management of Heart Valve Disease—Treat It Early and Treat It Right, First Time,” and discuss how the idea for the paper originated highlighting key takeaways. They also address perceived risks vs actual risks and why less than 25 percent of patients are referred for necessary interventions. Additionally, they examine the future of cardiac surgery, endoscopic cardiac surgery, and endoscopic vein harvesting.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on a novel and logistic approach for hypoplastic left heart syndrome with intact atrial septum, a European Society of Thoracic Surgery survey on member well-being, transcatheter management of left-sided valvular heart disease following heart transplantation, a multi-institutional study on the prevalence and clinical impact of patient-prosthesis mismatch in surgical aortic valve replacement, and a systematic review and meta-analysis of the German registry of acute aortic dissection type A score for 30-day mortality prediction in type A acute aortic dissection surgery.

In addition, Joel explores how to close an upper ministernotomy, endoscopic aortic valve replacement and mitral valve replacement, and uniportal VATS decortication for late-stage TB empyema. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Open Atrial Septectomy on Placental Support: A Novel and Logistic Approach for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome With Intact Atrial Septum

2.) Fit2Perform: European Society of Thoracic Surgery Survey on Member Well-Being

3.) Transcatheter Management of Left-Sided Valvular Heart Disease Following Heart Transplantation

4.) A Multi-Institutional Study on the Prevalence and Clinical Impact of Patient-Prosthesis Mismatch in Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

5.) The German Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection Type A Score for 30-Day Mortality Prediction in Type A Acute Aortic Dissection Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) How to Close an Upper Ministernotomy 

2.) Endoscopic Aortic Valve Replacement and Mitral Valve Replacement 

3.) Uniportal VATS Decortication for Late-Stage TB Empyema 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Lifetime Management of Heart Valve Disease—Treat It Early and Treat It Right, First Time

2.) Guest Editor Series Webinar: Coronary Arterial Anomalies—Pediatric and Adult Congenital

3.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation, Part 4

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Professor Pieter Kappetein, Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Erasmus Medical Center and Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Medtronic, about the future of revascularization.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Dr. Kappetein Background

04:19 Getting Into Research

05:36 Work Balance

06:35 Industry Role in Career

09:30 Status of Revascularization

12:20 SYNTAX Trial

13:40 EXCEL Trial

15:54 AHA Guidelines & Heart Teams

18:59 Heart Teams

21:15 Future of Revascularization

24:10 Hybrid Approaches

25:55 Advice for Surgery Training

They discuss the history of revascularization, the SYNTAX trial, the EXCEL trial, and the new American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. They also explore the Heart Team approach and what’s on the horizon in this important surgery specialty.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on segmentectomy with thoracic surgeon Dr. Agathe Seguin-Givelet.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with CTSNet Senior Editor Dr. Sameh Said, Chief of the Division of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiac Surgery at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, Professor of Surgery and Pediatrics at the New York Medical College, and Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center about performing the first successful ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT)-to-open atrial septectomy-to-rapid stage I Norwood palliation in a neonate with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and intact interatrial septum.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:13 JANS 1, Cardiac Transplant

09:04 JANS 2, Lung Transplant

10:19 JANS 3, Cardiac Transplant

11:08 JANS 4, Lung Cancer

13:01 JANS 5, Thoracic

15:44 Video 1, Congenital Cardiac

17:53 Video 2, Cardiac

19:49 Video 3, Cardiac

21:50 Dr. Said Interview, EXIT Procedure

37:28 Upcoming Events

39:32 Closing

They discuss the surgical steps involved in this groundbreaking procedure, including specific details about the surgery, the preparation undertaken prior to the operation, and the key factors that contributed to its success. Additionally, they covered the challenges encountered during this first successful EXIT procedure case, as well as the standard management practices for these cases at medical centers, such as fetal balloon atrial septostomy, along with postnatal transcatheter, surgical, or hybrid interventions and their associated surgical risks. Furthermore, they address the broader challenges faced when operating on patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, including the differences between restrictive atrial septum and intact atrial septum.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the current state and future directions of cardiac xenotransplantation, if age is a contraindication for lung transplantation in the elderly, a summary of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation consensus conference on emerging understanding of antibodies and antibody-mediated rejection in heart transplantation, inflammatory diseases and risk of lung cancer among individuals who have never smoked, and active chest tube clearance added to an Enhanced Recovery After Cardiac Surgery (ERAS) program improves outcomes and reduces resource utilization.

In addition, Joel explores a single incision mitral valve repair and LIMA-to-LAD bypass via a left anterior minithoracotomy, repair of post-infarction ventricular septal defect using a double patch sandwich technique, and reconstruction of the left trigone during the Commando procedure for invasive prosthetic aortic valve endocarditis. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Cardiac Xenotransplantation: Current State and Future Directions

2.) Lung Transplantation in the Elderly: Is Age a Contraindication?

3.) Summary of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Consensus Conference on Emerging Understanding of Antibodies and Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Heart Transplantation

4.) Inflammatory Diseases and Risk of Lung Cancer Among Individuals Who Have Never Smoked

5.) Active Chest Tube Clearance Added to an Enhanced Recovery After Cardiac Surgery (ERAS) Program Improves Outcomes and Reduces Resource Utilization

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Single Incision Mitral Valve Repair and LIMA-to-LAD Bypass via a Left Anterior Minithoracotomy

2.) Repair of Post-Infarction Ventricular Septal Defect Using a Double Patch Sandwich Technique

3.) Reconstruction of the Left Trigone During the Commando Procedure for Invasive Prosthetic Aortic Valve Endocarditis

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Guest Editor Series: Coronary Arterial Anomalies—Pediatric and Adult Congenital 

2.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation Series

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Daniel Goldstein, professor and vice chairman of Montefiore Health System in New York, USA, about the importance of mentorship.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:24 JANS 1, Cardiac

05:42 JANS 2, General

08:40 JANS 3, Cardiac

12:17 JANS 4, General

13:45 JANS 5, Cardiac

14:53 Video 1, Cardiac

16:48 Video 2, Thoracic

18:53 Video 3, Cardiac

20:29 Dr. Goldstein Interview

33:06 Closing

They explore how to be an effective mentor, outlining essential steps in mentoring and the process of developing great surgeons. They also discuss the significance of volunteering and contributing to advance within the field. Additionally, they cover the incentives of being a good mentor, provide advice for trainees currently seeing to join a program, and delve into how and why Dr. Goldstein was selected by the ISHLT Foundation to receive the 2025 Francis D. Pagani, MD, Endowed Mentorship Award. In a separate segment, Joel addresses minimally invasive surgery in Europe.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on lifetime management of heart valve disease, social media use among cardiothoracic surgeons, a surgeon’s tool kit for mitral valve-induced left ventricular outflow tract obstruction with minimal septal hypertrophy, transatlantic analysis of gender representation in general thoracic surgery, and extent of coronary artery disease and clinical outcomes with ticagrelor monotherapy vs aspirin after coronary artery bypass grafting.

In addition, Joel explores an infarct exclusion technique for posterior ischemic ventricular septal defect in a patient with Impella 5.5 support, mastering robotic lung resection using the French lobectomy technique for standardized surgical education, and assessment, debridement, and annular support for valve replacement in a case of mitral annular calcification. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Lifetime Management of Heart Valve Disease—Treat It Early and Treat It Right, First Time

2.) Social Media Use Among Cardiothoracic Surgeons: The Online Landscape and Comparisons Between Subgroups

3.) A Surgeon’s Toolkit for Mitral Valve-Induced Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction With Minimal Septal Hypertrophy

4.) Trans-Atlantic Analysis of Gender Representation in General Thoracic Surgery: Challenges Permeate the Academic Community

5.) Extent of Coronary Artery Disease and Clinical Outcomes With Ticagrelor Monotherapy Versus Aspirin After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Insights From the TiCAB Trial

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Infarct Exclusion Technique for Posterior Ischemic Ventricular Septal Defect in a Patient With Impella 5.5 Support

2.) Mastering Robotic Lung Resection: The French Lobectomy Technique for Standardized Surgical Education

3.) Mitral Annular Calcification: Assessment, Debridement, and Annular Support for Valve Replacement

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation, Part 3

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Jay Pal, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Washington, about AI-assisted screening for rheumatic heart disease.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:17 JANS 1, Cardiac

05:15 JANS 2, Thoracic

07:01 JANS 3, Thoracic

09:41 JANS 4, Cardiac

12:14 JANS 5, Thoracic

13:37 Subvalvular Ring Excision, AVR

15:30 SCORE Technique, Rheu M Stenosis

18:43 VATS Intraperi L Pneumonectomy

20:00 Dr. Pal Interview

30:52 Closing

They discuss how the AI-assisted stethoscope functions and its ability to identify rheumatic heart disease, highlighting the advantages of this technology in low-resource settings and the future potential of the device. Additionally, they explore the device’s capability to diagnose heart failure and the benefits of using this advanced tool over a traditional analog stethoscope.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on blood pressure and heart rate management in patients after repair of type A aortic dissection, long-term outcomes and prognostic factors after chest wall resection and reconstruction, a comparison between robot- and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgeries for anterior mediastinal lesions, and the cost-effectiveness of left ventricular assist device for transplant-ineligible patients.

In addition, Joel explores an excision of a subvalvular ring with preservation of the aortic valve, a step-by-step VATS approach for intrapericardial left pneumonectomy for a centrally located lung tumor, and a repair of rheumatic mitral stenosis using the SCORE technique. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Management in Patients After Repair of Type A Aortic Dissection

2.) Long-Term Outcome and Prognostic Factors After Chest Wall Resection and Reconstruction

3.) Comparison Between Robot- and Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgeries for Anterior Mediastinal Lesions

4.) Cost-Effectiveness of Left Ventricular Assist Device for Transplant-Ineligible Patients

5.) Three-Dimensional Tracheo-Bronchial Reconstruction to Plan Endoscopic Stent Insertion for Malignant Upper Airway Stenosis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Excision of a Subvalvular Ring With Preservation of the Aortic Valve

2.) VATS Intrapericardial Left Pneumonectomy for Centrally Located Lung Tumor: Step-by-Step Approach With Technical Pearls

3.) Repair of Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis Using the SCORE Technique

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation, Part 2

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Ari Wes, Partner at Peninsula Plastic Surgery and CEO and Cofounder of Orchid Surgical, about clinical surgery video production.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:46 Interview Preview

02:16 No Chest-Open Heart Transplant

05:07 NSCLC Time to Surgery

07:55 Impact of Preop Invasive Nodal Staging

11:04 Air Space Spread Impacts Adenocarcinoma

14:26 Intrapericard Pneum w Broncho & Flap

16:42 Ross Procedure Unveiled

21:16 Radial Artery Harvesting Podcast

23:32 Dr. Wes Interview, Video Production

46:06 Cardiac Surgical Arrest Series

46:52 Closing

They discuss the value of starting with the right camera, the impact of field of view, head-mounted cameras vs. stationary cameras, and the importance of capturing the surgeon’s perspective. Additionally, they explore the educational benefits of recording surgeries, the criteria for selecting an ideal storage solution for recordings, and the future of clinical surgery videos.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on first fully robotic heart transplant in the US performed without opening the patient's chest, defining the optimal diagnosis-to-resection interval to reduce mortality in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, concurrent spread through air spaces in dominant tumors impacts prognosis in synchronous multiple primary lung adenocarcinoma, and the impact of preoperative invasive nodal staging on unexpected mediastinal upstaging in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer.

In addition, Joel explores a robot-assisted intrapericardial pneumonectomy with bronchoplasty and thymic flap post neoadjuvant chemo/IO, insights into various techniques and modifications for the Ross procedure, and an episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with Dr. Faisal Bakaeen from the Cleveland Clinic on radial artery harvesting. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) First Fully Robotic Heart Transplant in the US Performed Without Opening Patient's Chest

2.) Time to Surgery in Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Defining the Optimal Diagnosis-to-Resection Interval to Reduce Mortality

3.) Concurrent Spread Through Air Spaces in Dominant Tumors Impacts Prognosis in Synchronous Multiple Primary Lung Adenocarcinoma

4.) The Impact of Preoperative Invasive Nodal Staging on Unexpected Mediastinal Upstaging in Early-Stage Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Robot-Assisted Intrapericardial Pneumonectomy With Bronchoplasty and Thymic Flap Post Neoadjuvant Chemo/IO

2.) The Ross Procedure Unveiled: Insights into Various Techniques and Modifications 

3.) The Atrium: Radial Artery Harvesting 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation, Part 2

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. David Kalfa, the incoming Chief of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery and Co-Director of the Heart Institute at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, about allogeneic mitral valve transplants.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:46 Interview Preview

02:54 MV Surgery After Failed Intervention

07:46 Tears Predict Outcomes After Hemi-Arch

10:32 Pain Catastrophizing Scale

14:27 ARR w Stentless Biopros, Sex Difference

16:38 Open Implant TAV via Redo Sternotomy

19:05 Repeat Sternotomy w Completion Unifocaliz

21:07 Direct Aortic Impella 5.5 in PC Shock

25:16 Dr. Kalfa Interview, AMV Transplant

39:58 Upcoming Events

41:26 Closing

They discuss methods for obtaining a mitral valve for transplantation, and topics such as immunosuppression, aortic coagulation, and the progress that has been made in this field. They also explore how to perform a living allogeneic heart valve transplant and the future of this technique.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on mitral valve surgery after failed transcatheter intervention for mitral regurgitation, whether distal anastomotic new entry tears predict long-term outcomes after hemiarch repair for DeBakey I aortic dissection, using a pain catastrophizing scale as a predictor for acute postoperative pain following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy, and sex difference in aortic root replacement with a stentless bioprosthesis.

In addition, Joel explores an open implantation of a transcatheter aortic valve via redo sternotomy, mitral valve replacement, and tricuspid valve repair in a high-risk patient, repeat sternotomy with completion unifocalization and extensive pulmonary arterial reconstruction in ToF/PA/MAPCAs, and direct aortic Impella 5.5 in post-cardiotomy shock. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Mitral Valve Surgery After Failed Transcatheter Intervention for Mitral Regurgitation: Techniques, Challenges, and Outcomes

2.) Distal Anastomotic New Entry Tears Predict Long-Term Outcomes After Hemi-Arch Repair for DeBakey I Aortic Dissection

3.) Pain Catastrophizing Scale as a Predictor for Acute Postoperative Pain Following Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Lobectomy

4.) Sex Difference in Aortic Root Replacement With a Stentless Bioprosthesis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Open Implantation of a Transcatheter Aortic Valve via Redo Sternotomy, Mitral Valve Replacement, and Tricuspid Valve Repair in a High-Risk-Patient

2.) Challenging Pulmonary Arterial Reconstruction: Repeat Sternotomy With Completion Unifocalization and Extensive Pulmonary Arterial Reconstruction in ToF/PA/MAPCAs

3.) Direct Aortic Impella 5.5 in Post-Cardiotomy Shock

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Allogeneic Mitral Valve Transplant: Historical Precedent, Current Considerations, and Future Implementation

2.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation, Part 1

3.) Winners of the 2025 CTSNet Instructional Video Competition

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Faisal Bakaeen, Professor of Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine and Director of the Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Center at the Cleveland Clinic, about radial artery harvesting.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:45 Dr. Bakaeen Background

05:26 Historical Timeline

06:40 Radial Artery Advantages

08:58 Anatomy

14:31 Patient Preparation & Selection

16:44 Harvest Technique (Open)

24:21 Closure

26:47 Graft Prep & Vasodilation

29:08 Graft Patency

29:34 Graft Use

31:22 Post-Op Management

32:10 Complications

35:22 Future of RAH

38:43 Key Takeaways

39:25 Surgery Training Advice

They discuss the benefits of utilizing radial artery harvesting, preparation, the open harvesting technique, and endoscopic harvesting. They also explore graft preparation and vasodilation, postoperative management, and complications.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on segmentectomy and an upcoming discussion of the future of revascularization with Professor Pieter Kappetein.

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with CTSNet Board Member Dr. Keith Naunheim, Vallee L. and Melba Willman Professor and Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, about artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiothoracic (CT) surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:31 Guest Preview, Dr. Naunheim

02:34 Clinic Notes via AI

04:41 Congenital Challenging Anatomy

06:47 Exposing Intramyocardial LAD Artery

09:28 Multiple Stent Grafts, Aorta Aneurysm

11:33 AVR w M & TVR, R-Anterior Thoracotomy

13:50 Dr. Naunheim, AI in CT Surgery

34:33 Upcoming Events

35:16 Cardiac Surgical Arrest Series

36:37 Robert Lowery Obituary

38:38 Closing

They discuss how AI will affect and impact CT surgery, where AI is already incorporated in the CT surgery world, and the importance of field-testing AI. They also explore the pros and cons of AI and being proactive about using AI.

Joel also highlights a recent JANS article on left axillary thoracotomy for closure of ventricular septal defect in an infant with situs solitus and extreme levoposition of the heart.

In addition, Joel explores a surgical technique of exposing the intramyocardial left anterior descending artery, open surgical repair of a giant abdominal aorta aneurysm filled with multiple stent grafts, and aortic valve replacement with mitral and tricuspid valve repair via a right anterior thoracotomy. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Creating Opportunities From Challenging Anatomy: Left Axillary Thoracotomy for Closure of Ventricular Septal Defect in an Infant With Situs Solitus and Extreme Levoposition of the Heart

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Surgical Technique of Exposing Intramyocardial Left Anterior Descending Artery

2.) Open Surgical Repair of a Giant Abdominal Aorta Aneurysm Filled With Multiple Stent Grafts

3.) Aortic Valve Replacement With Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Repair Via a Right Anterior Thoracotomy

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Cardiac Surgical Arrest—An International Conversation, Part 1

2.) Obituary for Dr. Robert Lowery

3.) Winners of the 2025 CTSNet Instructional Video Competition

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with CTSNet JANS Editor Dr. Mateo Marin-Cuartas, a cardiac surgeon in the University Department of Cardiac Surgery at the Leipzig Heart Center, Germany, about surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) vs transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:57 Dr. Marin-Cuartas Feature

02:28 SHURUI Robot Feasability

05:09 Touching as Diagnostic Test

09:06 Removal of Rib Stab Hardware

13:00 Resectable EGFR-Positive NSCLC

16:12 On-Pump Beating Heart MVR

17:56 Post-Infarction Myocardial Rupture

19:52 Head-First Graft Technique

22:18 SAVR vs TAVR, Dr. Marin-Cuartas

46:44 Upcoming Events

47:52 Closing

They discuss SAVR and TAVR guidelines, the suitability of SAVR vs TAVR for patients aged 65-75, and mechanical heart valves. They also explore surgery after TAVR, TAVR after TAVR, and the future of addressing aortic valve stenosis.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the safety and feasibility of novel single-port robotic-assisted lobectomy/segmentectomy for lung cancer, touching (proximity) as a companion diagnostic test, long-term outcomes after removal of rib stabilization hardware in patients with blunt chest trauma, and advancing the needle on the management of resectable EGFR-positive NSCLC.

In addition, Joel explores an on-pump beating heart mitral valve repair through right anterior minithoracotomy, post-infarction myocardial rupture treated with surgical repair and graded mechanical support, and a head-first graft technique in aortic arch replacement. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Safety and Feasibility of Novel Single-Port Robotic-Assisted Lobectomy/Segmentectomy for Lung Cancer

2.) Touching (Proximity) as a Companion Diagnostic Test

3.)  Long-Term Outcomes After Removal of Rib Stabilization Hardware in Patients With Blunt Chest Trauma

4.) Advancing the Needle on the Management of Resectable EGFR-Positive NSCLC: Is Neoadjuvant Osimertinib the Answer?

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) On-Pump Beating Heart Mitral Valve Repair Through Right Anterior Mini Thoracotomy

2.) Drain, Patch, Unload: Post-Infarction Myocardial Rupture Treated With Surgical Repair and Graded Mechanical Support

3.) Head-First Graft Technique in Aortic Arch Replacement

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning recaps the 33rd European Society of Thoracic Surgeons (ESTS) annual meeting in Budapest.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:30 ESTS 2025 Conference

09:11 SHURUI Robot Study

10:04 Willard A. Fry

12:44 Transplant Recipient Pregnancy Outcomes

15:25 Low-Flow, Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis

17:12 Warm Ischemic Intervals Effect

19:16 Extracorp Circulation vs Conventional

23:23 Femoral Cannulation for CPB Min Invasive

24:25 Valve Sparing Aortic Root Replacement

25:27 Valve Surgery Podcast w Michael Mack

27:21 Upcoming Events

27:54 Closing

He discusses the key themes and takeaways from the event, the SHURUI single-port robotic system, the hands-on experience with the da Vinci Single-Port system led by Dr. Tom Routledge, and the extraordinary guest lecture from Ernő Rubik, the inventor of the Rubik’s cube. Joel also highlights various presentations from the meeting, including “Does the Fissureless Technique Really Reduce Air Leak? Results of the Prospective Randomized Study Fissureless Versus Fissurefirst (3F Trial)” by Tom Routledge, “Tour D’Horizon About Potential Newcomings in the 10th Edition” by Valerie Rusch, and much more. Additionally, he pays tribute to Willard A. Fry and his significant accomplishments.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on pregnancy outcomes in 53 female lung transplant recipients, outcomes of surgical versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis, the effect of warm ischemic intervals on primary graft dysfunction in normothermic regional perfusion for donation after circulatory death heart transplant, and minimal invasive extracorporeal circulation versus conventional cardiopulmonary bypass in cardiac surgery.

In addition, Joel explores femoral cannulation for CPB during minimally invasive cardiac surgery, a presentation from the Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain and Ireland annual meeting on “Valve Sparing Aortic Root Replacement—Tips and Tricks,” and the one-year anniversary episode of The Atrium podcast featuring host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaking with cardiothoracic surgery pioneer Dr. Michael Mack on the future of valve surgery. Before closing, Joel highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Pregnancy Outcomes in 53 Female Lung Transplant Recipients

2.) Outcomes of Surgical Versus Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Low-Flow, Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis

3.) The Effect of Warm Ischemic Intervals on Primary Graft Dysfunction in Normothermic Regional Perfusion for Donation After Circulatory Death Heart Transplant

4.) Minimal Invasive Extracorporeal Circulation Versus Conventional Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Cardiac Surgery: A Contemporary Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Femoral Cannulation for CPB During Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

2.) SCTS 2025 | Valve Sparing Aortic Root Replacement—Tips and Tricks

3.) The Atrium: The Future of Valve Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Safety and Feasibility of Novel Single-Port Robotic-Assisted Lobectomy/Segmentectomy for Lung Cancer

2.) A Eulogy for Willard A. Fry

3.) 2025 SCTS Annual Meeting Videos

4.) The Atrium—All Episodes

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with cofounders Courtney Maxey-Jones and Connor Wasilnak about their charity, Global Outreach for Medical Equity and Development (GOMED), which exists to deliver essential medical supplies to underresourced regions.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:33 Surgical Instrument Donations

02:43 Adverse Outcomes in Surgery

10:05 Lymph Node NSCLC Study

12:45 Pleural Invasion by AI Analysis

15:54 Robotic vs Conventional MVR

18:55 Postop Atrioventricular Block

22:36 Extra-Anatomical Bypass & AVR

24:25 Redo MV w Different Strategies

27:57 Manage Aorto-Mitral Abscess Endocarditis

30:41 GOMED Interview

43:04 Closing

They discuss the reasons behind its creation, its mission, the current status of the organization, and how individuals and companies can get involved. Additionally, they explored some of the equipment GOMED has and what it needs, and the various locations it serves. Joel also shares insights about a recent patient of his with Marfan Syndrome and pectus excavatum, emphasizing the ongoing importance of the N=1 trial in clinical research.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on lymph node sampling and survival in non-small cell lung cancer, pleural invasion of peripheral cT1 lung cancer by deep learning analysis of thoracoscopic images, clinical outcomes and costs of robotic-assisted vs conventional mitral valve repair, and postoperative atrioventricular block after surgery for congenital heart disease.

