DOMAIN UPDATES
Exploring the impact of the aortic guidelines
Florian Schoenhoff, Chair of the Vascular Disease Domain
Since the publication of the EACTS/STS guidelines for diagnosing and treating acute and chronic syndromes of the aortic organ, the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting is the perfect opportunity to explore how these significant guidelines have changed clinical practice. In a special focus session, we will consider four patient cases, including aneurysm of the aortic arch and acute aortic dissection, and discuss how the guidelines have impacted the patient’s care.
When developing this year’s scientific programme we selected some neglected but important topics for surgeons performing aortic surgery. Thursday’s session includes left subclavian artery management during treatment of aortic arch diseases. There are many ways to deal with the left subclavian artery and each has its own risks and benefits, so it will be a very useful session to attend.
Similarly, every aortic surgeon and cardiac surgeon will find the session on vascular graft infection very beneficial. Vascular graft
Working together to provide solutions
Juergen Hoerer, Chair of the Congenital Heart Disease Domain
A huge focus for the domain over the past few months has been the development of the scientific programme for the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting.
We have designed sessions to feature some of the issues that we are facing in our daily practice, and which are likely to resonate with colleagues around the world. With audience interaction strongly encouraged, this is an opportunity to work together to discuss these issues and hopefully provide solutions. Sessions on nightmares and ethical dilemmas will explore some fascinating scenarios and will undoubtedly lead to interesting debates.
Classic focus sessions on pulmonary stenosis, transposition of the great arteries (TGA) and Fontan are an important part of this year’s congenital programme but with a different focus than in previous years. For example, for the first time we will discuss pulmonary artery stenosis as a consequence or complication following different types of repair.
infections are the most common prosthetic infections in the US, and Europe is experiencing the same trend so we will all start to encounter this pathology more and more over the coming years.
I would also encourage booking early for the EACTS Learning Lab. This year we will demonstrate two commonly used techniques for valve-sparing root replacement - the reimplantation and the remodelling technique.
While the reimplantation technique is becoming more prevalent, both can be difficult to learn with subtle technical details that determine its success. This is an opportunity to gain experience alongside excellent surgeons who will guide the hands-on training. These are popular sessions and the feedback is always excellent.
I look forward to seeing you all in Lisbon for some fantastic discoveries and discussions.
CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE DOMAIN VASCULAR DISEASE DOMAIN
I am also looking forward to this year’s EACTS Learning Lab at the Annual Meeting which will give participants an opportunity to perform the Senning procedure. This is an arterial switch operation which is complex and rarely performed. We have a good faculty of Senning surgeons to demonstrate this procedure. In addition to preparing for the Annual Meeting, we continue to provide high quality education courses via the EACTS Academy. The first webinar on imaging takes place in early November and brings together congenital heart surgeons, peadiatric cardiologists and radiologists to explore advancements in multimodality imaging for complex cardiac defects like double outlet right ventricle, and how conventional imaging and 3D reconstruction supports surgical planning. There is a busy Academy programme over the coming months, and I would urge everyone to take a look at the calendar and register for courses.
An unbeatable learning opportunity
Filip Casselman, Chair of the Acquired Cardiac Disease Domain
It is always a great pleasure as Chair of the Acquired Cardiac Disease Domain to work alongside my esteemed colleagues across the different task forces to develop the scientific programme for the Annual Meeting. It is a role we take very seriously to ensure we are delivering high quality content that covers new aspects of cardiac surgery, addresses the critical topics that feature in our daily practice and explores the latest evidence and how this might impact patient care in the future. This year’s programme provides formidable content and an unbeatable learning opportunity for everyone.
The focus sessions have been carefully designed to not only feature presenters who are leaders in their field but also to allow time for debate and discussion, an important part of all the sessions. This year we can look forward to discussions around the best approach to the right ventricle and tricuspid valve repair, the advantage and disadvantages of the various techniques available to perform minimally invasive aortic valve, either repair or replacement, and Ross procedure in patients with pure aortic regurgitation.
There are also very interesting sessions planned on the closure of the left atrial appendage, which is an important topic within atrial fibrillation as well as knowledge that every cardiac
ACQUIRED CARDIAC DISEASE DOMAIN
surgeon should have prior to performing CABG, dealing primarily with coronary ischemia.
An important session on transcatheter mitral and tricuspid valve procedures will consider the technical and technological evolutions within that field, exploring the latest evidence and how this field might change in the future.
Video sessions are always well received and at this year’s meeting we are increasing the number of videos, with almost all task forces designing a video session, including videos on mastering mechanical circulatory support and sustainable mitral repair, dealing with various pathologies.
We will also look to the future with sessions on innovations in robotic mitral valve surgery and revolutions in coronary surgery, exploring advancements in CABG techniques and technologies.
The Annual Meeting is global, attracting members of the surgical community from some 100 countries, and so it is always fascinating to hear about the experiences of our colleagues around the world and gain insights about some of the issues they face in daily practice. These different perspectives provide a valuable learning opportunity for us all.
READY TO LAUNCH THE ADULT CARDIAC DATABASE
Watch this space! A new and improved Adult Cardiac Database (ACD) is ready to launch in October, giving surgical teams across Europe more advanced data tools and insights to continually improve outcomes for patients.
