CTSNet Podcasts

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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.