In addition, Joel explores extra-anatomical aortic bypass and aortic valve replacement in a patient with aortic coarctation and severe aortic insufficiency, totally endoscopic redo mitral valve surgery with different myocardial protection strategies, and managing aorto-mitral abscess endocarditis after previous AVR with an LVOT enlargement procedure. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Lymph Node Sampling and Survival in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A 10-Year Danish Cohort Study

2.) Pleural Invasion of Peripheral cT1 Lung Cancer by Deep Learning Analysis of Thoracoscopic Images: A Retrospective Pilot Study

3.) Clinical Outcomes and Costs of Robotic-Assisted vs Conventional Mitral Valve Repair: A National Analysis

4.) Postoperative Atrioventricular Block After Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease: Incidence, Recovery and Risks

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Extra-Anatomical Aortic Bypass and Aortic Valve Replacement in a Patient With Aortic Coarctation and Severe Aortic Insufficiency

2.) Totally Endoscopic Redo Mitral Valve Surgery With Different Myocardial Protection Strategies

3.) Managing Aorto-Mitral Abscess Endocarditis After Previous AVR With an LVOT Enlargement Procedure

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Global Outreach for Medical Equity and Development

2.) Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery Series: The Swiss Army Knife Approach

3.) Aortic Valve Replacement Series 

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this special one-year anniversary episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Michael Mack, medical director of cardiothoracic surgery at Baylor Scott and White Health System and chairman of the Baylor Plano Research Center in Texas, about the future of valve surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Introductions

01:18 Dr. Mack Background

03:41 Becoming a CT Surgeon

07:53 Path to Academic Surgery

10:19 Unconventional Thinking

11:30 TAVR vs SAVR

21:54 Surgical Replacement Future

25:59 Minimally Invasive Preference

27:27 Long-Term Data Impact

30:58 Aortic Valve Research Status

35:35 Mitral Clip vs Repair, Tricuspid

41:40 Mitral Robotic

44:38 Artificial Intelligence

48:43 Specializing Your Career

52:53 Three Career Tips

They discuss transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), MitraClips, the mitral valve, and the tricuspid valve. They also explore future research, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and Dr. Mack provides advice for trainees.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on radial artery harvesting with Dr. Faisal Bakaeen of the Cleveland Clinic.

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Nina Fuller-Shavel, co-chair of the British Society for Integrative Oncology (BSIO) from 2021 to 2023 and current co-chair of the BSIO Clinical Practice and Education Committee, about integrative oncology.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:29 Integrative Medicine

09:13 Bar Dislocation, Pectus

10:53 Effective Circulating Volume Fraction

13:14 Repair vs Replacement, Edge-to-Edge

16:14 Relaxed TAVI Age Threshold?

18:14 Supravalvar Aortic Stenosis Transaxillary

20:09 How-To, AAE Tricuspid Repair

21:49 Modified Robotic Tracheobronchoplasty

23:34 Dr. Fuller-Shavel, Integrative Oncology

56:21 Upcoming Events

58:28 Closing

They discuss what integrative oncology entails, mistletoe therapy, oncothermia, and the innovative integrative oncology app called Oncio. They also explore guidelines relating to this topic, nutrition, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Dr. Fuller-Shavel also provides recommendations for supporting patients’ mindfulness during cancer treatment.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on bar dislocation after pectus excavatum repair, effective circulating volume fraction in Type A aortic dissection, surgical mitral valve repair vs replacement after failed mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, and if the age threshold for TAVI can be relaxed to below 65 years.

In addition, Joel explores minimally invasive transaxillary repair of supravalvar aortic stenosis, how to perform an aortic annulus enlargement with tricuspid repair, and modified robotic-assisted tracheobronchoplasty in a patient with severe calcific mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.  

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Bar Dislocation After Pectus Excavatum Repair: A Systematic Review of Risk Factors, Stabilization Techniques, and Management Strategies

2.) The Effective Circulating Volume Fraction in Type A Aortic Dissection: A New Risk Factor?

3.) Surgical Mitral Valve Repair vs Replacement After Failed Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair: The CUTTING-EDGE Registry

4.) Could the Age Threshold for TAVI be Relaxed to Below 65 Years? Pros and Cons

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Minimally Invasive Transaxillary Repair of Supravalvar Aortic Stenosis

2.) How to Perform an Aortic Annulus Enlargement With Tricuspid Repair

3.) Modified Robotic-Assisted Tracheobronchoplasty in a Patient With Severe Calcific Mediastinal Lymphadenopathy

Other Items Mentioned

1.) British Society for Integrative Oncology

2.) National Center for Integrative Oncology

3.) Integrative Oncology Approaches to Supporting Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Treatment of Solid Tumors

4.) Aortic Valve Replacement Series 

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Dibin Mohammed, a consultant at Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India, about his WhatsApp group, Young CVTS Surgeons Kerala.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:22 CTSNet Updates

03:44 Dr. Mohammed Guest

05:20 Allogeneic Mitral Valve Transplant

08:45 Multiple vs Single Arterial Grafting

11:50 AI & Machine Learning in CT Surgery

17:57 3-Port vs 4-Port Robotic Lobectomy

21:28 Redo Pulm Valve Replacement w RAA

24:32 Mitral Ann Disjunction Presentation

27:09 How-To LVOTE & CABG

29:22 Dr. Mohammed, Academic Group Chat

42:30 Upcoming Events

43:43 Closing

They discuss the group’s goal and the topics its covers, such as recent academic papers and innovative surgical solutions, as well as the reasons Dr. Mohammed created it. Dr. Mohammed also shares insights into working in India and the training systems for residents in the country.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on allogeneic mitral valve transplants, survival outcomes after multiple vs single arterial grafting among patients with reduced ejection fraction, artificial intelligence and machine learning in cardiothoracic surgery, and a comparative study of three-port vs. four-port robotic-assisted lobectomy for NSCLC.

In addition, Joel explores redo pulmonary valve replacement with right atrial appendage, how to perform a left ventricular outflow tract enlargement and CABG, and reviews a presentation from the Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain and Ireland Annual Meeting on mitral annular disjunction and mitral valve repair.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Allogeneic Mitral Valve Transplant: Historical Precedent, Current Considerations, and Future Implementation

2.) Survival Outcomes After Multiple vs Single Arterial Grafting Among Patients With Reduced Ejection Fraction

3.) Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Cardiothoracic Surgery: Future Prospects and Ethical Issues

4.) Optimizing Surgical Precision: A Comparative Study of Three-Port vs. Four-Port Robotic-Assisted Lobectomy for NSCLC

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Redo Pulmonary Valve Replacement With Right Atrial Appendage

2.) SCTS 2025 | Mitral Annular Disjunction and Mitral Valve Repair

3.) How to Perform a Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Enlargement and CABG

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Aortic Valve Replacement Series 

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning celebrates two years of the podcast and speaks with Dr. Joseph F. Sabik III, president of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) and chair of the Department of Surgery at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, about the future of cardiothoracic surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:16 Dr. Sabik Guest

04:13 AATS 2025

20:26 Extended Sleeve Lobectomy Study

23:55 SQUAT Trial Results

26:28 TAVR vs SAVR in Women

27:49 Transition from Training to Practice

31:39 Totally Endoscopic Triple Valve

33:33 Redo AVR via Ministernotomy

35:18 ECMO Podcast Episode

37:19 Dr. Sabik, Future of CT Surgery

56:06 Upcoming Events

57:47 Closing

They discuss the future of revascularization, advancements in valve procedures, arterial grafting, robotics training, and the importance of work-life balance. They also highlight the training of the next generation of surgeons, simulation-based education, and Dr. Sabik shares insights into the 62nd STS Annual Meeting. Additionally, Joel recaps the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) Annual Meeting emphasizing notable presentations and key insights from the event.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on extended sleeve lobectomy after neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy for centrally located non-small cell lung cancer, neoadjuvant concurrent chemo-immuno-radiation therapy followed by surgery and adjuvant immunotherapy for resectable Stage III N2 NSCLC, transcatheter vs. surgical aortic valve replacement in women, and a guide for transition from cardiothoracic surgery training to practice.

In addition, Joel explores totally endoscopic triple valve surgery, redo aortic valve replacement through a ministernotomy, and a new podcast episode from Dr. Alice Copperwheat, “The Atrium: ECMO,” with expert guest Dr. Jose Fernandes. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Extended Sleeve Lobectomy After Neoadjuvant Immunochemotherapy for Centrally Located Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

2.)  Neoadjuvant Concurrent Chemo-Immuno-Radiation Therapy Followed by Surgery and Adjuvant Immunotherapy for Resectable Stage III N2 NSCLC: Primary Results From the SQUAT Trial (WJOG 12119L)

3.) Transcatheter vs. Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Women: The RHEIA Trial

4.) A Guide for Transition from Cardiothoracic Surgery Training to Practice

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Totally Endoscopic Triple Valve Surgery: AVR, MVr, TVr

2.) Redo Aortic Valve Replacement Through a Ministernotomy  

3.) The Atrium: ECMO

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Webinar Series: Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery—Advancement Through Collaboration

2.) Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery Series: The Swiss Army Knife Approach

3.) Aortic Valve Replacement Series 

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Cristiano Spadaccio, an attending cardiac surgeon and associate professor of surgery at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Ohio, USA, about totally tissue-engineered valves for tricuspid replacement.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:48 Tissue-Engineered Valves

05:48 Compensatory Sweating After BETS

10:05 5Y Outcomes TAVR vs SAVR

13:34 ChatGPT CT Surgery Insights

17:24 Retraction Speed Pain RC Trial

21:21 Ross Procedure, All-Native Valve

25:43 Endoscopic Mechanical MVR

28:10 Double Patch Double Valve Exploration

31:42 Dr. Spadaccio, Generative Valves

50:38 Upcoming Events

51:52 Closing

They focus on the CorMatrix Cor TRICUSPID ECM Valve, including the technique for valve implantation, the functionality of the valve and its underlying concept, and the valve’s history, particularly its applications in pediatric patients. The episode features videos and photos showcasing the valve, the implantation procedure, and more. Additionally, they discuss the critical role of identifying the papillary muscle in this surgery and whether an anoplasty ring is necessary. They also explore the current status of the valve and its future prospects.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the long-term outcomes and predictors of compensatory sweating after bilateral endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, five-year outcomes after transcatheter or surgical aortic valve replacement in low-risk patients with aortic stenosis, navigating the future of pediatric cardiovascular surgery using Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT), and a randomized controlled trial on retraction speed and chronic poststernotomy pain.

In addition, Joel explores the Ross procedure using the right atrial appendage valve instead of a homograft, totally endoscopic mechanical mitral valve repair, and an exploration on reoperation technique for double patch double valve with Drs. Leonard Lee and Vince Gaudiani. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Long-Term Outcomes and Predictors of Compensatory Sweating After Bilateral Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy

2.) 5-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter or Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis

3.) Navigating the Future of Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery: Insights and Innovation Powered by Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT)

4.) Retraction Speed and Chronic Poststernotomy Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Ross Procedure Using the Right Atrial Appendage Valve Instead of a Homograft: An All-Native Valve Approach

2.) Totally Endoscopic Mechanical Mitral Valve Repair

3.) Reoperation Technique for Double Patch Double Valve: An Exploration With Leonard Lee and Vince Gaudiani

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery Series: The Swiss Army Knife Approach

2.) Expert Discussion Videos

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Jose Fernandes from the Department of Clinical Perfusion at Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, UK, about extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:47 History

04:46 Basics

09:58 Circuit

14:09 Cannulation

22:44 Indications for Use

28:14 VV ECMO

32:18 VA ECMO

36:44 Monitoring

42:31 Complications

47:03 ECMO CPR

49:17 Trainee Tips

50:57 Guest Advice

They discuss cannulation, general indications and contraindications, venovenous (VV) ECMO, venoarterial (VA) ECMO, peripheral VA ECMO, and central VA ECMO. They also explore monitoring, cardiac function monitoring in VA ECMO, complications, ECMO cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and important tips for trainees.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s one-year anniversary episode with a very special guest.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang, the Surgical Director of Mitral Valve and Heart Failure Therapies at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, Edgewood, Kentucky, USA, about totally endoscopic cardiac surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:17 Minimal Access Bedside Cardiac

04:37 Lung Cancer, Histological Subtype

09:29 TAVR vs SAVR, AS & CAD

12:22 Biopros TVR Outcomes

15:48 Mitral Annular Disjunction, MVR

18:47 Ozaki Technique, AV Reconst

20:46 Redo LVOT Reconst for Endocarditis

22:33 Totally Endoscopic ASD Closure TVR

24:08 Dr. Castillo-Sang, MI Bedside Endoscopy

40:51 Closing

They explore key highlights from Dr. Castillo-Sang’s CTSNet series Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery Series: The Swiss Army Knife Approach, his journey in performing endoscopic surgeries, and how he learned the techniques. Dr. Castillo-Sang shares the advantages of endoscopic surgery, as well as tips and recommendations for those wanting to learn this approach. He emphasizes the importance of the instruments he has worked with, detailing how these have improved over time. Additionally, they explore Dr. Castillo-Sang’s involvement with the Endoscopic Cardiac Surgeons Club, discussing how he got involved and providing details about the club’s upcoming annual meeting.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on the estimated worldwide variation and trends in incidence of lung cancer by histological subtype in 2022 and over time, transcatheter vs surgical aortic valve replacement in Medicare beneficiaries with aortic stenosis and coronary artery disease, long-term outcomes after bioprosthetic tricuspid valve replacement, and outcomes of patients with mitral annular disjunction undergoing mitral valve repair.

In addition, Joel explores aortic valve reconstruction using the Ozaki technique, redo LVOT reconstruction for endocarditis, and totally endoscopic ASD closure with tricuspid valve repair. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Estimated Worldwide Variation and Trends in Incidence of Lung Cancer by Histological Subtype in 2022 and Over Time: A Population-Based Study

2.) Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Medicare Beneficiaries With Aortic Stenosis and Coronary Artery Disease

3.) Long-Term Outcomes After Bioprosthetic Tricuspid Valve Replacement: A Multicenter Study

4.) Outcomes of Patients With Mitral Annular Disjunction Undergoing Mitral Valve Repair

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Aortic Valve Reconstruction—The Ozaki Technique

2.) Redo LVOT Reconstruction for Endocarditis

3.) Totally Endoscopic ASD Closure With Tricuspid Valve Repair

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery Series: The Swiss Army Knife Approach

2.) Endoscopic Cardiac Surgeons Club

3.) Mini Heart Valves

4.) Aortic Valve Replacement Series 

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning examines the first-ever transcontinental uniportal thoracic surgery.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:26 100th Episode, Future

03:01 Transcontinental Uniportal Robotics

09:52 Infective Endo in Octogenerians

12:39 Kidney Replacement Therapy, Cardiac Outcomes

15:50 Stenotic Lesions Simulation

18:59 One-Lung Ventilation, Difficult Airway

21:06 Simplified Approach to Bentall Procedure

24:25 Semi-Skeletonized Harvesting ITA

27:06 AVR and AAR in 85 YO

30:30 Swiss Army Knife Approach Series

32:21 AATS 2025

32:38 Closing

He explores the details of this significant case—location, latency, and the procedure performed—while highlighting the importance of this case, the future of robotics, and the surgeons behind this operation, Dr. Diego Gonzalez Rivas and Dr. Mugurel Bosînceanu. He also discusses Dr. Gonzalez Rivas’s new book, Healing the World, and its impact on the field of medicine.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on infective endocarditis in octogenarians, national outcomes of cardiac surgery in patients receiving kidney replacement therapy, computational fluid dynamics to simulate stenotic lesions in coronary end-to-side anastomosis, and the management of the expected difficult airway with planned one-lung ventilation.

In addition, Joel explores a simplified approach to the Bentall procedure, semi-skeletonized harvesting of internal thoracic arteries, and aortic valve replacement and ascending aortic replacement in an 85-year-old patient. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Infective Endocarditis in Octogenarians—A Multicenter Analysis

2.) National Outcomes of Cardiac Surgery in Patients Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy

3.) Computational Fluid Dynamics to Simulate Stenotic Lesions in Coronary End-to-Side Anastomosis

4.) Management of the Expected Difficult Airway With Planned One-Lung Ventilation: A Retrospective Analysis of 44 Cases

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) A Simplified Approach to the Bentall Procedure

2.) Semi-Skeletonized Harvesting of Internal Thoracic Arteries

3.) Aortic Valve Replacement and Ascending Aortic Replacement in an 85-Year-Old Patient

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery Series: The Swiss Army Knife Approach

2.) Aortic Valve Replacement Series 

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Professor Robert Sneyd, Vice Chair of Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland, about the charity’s dedication to promoting awareness of aortic dissection.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:52 RLAAO Isolated MR Study

09:07 Early Outcomes Reop Aortic Root

11:39 Fallot and Its Variants

16:55 Low-Dose Warfarin, Mech AV

22:02 AVR w LIMA-LAD & AAR

23:40 Pulm Thromboendarterectomy

25:28 Modified Birmingham Technique

27:32 Dr. Sneyd, Aortic Dissection Awareness

31:16 Upcoming Events

32:33 Closing

They discuss Professor Sneyd’s experience with an acute Type A aortic dissection and the lifesaving operation he underwent. Additionally, they explore his involvement with Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland and the charity’s new programs. They also cover the organization’s outreach efforts and the important patient guide available on their website.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on mortality and stroke after routine left atrial appendage occlusion in patients undergoing isolated mitral repair without atrial fibrillation in the United States, if early outcomes of reoperative aortic root surgery is impacted by previous root procedures and indicate reintervention, Fallot and its variants from diagnosis to pulmonary valve replacement, and low-dose warfarin with a novel mechanical aortic valve.

In addition, Joel explores aortic valve replacement with LIMA to LAD artery and an ascending aortic replacement, step-by-step pulmonary thromboendarterectomy for chronic thromboembolic disease, and Norwood-Sano Stage I palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Mortality and Stroke After Routine Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Patients Undergoing Isolated Mitral Repair Without Atrial Fibrillation in the United States

2.) Are Early Outcomes of Reoperative Aortic Root Surgery Impacted by Previous Root Procedure and Indication for Reintervention?

3.) Fallot and Its Variants: From Diagnosis to Pulmonary Valve Replacement

4.) Low-Dose Warfarin With a Novel Mechanical Aortic Valve: Interim Registry Results at 5-Year Follow-Up

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Aortic Valve Replacement With LIMA to LAD Artery and an Ascending Aortic Replacement

2.) Step-by-Step Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy for Chronic Thromboembolic Disease

3.) Norwood-Sano Stage I Palliation for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: The Modified Birmingham Technique

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland Website

2.) Webinar Series: Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery—Advancement Through Collaboration

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Salim Aziz, thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon and clinical professor at George Washington University, about computed tomography (CT) scan-negative type A dissection.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:57 Dr. Aziz Preview

02:01 Bringing International Colleagues to Centers

07:01 Ambulation Protocol ECMO

09:12 COPD Severity, Aortic Aneurysm

11:37 Robotic Mitral Repair Learning Curve

15:43 Ross Procedure in Neonates, Analysis

19:21 Tirone David Keynote

21:52 AVR 101

23:08 Robotic Beating-Heart TECAB: LIMA-LAD

25:17 Dr. Aziz, CT Scan-Negative Type A Dissection

43:52 Closing

They discuss Dr. Aziz’s experience with cases that present as CT scan-negative, discussing the details of these cases and the concerning frequency with which aortic dissections are overlooked. They also explore routine transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) in the operating room, finding tears, and aortic aneurysms.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on the ambulation protocol for adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, if the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is associated with adverse outcomes after open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair, the learning curve of robotic mitral repair, and long-term outcomes following the Ross procedure in neonates and infants.

In addition, Joel explores a 2024 London Core Review Cardiothoracic Surgery Course on “Surgical Treatments of Aortic Root Aneurysms,” aortic valve replacement 101 through an upper ministernotomy, and robotic beating-heart totally endoscopic coronary bypass. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Ambulation Protocol for Adult Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Quality Improvement Initiative

2.) The Severity of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Is Associated With Adverse Outcomes After Open Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

3.) Learning Curve of Robotic Mitral Repair: Prospective Two-Centre Study of Proficiency and Clinical Outcomes

4.) Long-Term Outcomes Following the Ross Procedure in Neonates and Infants: A Multi-Institutional Analysis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Surgical Treatments of Aortic Root Aneurysms: 2024 London Core Review Cardiothoracic Surgery Course

2.) Aortic Valve Replacement 101 Through an Upper Ministernotomy

3.) Robotic Beating-Heart Totally Endoscopic Coronary Bypass (TECAB): LIMA to LAD

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Putative Computed Tomography Scan-Negative Type A Dissection

2.) Webinar Series: Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery—Advancement Through Collaboration

3.) President's Series With Husam Balkhy | ISMICS President

4.) London Core Review Registration

5.) Career Center

6.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning recaps two presentations delivered at the Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain and Ireland Annual Meeting 2025.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:57 "Teamship," Sir Woodward

09:23 Virtual Surgery Training, Dr. Ahmed

12:55 Upcoming Lung Surgery Trials

14:48 Needle Aspiration & Forceps Biopsy

17:26 Approaches to Clinical Trial Designs

22:10 Noninvasive Ventilation Cardiac Impact

24:59 Lung Volume Reduction, Severe Emphysema

29:22 How To—Upper Ministernotomy

30:45 Valve-Sparing ARR Using Reimplant Tech

32:02 ARCA Management Exploration

33:59 Upcoming Events

34:41 WTS Webinar Series

35:32 Closing

The first presentation was delivered by Sir Clive Woodward, the Rugby World Cup-winning coach, who gave an inspiring talk on "Teamship" and winning behaviors. The second presentation that Joel recaps was delivered by Professor Shafi Ahmed, a multiaward-winning surgeon and an evangelist for augmented and virtual reality, who discussed livestreaming operations, using virtual reality in surgical operations, and virtual medical school.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on the diagnostic yield and synergistic impact of needle aspiration and forceps biopsy with electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy for peripheral pulmonary lesions, the challenges of conventional and novel approaches to clinical trial designs in cardiovascular medicine, the impact of noninvasive ventilation before and after cardiac surgery for preventing cardiac and pulmonary complications, and surgical and bronchoscopic lung volume reduction for severe emphysema.

In addition, Joel explores how to perform an upper ministernotomy, valve-sparing aortic root replacement using the reimplantation technique, and an exploration of anomalous right coronary artery management with Drs. Sameh Said and Vince Gaudiani. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Diagnostic Yield and Synergistic Impact of Needle Aspiration and Forceps Biopsy With Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions (CONFIDENT-ENB)

2.) Challenges of Conventional and Novel Approaches to Clinical Trial Designs in Cardiovascular Medicine

3.) Impact of Noninvasive Ventilation Before and After Cardiac Surgery for Preventing Cardiac and Pulmonary Complications

4.) Surgical and Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction for Severe Emphysema: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) How to Perform an Upper Ministernotomy

2.) Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement Using the Reimplantation Technique

3.) Anomalous Right Coronary Artery Management: An Exploration With Sameh Said and Vince Gaudiani

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Webinar Series: Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery—Advancement Through Collaboration

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Thomas D'Amico about VATS lobectomy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:47 Background

04:11 Indications

04:51 Preoperative Assessment

07:12 Setup

08:21 Patient Positioning

11:26 Basics

13:36 D'Amico's Port Placement

16:46 Uniportal

22:03 Steps

22:44 Anterior-Posterior Order

25:45 Anatomy

26:45 Instruments

30:54 Pleural Dissection

31:33 Inferior Pulmonary Ligament

31:39 Pulmonary Vein

32:01 Artery/Bronchus Dissection

33:38 Nodal Resection

36:25 Tips & Tricks

38:48 Specimen Removal

39:10 Closure

40:02 Postoperative Care

45:01 Outcomes

45:31 CT Surgery Training Advice

They discuss the set-up, patient positioning, port placement, dissection of hilar structures, tips and tricks, and more. They also discuss preoperative assessment, nodal resection, specimen removal, closure, and outcomes.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on ECMO.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning examines future cardiothoracic surgery robotic systems.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:05 SCTS 2025

02:50 Intuitive Single-Port System

10:00 Other Robotics in Development

12:49 Medtronic Innovations

15:53 Tumor Air Spaces Spread

18:21 Virtual Reality Effect on Patients

19:58 MR for Isolated Leaflet Lesion

21:48 Post-Surgery Proning Obese ARS Syndrome

23:31 Robotic Bi Ortho Lung Transplant

25:51 Video Competition 2nd and 3rd Place

26:59 Repair of Bileaflet MV Prolapse

27:46 Robotic ASD Closure via LA

28:46 Upcoming Events

29:42 Women in Thoracic Surgery Webinar

30:46 Closing

He discusses the new da Vinci Single-Port surgical system, single-port robotic systems, and the cost difference between single-port and multiport robotic systems. He also examines DV5 technology, the potential of utilizing lasers in robotics, and other practices that are interested in robotic systems.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles addressing whether tumors spread through air spaces is a determinant for treatment of clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer, the effect of virtual reality on postoperative anxiety and pain in patients following cardiac surgery, long-term results of edge-to-edge and neochordal mitral repair for isolated anterior leaflet lesions, the prone position in obese patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome after cardiothoracic surgery.