Hospitals that participate in the Adult Cardiac Database can analyse the data and outcomes from their own hospital and draw comparable data analysis with other hospitals for benchmarking purposes. Find out more about how your hospital or national society can join the ACD.
Edgar Daeter, Chair of the Quality Improvement Programme (QUIP) Committee, says, “Both members and non-members have previously highlighted a strong desire for more access to data and, with these changes, we are delivering a new, more advanced Adult Cardiac Database that effectively meets user needs. An additional important and exciting change is that the ACD is a new benefit for EACTS members, giving access to the only European wide repository of cardiac surgical interventions.”
GROWING THE QUIP TEAM
We welcome two new members of the QUIP team. Paola Quattroni is the new QUIP Director and Mazen Ahmed joins as a Data Analyst with responsibility for handling data requests and data extractions. They will work alongside Edgar Daeter, QUIP Committee Chair, Kevin Veen, Scientific Lead and Stephanie Halksworth, Consultant Programme Manager.
EXPERT KNOWLEDGE IN THORACIC DISEASE
SIX NEW TASK FORCES INTRODUCED
The Thoracic Disease Domain addresses advanced surgical techniques and strategies across the spectrum of thoracic surgery and works on prevalent issues faced by thoracic surgeons today. The domain is supported by task forces which provide expert knowledge and experience within sub-specialty areas of thoracic disease. We are delighted to introduce six new task forces to the Thoracic Disease Domain. We would also like to welcome François Montagne as a new member of the Thoracic Robotic Task Force.
Airway Surgery Task Force
Chair: Mohsen Ibrahim
Disease of the major airways, both benign and malignant, and its treatment falls within the remit of thoracic surgeons. Tracheobronchial surgery is challenging for a number of reasons, and requires close multi-disciplinary co-operation between anaesthetists, surgeons and interventional pulmonologists.
The Airway Surgery Task Force is focused on the development of webinars and focus sessions to disseminate knowledge and expertise as well as providing a hands-on course for surgeons at all levels of experience, dedicated to airway reconstruction in different scenarios and the development of guidelines of relevance to this subspecialty.
Members to be announced shortly.
IN MEMORY OF
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Eugene Baudet, who served as EACTS President between 1997-1998.
Mediastinal Surgical Diseases (MSD) Task Force
Chair: Giuseppe Marulli
This task force will focus on the multidisciplinary approach in mediastinal surgical diseases, promoting new lines of research and integrating new emergent findings to improve the multidisciplinary surgical management of MSD.
The aims of the task force include identifying variations in MDT practice across Europe as well as best practice for the management and treatment of mediastinal surgical disease and disseminating this information via webinars and other educational events.
Members to be announced shortly.
In his memorable Presidential Address, ‘Cardiac surgery in the 21st century: The future is now?’, Eugene Baudet drew inspiration from Bach's The Art of the Fugue to articulate his vision for the future of cardiac surgery. The complexity and beauty of Bach's composition mirrored the depth and elegance of Eugene Baudet’s life and his work. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Eugene Baudet’s family, friends and colleagues.
Surgical Oncology Task Force
Chair: Monica Casiraghi
The Surgical Oncology Task Force has been established following the recent important progress in lung cancer molecular characterisation, and the consequent introduction of new oncological therapy, such as target therapy and immunotherapy. The task force will focus on the multidisciplinary approach in lung cancer treatment based on the introduction of these new therapies and look to integrate it in educational and research activities of the Association.
Members: Andrea Billè, Seray Hazer, Andrés Obeso, Carmelina Cristina Zirafa, Fabian Dörr
Digital and Artificial Intelligence Task Force
Chair: Hazem Fallouh
To address the exponential rise in the number of digital solutions and the application of AI, the Digital and Artificial Intelligence Task Force has been established to gather consensus from members on the value of the digital solutions on offer in cardiothoracic surgery and the framework for implementation.
Members: Andrea Aliverti, Tom Clutton-Brock, Helmut Prosch, Tomaž Štupnik
Emphysema Task Force
Chair: David Waller
Thoracic surgeons have an important role in the treatment of emphysema. This new task force will focus on the development, consolidation and safeguarding the involvement of thoracic surgeons in the treatment of emphysema.
The task force will focus on increasing surgical involvement in LVRS and EBLVR, providing up-to-date knowledge around emphysema and its treatment and producing best practice guidelines regarding pathways, treatment options and outcomes, including revising the current guidelines.
Members to be announced shortly.
The Chest Wall/Trauma Task Force
Chair: Hussein Elkhayat
The Chest Wall/Trauma Task Force will focus on the development of specific consensus, practical guidelines and finding research gaps for chest wall surgery and thoracic trauma within the thoracic domain.
Specific aims of the task force include developing education and training opportunities in aspects of chest wall surgery relevant to both residents and established thoracic surgeons.
Members to be announced shortly.
SHARING TRAINING EXPERIENCES
2nd National Trainee Summit
Residents representing 25 European countries came together in August for the 2nd National Trainee Summit, organised by the EACTS Residents’ Committee. Mentoring and fellowships were the key themes discussed, with residents sharing their mentorship experiences and discussing fellowship opportunities across Europe.