In addition, Joel explores minimally invasive bilateral orthotopic lung transplant with robotic assistance, repair of bileaflet mitral valve prolapse through an upper ministernotomy, and robotic-assisted atrial septal defect closure via the left atrium. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Tumour Spread Through Air Spaces Is a Determiner for Treatment of Clinical Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Thoracoscopic Segmentectomy vs Lobectomy

2.) The Effect of Virtual Reality on Postoperative Anxiety and Pain in Patients Following Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

3.) Long-Term Results of Edge-to-Edge and Neochordal Mitral Repair for Isolated Anterior Leaflet Lesion: A Propensity Match Analysis

4.) Prone Position in Obese Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome After Cardio-Thoracic Surgery

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Minimally Invasive Bilateral Orthotopic Lung Transplant With Robotic Assistance

2.) Repair of Bileaflet Mitral Valve Prolapse Through an Upper Ministernotomy

3.) Robotic-Assisted Atrial Septal Defect Closure Via the Left Atrium: Dual Case Reports

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Webinar Series: Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery—Advancement Through Collaboration

2.) 2024 CTSNet Resident Video Competition Winners

3.) President's Series With Husam Balkhy | ISMICS President

4.) Career Center

5.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning examines how to prevent adverse publicity by patients on social media.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:01 Patient-Social Media Interaction

11:56 Lung Cancer Screening Recommendations

15:29 Perc vs Surg Revasc, SWEDEHEART Registry

18:06 Down Syndrome Patient Outcomes

19:20 Nighttime Cardiovascular Staffing Impact

23:42 Samurai Cannulation

28:30 Off-Pump AAD Via Upper Ministernotomy

30:35 Robotic Thoracic Truncal Vagotomy

31:59 Upcoming Events

33:02 Closing

He explores the benefits and drawbacks of patient groups on social media, explains how social media impacted the Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, and provides examples of online patient groups. He also discusses whether surgeons should encourage patients to post on social media, what roles surgeons should have in online patient groups, and discusses his own experience with online patient groups.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on lung cancer screening and USPSTF recommendations, percutaneous vs. surgical revascularization of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with multivessel disease, outcomes in adult congenital heart disease patients with Down syndrome undergoing a cardiac surgical procedure, and the impact of nighttime cardiovascular intensive care unit staffing on failure to rescue and revenue.

In addition, Joel explores Samurai (the Direct True Lumen Technique) cannulation in acute type I aortic dissection, off-pump aortic arch debranching via upper ministernotomy, and robotic thoracic truncal vagotomy. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Lung Cancer Screening and USPSTF Recommendations

2.) Percutaneous vs. Surgical Revascularization of Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction With Multivessel Disease: The SWEDEHEART Registry

3.) Outcomes in Adult Congenital Heart Disease Patients With Down Syndrome Undergoing a Cardiac Surgical Procedure

4.) Impact of Nighttime Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit Staffing on Failure to Rescue and Revenue

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Samurai (the Direct True Lumen Technique) Cannulation in Acute Type I Aortic Dissection

2.) Off-Pump Aortic Arch Debranching Via Upper Ministernotomy

3.) Robotic Thoracic Truncal Vagotomy

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning examines surgical staplers. He explores the history of surgical staplers, the evolution of surgical staplers, and discusses the company that created the first automated minimally invasive surgical stapler—United States Surgical Corporation (USSC). He also discusses details about the AutoSuture Premium Poly stapler and why it is still being created. Joel also shares details about when he visited a production line that is responsible for creating surgical staplers. He discusses his experience and his highlights from this event, which includes meeting Dr. Rene Petersen and Dr. Laurens Ceulemans.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on heart transplantation and donation after circulatory death in children, priorities for medical device regulatory approval, transplantation of a genetically modified porcine heart into a live human, and mechanisms of repair failure after mitral valve repair using chordal replacement.

In addition, Joel explores treating intractable hiccups by clipping the phrenic nerve using VATS, robotic totally endoscopic CryoMaze ablation under ventricular fibrillatory arrest, and a new podcast episode from Dr. Alice Copperwheat, “The Atrium: Internal Mammary Artery Harvesting,” with expert guest Dr. David Taggart. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Heart Transplantation and Donation After Circulatory Death in Children. A Review of the Technological, Logistical and Ethical Framework

2.) Priorities for Medical Device Regulatory Approval: A Report From the European Society of Cardiology Cardiovascular Round Table

3.) Transplantation of a Genetically Modified Porcine Heart Into a Live Human

4.) Mechanisms of Repair Failure After Mitral Valve Repair Using Chordal Replacement

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Treating Intractable Hiccups by Clipping the Phrenic Nerve Using VATS

2.) The Atrium: Internal Mammary Artery Harvesting

3.) Robotic Totally Endoscopic Cryo-Maze Ablation Under Ventricular Fibrillatory Arrest

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Mujtaba Mubashir, CTSNet JANS editor and surgical resident at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, about being a JANS editor. They discuss what JANS is, their favorite part about JANS, and their favorite articles. They also explore highlights from the 61st Society of Thoracic Surgeons Annual Meeting, including how to manage chest tubes after surgery and their favorite part of the meeting. Joel also shares details about his recent trip to Accra, Ghana, for the first Pan-African Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery (PASCaTS) and Global Heart Forum summit. He discusses different organizations, including Emergency NGO Sudan and Every Heartbeat Matters, examines various mission models, and discusses patients and surgeons he met at the summit.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on moving toward standardization in robotic lung transplants, how single lung transplantation is safe when the other lung is declined, perioperative outcomes and survival of modified subxiphoid video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery thymectomy for T2-3 thymic malignancies, and robotic thoracic surgery using the single-port robotic system.

In addition, Joel explores how to replace a severely calcified mitral valve, preoperative management of patients at high risk for recurrent laryngeal nerve injury during esophagectomy, and a presentation from the 10th Annual International Coronary Congress, “Maintaining CABG as a Gold Standard in 2024.” Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Towards Standardization in Robotic Lung Transplant: A Novel Approach in Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery

2.) Single Lung Transplantation Is Safe When the Other Lung Is Declined

3.) Perioperative Outcomes and Survival of Modified Subxiphoid Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Thymectomy for T2-3 Thymic Malignancies: A Retrospective Comparison Study

4.) Robotic Thoracic Surgery Using the Single-Port Robotic System: Initial Experience With More Than 100 Cases

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) How to Replace a Severely Calcified Mitral Valve

2.) ICC 2024 | Maintaining CABG as a Gold Standard In 2024

3.) Preoperative Management of Patients at High Risk for Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury During Esophagectomy

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Utter Shock as Unreel Robotics Stuns the World of Surgery With the World’s First Fully Autonomous Soft Tissue Surgical Robot

2.) Career Center

3.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. David Taggart about internal mammary artery harvesting. They discuss indications, patient preparation, internal thoracic artery anatomy, and key steps—sternotomy, free parietal pleura, incised endothoracic fascia, cutting of IMA, and more. They also discuss the pedicled technique, the skeletonized technique, and complications.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on VATS lobectomy.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Husam Balkhy, Professor of Surgery and the Director of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery at University of Chicago Medicine and President of The International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS), about robotic totally endoscopic cardiac surgery procedures. They discuss potential ways to get the world to perform more robot-assisted surgeries, the building blocks to learning robotics, the future of learning robotics, and what to expect this year at the ISMICS 2025 Annual Meeting. They also explore Dr. Balkhy’s new President’s Series on CTSNet and provide insights into the first video of this series. Joel also highlights some of the videos in the CTSNet Resident Video Competition and the robotics vs VATS debate in Britain.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on the impact of restricted chests on long-term lung function parameters following lung transplantation in patients with interstitial lung disease, determinants of inadequate cardioprotection in adult patients with left ventricular dysfunction, engineered heart muscle allografts for heart repair in primates and humans, and risk factor analysis for 30-day mortality after surgery for infective endocarditis.

In addition, Joel explores open repair of descending thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms, totally 3D endoscopic third tricuspid valve replacement, and how to use the Impella for on-pump CABG in patients with low EF. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) The Impact of Restricted Chests on Long-Term Lung Function Parameters Following Lung Transplantation in Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease 

2.) Determinants of Inadequate Cardioprotection in Adult Patients With Left Ventricular Dysfunction

3.) Engineered Heart Muscle Allografts for Heart Repair in Primates and Humans

4.) Risk Factor Analysis for 30-Day Mortality After Surgery for Infective Endocarditis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Open Repair of Descending Thoracic and Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

2.) Totally 3D Endoscopic Third Tricuspid Valve Replacement

3.) ICC 2024 | How I Use the Impella for On-Pump CABG in Patients With Low EF: Insertion, Intraoperative Management, and Weaning/Removal

Other Items Mentioned

1.) President's Series With Husam Balkhy | ISMICS President

2.) ISMICS 2025 Annual Meeting

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Tom D’Amico, professor and vice chairman of surgery and chief medical officer of the Duke Cancer Institute, about oligometastatic disease. They discuss the current updates of oligometastatic disease, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) guidelines on the surgical management of oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer, and the importance of choosing the right patient. They also explore where the new boundaries of this procedure are, radiation therapy, and shared decision-making. Joel also highlights a surgical robot (spaceMIRA) at the International Space Station that completed its first surgery demo in zero gravity, the state of lung transplants in the United Kingdom, and the Priority Setting Partnership (PSP).

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on perioperative extra corporeal membrane oxygenation in neonates with transposition of the great arteries, a randomized controlled trial on the effects of postoperative glucocorticoids on mitigation of organ dysfunction in patients with Type A aortic dissection, if socioeconomic factors impair uptake of neoadjuvant therapy for patients with locoregional esophageal cancer, and a nationwide analysis on malperfusion in patients with acute Type A aortic dissection.

In addition, Joel explores a case report on a chest injury with an arrow penetrating the right lung with rent in the right atrium, an interview with Marko Turina, and an Onyx mechanical mitral valve replacement after previous mitral repair. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Perioperative Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Neonates With Transposition of the Great Arteries: 15 Years of Experience

2.) Effects of Postoperative Glucocorticoids on Mitigation of Organ Dysfunction in Patients With Type A Aortic Dissection: A Randomized Controlled Trial

3.) Do Socioeconomic Factors Impair Uptake of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Patients With Locoregional Oesophageal Cancer?

4.) Malperfusion in Patients with Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: A Nationwide Analysis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Injury to the Chest With an Arrow Penetrating the Right Lung With Rent in the Right Atrium: A Case Report

2.) Giants in CT Surgery: An Interview With Marko Turina

3.) Redo Mitral Surgery: Onyx Mechanical Mitral Valve Replacement After Previous Mitral Repair 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Clinical Practice Guideline on Surgical Management of Oligometastatic Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

2.) Surgery in Space: Tiny Remotely Operated Robot Completes First Simulated Procedure at the Space Station

3.) Career Center

4.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with Dr. Vinay Badhwar, the current vice president of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), about his groundbreaking achievement in combining robotic aortic valve replacement (AVR) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) through a single small incision. They discuss the background and premise of this technique, the process of taking this technique from an idea to performing it on a patient, differences between this approach and other cardiac approaches, and the future of cardiac surgery. They also explore the first operation performed using this technique in immense detail with visuals of the procedure.

Joel also highlights recent JANS articles on multisociety endorsement of the 2024 European guideline recommendations on coronary revascularization and bioprosthetic vs mechanical aortic valve replacement in patients 40-75 years. He also reviews short- and long-term outcomes of lung transplantation from brain death vs circulatory death donors and intracavitary cisplatin-fibrin followed by irradiation improved tumor control compared to the single treatments in a mesothelioma rat model.

In addition, Joel explores a Dacron graft double inversion for ascending aorta surgery, a redo mitral valve surgery with previous aortic valve replacement, and a right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm causing right ventricular tract obstruction. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Multisociety Endorsement of the 2024 European Guideline Recommendations on Coronary Revascularization

2.) Bioprosthetic vs Mechanical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients 40-75 Years

3.) Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Lung Transplantation From Brain Death vs. Circulatory Death Donors: A Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies

4.) Intracavitary Cisplatin-Fibrin Followed by Irradiation Improved Tumor Control Compared to the Single Treatments in a Mesothelioma Rat Model

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Dacron Graft Double Inversion for Ascending Aorta Surgery

2.) Redo Mitral Valve Surgery With Previous Aortic Valve Replacement

3.) Right Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm Causing Right Ventricular Tract Obstruction

Other Items Mentioned

1.) CTSNet Career Center

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Kim Thompson about cardiopulmonary bypass. They discuss cardiopulmonary bypass setup, the equipment—cannulas, reservoir container, pumps, heat exchangers, oxygenators, cardioplegia, adjuncts—preparation, priming, and heparinization. They also discuss cannulation, going on bypass, maintenance of bypass, coming off bypass, and complications.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on internal mammary artery harvesting.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning recaps The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. He discusses Dr. Jennifer Romano’s presidential address, remarks from incoming STS president, Dr. Joseph F. Sabik III, and the keynote addresses by Dr. Jennifer A. Dounda and photographer, filmmaker, and educator Ami Vitale. Joel also shares his top presentation picks from the meeting, including “Bioprosthetic vs Mechanical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients 40-75 Years” by Dr. Vinay Badhwar, “DOAC for Mechanical AVR” by Dr. Joon Bum Kim, and “Surgeon Frequency for Multiarterial Grafting and 19-Year Outcomes After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Over One Million Medicare Beneficiaries” by Dr. Justin Schaffer. Additionally, he covers the STS Evidence-Based Guidelines, an AI tool for medical information called OpenEvidence, and STS TV.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement in patients younger than 65 years in the United States, post-implant transcatheter aortic prosthesis deformation, redo surgical aortic valve replacement for bioprosthetic structural valve deterioration, and five-year outcomes in low-risk patients undergoing surgery in the PARTNER 3 trial.

In addition, Joel explores a hybrid debranching of aortic arch branches and endovascular repair of the aneurysm of the aortic arch and the thoracic aorta, handmade valved woven Dacron conduits as an alternative for repair of congenital heart defects, and how to remove a bioprosthetic mitral valve replacement. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Younger Than 65 Years in the US

2.) Post-Implant Transcatheter Aortic Prosthesis Deformation: Tricuspid Versus Bicuspid Valve

3.) Redo Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement for Bioprosthetic Structural Valve Deterioration

4.) Five Year Outcomes in Low-Risk Patients Undergoing Surgery in the PARTNER 3 Trial

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Hybrid Debranching of Aortic Arch Branches and Endovascular Repair of the Aneurysm of the Aortic Arch and the Thoracic Aorta

2.) Handmade Valved Woven Dacron Conduits as an Alternative for Repair of Congenital Heart Defects

3.) Redo Mitral Valve Surgery: How to Remove a Bioprosthetic Mitral Valve Replacement 

Other Items Mentioned

1.) STS TV

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning explores the balance between the risks and benefits of holding The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. He discusses Dr. Jennifer Romano’s address on the STS 2025 meeting, the ongoing fires in LA, and potential ways to support the city. Dunning also emphasizes the importance of hosting annual meetings, explores alternative options for the event, and highlights the relief fund. Additionally, he provides a preview of the pre-conference symposia and two keynote addresses that will take place at the annual meeting.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on women in cardiac surgery, the European Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons future view on robotic cardiac surgery in Europe, aortic valve replacement versus clinical surveillance in asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis, and robotic-assisted versus video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for thymic epithelial tumors.

In addition, Joel explores a truncus arteriosus repair with modified Barbero Marcial technique with reconstruction of neopulmonary valve with RAA, redo endoscopic left ventricular mass removal, and implantation of a modified Micra Pediatric Implantable Pulse Generator for epicardial pacing. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Women in Cardiac Surgery: A Global Workforce Analysis

2.) European Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons Future View on Robotic Cardiac Surgery in Europe

3.) Aortic Valve Replacement vs Clinical Surveillance in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

4.) Robotic-Assisted Versus Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Thymic Epithelial Tumours, From the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Truncus Arteriosus Repair With Modified Barbero Marcial Technique With Reconstruction of Neo-Pulmonary Valve With RAA

2.) Redo Endoscopic Left Ventricular Mass Removal

3.) Implantation of a Modified Micra Pediatric Implantable Pulse Generator for Epicardial Pacing

Other Items Mentioned

1.) STS 2025 Update: Dr. Jennifer Romano

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning dives into the best resources available for cardiothoracic surgery professionals. He highlights key websites, including The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS), The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS), and CTSNet, offering valuable insights into each platform’s offerings. Joel also explores some lesser known yet valuable resources, such as the American Heart Association (AHA), YouTube, Vimeo, and Doximity. Additionally, he discusses the groundbreaking achievement of the world’s first robotic cardiac telesurgery, performed by Sudhir Srivastava of SS Innovations.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on the presentation and outcomes of women and men undergoing surgery for degenerative mitral regurgitation, surgical aortic annulus enlargement with a balloon catheter, lung transplant outcomes in recipients of advanced age, and the impact of three-dimensional imaging and printing on septal myectomy results.

In addition, Joel explores a mitral valve replacement for rheumatic heart disease through an upper hemisternotomy, an inclusion Ross procedure with hemiarch repair using antegrade cerebral perfusion, and an interview with Dr. Ali Dodge-Khatami on minimal invasive repairs of congenital heart defects. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Presentation and Outcomes of Women and Men Undergoing Surgery for Degenerative Mitral Regurgitation

2.) Dealing With the Aortic Annulus: Surgical Aortic Annulus Enlargement With a Balloon Catheter

3.) Lung Transplant Outcomes in Recipients of Advanced Age: Are Two Always Better Than One?

4.) Impact of Three-Dimensional Imaging and Printing on Septal Myectomy Results—Single Centre’s Experience

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) A Mitral Valve Replacement for Rheumatic Heart Disease Through an Upper Hemisternotomy

2.) Inclusion Ross Procedure With Hemiarch Repair Using Antegrade Cerebral Perfusion: The Modified Starnes Technique

3.) Minimal Invasive Repairs of Congenital Heart Defects: An Interview With Ali Dodge-Khatami

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning had the opportunity to speak with the new Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (JACS), Dr. Tom Varghese, Jr. They discuss the types of journals and articles JACS publishes, hints and tips for submitting to JACS, and the future of JACS. They also discuss experiment reproducibility, negative clinical trials, and what studies should be conducted in the future.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on lung transplant outcome from selected older donors (≥70 years) equals younger donors (<70 years), initial experience with the da Vinci single-port system in patients with an anterior mediastinal mass, why and when do we invasively restage after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, and harmonizing guidelines and other clinical practice documents.

In addition, Joel explores a new episode of The Atrium with Dr. Alice Copperwheat and Dr. Valerie Rusch on finding success in surgery training and a presentation by Dr. Shaf Keshavjee on “Ex Vivo and In Vivo Systems to Support, Treat, and Engineer Organs.” Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Lung Transplant Outcome From Selected Older Donors (≥70 Years) Equals Younger Donors (<70 Years)

2.) Initial Experience With the da Vinci Single-Port System in Patients With an Anterior Mediastinal Mass

3.) Why and When Do We Invasively Restage After Neoadjuvant Chemoimmunotherapy?

4.) Harmonizing Guidelines and Other Clinical Practice Documents: A Joint Comprehensive Methodology Manual by the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS), European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS), European Society of Thoracic Surgeons

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) The Atrium: Finding Success in Surgery Training

2.) ASAIO 2024 | Ex Vivo and In Vivo Systems to Support, Treat, and Engineer Organs

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning reflects on the most popular content of 2024 at CTSNet. He discusses the top interview, the most popular guest editor series, and reveals the leading CTSNet contributor of the year. He also looks at the top clinical videos in cardiac, congenital, and thoracic surgery, as well as the most-read JANS articles and the editors’ top picks.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on cutibacterium acnes infective endocarditis, long-term outcomes of antegrade thoracic stent grafting during repair of acute DeBakey I dissection, comparing right- versus left-first implantation in off-pump sequential double-lung transplantation, and the impact of patient-prosthesis mismatch on long-term outcomes after aortic valve replacement. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Cutibacterium Acnes Infective Endocarditis—An Emerging Pathogen

2.) Long-Term Outcomes of Antegrade Thoracic Stent Grafting During Repair of Acute DeBakey I Dissection

3.) Comparing Right- Versus Left-First Implantation in Off-Pump Sequential Double-Lung Transplantation: An Observational Cohort Study

4.) Impact of Patient-Prosthesis Mismatch on Long-Term Outcomes After Aortic Valve Replacement

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) CTSNet Summarized—Most Popular Content of 2024

2.) CTSNet Summarized—Top Cardiac Procedure Videos of 2024

3.) CTSNet Summarized—Top Congenital and Thoracic Procedure Videos of 2024 

4.) CTSNet Summarized—Top JANS Articles of 2024  

5.) CABG With a Long LAD Endarterectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, Dr. Alice Copperwheat explores finding success in surgery training with expert guest Dr. Valerie Rusch. They discuss Dr. Rusch’s career background—personal highlights, career hurdles, finding her path in cardiothoracic surgery—barriers in cardiothoracic surgery, time management and responsibilities, and recognizing opportunities. They also discuss what Dr. Rusch would have done differently in her career, flexible mentoring, and advice for trainees.

The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on internal mammary artery harvesting.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning pays tribute to the late-cardiac surgeon Albert Starr. He discusses Dr. Starr’s personal and professional life, his accomplishments, and the Starr-Edwards valve. He also discusses the background of CTSNet, provides a quick statistics review of CTSNet, and the CTSNet career center.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on heart surgeons performing the world’s first combined robotic AVR and CABG, the prevalence of invasive lung cancer in pure ground glass nodules less than 30 mm, external validation of EuroSCORE I and II in patients with infective endocarditis, and totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass graft.

In addition, Joel explores robotic-assisted tracheobronchoplasty, spontaneously closed VSD presenting as an Iatrogenic Gerbodie defect, and single leaflet neocuspidization for aortic regurgitation due to infective endocarditis in adult congenital heart disease. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Heart Surgeons Perform World’s First Combined Robotic AVR and CABG

2.) Prevalence of Invasive Lung Cancer in Pure Ground Glass Nodules Less Than 30 mm: A Systematic Review

3.) External Validation of EuroSCORE I and II in Patients With Infective Endocarditis: Results From a Nationwide Prospective Registry

4.) Totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass Graft: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Reconstructed Patient-Level Data

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic-Assisted Tracheobronchoplasty: A Quick Way to Fix the Airway

2.) Spontaneously Closed VSD Presenting as an Iatrogenic Gerbodie Defect

3.) Single Leaflet Neocuspidization for Aortic Regurgitation Due to Infective Endocarditis in Adult Congenital Heart Disease

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning spoke with DuyKhanh P. Ceppa about the new Women in Thoracic Surgery (WTS) fellowship. They discuss the goals of this program, who should apply, and how you can contribute to the funding for this program. They also discuss the advantages of leadership programs and the WTS Annual Meeting. Joel also highlights how to build an incredible and happy team across many fields, the importance of a feedback loop within the team, and how to use the holidays to show appreciation for your coworkers.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on five-year outcomes after bicuspid aortic valve replacement with a novel tissue bioprosthesis, transcatheter valve replacement in severe tricuspid regurgitation, quality of life after transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement, and multicenter validation of the RESECT-90 prediction model for 90-day mortality after lung resection.

In addition, Joel explores percutaneous femoral venous cannulation, surgical removal of percutaneously placed pulmonary flow reducers, and uniportal non-ntubated VATS thoracic sympathectomy. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Five-Year Outcomes After Bicuspid Aortic Valve Replacement With a Novel Tissue Bioprosthesis

2.) Transcatheter Valve Replacement in Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation

3.) Quality of Life After Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement: One-Year Results From TRISCEND II Pivotal Trial

4.) Multicentre Validation of the RESECT-90 Prediction Model for 90-Day Mortality After Lung Resection

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Percutaneous Femoral Venous Cannulation—How to Do It

2.) Surgical Removal of Percutaneously Placed Pulmonary Flow Reducers

3.) Uniportal Non-Intubated VATS Thoracic Sympathectomy

Other Items Mentioned

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Expert Consensus for the Surgical Treatment of Hyperhidrosis

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses the robotic market. He explores the new FDA approval for the Johnson & Johnson robotic surgical system for clinical trials, the background of Johnson & Johnson MedTech, and the location for this trial. He also discusses the details of TAVR, what we currently know about TAVR, and highlights an article by Steve Bell that discusses his own views on Johnson & Johnson and the robotic market.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on The Society of Thoracic Surgeons expert consensus on the multidisciplinary management and resectability of locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer, a European multicenter study evaluating the prognosis of peripheral early-stage lung adenocarcinoma patients operated on by segmentectomy or lobectomy, early intervention in patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis and myocardial fibrosis, and the use of hybrid stage I to stratify between single ventricle palliation and biventricular repair.

In addition, Joel explores an off-pump ASD closure with a two-layer patch attached to the right atrium, a repair of Scimitar syndrome in a two-year-old via VRAT, and robotic-assisted carinal reconstruction using cross table ventilation. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Expert Consensus on the Multidisciplinary Management and Resectability of Locally Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

2.) European Multicentre Study Evaluating the Prognosis of Peripheral Early-Stage Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients Operated on by Segmentectomy or Lobectomy

3.) Early Intervention in Patients With Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis and Myocardial Fibrosis: The EVOLVED trial

4.) Use of Hybrid Stage I to Stratify Between Single Ventricle Palliation and Biventricular Repair

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Off-Pump ASD Closure With a Two-Layer Patch Attached to the Right Atrium

2.) Repair of Scimitar Syndrome in a Two-Year-Old Via VRAT: Pitfalls of Intra-atrial Baffle

3.) Robotic-Assisted Carinal Reconstruction Using Cross Table Ventilation—A Novel Surgical Technique

Other Items Mentioned

Why am I so tough on Johnson & Johnson and Medtronic and their surgical robotic programs?

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, Dr. Alice Copperwheat explores bronchoscopy with expert guest Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse. They discuss indications, contraindications, types of bronchoscopies (flexible versus rigid), and the benefits of utilizing the rigid technique over the flexible technique. They also discuss the fundamentals of bronchoscopy—equipment, preprocedural checklists, and positioning—details on how to perform the procedure, complications, and the future of bronchoscopy.

Don’t forget that The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for the next episode featuring a discussion with Dr. Valerie Rusch.

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses the latest salaries and conditions of cardiothoracic surgeons in the United States. He explores the highest versus lowest compensation areas, areas with the highest growth for compensation, and where cardiothoracic surgeons rank among other surgeons. He also highlights the highest paid specialties, burnout rates, early retirement, and noncompete clauses.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on transcatheter aortic valve replacement for asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis, transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with systolic heart failure and moderate aortic stenosis, valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement versus isolated redo surgical aortic valve replacement, and the seven pillars of techniques to treat and repair tricuspid endocarditis.

In addition, Joel explores surgical aortic annulus enlargement using a balloon technique, quadruple valve replacement for carcinoid heart disease, and Fontan conversion in a patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Transcatheter Aortic-Valve Replacement for Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis—EARLY TAVR Trial

2.) Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Systolic Heart Failure and Moderate Aortic Stenosis: TAVR UNLOAD

3.) Valve-in-Valve Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Versus Isolated Redo Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

4.) The Seven Pillars of Techniques to Treat and Repair Tricuspid Endocarditis

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Surgical Aortic Annulus Enlargement Using a Balloon Technique

2.) Quadruple Valve Replacement for Carcinoid Heart Disease

3.) Fontan Conversion in a Patient With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: A 38-Year-Old Norwood Saga

Other Items Mentioned

1.) Doximity Pay Report 2023

2.) CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses how to be a better trainer. He explores tips for training people, the five levels of training, and sensory overload. Later in the podcast, he further explores the topic of training trainers with Professor Mark Coleman, co-founder of Lapco, an innovative training consultancy focused on safer surgeries. They highlight details of Professor Coleman’s courses, the program’s learning curve, and how this training could be beneficial for cardiothoracic surgeons worldwide.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on clinical outcomes of mitral valve surgery in atrial functional mitral regurgitation in the REVEAL-AFMR registry, risk of transfusion in isolated coronary artery bypass graft, the efficacy of loco-regional ropivacaine analgesia via intercostal catheters after lung resection, and percutaneous transcatheter edge-to-edge repair for functional mitral regurgitation in heart failure.

In addition, Joel explores a case report of coronary stentectomy, principles of complex mitral valve repair with Leonard Lee and Vince Gaudiani, and uniportal robotic-assisted extended thymectomy. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Clinical Outcomes of Mitral Valve Surgery in Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation in the REVEAL-AFMR Registry

2.) Risk of Transfusion in Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Graft: Models Developed From The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database

3.) The Efficacy of Loco-Regional Ropivacaine Analgesia Via Intercostal Catheters After Lung Resection: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Superiority Study

4.) Percutaneous Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Functional Mitral Regurgitation in Heart Failure: A Meta-Analysis of Three RCTs

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Undressing the “Full Metal Jacket”—A Case Report of Coronary Stentectomy

2.) Principles of Complex Mitral Valve Repair: An Exploration With Leonard Lee and Vince Gaudiani

3.) Uniportal Robotic-Assisted Extended Thymectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning had the opportunity to speak with Professor Mark Redmond about the ROSS procedure at the 2024 Birmingham Review Course. They discuss the current status of the ROSS procedure, the evolution of this procedure, and its benefits. They also discuss the steps for a surgeon to become experienced enough to perform the ROSS procedure and how trainee techniques have changed.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on rigid sternal fixation and enhanced recovery for opioid-free analgesia after cardiac surgery, long-term health outcomes of young patients with low complexity coronary disease, evaluation of the nonstapling bullectomy by manual suturing for young men with primary spontaneous pneumothorax, and risk factors and early outcomes associated with prolonged pleural effusion/chylothorax after pediatric cardiac surgery.

In addition, Joel explores the Bedi-IMA buttress, transfer technique from femoro-jugular veno-venous ECMO to veno-pulmonary ECMO with a ProtekDuo cannula, and modified Lecompte combined with pulmonary valve replacement and reduction pulmonary arterioplasty for TOF/APV-like syndrome. He also shows a recent clip from Professor Enoch Akowuah and his colleagues about their first day in Ghana. Before closing, he highlights upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Rigid Sternal Fixation and Enhanced Recovery for Opioid-Free Analgesia After Cardiac Surgery

2.) Long-Term Health Outcomes of Young Patients With Low Complexity Coronary Disease: A Weighted Analysis According to Revascularization Strategy

3.) Evaluation of the Nonstapling Bullectomy by Manual Suturing for Young Men With Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax

4.) Risk Factors and Early Outcomes Associated With Prolonged Pleural Effusion/Chylothorax After Paediatric Cardiac Surgery

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) The Bedi-IMA Buttress

2.) Transfer Technique From Femoro-Jugular Veno-Venous ECMO to Veno-Pulmonary ECMO With a ProtekDuo Cannula: Step-by-Step

3.) Modified Lecompte Combined With Pulmonary Valve Replacement and Reduction Pulmonary Arterioplasty for TOF/APV-Like Syndrome

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning had the opportunity to speak with Professor Enoch Akowuah about challenges facing cardiothoracic surgery. They discuss the importance of clinical trials, the best aortic valve replacement technique, and the vision for the future of cardiothoracic surgery. They also discuss how to improve the specialty, what changes are needed in training, and the great part about being a member of a national society.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on better survival with lobectomy versus sublobar resection in patients with hypermetabolic c-stage IA lung cancer on positron emission tomography/computed tomography, right anterior minithoracotomy approach for aortic valve replacement, clinical and financial outcomes of pulmonary resection for lung cancer in safety net hospitals, and the 10 commandments for proximal anastomosis during CABG.

In addition, Joel celebrates the winners of the 2024 CTSNet Innovation Video Competition: “How to Perform MIDCAB Using BIMA,” “Mitral Valve Replacement and Coronary Revascularization Via the Left Anterior Minithoracotomy,” and “The Mitral Patch Technique for Mitral Annular Calcification (MAC).” He also discusses a recent interview with professor and surgeon Dr. Shaf Keshavjee. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Better Survival With Lobectomy Versus Sublobar Resection in Patients With Hypermetabolic C-Stage IA Lung Cancer on Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography 

2.) Right Anterior Minithoracotomy Approach for Aortic Valve Replacement

3.) Clinical and Financial Outcomes of Pulmonary Resection for Lung Cancer in Safety-Net Hospitals

4.) The 10 Commandments for Proximal Anastomosis During CABG: Techniques and Technologies for Vein and Arterial Grafts

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) How to Perform MIDCAB Using BIMA

2.) Mitral Valve Replacement and Coronary Revascularization Via the Left Anterior Minithoracotomy

3.) The Mitral Patch Technique for Mitral Annular Calcification (MAC)

4.) Keynote Speech: An Interview With Shaf Keshavjee

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Hazem Fallouh about his latest invention for diagnosing cardiac tamponade at the 2024 Birmingham Review Course. They discussed the purpose of this invention, how it went from an idea to being created, and how Dr. Hazem will get this product on the market.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on initial experience with transcatheter aortic valve replacement before and after lung transplant, a report of salaries of academic cardiothoracic surgeons based on race and ethnicity, chest wall resection and reconstruction for primary chest wall sarcomas, and seven-year outcomes following aortic valve replacement with a novel tissue bioprosthesis.

In addition, Joel explores an introduction to redo sternotomy, emergency VATS esophagectomy for T4 esophageal cancer with massive hematemesis in an elderly patient, and pectus excavatum with hemodynamic repercussion corrected by the cross-bar technique with cryoanalgesia. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Initial Experience With Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Before and After Lung Transplant

2.) A Report of Salaries of Academic Cardiothoracic Surgeons Based on Race and Ethnicity

3.) Chest Wall Resection and Reconstruction for Primary Chest Wall Sarcomas: Analysis of Survival, Predictors of Outcome, and Long-Term Functional Status

4.) Seven-Year Outcomes Following Aortic Valve Replacement With a Novel Tissue Bioprosthesis. THE COMMENCE Trial - Looking at RESILIA 

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) An Introduction to Redo Sternotomy 

2.) Emergency VATS Esophagectomy for T4 Esophageal Cancer With Massive Hematemesis in an Elderly Patient

3.) Pectus Excavatum With Hemodynamic Repercussion Corrected by the Cross-Bar Technique With Cryoanalgesia

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Donald Nuss about the NUSS procedure at the 24th Annual Congress: Chest Wall International Group and Phoenix Advanced Pectus Course 2024. They discussed how this procedure was created, how it has evolved, and bar stabilization. They also discuss treatments for pectus excavatum and the Ravitch procedure.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on real-world outcomes of lobectomy, segmentectomy and wedge resection for the treatment of stage C-IA lung carcinoma, branched stented anastomosis frozen elephant trunk repair, selection for transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement and mid-term survival, and treatment patterns and clinical outcomes of patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer receiving neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy.

In addition, Joel explores the Chrysalis technique, updates on Y-incision aortic annular enlargement, and redo mitral valve repair and left ventricular myectomy. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Real-World Outcomes of Lobectomy, Segmentectomy and Wedge Resection for the Treatment of Stage C-IA Lung Carcinoma

2.) Branched Stented Anastomosis Frozen Elephant Trunk Repair: Early Results From a Physician-Sponsored Investigational Device Exemption Study

3.) Selection for Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement and Mid-Term Survival: Results of the AUTHEARTVISIT Study

4.) Treatment Patterns and Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Resectable Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Receiving Neoadjuvant Immunochemotherapy: A Large-Scale, Multicenter, Real-World Study (NeoR-World)

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) The Chrysalis Technique: A Unique New Way to Perform an Aortic Root Replacement

2.) Updates on Y-Incision Aortic Annular Enlargement

3.) Redo Mitral Valve Repair and Left Ventricular Myectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, Dr. Alice Copperwheat explores cannulation with expert guest Dr. Vince Gaudiani. They discuss preparation, aortic cannulation, aortic cannulation complications, and aortic root vents. They also discuss atrial and venous cannulation, atrial cannulation complications, final steps, and central versus peripheral cannulation.

Don’t forget that The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on bronchoscopy.

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning explores the value of working together. He discusses the importance of working not only with others in your own specialty but with teams outside your comfort zone. He also shares examples of these situations and explains how you can learn from them.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on the impact of incomplete revascularization on long-term survival based on revascularization strategy, impact of residual entry tears in the descending aorta after type A dissection, aortic valve replacement versus conservative treatment in asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis, and potassium supplementation and prevention of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery.

In addition, Joel explores aortic valve reimplantation in a Marfan syndrome patient, aortic root replacement with a Bio-Bentall, and Cox maze III procedure and complex mitral valve repair of a calcified annulus. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Impact of Incomplete Revascularization on Long-Term Survival Based on Revascularization Strategy

2.) Impact of Residual Entry Tears in the Descending Aorta After Type A Dissection

3.) Aortic Valve Replacement vs Conservative Treatment in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis: Long-Term Follow-Up of the AVATAR

4.) Potassium Supplementation and Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery—The TIGHT K Randomized Clinical Trial

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Aortic Valve Reimplantation in a Marfan Syndrome Patient

2.) Aortic Root Replacement With a Bio-Bentall

3.) Cox Maze III Procedure and Complex Mitral Valve Repair of a Calcified Annulus 

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor-in-Chief Joel Dunning discusses the highlights of the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting and reviews several important presentations. He discusses the presentation from engineer Amy Kertok on the interdisciplinary intersection of medicine and technology, and the presidential speech delivered by Franca Melfi on perseverance. He also shares the guidelines that were presented at the meeting, including blood management, perioperative medications, myocardial revascularization and aortic.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on ultrasonic emulsification of severe mitral annular calcification to enable mitral valve repair, the perceval sutureless bioprosthetic aortic valve, impact of radiological follow-up frequency on resected lung cancer, heart transplantation after donation after circulatory death, and more.

In addition, Joel explores the world's first robotic heart transplant at the King Faisal Hospital in Riyadh, direct cannulation through right anterior mini thoracotomy for aortic valve replacement, an indigenous technique of surgical management in a case of acute on chronic type A and type B aortic dissection, and robotic-assisted left first rib resection. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Ultrasonic Emulsification of Severe Mitral Annular Calcification to Enable Mitral Valve Repair

2.) The Perceval Sutureless Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve: Evolution of Surgical Valve Technology

3.) Impact of Radiological Follow-Up Frequency on Resected Lung Cancer: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis

4.) Heart Transplantation After Donation After Circulatory Death: Early United States Experience

5.) Surgical Myocardial Revascularization with a Composite T-graft from the Left Internal Mammary Artery—Comparison of the Great Saphenous Vein with the Radial Artery

6.) SURgical vs. PERcutaneous ACCESS in Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (SU-PER-ACCESS Study)

7.) Composite End Points and Competing Risks Analysis

8.) Increased Lung Cancer Recurrence Following Transthoracic Needle Biopsy

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) The World’s First Robotic Heart Transplant at the King Faisal Hospital in Riyadh

2.) Direct Cannulation Through Right Anterior Mini Thoracotomy for Aortic Valve Replacement

3.) An Indigenous Technique of Surgical Management in a Case of Acute on Chronic Type A and Type B Aortic Dissection

4.) Robotic-Assisted Left First Rib Resection

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with EACTS Secretary General Patrick Myers about the highlights of the upcoming 38th EACTS Annual Meeting. They discuss what speakers they are looking forward to hearing from and the compelling topics that will be covered. They also share information about EACTS TV and hints and tips for those attending the meeting.

Joel also reviews recent JANS articles on mitral leaflet shortening as an ancillary procedure in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and priorities and strategy for the implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in thoracic surgery.

In addition, Joel explores a Yacoub II valve conserving operation for aortic root remodeling, robotic application of an AtriClip, and tricuspid replacement and mitral valve repair after a failed MitraClip to the tricuspid leaflets. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

The Beat is taking a quick break and will return with a new episode on October 18, 2024.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Mitral Leaflet Shortening as an Ancillary Procedure in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

2.) Priorities and Strategy for the Implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) in Thoracic Surgery

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Yacoub II Valve Conserving Operation for Aortic Root Remodeling

2.) Robotic Application of an AtriClip for Chronic Atrial Fibrillation

3.) Tricuspid Replacement and Mitral Valve Repair After a Failed MitraClip to the Tricuspid Leaflets

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, CTSNet Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with lead surgeon Feras Khaliel about the world's first fully robotic heart transplant. They explore the steps taken before and after the procedure, provide details of the operation itself, and share clips of this procedure. They also discuss the history of King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) and Khaleil’s experience in robotic-assisted surgery.

Joel also shares more about how Riyadh KFSHRC performed the world's first fully robotic heart transplant, multiarterial vs single-arterial coronary surgery, current indications and surgical strategies for myocardial revascularization in patients with left ventricular dysfunction, and simulation training for emergency sternotomy in the cardiovascular intensive care unit.

In addition, Joel highlights a re-commando procedure for recurrent endocarditis, chest wall reconstruction techniques, and robotic-assisted ligation of the aberrant right subclavian artery for dysphagia lusoria. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Riyadh KFSHRC Performs World's First Fully Robotic Heart Transplant

2.) Multiarterial vs Single-Arterial Coronary Surgery: Ten-Year Follow-Up of One Million Patients

3.) Current Indications and Surgical Strategies for Myocardial Revascularization in Patients With Left Ventricular Dysfunction

4.) Simulation Training for Emergency Sternotomy in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Re-Commando Procedure for Recurrent Endocarditis

2.) Chest Wall Reconstruction Techniques

3.) Robotic-Assisted Ligation of the Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery for Dysphagia Lusoria

Other Items Mentioned

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, Dr. Alice Copperwheat explores chest drains with Leanne Ashrafian, thoracic surgeon and CTSNet Senior Editor. They discuss patient considerations, equipment used, positioning of the patient, and how to identify landmarks. They also discuss the steps required when performing chest drains, removal of chest tubes, complications, and so much more.

Don’t forget that The Atrium is a monthly podcast presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Watch for next month’s episode on cannulation.

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Brian Houseman about VATS vs robotic lobectomy. They discuss training programs, the speed and efficiency of VATS, advanced chemotherapy cases, instruments used, safety, and the difference in pain for robotic-assisted surgery vs VATS.

Joel also discusses EACTS/STS guidelines for diagnosing and treating acute and chronic syndromes of the aortic organ, percutaneous versus surgical femoral cannulation in minimally invasive cardiac surgery, 2024 ESC guidelines for the management of chronic coronary syndromes, and transcatheter myotomy to reduce left ventricular outflow obstruction SESAME technique.

In addition, Joel highlights a robotic-assisted left lower lobectomy for NSCLC after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, chordal repair of P2 and P3 and left atrial appendage stapling through an upper mini sternotomy, and the Bookwalter retractor. Before closing, he shares upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) EACTS/STS Guidelines for Diagnosing and Treating Acute and Chronic Syndromes of the Aortic Organ

2.) Percutaneous Versus Surgical Femoral Cannulation in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

3.) 2024 ESC Guidelines for the Management of Chronic Coronary Syndromes 

4.) Transcatheter Myotomy to Reduce Left Ventricular Outflow Obstruction 

CTSNET Content Mentioned

1.) Robotic-Assisted Left Lower Lobectomy for NSCLC After Neoadjuvant Chemoimmunotherapy

2.) Chordal Repair of P2 and P3 and Left Atrial Appendage Stapling Through an Upper Mini Sternotomy

3.) The Bookwalter Retractor—A Resident’s Best Friend

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Ahmed Abbas about the recent 2024 Warith International Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery Conference he organized at the University of Warith Al-Anbiyaa in Karbala, Iraq. They discuss the quality of heart surgery in Iraq, how many available facilities there are, how cardiothoracic surgery differs in Iraq from other countries, and the challenges of performing cardiothoracic surgery in Iraq. Additionally, Joel spoke with medical students to gain their perspectives on studying medicine in Iraq and their aspirations for the future.

He also discusses several JANS items including VATS thoracoscopic S1 segmentectomy, restoring discarded porcine lungs, emergent coronary revascularization with PCI and CABG, heart transplant for a patient with left superior vena cava, pathways to cardiothoracic surgery, defining resectability, and outcomes following heart valve surgery in patients with infective endocarditis.

In addition, Joel discusses a trans-subxiphoid robotic-assisted thymectomy, Apple Vision Pro spatial computing for endoscopic mitral valve, and the Aswan technique for extended septal myectomy. Before closing, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) VATS Thoracoscopic S1 Segmentectomy, Right Upper Lobe: Alternative Posterior Approach

2.) Restoring Discarded Porcine Lungs by Ex Vivo Removal of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps

3.) Emergent Coronary Revascularization With PCI and CABG in Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

4.) Heart Transplant for a Patient With Left Superior Vena Cava—Case Report and Surgical Technique

5.) Pathway to Cardiothoracic Surgery: A Primer for Aspiring Students

6.) Defining Resectability: When Do You Try to Take It Out?

7.) Outcomes Following Heart Valve Surgery in Patients With Infective Endocarditis and Preoperative Septic Cerebral Embolism

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) The Aswan Technique for Extended Septal Myectomy

2.) Apple Vision Pro Spatial Computing for Endoscopic Mitral Valve and VSD Surgery

3.) Trans-Subxiphoid Robotic-Assisted Thymectomy

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting in Lisbon. He provides a comprehensive overview of the conference, including details about the featured speakers and the topics to be addressed by these distinguished surgeons.

He also discusses operating room extubation for patients undergoing cardiac surgery, how small airway brush gene expression predicts chronic lung allograft dysfunction and mortality, strategies to prevent and manage hemocompatibility-related adverse events in VAD patients, and mentoring pediatric heart surgeons.

In addition, Joel discusses a beating heart implant technique in donation after circulatory death, an excellent explanation of the full anatomy and physiology of the mitral valve, and neonatal aortic arch repair and the Warden procedure. Before closing, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

The Beat is taking a quick break and will be back with a new episode on September 9, 2024!

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) Operating Room Extubation for Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A National Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database Analysis

2.) Small Airway Brush Gene Expression Predicts Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction and Mortality

3.) ISHLT Consensus Statement on Strategies to Prevent and Manage Hemocompatibility Related Adverse Events in VAD Patients

4.) Mentoring Pediatric Heart Surgeons: A Difficult Road for Both Mentors and Mentees

CTSNet Content Mentioned

1.) Beating Heart Implant Technique in Donation After Circulatory Death Utilizing Ex Vivo Normothermic Organ Perfusion

2.) The Full Anatomy and Physiology of the Mitral Valve Explained

3.) Expert Techniques: Neonatal Aortic Arch Repair and the Warden Procedure

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Raja Flores about VATS lobectomy. They discuss his experience and studies in VATS lobectomy and Dr. Flores’s technique for this procedure.

He also discusses the evolution of the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, percutaneous coronary intervention versus coronary artery bypass grafting for left main disease, current indications and surgical strategies for myocardial revascularization in patients with left ventricular dysfunction, and pneumonectomy following penetrating trauma with ECMO as postoperative support.

In addition, Joel discusses a bilateral internal mammary artery harvest using an SSi MANTRA, sinus venosus atrial septal defect repair using a beating heart technique, and another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series focused on mega-thoracic aortic aneurysm repair. Before closing, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

1.) The Evolution of the Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Shift in Surgical Paradigm to a More Individualized Approach

2.) Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Left Main Disease According to Age

3.) Current Indications and Surgical Strategies for Myocardial Revascularization in Patients With Left Ventricular Dysfunction

4.) Pneumonectomy Following Penetrating Trauma With ECMO as Postoperative Support: Case Report—(Lung Trauma and ECMO)

CTSNET Content Mentioned

Bilateral Internal Mammary Artery Harvest Using an SSi MANTRA

Sinus Venosus Atrial Septal Defect Repair Using a Beating Heart Technique

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Mega-Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Other Items Mentioned

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Dr. Emily Farkas about median sternotomy. They discuss the indications and background of median sternotomy, patient preparation, the incision and its different variations, and preparation of the tissue. They also discuss osteotomy, spreading, and closure of median sternotomy.

A reminder that The Atrium airs once a month and presents foundational clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Stay tuned for next month’s episode on chest drains!

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning highlights the Diego Gonzalez Rivas Foundation mobile surgical unit on its first trip to Accra, Ghana. He discusses the different surgeries that were performed on the first day in this mobile unit and how the mobile hospital will travel throughout Africa offering minimally invasive surgery to those who cannot afford thoracic surgery.

He also discusses a cross-sectional study on structural heart training experiences, long-term durability of bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement, mechanical versus biological mitral valve replacement, and a paradigm change in surgical management of the apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

In addition, Joel discusses robotic bilateral internal mammary artery dissection, total arterial revascularization for multivessel coronary artery disease, and another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series focused on mini-access branch-first total arch replacement and the frozen elephant trunk procedure. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Cross-Sectional Study on Structural Heart Training Experiences in Cardiothoracic Residency Programs

Long Term Durability of Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Replacement in Young Patients With Bicuspid Aortic Stenosis

Mechanical Versus Biological Mitral Valve Replacement: Insights From Propensity Score Matching on Survival and Reoperation Rates

Commentary: A Paradigm Change in Surgical Management of the Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy to Avoid Heart Transplantation

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Robotic Bilateral Internal Mammary Artery Dissection

Total Arterial Revascularization for Multi-Vessel Coronary Artery Disease

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Mini-Access Branch-First Total Arch Replacement and Frozen Elephant Trunk Procedure

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the RESTORE trial for individuals with pectus excavatum. He discusses the goals for this trial, Castor EDC vs REDCap, and the statistical plan.

He also discusses risk factors influencing postoperative pleural empyema in patients with pleural mesothelioma, pre- and postoperative functional outcome parameters in patients receiving laryngotracheal surgery, surgical management of large tracheoesophageal fistulas in infants after button battery ingestion, and the “Seattle Shawl” procedure.

In addition, Joel discusses atrial septal defect closure in the setting of severe pectus excavatum, the Ravitch procedure with external rib plating to maximize relief of cardiac compression, and another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series focused on how to assess aortic valve competency of the mini-access CAVIAAR procedure. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Risk Factors Influencing Postoperative Pleural Empyema in Patients With Pleural Mesothelioma: A Single-Centre Analysis

In-Depth Analysis of Pre- and Postoperative Functional Outcome Parameters in Patients Receiving Laryngotracheal Surgery

Surgical Management of Large Tracheoesophageal Fistula in Infants After Button Battery Ingestion

A Novel, Simplified Protected Ross Technique: The “Seattle Shawl” Procedure

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Atrial Septal Defect Closure in the Setting of Severe Pectus Excavatum: A Unique Case

The Ravitch Procedure With External Rib Plating to Maximize Relief of Cardiac Compression

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Mini-Access CAVIAAR Procedure, Part 1: How to Assess Aortic Valve Competency

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the implementation of the Versius robotic surgical system for thoracic surgery and summarizes the ability of the Versius surgical system to successfully and safely complete a range of thoracic procedures aligned with phase 2a of the (Development) of the Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment and Long-term follow-up (IDEAL) framework for surgical innovation. 

He also discusses the perioperative tools to predict neurocognitive outcomes in congenital heart surgery, the differences in right heart function after pulmonary valve replacement in patients with pulmonary valve stenosis versus tetralogy of Fallot, and the left atrial appendage closure for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation.

In addition, Joel discusses neoarotic valve repair with a subannular ring for complex trileaflet prolapse after an arterial switch operation, the use of the autologous innominate vein as a substitute for the pulmonary arteries, and another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series focused on the technical details of the mini-access David procedure. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Implementation of the Versius Robotic Surgical System for Thoracic Surgery: First Clinical Evaluation of Feasibility and Performance

Perioperative Tools to Predict Neurocognitive Outcome in Congenital Heart Surgery

Differences in Right Heart Function After Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Patients With Pulmonary Valve Stenosis Versus Tetralogy of Fallot

Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation: Current Status and Perspectives

CTSNet Content

Neoaortic Valve Repair With a Subannular Ring for Complex Trileaflet Prolapse After an Arterial Switch Operation

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Mini-Access David Procedure—Endoscopic Assessment of Valve Competency 

The Use of the Autologous Innominate Vein as a Substitute for the Pulmonary Arteries in Pulmonary Atresia and Absent PAs

Other Items Mentioned

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In this month’s episode of The Atrium, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat speaks with Lorena Montes about saphenous vein harvesting. They discuss in what circumstances saphenous veins are harvested, anatomy and basics, opening and closing, and key steps. They also discuss novel strategies and harvesting veins endoscopically.

Don’t forget that The Atrium airs once a month presenting clinical and career-focused topics for residents and early career professionals across all cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Stay tuned for next month’s episode on sternotomy!

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the best practice consensus guidelines from joint specialist societies for the treatment of patients with pectus abnormalities and summarizes the current evidence for the different treatment strategies for this condition, including supportive care, psychological support and nonsurgical techniques including bracing and vacuum bell therapy.

He also discusses the selection for transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement, mechanical or biological prosthesis for aortic valve replacement, and wearable devices in patients with atrial fibrillation.

In addition, Joel discusses correction of complex aorta disease using frozen elephant trunk, aortic reconstruction with freestyle root, and another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series focused on the technical details of of the mini Bentall. procedure. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Selection for Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement and Mid-Term Survival: Results of the Autheartvisit Study 

The Pectus Care Guidelines: Best Practice Consensus Guidelines From the Joint Specialist Societies SCTS/MF/CWIG/BOA/BAPS for the Treatment of Patients With Pectus Abnormalities

Mechanical or Biological Prosthesis for Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Aged 45 to 74 Years

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Correction of Complex Aorta Disease Using the Frozen Elephant Trunk and Bentall’s Procedures

Aortic Reconstruction With Freestyle Root

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Everything You Need to Know About Mini-Bentall

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Enoch Akowuah and the cardiac surgery team operating in Ghana as they visit the James Cook University Hospital in England. They discuss mission trips in Ghana, the training that is involved, and the impact the program has.

Joel also talks about the outcomes of emergency intraprocedural surgical conversion during TAVI, axillary versus femoral arterial cannulation, and the preconditioning drugs that can reduce side effects of cardiac surgery.

He also discusses another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series on descending aortic intimal flap fenestration and myocardial protection during a 5 cm access aortic surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Incidence and Outcomes of Emergency Intraprocedural Surgical Conversion During TAVI: A Multicentric Analysis

Axillary Versus Femoral Arterial Cannulation in Acute Type A Dissection: International Multicenter Data

Preconditioning Drug Offers Potential to Reduce Side Effects of Cardiac Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Breaking the Broken Dogma in Aortic Valve Replacement: The Nine Suture With Interstitch Pledget AVR Technique

Mitral Regurgitation and KISS Repair: A Doodle Journey

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: 5 cm Access Aortic Surgery and Myocardial Protection

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Dr. Albert Jauregui Abularach about his work as a pioneer in robotic lung transplantation.

Joel also talks about cardiac shockwave therapy with CABG, the results of an esophageal cancer trial, and acute aortic dissection controversies.

He also discusses another installment in Dr. Tristan Yan’s aortic repair series on aortic dissection repair, internal thoracic harvesting and grafting, and a pediatric orthotopic heart transplant. Before wrapping up, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

The Beat is taking a sumer break and will be back with a new episode on August 1, 2024!

JANS Items Mentioned

Cardiac Shockwave Therapy in Addition to CABG Improves Myocardial Function in Ischemic Heart Failure: The CAST-HF Trial

Clinical T2 N0 M0 Esophageal Cancer: Identifying Predictive Factors of Upstaging

AMDS or FET in Acute Aortic Dissection Indications and Controversies

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Acute Type A Dissection—Aortic Rupture

Secrets of Bilateral Internal Thoracic Harvesting and Grafting

How I Do It: Pediatric Orthotopic Heart Transplant

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the recently published MARS 2 trial, an AATS consensus document on management of subsolid lung nodules, and the long-term outcomes of permanent pacemaker implantation.

Joel also talks about videos demonstrating the commando procedure for endocarditis, a new aortic surgery video from Prof. Tristan Yan, and a demonstration of aortic and pulmonary homograft harvesting. Before wrapping up, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Extended Pleurectomy Decortication and Chemotherapy Versus Chemotherapy Alone for Pleural Mesothelioma (MARS 2): A Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial

The 2023 American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) Expert Consensus Document: Management of Subsolid Lung Nodules

Permanent Pacemaker Implantation and Long-Term Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Concomitant Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Commando Procedure in a Patient With Aortic and Mitral Valve Prostheses: Fourth Intervention for Bacterial Endocarditis

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: Visceral Pericardium—A Forgotten Layer

Harvesting Aortic and Pulmonary Homograft Valves From the Human Cadaveric Heart

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses a new cardiothoracic surgery conference in Iraq and his insights on the newest surgical robot technology.

Joel also talks about the benefits of minimally invasive ECMO in cardiac surgery patients, the history and importance of the Thoracic Surgical Oncology Group, and a trial determining thresholds for drain removal after anatomic lung resection.

He also features the first episode of The Atrium, a new CTSNet resident-focused podcast, a video on the history of aortic surgery, and a video demonstrating minimally invasive mitral valve replacement. Before wrapping up, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Conventional Versus Minimally Invasive Extracorporeal Circulation in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Thoracic Surgical Oncology Group: An American Association for Thoracic Surgery Clinical Trials Initiative

Randomized Controlled Trial of Thresholds for Drain Removal After Anatomic Lung Resection

CTSNet Content Mentioned

The Atrium: Basics of Thoracic Surgery

Deep Dive Into Aortic Surgery: A Brief History of Aortic Surgery

Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Replacement and Left Atrium Plication

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning interviews Dr. Robert Cerfolio of NYU Langone Health. They discuss the importance of consistent communication at every touch point before surgery to achieve routine day one discharge after lobectomies and day three discharge after cardiac surgery. Dr. Cerfolio also emphasizes the importance of overcoming dogma and embracing the mindset that getting patients home is better for them and safer.

Joel then highlights a new CTSNet podcast for residents and trainees, The Atrium hosted by Dr. Alice Copperwheat. In addition, he discusses a cyberattack on London hospitals, the EXPLANT-TAVR registry, the impact of patient-prosthesis mismatch, and a report on cardiac xenotransplantation.

He also features a panel discussion of CABG surgery disasters, aortic hemiarch replacement without hypothermic circulatory arrest, and a redo sternotomy with a Bentall's operation in Ghana. Before wrapping up, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Transcatheter Heart Valve Explant With Infective Endocarditis-Associated Prosthesis Failure and Outcomes: The EXPLANT-TAVR International Registry

Patient-Prosthesis Mismatch After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement: Analysis of the PARTNER Trials

Current Status of Cardiac Xenotransplantation: Report of a Workshop of the German Heart Transplant Centers

CTSNet Content Mentioned

International Coronary Congress 2023: Intraoperative “Disasters” in CABG Surgery

Aortic Hemiarch Replacement Without Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest

Redo Sternotomy and Bentall's Operation

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning interviews Prof. Dawn Jaroszewski. They discuss the latest techniques in pectus excavatum surgery and Prof. Jaroszewski’s recommendations for safe pectus guidelines. She goes on to demonstrate some of her techniques on a chest cavity simulator.

In addition, Joel discusses different types of treatment for aortic valve stenosis, robotic thymectomy for thymic tumors, and outcomes based on volume in hospitals performing pediatric cardiac surgery.

He also talks about a recent webinar on postoperative complications in cardiac surgery, left innominate vein cannulation for mitral valve surgery, and left main coronary artery atresia repair in an infant. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Transcatheter or Surgical Treatment of Aortic Valve Stenosis

Robotic Thymectomy in Thymic Tumors: A Multicenter, Nationwide Study

Volume Alone Does Not Predict Quality Outcomes in Hospitals Performing Pediatric Cardiac Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Post Operative Complications Following Cardiac Surgery and Their Clinical Impact | ERAS Webinar

Left Innominate Vein Cannulation for Mitral Valve Surgery

Left Main Coronary Artery Atresia Repair in an Infant

Other Items Mentioned

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In a new CTSNet podcast for residents and trainees, host Dr. Alice Copperwheat examines essential procedures and pressing topics for early career cardiothoracic surgeons. In her debut episode, Alice speaks with CTSNet Editor in Chief Professor Joel Dunning about the basics of thoracic surgery. They discuss patient positioning, thoracic incision location and technique, and opening and closing techniques. They also debate the increasing popularity of robotic thoracic surgery and the merits of different surgical techniques.

The Atrium will air once a month, rotating between clinical and career-focused topics from across the cardiothoracic surgery subspecialties. Stay tuned next month for an episode on vein harvesting.

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning interviews Dr. Vince Gaudiani. They discuss his recent video series on CTSNet demonstrating techniques for cerebral protection in cardiac surgery.

In addition, Joel discusses a registry analysis of cardiac surgery patients with underlying atrial fibrillation, takeaways from lung cancer surgery trials, and the results of the NOTION-2 TAVR trial.

He also talks about a video demonstrating bedside percutaneous ECMO decannulation, an interview with CT surgery giant Dr. J. Donald Hill, and a modified procedure atrial fibrillation using intraoperative 3D epicardial voltage mapping. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Surgical Ablation, Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion, or Both? Nationwide Registry Analysis of Cardiac Surgery Patients With Underlying Atrial Fibrillation

Sublobar Resection Versus Lobectomy for Stage IA Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma—Takeaways From Modern Randomized Trials

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Low-Risk Tricuspid or Bicuspid Aortic Stenosis: The NOTION-2 Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Bedside Percutaneous Decannulation of Femoral Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Giants of Cardiothoracic Surgery: An Interview With J. Donald Hill

Modified Convergent Procedure for Refractory Atrial Fibrillation Using Intraoperative 3D Epicardial Voltage Mapping

Other Items Mentioned

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning introduces the new DV5 Intuitive Da Vinci robot. He talks about the benefits of this technology and demonstrates some of its new features.

In addition, Joel discusses an assessment of valvular heart disease guidelines across global organizations, using the Commando procedure for anterior mitral annular calcification, and a commentary on the subxiphoid approach for thymic malignancy.

He also talks about a video from Prof. Vince Gaudiani’s cerebral protection series on aortic reconstruction, aortic valve repair in a rheumatic heart disease patient, and an interview with the winner of the Resident Video Competition. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Same Evidence, Different Recommendations: A Methodological Assessment of Transatlantic Guidelines for the Management of Valvular Heart Disease

Contemporary Experience With the Commando Procedure for Anterior Mitral Annular Calcification

Commentary: Less Is More in Modified Subxiphoid Approach for Thymic Malignancy

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Safe Cerebral Protection: Reoperation Aortic Root and Proximal Arch Reconstruction

Aortic Valve Repair Using Neocuspidization and the Ozaki Procedure in Children With Rheumatic Heart Disease

An Interview With John Sadeghi: Winner of the 2023 CTSNet Resident Video Competition

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with physician’s assistant Alan ODonnell about his process for filming and editing exceptional cardiothoracic surgical videos.

In addition, Joel discusses the AATS presidential address and a study on the efficacy and safety of a transaortic approach to septal myectomy.

He also talks about safe cerebral protection in the frozen elephant trunk procedure, a video demonstrating minimally invasive ascending aorta replacement, and a simplified technique for allograft implantation. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Raison D'être in Turbulent Times: Academics, Legerdemain Surgery, and a Leadership Theorem

Efficacy and Safety of a Transaortic Approach to Midventricular and Apical Septal Myectomy

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Safe Cerebral Protection: Frozen Elephant Trunk Procedure

Ascending Aorta Replacement by Minimally Invasive Technique

Simplified Running Suture Technique for Allograft Implantation in Cases of Aortic Root Abscess

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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This week on The Beat, in an episode sponsored by AtriCure, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation.

In addition, Joel discusses concomitant AFib treatment in patients undergoing CABG, the first patient to undergo combined heart pump implant and pig kidney transplant, and predictors of venous thromboembolism after lung cancer resection.

He also talks about a recent interview with Prof. Ralph Damiano, a diaphragm plication technique video, and CTSNet’s most popular videos and articles from April. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Concomitant Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation in Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Woman Becomes First Patient to Undergo Combined Heart Pump Implant and Pig Kidney Transplant

Predictors of Venous Thromboembolism After Lung Cancer Resection

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Developments of Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: An Interview With Ralph Damiano, Jr.

A Simple and Effective Technique for Diaphragm Plication

CTSNet’s 10 Most Popular Articles of April 2024

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses upcoming interviews to be published on CTSNet.

In addition, Joel discusses heart transplantation in adults with congenital heart disease, a commentary on revascularization, and gender representation among speaking and leader roles at CT surgery meetings.

He also talks about a video demonstrating TAVR explantation, pulmonary stenosis correction after TAPVR correction, and a LAD to RCA anastomosis from Dr. Tristan Yan. Before saying goodbye, Joel discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Trends and Outcomes of Heart Transplantation in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Commentary: What Matters More—Method of Revascularization or Completeness?

Gender Representation Among Speaking and Leader Roles at European Cardiothoracic Surgical Annual Meetings

CTSNet Content Mentioned

TAVR Explantation: A Necessary Skill Set in the Contemporary Cardiac Surgery's Armamentarium

Redo Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Correction After TAPVR Correction

Deep Dive Into Total Arterial Anaortic Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Dual Inflow BIMA In Situ to LAD and RCA

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning focuses on all the latest news and clinical content in cardiothoracic surgery.

In addition, Joel discusses outcomes after hybrid chemotherapy and surgery lung cancer treatment, mechanical circulatory support during revascularization, and research opportunities for early career investigators in cardiac surgery.

He also talks about videos demonstrating tetralogy of Fallot repair, repair of post-intubation tracheal stenosis, and a recorded webinar on the Ross procedure. Before saying goodbye, he discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Surgical Outcomes After Chemotherapy Plus Nivolumab and Chemotherapy Plus Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Patients With Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Mechanical Circulatory Support During Surgical Revascularization for Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Research Concepts and Opportunities for Early Career Investigators in Cardiac Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Tetralogy of Fallot With Absent Pulmonary Valve: Repair by Anterior Translocation of Branch Pulmonary Arteries and Reduction Plasty

Post-Intubation Tracheal Stenosis: Tracheal Resection With Dorsal Mucosectomy and Primary Anastomosis

The Ross Procedure: Clinical Evidence, Surgical Technique, and Q&A

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on the one-year anniversary of The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Professor Paul Sergeant about the future of education in cardiothoracic surgery.

In addition, Joel discusses trends in SAVR after TAVR, microplastics in cardiovascular events, and fibrous tumors of the pleura.

He also highlights the three winners of the Resident Video Competition, including rib resection for thoracic outlet syndrome, a robotic segmentectomy, and a hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Before saying goodbye, he discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Cardiac Surgery After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Trends and Outcomes

Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Atheromas and Cardiovascular Events

Solitary Fibrous Tumors of the Pleura: Do We Need a Different Perspective on Malignancy?

CTSNet Content Mentioned

First Place: Open Cervical and Robotic First Rib Resections for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Second Place: Robotic Assisted Right Apical S1 Anatomical Segmentectomy for NSCLC

Third Place: Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy: Anatomical Substratum for Tailored Surgical Correction

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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This week on The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the recent recall of Abiomed Impella left-sided heart pumps with special guest and heart failure expert Ashraf Abou El Ela.

In addition, Joel discusses a statement from EACTS on perioperative myocardial infarction and updated ESVS guidelines for management of atherosclerotic carotid and vertebral artery disease.

He also talks about a video demonstrating cone repair for endocarditis, another off-pump CABG video from Dr. Tristan Yan, and a CABG demonstration from the Cleveland Clinic. Before saying goodbye, he discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Abiomed Recalls Labeling for Left-Sided Impella Pumps: FDA

EACTS Expert Consensus Statement on Perioperative Myocardial Infarction After Cardiac Surgery

European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2023 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Atherosclerotic Carotid and Vertebral Artery Disease

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Cone Repair for Tricuspid Valve Endocarditis

Deep Dive Into Total Arterial Anaortic Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: LIMA to LAD Anastomosis

World’s Best United States: Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week, on the 50th episode of The Beat, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses the importance of work–life balance as a cardiothoracic surgeon and how Prof. Shanda Blackmon’s book, The Support Group, has driven this point home for him.

In addition, Joel discusses outcomes following redo mitral valve surgery, the validity of the GERAADA score in predicting mortality, and mechanical versus biological aortic valve replacement for endocarditis.

He also talks about radial artery to LIMA T graft formation, an interview with Leonard Girardi, and a World’s Best Series interview with Lars Svensson. Before saying goodbye, he discusses upcoming events in CT surgery and closes with an honorable mention to Prof. Blackmon.

JANS Items Mentioned

Early and Long-Term Outcomes Following Redo Mitral Valve Surgery in Patients With Prior Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery

Validation of GERAADA Score to Predict Thirty-Day Mortality in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection in a High Volume Aortic Center

Survival and Recurrence of Endocarditis Following Mechanical Versus Biological Aortic Valve Replacement for Endocarditis in Patients Aged 40 to 65 Years: Data From the INFECT-Registry

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Deep Dive Into Total Arterial Anaortic Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Radial Artery to LIMA 'T' Graft Formation

Advocating for Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement: An Interview With Leonard N. Girardi

World’s Best United States: Aortic Root Replacement and an Interview With Lars Svensson

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning discusses presentations from the SCTS annual meeting on the future of aortic valve replacement surgery and the continued debate among surgeons about the benefits of TAVR versus those of SAVR.

In addition, Joel discusses a review of heart valve surgery in resource limited settings, long term outcomes of heart transplantation in adults with congenital heart disease, and intervention for symptomatic moderate aortic stenosis.

He also talks about an interview and surgical video with Dr. Lars Svensson, how to position the heart in off-pump CABG, and a lobectomy for a hydatid cyst using uniportal VATS. Before saying goodbye, he discusses upcoming events in CT surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

A Global Systematic Review of Open-Heart Valvular Surgery in Resource Limited Settings

Long-term Outcomes of Heart Transplantation in Adults With Univentricular Versus Biventricular Congenital Heart Disease

Great Debate: Symptomatic Moderate Aortic Stenosis Should Undergo Intervention

CTSNet Content Mentioned

World’s Best United States: Aortic Root Replacement and an Interview With Lars Svensson

Deep Dive Into Total Arterial Anaortic Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: How to Position the Heart

Right Upper Lobectomy for a Hydatid Cyst Using U-Vats

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning speaks with Professor Robert Cerfolio about his presentation on hospital efficiency at the SCTS Annual Meeting.

In addition, Joel discusses donor heart resuscitation in pediatric heart transplantation survival, a comparison of four mortality scores for type A aortic dissection, and the benefits of CABG over percutaneous coronary intervention in left main disease.

He also talks about CTSNet’s new World’s Best series, a video demonstrating a double docking technique for mammary artery harvest, and an interview with Marc Ruel. He closes with a discussion of upcoming events in the CT surgery world.

JANS Items Mentioned

Up to an Hour of Donor Resuscitation Does Not Affect Pediatric Heart Transplantation Survival

Comparison of Four Mortality Scores for Surgical Repair of Type A Aortic Dissection: A Multicenter External Validation

Benefits of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Over Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Left Main Disease: The Strength of the Evidence

CTSNet Content Mentioned

World’s Best Centers for Cardiothoracic Surgery: United States

Double Docking Technique for Bilateral Internal Mammary Artery Harvest

Recent Changes in Coronary Artery Surgery: An Interview With Marc Ruel

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning focuses on the key elements of the world’s best centers for cardiothoracic surgery ahead of the publication of the CTSNet World’s Best series on Cleveland Clinic, one of the best CT surgery centers in the United States.

In addition, Joel discusses the results of an aortic valve prosthesis choice study, a study on valve sparing aortic root replacement, and the effects of intubations versus nonintubation in thorascopic surgery.

He also talks about a nine-suture aortic valve replacement technique, a demonstration of aortic valve replacements with Tristan Yan, and an interview with Patrick Myers. He closes with a discussion of upcoming events in the CT surgery world.

JANS Items Mentioned

Revisiting Aortic Valve Prosthesis Choice in Patients Less Than 50 Years Old: AUTHEARTVISIT 10-Year Results

Valve Sparing Aortic Root Replacement With Reimplantation Versus Remodeling: A Meta-Analysis

Effects of Nonintubated Thoracoscopic Surgery on Postoperative Neurocognitive Function: A Randomized Controlled Trial

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Breaking Dogma in Aortic Valve Replacement: The Nine Suture AVR Technique

A Day in the Life of a Cardiothoracic Surgeon at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Hybrid Management of Atrial Fibrillation: An Interview With Patrick Myers

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning focuses on the importance of guidelines in cardiothoracic surgery, highlighting the recent aortic arch surgery guidelines. He speaks on the issues present in recent guidelines and proposes how they should be improved.

In addition, Joel discusses a selection of the past year’s top 10 papers in valvular heart disease and LIMA-LAD bypass in training for OPCAB surgery.

He also talks about an interview with Dr. Anna Olds on family planning in CT surgery, a video demonstrating an emergency anterior bilateral thoracotomy, and a video on subaortic membrane resection and septal myectomy. He closes with a discussion of upcoming events in the CT surgery world.

JANS Items Mentioned

EACTS/STS Guidelines for Diagnosing and Treating Acute and Chronic Syndromes of the Aortic Organ

The Year in Cardiovascular Medicine 2023: Top 10 Papers in Valvular Heart Disease

Is Single LIMA-LAD Bypass Appropriate for OPCAB Training?

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Family Planning and Pregnancy Complications in Cardiothoracic Surgeons: An Interview with Anna Olds

Emergency Anterior Bilateral Thoracotomy

Subaortic Membrane Resection and Septal Myectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning focuses on the problems with the peer review system in cardiothoracic surgery. He ponders how the community can go about fixing the peer review process and if it can be improved at all.

In addition, Joel discusses aortic valve repair versus replacement, a study on biventricular repair of DORV, and which surgical procedures thoracic surgeons would choose for themselves to treat lung cancer.

He also talks about a demonstration of the frozen elephant trunk technique for total arch replacement, an interview with Prof. Cherie Erkman, and a video on left secondary carinal resection. He closes with a discussion of upcoming events in the CT surgery world.

JANS Items Mentioned

Aortic Valve Repair Results in Better One-Year Survival Than Replacement: Results From German Aortic Valve Registry

Multicenter Study on Late Outcomes of Biventricular Repair of Double Outlet Right Ventricle

Which Extent of Surgical Resection Thoracic Surgeons Would Choose if They Were Diagnosed With an Early-Stage Lung Cancer: A European Survey

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Total Arch Replacement With the Frozen Elephant Trunk Technique

The Role of Gender in CT Surgeon Compensation: An Interview With Cherie Erkmen and Meghana Helder

Left Secondary Carinal Resection and Reconstruction With Intercostal Flap

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

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This week on CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning introduces his first editorial topic of the week in which he discusses current CT surgery issues, courts a bit of controversy, and invites comments and opposing views.

In this episode, he focuses on the problems he sees with transcatheter aortic valve replacement and the benefits of surgical replacement before diving into additional news and content.

In addition, Joel discusses the newest TAVR vs SAVR data, aortic valve repair using an internal annuloplasty ring, and rapid discharge after lung resection.

He also talks about a session on mitral valve repair from the London Core Review, mediastinal envelope closure in minimally invasive Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy, and a video demonstrating PITAC. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a remembrance of the late Dr. Alain Cribier, a pioneer in minimally invasive aortic surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

TAVI and SAVR Almost Equally Performed in California Patients Under 60

Midterm Outcomes of Aortic Valve Repair Using an Anatomically Shaped Internal Annuloplasty Ring

Rapid Discharge After Anatomic Lung Resection: Is Ambulatory Surgery for Early Lung Cancer Possible?

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Mitral Valve Repair Tips and Tricks: 2023 London Core Review Cardiothoracic Surgery Course

Mediastinal Envelope Closure in Total Minimally Invasive Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy

PITAC: Pressurized Intrathoracic Aerosol Chemotherapy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor-in-chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the need for universal family leave policies in CT surgery, long-term results of the REV procedure for various congenital heart conditions, and results of routine extubation in the operating room after CABG.

He also talks about a video demonstrating orthotopic heart transplantation, a repair of common arterial trunk type III, and an interview with John Puskas. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Shilajit Ghosh for his work on the SCTS Thoracic Forum.

JANS Items Mentioned

CT Surgery Needs Universal Policies for Pregnancy and Family Leave, Survey Shows

Long-Term Results of the REV Procedure for Transposition of Great Arteries and Double Outlet RV With Pulmonary Stenosis

Routine Extubation in the Operating Room After Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Orthotopic Heart Transplantation

Challenging Repair of Common Arterial Trunk Type III

The Coronary Stentectomy and Shifts in Coronary Artery Surgery: An Interview With John Puskas

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the new ERAS guidelines for perioperative care in cardiac surgery, a study on TEER versus surgical mitral valve repair, and a database study on multiarterial grafting in CABG.

He also talks about a video on mitral valve replacement with a robotic digital microscope, the last installment in Dr. Vince Gaudiani’s redo TAVR series, and a session on aortic valve sparing procedures from the 2023 London Core Review. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Thomas MacGillivray for his service as the STS President over the last year.

JANS Items Mentioned

Perioperative Care in Cardiac Surgery: A Joint Consensus Statement by the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Cardiac Society, ERAS International Society, and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)

Lower Mortality With M-TEER vs Surgery, but Devil Is in the Details

Multiarterial Grafting in CABG Triumphs Again in Large Database Study

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Replacement with a Robotic Digital Microscope

Mastering Redo Surgery after TAVR: Annular Rupture Repair after TAVR and TAVR Explant after CABG with MVR

A Quarter Century of Aortic Valve Sparing Operations: 2023 London Core Review Cardiothoracic Surgery Course

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning sat down with CTSNet Global editor Emily Farkas to discuss their favorite sessions at the STS annual meeting in San Antonio, Texas. After talking about the breaking news and best presentations at the meeting, the pair discussed the latest clinical content on CTSNet.

JANS Items Mentioned

Surgery and Transcatheter Intervention for Degenerative Mitral Regurgitation in The United States

Little Owen’s Big Milestone: The Piece of Heart Transplanted to Cure His Heart Failure Has Grown Along with Him

Surgical Ablation of Long-Standing Persistent AF: One-year Outcomes from the CASE-AF Registry

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Mastering Redo Surgery after TAVR: Aortic and Mitral Replacement with Double Patch Repair and Aortic Root Reconstruction in Endocarditis after TAVR

Sponsored Content: How OPCAB Can Enhance Your Practice

Bridging Technology and Education: The Development of a Telesimulator and Curriculum in Endoscopic Mitral Valve Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

STS Annual Meeting

Disclaimer

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the long-term risk of stroke after TAVR, invasive hemodynamic assessments in LVAD patients, and the implications of the 2022 congenital heart surgery practice survey.

He also talks about a video demonstrating tips, tricks, and pitfalls for cardiopulmonary bypass, another installment of the TAVR redo surgery series, and a segmentectomy video. The next episode of The Beat will broadcast live from the STS annual meeting on Sunday, January 27th at 6:00 pm CST. Tune in!

JANS Items Mentioned

Long-Term Risk of Stroke After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Insights from the SwissTAVI Registry

Value of Invasive Hemodynamic Assessments in Patients Supported by Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Workforce and Training Implications of the 2022 Congenital Heart Surgery Practice Survey

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Tips, Tricks, and Pitfalls for Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Mastering Redo Surgery after TAVR: TAVR Removal, Surgical AVR, and Ascending Aortic Replacement

Right VATS S7 and S8 Segmentectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

The Beat LIVE!

Disclaimer

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses a VA ECMO case study, a consensus statement from EACTS and EAPC on frailty assessment, and a study on diversity, equity, and inclusion for women in cardiothoracic surgery.

He also talks about a new video from the team behind the Surgeon’s Cookbook, the first two videos in the mastering redo surgery after TAVR series, and in interview with Hans-Joachim Schäfers. After discussing upcoming events in CT surgery, Joel closes with a shoutout to the organizers of The Heart Surgeon’s Cookbook project.

JANS Items Mentioned

Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation as a Perioperative Support to Redo Cardiac Surgery for Inoperable Adult Patients: A Case Series

Preinterventional Frailty Assessment in Patients Scheduled for Cardiac Surgery or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Consensus Statement of EACTS and EAPC

The Cost of Being a Woman in Academic Cardiothoracic Surgery: Joint Collaboration of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Workforces on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Cardiothoracic Surgery Practice Models

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Introducing: The Heart Surgeon's Cookbook

Mastering Redo Surgery after TAVR: An Introduction and LVOT Enlargement

Learning from Aortic Valve Repair: An Interview with Hans-Joachim Schäfers

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses a novel device for intraoperative evaluation of aortic valve repair procedures, a study concluding that type A aortic dissection is more aggressive in women, and a machine learning-based prediction of mitral regurgitation recurrence in mitral valve repair patients.

He also talks about CTSNet’s most popular cardiac, congenital, and thoracic surgical videos from 2023, as well as the editors’ top content from the year. After discussing upcoming events in CT surgery, Joel closes with a shoutout to Dr. Diego Gonzalez Rivas for his innovative and tireless work in robotic thoracic surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Aortic Valve Visualization and Pressurization Device: A Novel Device for Intraoperative Evaluation of Aortic Valve Repair Procedures

Type A Aortic Dissection is More Aggressive in Women

Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Survival and Mitral Regurgitation Recurrence in Patients Undergoing Mitral Valve Repair

CTSNet Content Mentioned

CTSNet’s Top 5 Cardiac and Congenital Procedure Videos of 2023

CTSNet’s Top 5 Thoracic Procedure Videos of 2023

Editors’ Picks: CTSNet’s Top Content of 2023

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses a new analysis of the ISCHEMIA trial, a report on trends in management and outcomes of type B aortic dissection, and Bayesian interpretation of non-inferiority in TAVI vs. SAVR trials.

He also talks about clinical videos demonstrating trileaflet expanded polytetrafluoroethylene valved conduit creation, the Ross procedure, and a novel warm arch repair strategy. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with the announcement that this is the last episode of the year. The Beat will be back with a new episode on January 11, 2024.

JANS Items Mentioned

The ISCHEMIA Trial Revisited: Setting the Record Straight on the Benefits of CABG and the Misinterpretation of a Landmark Trial

Editor's Choice—Trends in Management and Outcomes of Type B Aortic Dissection: A Report from the International Registry of Aortic Dissection

Bayesian Interpretation of Non-Inferiority in TAVI Versus SAVR Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Technique For Trileaflet Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Valved Conduit Creation

Pioneering Precision: The Ross Procedure Unveiled

Introduction of the Novel Warm Arch Repair Strategy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses outcomes in patients with acute aortic dissection, robotic vs. full-sternotomy CABG, and a progress report from the SURD-IR trail.

He also talks about a video demonstrating a robotic pericardiectomy, robotic resection of an aberrant right subclavian artery, and an interview with Prof. Teresa Kieser. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Lars Svensson, the chairman of the heart and vascular institute at Cleveland Clinic.

JANS Items Mentioned

Characteristics and Outcomes in Patients with Acute Aortic Dissection: A Nationwide Registry Study

Robotic-Assisted vs. Traditional Full-Sternotomy Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Procedures: A Propensity-Matched Analysis of Hospital Costs

Pacemaker after Sutureless and Rapid-Deployment Prostheses: A Progress Report from the SURD-IR

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Total Robotic Pericardiectomy for Constrictive Pericarditis

Robotic Resection of Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery for Dysphagia Lusoria

Improving Cardiac Surgery Standards in Kenya: An Interview with Teresa Kieser

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the long-term outcomes of bioprosthetic valves in the mitral position and the role of the diagnostic wedge resection in the era of segmentectomy.

He also talks about the three winners of the Innovation Video Competition: a demonstration of tricuspid valve replacement with the right atrial appendage valve, VATS duct ligation with ICG imaging, and the percutaneous closure of peripheral ECMO cannulation sites. This episode also includes Joel’s interview with Prof. Ahmad Ali Amirghofran, the Innovation Video Competition winner.

JANS Items Mentioned

Long-Term Outcomes of Bioprosthetic Valves in Mitral Position: A Systematic Review of Studies Published in the Last 20 Years

The Role of the Diagnostic Wedge Resection in the Era of Segmentectomy

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Tricuspid Valve Replacement with the Right Atrial Appendage Valve: The First Report

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Thoracic Duct Ligation with Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging

Percutaneous Closure of Peripheral ECMO Cannulation Sites

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Innovation Video Competition Submissions

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning interviews Dr. Michael Mack. Dr. Mack, of Baylor Healthcare System, is the first author of the PARTNER 3 trial, which recently published its five-year results. They talk about the outcomes of the trial and what they mean for the future of TAVR.

Items Mentioned

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients at Five Years

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the outcome of the second genetically modified pig heart transplant, a meta-analysis of reconstructed data from the TAVR trial, and perioperative Durvalumab for resectable non-small cell lung cancer.

He also talks about a video demonstrating left atrial aneurysm repair by IVC transection and a video demonstrating surgical repair of a double aortic arch through a sternotomy. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to the CT surgeons he worked with during his recent trip to UGMC Hospital in Accra, Ghana.

JANS Items Mentioned

World’s Second Genetically Modified Pig Heart Transplant Patient Dies

Midterm Survival of Low‐Risk Patients Treated with Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement: Meta‐Analysis of Reconstructed Time to Event Data

Perioperative Durvalumab for Resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Left Atrial Aneurysm—Approach by IVC Transection

Surgical Repair of Double Aortic Arch Through Sternotomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Arrhythmia Alliance Mission to Ghana

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses epicardial pacemaker implantation in tricuspid valve replacement, a joint statement on the newest aortic valve replacement study, and bronchial branching patterns and volumetry in the right upper lobe for segmentectomy planning.

He also talks about a video on tips and tricks for radial artery harvesting, the recent ERAS cardiac webinar, and a video demonstrating robotic resection of mediastinal lesions. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Alaaddin Yilmaz.

JANS Items Mentioned

Prophylactic Epicardial Pacemaker Implantation in Tricuspid Valve Replacement

Joint Statement from STS and EACTS Regarding Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients

Bronchial Branching Patterns and Volumetry in the Right Upper Lobe: Impact on Segmentectomy Planning

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Tips and Tricks for Radial Artery Harvesting with the Harmonic Scalpel

Enhancing Recovery in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery | ERAS Webinar

Robotic Resection of Posterior and Inferior Mediastinal Lesions: Technique and Port Placement Considerations

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the outcomes of TAVR in low-risk patients, the gender equity gap in CT surgery, and assessing donor-recipient size mismatch in pediatric heart transplantation.

He also talks about an interview with the GGO guidelines co-chairs, a video demonstrating Konno root enlargement for endocarditis treatment, and a detachable aortic cross-clamp used in robotic cardiac surgery. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Michael Mack, lead author of the new TAVR study.

JANS Items Mentioned

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients at Five Years

Women in Cardiac Surgery: Closing the Equity Gap

Assessing Donor-Recipient Size Mismatch in Pediatric Heart Transplantation: Lessons Learned from Over 7,500 Transplants

CTSNet Content Mentioned

New Guidelines for the Management of GGOs: An Interview with the Co-Chairs

Using Konno Aortic Root Enlargement Technique to Solve a Complex Post-Endocarditis Anatomy

Use of Detachable Aortic Cross Clamp for Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses a new survival benchmark trial for SAVR, a trial to improve CABG outcomes in women, and the importance of age in lung transplantation donors.

He also talks about a video demonstrating a minimally invasive Bentall procedure, an interview with Dr. Stephen Spindel, and a video demonstrating hybrid aortic arch treatment. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dawn Jaroszewski and Lisa McMahon for their recent pectus fellows course.

JANS Items Mentioned

Survival Following Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients: A Contemporary Trial Benchmark

Cardiac Surgeons Issue ‘Call to Action’ to Improve CABG Outcomes in Women

Donors in Lung Transplantation: Does Age Matter?

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Minimally Invasive Bentall Procedure via Right Lateral Transaxillary Access

Simplifying Aortic Arch Surgery: An Interview with Stephen Spindel

Hybrid Aortic Arch Treatment

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Pectus Fellows Course

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the first in-man robotic lung transplantation, new guidelines for GGO lung tumor identification and resection presented at the EACTS annual meeting, and outcomes of treatment for infective endocarditis following TPVR.

He also talks about a step-by-step video demonstrating a Ross procedure, a video demonstrating excision of fractured costal bridging cartilage, and pulmonary artery augmentation and pulmonary valve replacement after arterial switch operation. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Professor John Chambers, President of the British Heart Valve Society.

JANS Items Mentioned

Robotic-Assisted Lung Transplantation: First in Man

European Guidelines for the Surgical Management of Pure Ground-Glass Opacities and Part-Solid Nodules: Task Force of the European Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery and the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons

Outcomes of Treatment for Infective Endocarditis Following Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Redo Reinforced Ross: A Step-by-Step Guide

Excision of Fractured Costal Bridging Cartilage

Pulmonary Artery Augmentation and Pulmonary Valve Replacement After Arterial Switch Operation

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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This episode of The Beat with Joel Dunning was recorded at the 2023 EACTS Annual Meeting. Joel runs through the latest in CT surgery news and CTSNet content, commenting on his favorite talks from the meeting as well.

Joel discusses quality of life in pediatric patients who have undergone an arterial switch operation, the association between interstitial lung disease and outcomes after lung cancer resection, and a nested study examining experiences of patients and staff in prehabilitation for cardiac surgery.

He also talks about videos demonstrating the Nikaidoh procedure, minimally invasive mitral valve repair surgery, and using holographic technology for preoperative assessment of pulmonary anatomy. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Itumeleng Taunyane and all the other listeners who showed their support for The Beat at EACTS.

JANS Items Mentioned

Pediatric Quality of Life in Toddlers and Children Who Underwent Arterial Switch Operation Beyond Early Neonatal Period

Association Between Interstitial Lung Disease and Outcomes After Lung Cancer Resection

Experiences of Patients Enrolled and Staff Involved in the Prehabilitation of Elective Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery Trial: A Nested Qualitative Study

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Nikaidoh Procedure for TGA, VSD, and PS in a Child

Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair Surgery

Preoperative Holographic Assessment of Pulmonary Anatomy for Intralobar Sequestration

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning reports live from the 2023 EACTS Annual Meeting. This edition of The Beat was livestreamed from Vienna, Austria on October 5, 2023.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses survival after heart transplant in adult congenital patients, cardiac surgery in variable-resource contexts, and the emerging role of balloon pulmonary angioplasty in pulmonary disease.

He also talks about mitral valve-in-valve reconstruction of prosthetic valve leaflets, transposition of the anterior mitral leaflet as a patch, and truncus arteriosis repair. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to EACTS President Patrick Perier.

JANS Items Mentioned

Survival After Cardiac Transplantation in Adults with Single-Ventricle Congenital Heart Disease

Cardiac Surgery in Variable-Resource Contexts: Overly Ambitious or Long Overdue?

Emerging Role of Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Disease—Insights from the 2022 ESC Guidelines

CTSNet Content Mentioned

BVF and Mitral Valve-in-Valve with Surgical Resection of Mitral Prosthetic Valve Leaflets with Mitral SURPLUS

Transposition of the Anterior Mitral Leaflet as a Patch for Posterior Annular Abscess and MAC Debridement

Repair of Truncus Arteriosus with Interrupted Aortic Arch and Moderate to Severe Truncal Valve Regurgitation

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses new findings on treatment for mesothelioma, a study on quality of life after acute type B aortic dissection, and a new real-time blood monitor for high-risk surgeries.

He also talks about a quick technique for aortic hemiarch replacement, a video on the subannular Bentall technique, and an alternative technique to mimic robotic thoracic surgery using VATS. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to the late Dr. David Sugarbaker, a pioneer in mesothelioma surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

MARS2: Decortication Plus Chemotherapy Associated with Worse Outcomes for Resectable Mesothelioma

Long Term Health Related Quality of Life After Acute Type B Aortic Dissection: A Cross Sectional Survey Study

Real-Time Blood Monitor Saves Doctors Critical Time During Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Aortic Hemiarch Replacement: The 7-Minute Technique

Subannular Bentall in Pseudoaneurysm of Mitral-Aortic Intervalvular Fibrosa

Right Upper Lobectomy with Surgeon Powered Robotics

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the updated aortic aneurysm and dissection guidelines, a new device for intraoperative evaluation of aortic valve repair procedures, and a study on the contributions of proteoglycans to sex differences, plaque phenotypes, and outcomes.

He also talks about a video demonstrating an endoscopic beating-heart tricuspid valve replacement, an interview with Ukrainian surgeon Dr. Glib Yemets, and a video demonstrating the increasingly popular periareolar method for cardiac surgery. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Glib Yemets for his dedication to CT surgery in Ukraine.

JANS Items Mentioned

Updated JCS/JSCVS/JATS/JSVS 2020 Guideline on Diagnosis and Treatment of Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection

Aortic Valve Visualization and Pressurization Device: A Novel Device for Intraoperative Evaluation of Aortic Valve Repair Procedures

Proteomic Atlas of Atherosclerosis: The Contribution of Proteoglycans to Sex Differences, Plaque Phenotypes, and Outcomes

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Totally Endoscopic Beating-Heart Second Redo Tricuspid Valve Replacement

Cardiac Surgery in Kyiv: An Interview with Glib Yemets

New Trend in the Periareolar Minimally Invasive Approach: The PAMI Technique

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses donor-transmitted coronary artery disease in heart transplant recipients, multiple arterial grafting in diabetic populations, and outcomes of transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement with prior CABG.

He also talks about VATS documentation of intraoperative unilateral pulmonary artery clamping test, a demonstration of a Cabrol patch with Cooley fistula, and a recording of Duke Cameron’s talk from the 2021 Birmingham Review Course. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Lorena Montes, CTSNet’s new Cardiac Senior Editor.

JANS Items Mentioned

Prevalence, Characteristics, and Prognostic Relevance of Donor-Transmitted Coronary Artery Disease in Heart Transplant Recipients

Survival of Multiple Arterial Grafting in Diabetic Populations: A 20-Year National Experience

Comparison of Outcomes and Discharge Location After Transcatheter vs. Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement with Prior Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Intraoperative Unilateral Pulmonary Artery Clamping Test: A First VATS Documentation of a Years Old Technique

Cabrol Patch with Cooley Fistula: A Useful Tool for Difficult-to-Control Bleeding

Aortopathies: Birmingham Review Course 2021

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the first autoregulated total artificial heart implant in the United States, a study of on-table chest drain removals, and the association between fluoroquinolone use and hospitalization with aortic aneurysm.

He also talks about an off-pump technique for aortic arch debranching, another recording from AATS 2023, and the recent congenital cardiac Guest Editor Series. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to the father of modern mitral valve repair, Alian Carpentier.

JANS Items Mentioned

The First Autoregulated Total Artificial Heart Implant in the United States

Are Chest Drains Routinely Required After Thoracic Surgery? A Drainology Study of On-Table Chest Drain Removals

Association Between Fluoroquinolone Use and Hospitalization with Aortic Aneurysm or Aortic Dissection

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Aortic Arch Debranching: The Off-Pump Technique

ATAS 2023: Subannular Bioconduit Implantation

Guest Editor Series: Right Axillary Thoracotomy for Repair of a Wide Variety of Congenital Heart Defects in Infants and Children—Should This Be the New Standard?

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the first in-human transapical beating-heart septal myectomy, machine learning prediction of mortality following cardiac surgery, and organ donation after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

He also talks about Bo Yang’s presentation on aortic root enlargement from ATAS 2023, a roundup of five videos on surgical innovations in lung cancer treatment, and a video on the management strategy of ATAAD with cerebral malperfusion. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Dr. Bo Yang’s eponymous aortic root enlargement technique.

JANS Items Mentioned

First-in-Human Transapical Beating-Heart Septal Myectomy in Patients with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy

Machine Learning Prediction of Mortality Following Cardiac Surgery: Analysis of a Large National Database

Organ Donation After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Scientific Statement from the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation

CTSNet Content Mentioned

ATAS 2023: Techniques of Aortic Root Enlargement

5 Videos on Surgical Innovations in Lung Cancer Treatment

Rapid Reperfusion: Management Strategy of ATAAD with Cerebral Malperfusion

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the EACTS and STS review on conduits for CABG, a groundbreaking domino surgery in infants, and coronary plaque sampling to gain molecular insights into coronary artery disease.

He also talks about a video demonstrating direct axillary artery cannulation, a recorded SCTS session on the management of thoracic aortic aneurysms, and a robotic bilateral thymectomy. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to CTSNet’s new JANS editors.

JANS Items Mentioned

Expert Systematic Review on the Choice of Conduits for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Endorsed by the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)

Groundbreaking 'Domino' Heart Surgery at NYC Hospital Saves Lives of Two Baby Girls

Coronary Plaque Sampling Reveals Molecular Insights Into Coronary Artery Disease

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Direct Axillary Artery Cannulation: Safe, Expeditious, and Hemostatic

SCTS 2023 Snapshot: Contemporary Non-Size Risk Factors in the Management of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections

Robotic Bilateral Thymectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses the STS and AATS rebuttal to the 2023 Chronic Coronary Disease Guideline, the development of an adult congenital mortality risk model, and early deterioration of heart valves that have now been taken off the market.

He also talks about videos demonstrating pulmonary artery aneurysm replacement with vascular prosthesis, a RATS bilateral lobectomy, and an off-pump reconstruction of the right pulmonary artery in an infant. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to the late cardiac surgeon Simon MacGowan.

JANS Items Mentioned

STS/AATS-Endorsed Rebuttal to 2023 ACC/AHA Chronic Coronary Disease Guideline: A Missed Opportunity to Present Accurate and Comprehensive Revascularization Recommendations

Development of a Novel Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Congenital Mortality Risk Model

Abbott Pulls Trifecta Heart Valves off the Market Due to Early Deterioration

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Large Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm Replacement with Vascular Prothesis in a Patient with Coronary Artery Disease and PFO

RATS Bilateral Lobectomy and Tangential Resection of Left Main Pulmonary Artery

Challenging Pulmonary Arterial Reconstruction: Off-Pump Reconstruction of the Right Pulmonary Artery in an Infant

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning interviews cardiac surgeon and Chairman of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Guidelines Committee Faisal Bakaeen. The update to the guidelines on chronic coronary disease has been an important topic of discussion among surgeons since they were released, and Joel and Faisal discuss their implications.

Joel also discusses the latest CTSNet content, including an interview with Colombian thoracic surgeon Eric Vinck, a video demonstrating minimally invasive left atrial myxoma resection using 3D technology, and recordings from the SCTS coronary sessions.

Finally, after discussing upcoming events in the cardiothoracic surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to John D. Puskas for his long and fruitful career in coronary revascularization.

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Lung Transplantation Challenges in Colombia: An Interview with Eric Vinck

Minimally Invasive Left Atrial Myxoma Resection Using 3D Technology

2023 SCTS Coronary Sessions

Other Items Mentioned

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses safe duration of hypothermic circulatory arrest, racial disparities in survival after lung transplant, and pulmonary dysfunction after inferior pulmonary ligament division.

He also talks about a video demonstrating ICG for intraoperative thoracic duct lymphangiogram in VATS thoracic duct ligation, an expert webinar discussing extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation programs, and video demonstrating a valve-sparing aortic root replacement. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Tom D’Amico for his pioneering work in thoracic surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest with Retrograde Cerebral Perfusion: How Long is Safe?

Association of Socioeconomic Position with Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Survival After Lung Transplant

Inferior Pulmonary Ligament Division During Left Upper Lobectomy Causes Pulmonary Dysfunction

CTSNet Content Mentioned

ICG for Intraoperative Thoracic Duct Lymphangiogram in VATS Thoracic Duct Ligation

ASAIO Webinar | ECPR: Building the Team for Success

Redo Sternotomy with David VI Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement in an 18-Year-Old

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

View Details

In this epsiode, Joel discusses new dissolving cardiac monitors used to treat heart disease, an initiative in Côte d’Ivoire leading the way for CT surgery in Africa, and a simple technique for mitral valve repair using running sutures.

He also talks about videos demonstrating the Nikaidoh operation, right gastroepiploic artery harvesting in CABG, and a VATS right pneumectomy. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to the staff at CTSNet.

JANS Items Mentioned

Dissolving Cardiac Device Monitors and Treats Heart Disease

A Model for Africa: Côte d’Ivoire Health Ministry Announces New Initiative to Become Self-Sufficient in Pediatric Cardiology Surgery

A Mitral Valve Repair Update: Simple, Intuitive, and Physiological Techniques Using Running Sutures (Part I & Part II)

CTSNet Content Mentioned

The Nikaidoh Operation: An Aortic Translocation Repair

Harvesting of the Right Gastroepiploic Artery in CABG

An Easy Way to Perform a Biportal VATS Right Pneumonectomy

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses lessons learned from the first successful pig heart transplant, transmitral septal myectomy and mitral valve surgery via right mini-thoracotomy, and type A aortic dissection in young patients.

He also talks about a video demonstrating resection of metastatic high-grade osteosarcoma with direct extension into the left atrium, the 2023 ISMICS keynote addresses, and a roundup of CTSNet’s most popular videos and articles in June. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Tirone David, creator of the David Procedure and pioneer in valve sparing aortic root replacement.

[Video]

[Audio]

JANS Items Mentioned

Lessons Learned from World’s First Successful Transplant of Genetically Modified Pig Heart into Human Patient

Transmitral Septal Myectomy and Mitral Valve Surgery via Right Mini-Thoracotomy

Acute Type A Aortic Dissection in Adolescents and Young Adults Under 30 Years of Age

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Metastatic High-Grade Osteosarcoma with Direct Extension into the Left Atrium: Resection Combined with Right Middle Lobectomy

Innovation and Resilience: The 2023 ISMICS Keynote Addresses

CTSNet’s 10 Most Popular Articles of June 2023

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, Editor in Chief Joel Dunning interviews Nursing and Allied Health Senior Editor Jill Ley.

Joel and Jill discussed her more than forty-year career as a nurse working alongside cardiac surgeons, working together as a multidisciplinary community, and her plans for her new role with CTSNet.

Make sure to view Jill Ley’s Guest Editor Series, a curated collection of presentations on timely topics in cardiothoracic nursing from CONNECT members around the world.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through CT surgery videos and breaking news all the way from Buckingham Palace!

Joel discusses whether to repair or replace the aortic root in type A dissection, prolapse repair for aortic regurgitation in tricuspid aortic valves, and the first in cardiac catheterization procedures in a Ghanaian hospital.

He also talks about TAPVC in a neonate, a rapid deployment aortic valve replacement procedure, and removal of a cardiac hydatid cyst with right intraventricular extension. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to the late Vivien Thomas, a pioneer in cardiothoracic surgery.

JANS Items Mentioned

The Aortic Root in Acute Type A Dissection: Repair or Replace?

Prolapse Repair for Aortic Regurgitation in Tricuspid Aortic Valves

UGMC Undertakes First Cardiac Catheterization Surgery on Three Children

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Primary Sutureless Repair of Obstructed Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC) in a Neonate

Rapid Deployment Valve Over Aortic Mechanical Valve

Surgery for Cardiac Hydatid Cyst with Right Intraventricular Extension

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Disclaimer

The information and views presented on CTSNet.org represent the views of the authors and contributors of the material and not of CTSNet. Please review our full disclaimer page here.

View Details

In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

Joel discusses minithoracotomy versus sternotomy for mitral valve repair, an AATS consensus on management of patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, and wedge resection versus lobectomy for lung cancer with lymph node disease.

He also talks about a case of Ravitch and mitral valve repair for a patient with Marfan syndrome, SVC cannula insertion and removal technique, and a CTSNet exclusive interview with Loretta Erhunmwunsee about her cross-cultural work in thoracic surgery. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, he closes with a shoutout to Tom Varghese and David Cooke for their podcast, Same Surgeon, Different Light.

JANS Items Mentioned

Minithoracotomy vs Conventional Sternotomy for Mitral Valve Repair: A Randomized Clinical Trial

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) 2023 Expert Consensus Document: Staging and Multidisciplinary Management of Patients with Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Wedge Resection vs. Lobectomy for Clinical Stage IA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Occult Lymph Node Disease

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Concomitant Ravitch Repair and Mitral Valve Repair in a 13-Year-Old Patient with Marfan Syndrome

Percutaneous Insertion and Removal Technique of Bio-Medicus Cannula as SVC Cannula for Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Cultural Humility in Surgery: An Interview with Loretta Erhunmwunsee

Other Items Mentioned

Same Surgeon, Different Light

CTSNet Events Calendar

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In this episode of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning is joined by new senior editor of congenital content, Dr. Sameh Said. Together, they run through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

After a short introduction, Joel and Sameh begin their discussion on outcomes of pulmonary atresia in neonates, surgical outcomes for type A thoracic aorta dissection, and disparities in access to thoracic surgeons for esophagectomy.

They also talk about a new method for VSD closure without ventriculotomy, a double valve replacement from Medtronic, and an anomalous origin of the coronary artery repair from Dr. Said himself. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, they close with a shoutout to Patrick Myers.

JANS Items Mentioned

Procedural Outcomes of Pulmonary Atresia with Intact Ventricular Septum in Neonates: A Multicenter Study

Surgical Outcomes of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Retrograde Stanford Type A Dissection

Racial, Socioeconomic Disparities Affect Access to Thoracic Surgeons for Esophagectomy

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Postinfarction Ventricular Septal Defect Closure Without Ventriculotomy—A Novel Method

Medtronic Sponsored Content: Double Valve Replacement—How I Do It

Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Right Coronary Artery from the Wrong Sinus of Valsalva (AAORCA): Two Surgical Strategies

Other Items Mentioned

Uniportal VATS-RATS Training Program at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital

CTSNet Events Calendar

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In CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In this episode, Joel addresses new guidelines for mechanical circulatory support, a five-year follow-up after transcatheter repair of secondary mitral regurgitation, and risk factors in aortic root replacement during frozen elephant trunk procedures.

He also talks about two techniques for internal mammary artery harvest, a webinar on advanced aortic root surgery, and recordings from the conference on sublobar resections. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to Prof. Eric Lim at Royal Brompton Hospital.

JANS Items Mentioned

The 2023 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Guidelines for Mechanical Circulatory Support: A 10-Year Update

Five-Year Follow-up after Transcatheter Repair of Secondary Mitral Regurgitation

Concomitant Aortic Root Replacement During Frozen Elephant Trunk Implantation Does Not Increase Perioperative Risk

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Internal Mammary Artery Harvest: Two Techniques with Tips and Tricks

Getinge Webinar: Advanced Aortic Root Surgery—A Diversity of Surgical Strategies from Global Experts

Sublobar Resections and Evolving Techniques for Lung Cancer: Session 8, Part 2

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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The Beat with Joel Dunning Ep. 9

In this episode, Joel addresses the viability of redo TAVR, simluation-based training in thoracic surgery, and pectus excavatum in cardiac surgery patients.

He also talks VATS resection of a mediastinal cyst, a grand round discussion from Metronic, and a webinar on advances in valve tissue technology. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to Tristan Yan.

JANS Items Mentioned

Redo TAVR May Be Reasonable Option for Failed Transcatheter Heart Valves

Consensus on Technical Procedures for Simulation-Based Training in Thoracic Surgery: An International Needs Assessment

Pectus Excavatum in Cardiac Surgery Patients

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Resection of Posterior Mediastinal Cyst

Sponsored Content: Mitral Valve Repair Using Chords—A Case-Based Discussion

Edwards Webinar: Advances in Valve Tissue Technology and Why It Matters

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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The Beat with Joel Dunning Ep. 8

In this episode, Joel addresses a machine learning model improving mortality risk prediction for cardiac surgery patients, the efficacy of thoracoscopic surgery for descending necrotizing mediastinitis, and a study examining diversity and compensation among cardiothoracic surgeons.

He also talks about a minimally invasive mitral valve repair, repair by translocation of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery, and a global surgeon spotlight. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to Kim Eagle and Thomas Crawford for their work with My Heart Your Heart.

JANS Items Mentioned

Researchers Show That a Machine Learning Model Can Improve Mortality Risk Prediction for Cardiac Surgery Patients

Efficacy of Thoracoscopic Surgery for Descending Necrotizing Mediastinitis

Exploring Diversity, Compensation Among Academic Cardiothoracic Surgeons

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Minimally Invasive Off-Pump Mitral Valve Repair with the NeoChord DS1000 System

Anomalous Origin of the Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA): Repair by Translocation

Global Surgeon Spotlight: An Interview with Professor Barasa Otsyula

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

My Heart Your Heart

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CTSNet editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on the website and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In Episode 7, Joel talks about an STS analysis on isolated tricuspid operations, a framework to developing pediatric and congenital heart disease services in low/middle-income countries, and usage of ChatGPT to process thoracic surgery data.

He also reflects on recent CTSNet surgical content, including a Yang procedure performed by a South African cardiac team, an easy-to-follow uniportal VATS lung sparing resection using a radial stapler, and a Ross procedure after explantation of failed TAVR. After shouting out upcoming events in CT surgery including conferences in Germany and Singapore, Joel expresses enthusiasm for the dedication of Chip and Ceeya Bolman in regard to the work done by Team Heart in Rwanda.

JANS Items Mentioned

Isolated Tricuspid Operations: The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database Analysis

Recommendations for Developing Effective and Safe Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease Services in Low-Income and Middle-Income Countries: A Public Health Framework

ChatGPT Shows 'Remarkable Ability' to Process Thoracic Surgery Data, Could Help with Training and Patient Care

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Yang Procedure and Double Valve Replacement Technique

Uniportal VATS Lung Sparing Resection with Radial Stapler for Unknown Post-COVID-19 Lesions

Ross Procedure After Explantation of Failed Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Chip & Ceeya—Team Heart

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Joel runs through some of his favorite presentations from last week’s AATS annual meeting. Then, he addresses a new hybrid device to treat patients with thoracoabdominal aortic disease, Zambia's first total aortic arch replacement, and albumin infusion and blood loss after cardiac surgery.

He also talks about the winning video in the Resident Video Competition, a step-by-step single-ventricle palliative procedure from the late James Tweddell, and a discussion on SAVR procedures. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to CTSNet Global Editor Emily Farkas.

JANS Items Mentioned

Terumo Aortic’s ThoracoFlo Hybrid Device Used in First North American Case

UM Health Surgical Team Guides Zambia's First Total Aortic Arch Replacement

Albumin Infusion and Blood Loss After Cardiac Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Decannulation Technique in the Awake, Spontaneously Breathing Patient (Resident Video Competition Winner)

How I Do It: Single Ventricle Palliation with Norwood/Sano, Bidirectional Glenn, and Extracardiac Fontan

Sponsored Content: SAVR Procedures to Enhance Outcomes: A Case-Based Discussion

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Learn more on ctsnet.org.

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In CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In this episode, Joel addresses the first beating heart transplants from cardiac death donors, redo options at TAVR, and mastering the learning curve for robotic-assisted CABG.

He also talks about the recent ERAS webinar, an update on research in postsurgical pain after cardiac surgery, and sutured patch repair of an ischemic left ventricle wall rupture. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to robotic surgery pioneer Mark Slack.

JANS Items Mentioned

First Beating Heart Transplants from Cardiac Death Donors

The Worst Redo Option After TAVR?

Mastering the Learning Curve for Robotic-Assisted Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

CTSNet Content Mentioned

ERAS: Improving Outcomes in Patients Requiring Mechanical Circulatory Support | ERAS Webinar

Postsurgical Pain After Cardiac Surgery—An Update on the Evidence

Sutured Patch Repair of Ischemic Left Ventricular Free Wall Rupture

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Mark Slack and CMR Surgical

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In CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In this episode, Joel addresses the first ever cardiac surgery trial in women, a new method of visualizing the cardiac conduction system during surgery, and a new model to predict future lung cancer risk from a single low-dose CT scan.

He also talks about a novel method of mitral valve translocation for patients with secondary mitral regurgitation, session two of the sublobar resection conference, and last week’s fascinating Guest Editor Series. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to Jo Chikwe.

JANS Items Mentioned

First-Ever Cardiac Surgery Trial in Women Poised to Launch: ROMA-Women

Making the Invisible Visible to Improve Heart Surgery Outcomes

Sybil: A Validated Deep Learning Model to Predict Future Lung Cancer Risk From a Single Low-Dose Chest Computed Tomography

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Mitral Valve Translocation: A Novel Technique for Patients with Secondary Mitral Regurgitation

Sublobar Resections and Evolving Techniques for Lung Cancer: Session 2

Guest Editor Series: CONNECTING Patients, Clinicians, and Outstanding Cardiac Care Through Nursing and Allied Professional Research

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Heart Sounds Podcast

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In CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In this episode, Joel addresses ascending thoracic aorta outcomes, using AI to predict TAVR complications, and quality of life after esophagectomy.

He also talks about robotic assisted mitral valve repair, a successful closure of an aortic pseudoaneurysm, and robotic assisted paraesophageal hernia repair. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to Marcel Dahan for the twentieth anniversary of the Epithor database.

JANS Items Mentioned

Fate of the Unoperated Ascending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: Three-Decade Experience from the Aortic Institute at Yale University

AI Predicts the Likelihood of a Common TAVR Complication

Recovery of Patient-Reported Quality of Life After Esophagectomy

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Robotic Assisted Mitral Valve Repair After Failed Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

Successful Closure of an Aortic Pseudoaneurysm and Mitral Paravalvular Leak Via a Hybrid Transapical Approach

Robotic-Assisted Paraesophageal Hernia Repair: Operative Anatomy and Technical Considerations

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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In CTSNet’s flagship podcast, editor in chief Joel Dunning runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In this episode, Joel addresses the junior doctors strike in the UK, new TAVR trial results, and gender inequity among surgeons.

He also talks about CTSNet’s recent Guest Editor Series, the current status of tricuspid valve treatment, and different methods for TMVR. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to CTSNet President Duke Cameron.

JANS Items Mentioned

Junior Doctors in England to Strike for Four Days in April

Bioprosthetic Valve Dysfunction Less Common in TAVR vs. Surgery at 5 years

In the Operating Room and the Hospital Boardroom, Women Surgeons Aren’t Treated Equally

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Guest Editor Series: 21 Years After First TAVI: Will the Pace of Innovations Continue for All Heart Valves?

Current Status of Tricuspid Interventions

Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement: Valve-in-Valve, Valve-in-Ring, and Valve-in-MAC

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

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The Beat is back! In this revamped version of CTSNet’s flagship podcast, our new editor in chief, Joel Dunning, runs through the latest, most popular content on ctsnet.org—the largest online community of CT surgeons and source of CT surgery information—and breaking cardiothoracic surgery news and research from around the world.

In this episode, Joel addresses the recently released US physician’s compensation report, detecting anastomotic leaks after esophagectomy, and SynCardia total artificial heart outcomes.

He also talks about Penelope Adinku’s featured profile interview, and videos demonstrating a reoperative aortic root and cabrol procedure and a bronchopleural fistula closure. After discussing upcoming events in the CT surgery world, Joel closes with a shoutout to outgoing CTSNet Editor in Chief Mark Ferguson.

JANS Items Mentioned

2023 Physician Compensation Report

Half of Anastomotic Leaks After Esophagectomy Are Undetected on Initial Postoperative Esophagram

Experience With SynCardia Total Artificial Heart as a Bridge to Transplantation in 100 Patients

CTSNet Content Mentioned

Featured Profile: Penelope Adinku

Reoperative Aortic Root and Cabrol Procedure with Aortic Arch and Descending Thoracic Aorta Replacement

Bronchopleural Fistula Closure by Intrathoracic Transposition of the Omentum

Other Items Mentioned

CTSNet Events Calendar

Diego Gonzalez Rivas’ Website

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This is a recording of the webinar that concluded the Guest Editor Series, "Lung Cancer Screening - Health Care Disparities". In it, the panelists discuss the various videos contributed to the series about disparities in lung cancer screening as well as other hot button issues on the topic.

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Dr. Joel Dunning interviews Dr. Isabelle Opitz about robotic surgery, ESTS, and more!

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This Beat episode, hosted by Patrick Myers, cardiac surgeon at the University of Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland, focuses on three recent publications, presented at the ACC21 and EuroPCR meetings. First, Dr Myers discusses the LAAOS III trial, a practice-changing multicenter prospective randomized trial of left atrial appendage occlusion during cardiac surgery. He then dives into a meta-analysis comparing revascularization and medical treatment, covering 20’000 patients from 25 RCTs. Dr Myers then reviews a UK study on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SAVR and TAVI volumes. He finally notes to not miss the guest editor series lead by Mark Gerdish, on surgery for atrial fibrillation. For more information on this episode’s topics, links to the articles are provided below:

1. Whitlock RP, Belley-Cote EP, Paparella D, Healey JS, Brady K, Sharma M, Reents W, Budera P, Baddour AJ, Fila P, Devereaux PJ, Bogachev-Prokophiev A, Boening A, Teoh KHT, Tagarakis GI, Slaughter MS, Royse AG, McGuinness S, Alings M, Punjabi PP, Mazer CD, Folkeringa RJ, Colli A, Avezum Á, Nakamya J, Balasubramanian K, Vincent J, Voisine P, Lamy A, Yusuf S, Connolly SJ; LAAOS III Investigators. Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion during Cardiac Surgery to Prevent Stroke. N Engl J Med. 2021 May 15. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2101897.
2. Navarese EP, Lansky AJ, Kereiakes DJ, Kubica J, Gurbel PA, Gorog DA, Valgimigli M, Curzen N, Kandzari DE, Bonaca MP, Brouwer M, Umińska J, Jaguszewski MJ, Raggi P, Waksman R, Leon MB, Wijns W, Andreotti F. Cardiac mortality in patients randomised to elective coronary revascularisation plus medical therapy or medical therapy alone: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Heart J. 2021 May 18:ehab246. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab246.
3. Martin GP, Curzen N, Goodwin AT, Nolan J, Balacumaraswami L, Ludman PF, Kontopantelis E, Wu J, Gale CP, de Belder MA, Mamas MA. Indirect Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Activity and Outcomes of Transcatheter and Surgical Treatment of Aortic Stenosis in England. Circ Cardiovasc Interv. 2021 May;14(5):e010413. doi: 10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.120.010413.
4. Gerdish M, La Meir M, McCarthy P, Ad N. Guest Editor Series Webinar: surgical atrial fibrillation – what we must do and what we can do. https://www.ctsnet.org/article/guest-editor-series-webinar-surgical-atrial-fibrillation-what-we-must-do-and-what-we-can-do

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In this latest Beat episode, hosted by Joel Dunning, MD, an interview with Sean Grondin, president of the STS, is featured. Dr. Grodin discusses the previous virtual STS meeting and shares plans for a hybrid meeting in Miami. He also covers the new STS Database transfer and the advantages this will have for members, as well as advocacy and interaction with government and the issues of training. It was a pleasure to talk to Sean who is doing an outstanding job of leading the STS in extraordinary times.

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The Leadership Book Club, hosted by Ara Vaporciyan, program manager of the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at the University of Texas MD Anderson, discusses the book Teaming: How Organizations Learn, Innovate, and Compete in the Knowledge Economy by Amy Edmondson. Dr. Vaporicyan is joined by panelists Vinod Thourani, MD, of the Piedmont Heart Institute; Jennifer Romano, MD, of the University of Michigan; and Kimberly Holst, MD, of the Mayo Clinic. The Leadership Book Club discusses key concepts of the book as much of Dr Edmondson’s research is focused on health care, including cardiac surgery.

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On this Beat episode, Dr. Brian Mitzman, Thoracic Surgeon with University of Utah Health in Salt Lake City, invites on Dr. Elliot Servais to discuss training the next generation of thoracic surgeons. Dr. Servais is a general thoracic surgeon with the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Boston, MA. He serves as the Director of Robotic Thoracic Surgery and Vice Chair for Quality and Safety in the Department of Surgery. He not only mentors fellows from the Beth Israel Deaconess training program, but also serves as a national proctor for Intuitive Surgical.

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This Beat episode, hosted by Brian Mitzman MD, general thoracic surgeon with the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, focuses two recent publications and also a featured video on CTSNet. First, Dr Mitzman discusses a recent JTCVS expert opinion from Dr Craig Baker of USC discussing traditional and integrated models for cardiothoracic surgery training. He then dives into a recent Annals publication from the team at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center which analyzes the STS General Thoracic Database and evaluates postoperative day 1 discharge after lobectomy. Lastly, Dr Mitzman reviews a CTSNet featured video from Drs Watkins and Servais in Boston, where they run through tips and tricks for all five robotic lobectomies. For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

1. Baker CJ. What is the optimal cardiothoracic surgery residency model? JTCVS Open. 2021; In Press. doi:10.1016/j.xjon.2021.01.012
2. Towe CW, Thibault DP, Worrell SG, et al. Factors associated with successful postoperative day one discharge following anatomic lung resection. Ann Thorac Surg. 2021; In Press. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2020.07.059
3. Zhao K, Zhang J, Li S. Discharge on POD1 after anatomic lung resection to be treated with caution. Ann Thorac Surg. 2021; In Press. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2020.12.094
4. Towe CW, Worrell SG, Finley DJ, et al. One day is here to stay. Ann Thorac Surg. 2021;In Press. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2021.03.020
5. Linden PA, Perry Y, Worrell SG et al. Postoperative day 1 discharge after anatomic lung resection: A Society of Thoracic Surgeons database analysis. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2020;159:667-678. doi:10.1016/jtcvs.2019.08.038
6. Watkins A, Servais E. Robotic Lobectomy: Review of Anatomy and Technique for RUL, RML, RLL, LUL, and LLL.

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Jessica Luc of the University of British Columbia in Canada interviews Marc Ruel of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute about his pioneering work in minimally invasive cardiac surgical operations. They discuss his career, the importance of mentorship, and the development of current minimally invasive cardiac techniques.

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Lisa R. DeGarmo of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth in Houston, Texas, moderates a discussion for advanced practice providers. She is joined by Jill Engel of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, Laura Marie Wueste of Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston, Texas, and Julie Dawn Shoffstall of Emory Healthcare in Atlanta, Georgia. They discuss the growth of APPs in the medical field, as well as how to build quality programs in cardiothoracic surgery. 

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Mara Antonoff of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, USA, moderates a discussion on maintaining physical health to prevent burnout in cardiothoracic surgery. She is joined by Robert J. Cerfolio of NYU Langone Health in New York, Lisa M. Brown of University of California Davis Health, and Jennifer Sue Lawton of Johns Hopkins Medicine. They discuss the various ways to incorporate physical health and fitness as part of effective work-life balance.

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This Beat episode, hosted by Joel Dunning, focuses on the new ISMICS guidelines on TAVI versus SAVR, STS podcasts, the Mitral Foundation website, a new study on atezolizumab, and a UK National database comparison of outcomes between NHS hospitals and private hospitals with the author Umberto Benedetto. For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

1. Thourani VH, Edelman JJ, Holmes SD, Nguyen TC, Carroll J, Mack MJ, et al. The International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery Expert Consensus Statement on Transcatheter and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low- and Intermediate-Risk Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized and Propensity-Matched Studies. Innovations. First Published January 25, 2021.
2. STS Podcasts
3. The Mitral Foundation
4. Atezolizumab in addition to surgery in patients with lung cancer
5. Disparity in clinical outcomes after cardiac surgery between private and public (NHS) payers in England

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This Beat episode, featuring Brian Mitzman MD, general thoracic surgeon with the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, focuses on two recent CTSNet videos: robotic diaphragm plication and "robotic-alternative" instrumentation. He then looks into a recent Annals of Thoracic Surgery publication analyzing how to decrease overutilization of postoperative chest X-rays. Finally, Dr Mitzman takes a dive into the current CT surgery job market. For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

1. Kraev A, Gregory J, Counts S. Robotic Left Diaphragm Plication Using Automatic (Cor-Knot) Device. CTSNet. February 2021. doi:10.25373/ctsnet.13957454
2. Dunning J, Colman A. VATS Wristed Instruments in a Middle Lobectomy and Control of Bleeding. CTSNet. February 2021. doi:10.25373/ctsnet.14047058
3. Porter ED, Kelly JL, Fay KA, Hasson RM, Millington TM, Finley DJ, et al. Reducing Unnecessary Chest X-Ray Films After Thoracic Surgery: A Quality Improvement Initiative. Ann Thorac Surg. 2021;111:1012-1018.
4. CTSNet Career Center

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In this Giants of Cardiothoracic Surgery interview, Joel Dunning speaks with Oscar Howard “Bud” Frazier about his career. Dr Frazier trained with Michael DeBakey and Denton Cooley while they were developing the first mechanical heart. He continued and advanced this work throughout his career while also performing over 1,200 heart transplants and over 500 left ventricular assist devices (LVAD). Dr Frazier also performed the first HeartMate implantation and the first Jarvik implantation. He has been an instrumental part of mechanical heart development and continues to take a close interest in this rapidly advancing field.

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In this CTSNet To Go podcast episode, Jessica G. Y. Luc of the University of British Columbia moderates a discussion on nontechnical skills for cardiothoracic surgery. She is joined by Jason J. Han of the University of Pennsylvania, Patrick O. Myers of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois in Switzerland, Mara Antonoff of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Jennifer Sue Lawton of Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Maryland, and Thomas K. Varghese Jr of the University of Utah. They discuss the important distinction between nontechnical and operative skills, the types of nontechnical skills that are unique to cardiothoracic surgery, and how to apply them to daily practice.

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In this CTSNet To Go episode, Edward M. Bender of Stanford University in California, USA, moderates a discussion on how the internet plays a role in establishing and growing cardiothoracic careers. He is joined by T. Sloane Guy of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, Jessica G. Y. Luc of the University of British Columbia in Canada, and Mara Antonoff of MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, USA. They discuss how to use social media to represent one's self and institution, communicate with colleagues and patients, and establish and evolve mentorships.

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This Beat episode, hosted by Jessica Luc, MD, covers part two of a two-part discussion on vaccines. Dr Jessica Luc interviews Dr Dimitrios Coutsinos, thoracic surgery fellow with a PhD in immunology, to review the background and data on the latest vaccines available, as well as discuss the developments in its rollout, and potential effectiveness or lack of thereof, against the new variants. 

For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

1. Baden LR, El Sahly HM, Essink B, Kotloff K, Frey S, Novak R, et al. Efficacy and safety of the mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. N Engl J Med. Dec 30, 2021.
2. Voysey M, Clemens SAC, Madhi SA, Weckx LY, Folegatti PM, Aley PK, et al. Safety and efficacy of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (AZD1222) against SARS-CoV-2: an interim analysis of four randomised controlled trials in Brazil, South Africa, and the UK. Lancet. Dec 8, 2020.
3. Polack FP, Thomas SJ, Kitchin N, Absalon J, Gurtman A, Lockhart S, et al. Safety and efficacy of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 vaccine. N Engl J Med. 2020;383:2603-2615.

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This Beat episode, featuring Joel Dunning, MD, focuses on survivors' longitudinal functional status of ECMO after COVID-19, a trial on advanced reperfusion strategies, an analysis on the decrease in all adult surgeries, and results of robotically-assisted congenital cardiac surgery. For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

• What Does Survival Look Like After ECMO for COVID-19? Small registry highlights need to analyze survivors' longitudinal functional status
  • https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/sts/90972
• Advanced reperfusion strategies for patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and refractory ventricular fibrillation (ARREST): a phase 2, single centre, open-label, randomised controlled trial
  • https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(20)32338-2/fulltext
• An analysis of national data revealed a 53% decrease in all adult heart surgeries, including a 40% decline in non-elective heart surgeries and a 65% drop in elective heart surgeries during the pandemic, compared to 2019.
  • https://consumer.healthday.com/b-2-2-pandemic-has-cut-heart-surgeries-in-half-and-more-patients-are-dying-2650177681.html
  • https://www.ctsnet.org/article/totally-endoscopic-transaortic-septal-myectomy-hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy
• Early Results of Robotically Assisted Congenital Cardiac Surgery: Analysis of 242 Patients : JANS posting
  • https://www.ctsnet.org/jans/early-results-robotically-assisted-congenital-cardiac-surgery-analysis-242-patients

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In this CTSNet To Go podcast episode, Niv Ad moderates a discussion on the importance of atrial fibrillation in decision-making in structural heart disease and coronary artery disease. He is joined by Marc Gerdisch of the Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Joanna Chikwe of Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, USA;  and Vinod Thourani of the Piedmont Heart Institute in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

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In this CTSNet To Go podcast episode, Mara Antonoff moderates a roundtable on the role of metastasectomy in pulmonary metastatic disease. She is joined by Erin M. Corsini of MD Anderson Cancer Center, Loretta Erhunmwunsee of City of Hope Cancer Center in California, and Neel Chudgar of  Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. They discuss variability in practice patterns, specific tumor types, and patient selection.

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In this CTSNet To Go episode, David Tom Cooke moderates a discussion on innovative curriculum design in cardiothoracic surgery. He is joined by Rishindra M. Reddy of the University of Michigan, Amy G. Fiedler of the University of Wisconsin, Luis Armando Godoy of the University of California David Medical Center, and Thomas K. Varghese, Jr., of the University of Utah. They discuss the fundamental skill sets residents must learn before graduation, the current curriculum at each panelists' respective institutions, and innovative new ideas to guide curriculum development in the future.

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This Beat episode, featuring Brian Mitzman, general thoracic surgeon with the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, discusses recent highlights submitted to CTSNet along with a look at this weekend's Society of Thoracic Surgeons 57th Annual Meeting. For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

1. Society of Thoracic Surgeons 57th Annual Meeting
2. Fontaine J-P, Parvathaneni A. Moffitt Technique. January 2021. doi:10.25373/ctsnet.13549418.
3. Ceylan KC, Batihan G, Yazgan S, et al. Pleural complications in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): How to safely apply and follow-up with a chest tube during the pandemic. Eur J Cardiothoracic Surg. 2020;58:1216-1221.

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In this CTSNet To Go podcast episode, Guest Editor Konstadinos A. Plestis and his panelists discuss the seven clinical videos of his recent Guest Editor Series: Surgical Management of Acute Aortic Dissections: Tricks and Tips to Simplify the Operation, highlighting key techniques in difficult cases that can be replicated by all cardiac surgeons. 

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David Jablons moderates this live event, which presented data about the development of a molecular assay based on resected tumor RNA expression from simple paraffin-fixed tissue samples. This is integrated into an algorithm that can assign a risk score for recurrence. This molecular risk score is fully independent of standard TNM staging and does not rely on any other clinical parameters. The assay has been widely validated in thousands of patients and demonstrates both significant prognostic information and the predictive benefit of adjuvant platinum based chemotherapy in high risk patients, as identified by this assay.

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In this Giants of Cardiothoracic Surgery interview, Jessica Luc speaks with Lars G. Svensson of the Cleveland Clinic about his career in cardiac surgery. They discuss the elephant trunk procedure, the modified David reimplantation procedure, and the "J" incision, as well as Dr Svensson's tips for mentorship and leadership.

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This Beat episode, hosted by Joel Dunning, MD, includes part I of a two-part discussion on vaccines. Dr Dunning reviews three papers on the three COVID-19 vaccines currently available.

For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

1. Baden LR, El Sahly HM, Essink B, Kotloff K, Frey S, Novak R, et al. Efficacy and safety of the mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. N Engl J Med. Dec 30, 2021.
2. Voysey M, Clemens SAC, Madhi SA, Weckx LY, Folegatti PM, Aley PK, et al. Safety and efficacy of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (AZD1222) against SARS-CoV-2: an interim analysis of four randomised controlled trials in Brazil, South Africa, and the UK. Lancet. Dec 8, 2020.
3. Polack FP, Thomas SJ, Kitchin N, Absalon J, Gurtman A, Lockhart S, et al. Safety and efficacy of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 vaccine. N Engl J Med. 2020;383:2603-2615.

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In this Giants of Cardiothoracic Surgery interview, Joel Dunning speaks with Patrick M. McCarthy, executive director of the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Northwestern in Chicago, Illinois. They discuss Dr McCarthy's training and mentorship, his techniques with mitral valve surgery, and how the field has changed over the course of his career.

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Leanne Harling, MD, of the Imperial College, London, UK, and Jessica Luc, MD, of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, moderate a discussion on the global experience of how to make the most of one's training and successfully transition to practice. They are joined by an international panel of guests, and this discussion spans cardiac surgery and general thoracic surgery. This Resident Corner also covers specific tips and lessons learned in the realm of resident education during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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In this CTSNet roundtable, Dawn Hui of UT Health San Antonio, Texas, moderates a discussion on advocacy within the cardiothoracic surgery specialty. She is joined by Keith Naunheim of Saint Louis University in Missouri, John H. Calhoon of the UT Health San Antonio, Texas, Ourania Preventza of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, Seth Wolf of the University of Vermont, and Courtney Yohe, director of government relations for the Society of Thoracic Surgeons in Washington, D.C. They discuss what advocacy means to them, the impact of advocacy on the specialty, and ways cardiothoracic surgeons can have a direct impact on federal policy.

Disclaimer

Contributions to STS-PAC are voluntary and not tax deductible for federal income tax purposes. You have the right to decline to contribute without any reprisal against your STS membership. Your contribution must be made using a credit card, check or money order, and must be drawn on a personal account to be used to support federal candidates. You must be a US citizen or lawfully admitted permanent US resident to contribute. Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of each individual whose contributions exceed $200 in a calendar year. Federal law prohibits STS and STS-PAC from soliciting contributions from persons outside STS’s restricted class. STS’s restricted class includes individuals who are dues paying members or non-dues paying members with voting rights, and who are US citizens or lawfully admitted permanent US residents.

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In this Beat episode, hosted by Joel Dunning of the James Cook University Hospital, UK, current topics include the mitraclip MR repair study by Pat McCarthy, Easy-AS study, MARS-2 trial, study on segmentectomy vs. lobectomy, lawsuits against surgical stapler manufactures, MAVRIC trial, and the UK mini mitral trial. For more information on this episode's topics, links are provided:

Mitraclip MR repair study by Pat McCarthy https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04198870

Easy AS Study https://www.leicesterbrc.nihr.ac.uk/themes/cardiovascular/novel-cardiovascular-therapeutic-interventions/easy-as/

MARS-2 trial https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/find-a-clinical-trial/a-trial-looking-at-surgery-for-mesothelioma-mars-2

CALGB study 140503 on segmentectomy versus lobectomy https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30442588/

Lawsuits against surgical stapler manufacturers https://www.druganddevicewatch.com/2020/05/15/lawsuits-surge-surgical-stapler-manufacturers/

MAVRIC trial by Mr Enoch Akowuah https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31097171/

UK Mini Mitral trial by Mr Enoch Akowuah https://www.southtees.nhs.uk/services/cardiothoracic-services/cardiothoracic-research/uk-mini-mitral-trial/

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Joel Dunning, Moishe Liberman, and Eric Goudie discuss Dr Liberman's method of dividing pulmonary vessels using an energy device and the multi-center study Dr Liberman and Mr Goudie are running to evaluate energy sealing on pulmonary arteries.

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This Beat episode, featuring Dr Brian Mitzman, General Thoracic Surgeon with the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, as the host, discusses recent highlights submitted to CTSNet, along with a look at a new esophagogastric anastomosis simulator in this month's JTCVS. 

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This Beat episode, featuring Dr Jessica Luc, cardiovascular surgery resident from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, as the host, discusses highlights from the CTSNet COVID-19 portal, including the subspecialty guidance statements on cardiac, thoracic, and congenital patient triage, followed by education and ethical considerations during the pandemic.

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Priyadharshanan Ariyaratnam talks with William Brawn about his approach to hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

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Mohamad Bashir, Eric Roselli, Vinod Thourani, and Malakh Shrestha discuss the use of sutureless aortic valves in patients with bicuspid valve anatomy. 

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Leanne Harling, David Taggart, and Philippe Kolh discuss the future of coronary revascularization.

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This Beat episode, featuring Joel Dunning, cardiothoracic surgeon at the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, UK, as the host, discusses:

• if the tide is turning on EXCEL and the European guidelines
• a meta-analysis of percutaneous interventions with coronary bypass surgery
• a document on the triage and management of aortic emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic
• osimertinib in positive resected cancer

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In this CTSNet Beat episode, Joel Dunning discusses presentations from the EACTS 2020 Annual Meeting, pectus excavatum in the United Kingdom, and a new diagnosis called slipping rib syndrome.

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In this interview, Shruti Jayakumar and Martin Elliott discuss his path to and experience in congenital heart surgery. Professor Elliott describes the importance of recognizing the patient, safety and outcomes, leadership and teamwork, and challenges facing congenital heart surgery in the UK. He also discusses how to overcome the ethics of what surgeons do, the cost of care, and his advice for trainees.

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Mark Ferguson, Thomas D'Amico, Gaetano Rocco, Robert Cerfolio, and Linda Martin discuss technical innovations in minimally invasive thoracic surgery.

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Tom C. Nguyen, Patrick McCarthy, and Borut Gersak discuss indications for and the benefits of using sutureless valves.

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In this episode, listen in as Nikki Stamp discusses recent news topics, including acute type A aortic dissection, myocardial revascularization, and the impact of sex outcomes after revascularization for multivessel coronary disease. Links to topics below:

Type A aortic dissection https://www.annalsthoracicsurgery.org/article/S0003-4975(20)31425-9/fulltext

Myocardial revascularization https://www.ctsnet.org/jans/myocardial-revascularization-really-necessary-patients-%E2%89%A550 

Sex outcomes after revascularization https://www.annalsthoracicsurgery.org/article/S0003-4975(20)30397-0/fulltext 

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In this interview with Joel Dunning, Joseph Bavaria reflects on his career and the initiatives advanced during his STS presidency, including collaboration with the wider cardiothoracic surgery community and advancing e-learning. Dr Bavaria is the Brooke Roberts-William Maul Measey Professor of Surgery and the Director of the Thoracic Aortic Surgery Program at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

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Joel Dunning and Shanda Blackmon discuss safety in minimally invasive general thoracic surgery. They focus on the importance of preparation, such that a surgical team knows its course of action for potential critical events ahead of their occurance. They also discuss surgical videos of VATS bleeding events, with the intention of fostering a culture of openness where surgeons and trainees are able to learn to better manage such events.

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CTSNet hosted a live event, co-moderated by David Cooke, MD, of UC Davis Health and Jacques Kpodonu, MD, of Harvard Medical School and joined by an esteemed panel of international guests, that discussed global health disparities in cardiothoracic surgery.

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CTSNet Beat Premier Podcast host Nikki Stamp, an adult cardiothoracic surgeon from Australia, discusses the use of embolic filters during cardiac surgery procedures, techniques for donor cardiac heart transplantation, sex differences n thoracic aortic disease, and for residents and trainees, there’s a segment on technique for insertion of intercostal catheters.

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Pavan Atluri, Husam Balkhy, Eric Lehr, Johannes Bonatti, and Michael Halkos reflect on the current state of coronary surgery, the importance of the heart team, and the NIH trial comparing multi-vessel PCI to hybrid procedures.

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Jill Ley, Prakash Patel, Kathryn Gray DeAngelis, and Michael Colligan share perspectives from the nursing, anesthesiology, perfusion, and physician assistant specialties, and suggest strategies for effective team response to emergency situations.

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Raffaele Rocco and Stephen Cassivi review the indications and contraindications to operative management, and also review the possible complications that may occur, as well as postoperative follow-up. Dr Cassivi is a professor of surgery at Mayo Clinic, with over 200 peer reviewed publications. He is also vice chair of the Department of Surgery.

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Mohamad Bashir, Joseph Coselli, Kenji Minatoya, and Martin Czerny discuss the endovascular approach, including patient selection, surgical techniques, and secondary open repair.

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Joel Dunning interviews Raja Flores of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine about mesothelioma prevention and the persisting risk from asbestos exposure, as well as surgical methods to pursue for disease management.

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Mohamad Bashir interviews John Elefteriades, who provides insight into the diagnosis and surgical treatment of aortic aneurysm.

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Mara Antonoff interviews Yolonda Colson about the many accomplishments of her career, and Dr Colson provides valuable advice for younger members of the specialty.

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Joel Dunning speaks with Jill Ley about cardiothoracic surgery nurses at all stages of their careers.

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Tsuyoshi Kaneko, Wilson Szeto, Michael J. Mack, and Gilbert Tang discuss the future of transcatheter mitral valve repair and replacement.

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Jill Ley, Doa El-Ansary, Katijjahbe Mohd, Jenny Adams, Susan Triano, and Richard Gach discuss the origin of sternal precautions, the variability in how they are defined, and recent randomized research.

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Juan P. Umana interviews Jose Navia about the "hemi-commando" procedure for double-valve endocarditis.

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Leanne Harling talks with Gebrine El Khoury, a pioneer of aortic valvuloplasty, about his distinguished career and specific techniques for aortic valve repair.

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Mara Antonoff, Melanie Edwards, Brian Mitzman, and Erin Gillaspie delve into why wellness matters during crises, strategies to achieve wellness, and obstacles to overcome so members of the healthcare team can support one another during such challenging times.

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Mara Antonoff, Brian Mitzman, Michael Maddaus, Mehran Amirizadeh, and Sasha K. Shillcutt discussed crisis management and resilience, including leadership, maintaining personal well-being, and coming back stronger in the face of the pandemic.

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On Friday, May 8, 2020, CTSNet hosted a live event to find out what our colleagues in Nigeria, Sudan, Tanzania, and South Africa are seeing and doing as they brace for the impact of COVID-19.

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Leanne Harling interviews Doug Mathisen, who reflects on his three decades of practice, and how the general thoracic surgery subspecialty has evolved over the course of his career. 

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Shanda Blackmon, Miia Lehtinen, and Meghana Helde discuss structured mentorship and organic sponsor relationships for women during cardiothoracic surgery training, as well as working toward leadership roles and the importance of fostering an environment of inclusion and recognition.

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Leanne Harling, Enoch Akowuah, Patrick Perier, and Peyman Sardari Nia discuss the UK Mini Mitral Trial, a multicenter randomized trial comparing sternotomy to a minimally invasive approach for mitral valve surgery. 

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Leanne Harling moderates a discussion about applying precautions during aerosolizing procedures and the commonality between ENT and thoracic surgery. This episode is part 2 of 2.

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Leanne Harling moderates a discussion about applying precautions during aerosolizing procedures and the commonality between ENT and thoracic surgery. This episode is part 1 of 2.

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Jessica Luc, Shanda Blackmon, Mahesh Ramchandani, and Nahush Mokadam discuss the topic of telemedicine for the cardiothoracic surgeon during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

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Brian Mitzman interviews CTSNet President Douglas E. Wood about the options for oncologic thoracic surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Joanna Chikwe interviews Thoralf M. Sundt about cardiac surgery in the era of COVID-19.

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Filmed March 18, 2020, Brian Mitzman moderates a discussion on the COVID-19 pandemic with an international group of physicians currently on the front lines. This episode contains part 2 of 2.

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Filmed March 18, 2020, Brian Mitzman moderates a discussion on the COVID-19 pandemic with an international group of physicians currently on the front lines. This episode contains part 1 of 2.

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Joel Dunning interviews Thomas D’Amico, a pioneer in the field of VATS lobectomy.

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Leanne Harling interviews John McKenna about his experience in the device industry side of cardiothoracic surgery.

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Shanda Blackmon, Brendon Stiles, Vinay Badhwar, and Robert Cerfolio discuss maximizing efficiency in a cardiothoracic surgery practice.

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Leanne Harling, Doug Mathisen, and Erino Rendina share and debate their approaches to staging, adjuvant therapy, persistent disease, and surgical removal of the primary tumor.

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Joel Dunning, Aaron Morton, Jill Ley, and Rick Bell discuss STS protocol for the management of cardiac arrest after cardiac surgery, an expert consensus statement that was published in January of 2017.

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A panel of experts debates the threshold for aortic replacement in bicuspid aortic valve-related aortopathy.

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Mohamad Bashir interviews Duke Cameron, who shares his technique for valve-sparing aortic root replacement, stressing the importance of extensive dissection of the aortic root and selection of the correct graft for the individual patient.

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Leanne Harling interviews Daniela Molena about her approach to minimally invasive and robotic esophageal surgery.

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Drs M. Blair Marshall, Virginia Litle, Andrea Wolf, and Mara Antonoff discuss the importance of having a support network, the joy they get from their careers and their families, and their own experiences in combining motherhood with cardiothoracic surgery.

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Drs Joel Dunning, Dawn Jaroszewski, and Daniel Miller discuss the benefits that the Nuss procedure provides for patients and the criteria that they use to select patients as candidates for surgery. The panelists consider both the cosmetic and impairment aspects of pectus excavatum, and the best approaches for a stable surgical repair.

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Drs Mohamad Bashir, Joseph Bavaria, Thoralf Sundt, Ali Khoynezhad, Martin Grabenwoger, and Heinz Jakob discuss the controversies of the treatment of thoracic aortic dissection, including risk identification, strategies for the optimal treatment approach, and the appropriate surgical intervention.

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Drs Amy Fiedler, Elizabeth Stephens, Hugh Auchincloss, Gregory Pattakos, and Kristin Sell-Dottin share their tips and tricks for thriving during residency and fellowship, and discuss the different training pathways available to cardiothoracic surgery residents, identifying mentors, and how to balance clinical responsibilities with research.

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Leanne Harling, M. Blair Marshall, Takashi Suda, and Joel Dunning discuss minimally invasive approaches, patient positioning, and the future of thymoma surgery.

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Jill Ley moderates a discussion on infection prevention and the management of surgical wounds with Teresa Kieser, Richard Van Valen, and Melissa Rochon.

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Robert Sade moderates a debate on the appropriate course of care in the fictional case of a child who cannot be weaned from bypass following mitral valve surgery with Minoo Davarana and Jessica Turnbull.

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Joel Dunning interviews Pieter Kappetein about how he became interested in cardiac surgery and the importance of conducting research.

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Ourania Preventza moderates a discussion on diversity and inclusion in cardiothoracic surgery with Robert Higgins, Jessica Donington, and Anthony Estrera.

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Shruti Jayakumar interviews Martin Elliott and John McKenna about the changes in cardiac surgery that have been most interesting and impactful during the course of their respective careers.

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Leanne Harling interviews Stephen Westaby about his extraordinary career in cardiac surgery, from his early interest in cardiac surgery to his pursuit of innovative treatments, including the artificial heart.

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Joel Dunning interviews M. Blair Marshall about her approach to minimally invasive general thoracic surgery, with particular consideration of mediastinal tumors and thymomas.

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Tom C. Nguyen interviews former Navy SEAL Brian Ferguson about the pursuit of performance excellence in medicine, and particularly in the realm of cardiothoracic surgery.

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Dr Om Prakesh Yadava and Professor Vinayak Bapat discuss transcatheter approaches and sutureless valves implanted by minimally invasive approaches.

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Mara Antonoff, Pavan Atluri, Marko Turina, and Moritz Wyler von Ballmoos discuss the role of research for academic career advancement.

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Leanne Harling, Mustafa Yuksel, and Ian Hunt discuss the management of pectus deformities, focusing on benefits of surgical intervention, importance of specialist centers, and tailoring of treatment strategies.

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Drs Joel Dunning and Emily Farkas discuss the CTSNet Surgical Volunteerism Portal, a resource for cardiothoracic surgeons and allied health professionals interested in humanitarian work, as well as Dr Farkas's humanitarian work and a volunteer trip in Nepal.

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In this Giants of Cardiothoracic Surgery interview, Varun Shetty speaks with Devi Shetty, founder and chairman of Narayana Health in Bangalore, India, about how economies of scale, low-cost micro health insurance, and technology have been critical in the effort to democratize healthcare. 

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Drs Patrick Myers, David Taggart, and Michael Mack discuss the ORBITA trial, focusing on the importance of the sham-control design of the trial, ORBITA's context within previous and upcoming trials, and what the results mean for cardiac surgeons.

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Drs Mara Antonoff, Shanda Blackmon, Katie Nason, and Caitlin Harrington discuss the #ILookLikeASurgeon campaign on Twitter, sharing their thoughts on how the hashtag can be used to change public perceptions of who can be a surgeon, how to increase camaraderie among surgeons, and how to inspire future generations to pursue a career in surgery.

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Drs Shanda Blackmon, Scott Swanson, Thomas D'Amico, and Mark Onaitis discuss approaches to multifocal lung cancer, including preoperative workup, initial approaches, when ablation can be beneficial, and what to do when spread through airway spaces is observed.

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Drs Stan Antonides, David Taggart, Joseph Sabik, and Michael Mack discuss the patency and longevity of vein grafts in cardiac surgery.