An invitation-only event, the summit provided a forum for residents to discuss their national training programmes, sharing learnings and ideas about how training across Europe could be improved and standardised. A recurring issue raised by residents is the difference between training programmes across Europe, including the length of training, how residents are assessed
during their programme, and accreditation after training. The desire to develop key definitions to provide greater clarity on areas such as what constitutes a resident was also highlighted.
The Residents’ Committee is committed to supporting residents on the issues raised during the Summit and is working to meet the objective of standardising training for residents across Europe.
,
We welcome the following new members to the Residents' Committee
• Edoardo Zancanaro (Italy)
• Francesca Gatta (UK)
• Andrea Amabile (US, TSRA representative)
• Beatrice Marinucci (Italy - observer)
Innovate, Discover, Educate
NA VI GA TING NEW HORIZONS LISBON, PORTUGAL
9 – 12 October 2024
Join us this October as we navigate new horizons in cardiothoracic surgery
The 38th EACTS Annual Meeting, Lisbon | 9-12 October 2024
Are you ready to navigate new horizons at the world-renowned 38th EACTS Annual Meeting? With less than a month to go, make sure you have booked your place at the largest event in the cardiothoracic calendar.
This prestigious event promises to provide unparalleled learning experiences and networking opportunities. Register today for:
• Almost 200 dynamic sessions showcasing cutting-edge research and innovation in cardiothoracic surgery
• Hands-on training in the EACTS Learning Lab and industry learning labs
• Thought-provoking keynote presentations
• Expert guidance on the latest new-to-market technology
• The chance to grow your network and forge lasting connections with peers from around the world
• Access to over 200 e-posters, offering more high-quality scientific research
• Two full day comprehensive Techno-College streams on Wednesday 9 October, offering an immersive experience in cutting-edge innovations and techniques across cardiac and thoracic surgery. This exclusive event provides a unique opportunity to engage with the latest advancements in the field.
• Learn about three major updates to EACTS guidelines, and the three ESC guidelines 2024, developed with EACTS.
DISCOVER THE LATEST INNOVATION AND SCIENCE
The EACTS Annual Meeting is renowned for its first-class scientific programme featuring the leading experts in cardiothoracic surgery. With almost 200 dynamic sessions available, the fantastic programme encompasses the most up-to-date and transformative scientific advancements.
Here are just some of our highlights
President’s Choice
Join us in the main auditorium for a showcase of the top-rated abstracts across all four domains, including a remarkable study which shows that the ascending aorta over-angulation is a contributing factor for acute type A aortic dissection.
Learn more about this year's highest ranked abstracts.
Tune into EACTS TV:
The President’s Choice – Examining New Research at this year’s Annual Meeting 10 October at 12:00-12:20.
2024 updated EACTS Guidelines
Learn more about the evidence and rationale behind the changes in the updated guidelines and evaluate the impact of new recommendations on current clinical practice for cardiovascular care.
Highlights of the 2024 Innovation Summit
Hear about some of the very latest disruptive ideas in cardiothoracic surgery, including how AI and immersive technology are changing the entire field of CT surgery, as well as the future of robotic surgery, the engineering and distribution of super-organs and a new mechanostructure integrated 3D printed auxetic patch.
CT Surgery Resident Showdown
On Friday, watch three teams battle it out in the ultimate test of cardiothoracic knowledge for the chance to become European champions and take on the winning North American team in the final at the STS Annual Meeting in 2025.
View the full scientific programme
Train alongside the very best in the field
Take advantage of the invaluable opportunity to train with some of the world’s best cardiothoracic surgeons at the EACTS Learning Lab
These specialist hands-on workshops are designed to advance your technical abilities and include wetlabs, drylabs, simulation and practical sessions.
You will gain practical experience using the latest devices, practice on simulators and interact with expert faculty and industry proctors.
EACTS Learning Lab sessions are available for just an additional €75 each. We encourage you to secure your place as soon as possible as spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, firstserved basis. Don't miss out—book today to guarantee your opportunity.
EACTS Learning Lab schedule
Thursday 10 October
08:30 – 10:30: Coronary
08:30 – 10:30: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training
11:15 – 13:15: AV Repair – Valve Sparing Aortic Root Surgery: The Reimplantation Technique
11:15 – 13:15: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training (Mitral)
13:45 – 15:45: AV Repair – Annuloplasty with remodelling valve sparing root replacement and isolate aortic valve repair
13:45 – 15:45: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training (Mitral)
16:15 – 18:15: Learning Lab for Left-handed Surgeons
16:15 – 18:15: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training
Friday 11 October
09:00 – 11:00: Congenital – The Senning Procedure
09:00 – 11:00: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training
12:15 – 14:15: Mitral Valve
12:15 – 14:15: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training (Aortic)
15:00 – 17:00: Segmentectomy and Airway reconstruction
15:00 – 17:00: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training
Saturday 12 October
09:00 – 11:00: Transcatheter
09:00 – 11:00: Endoscopic Dry Lab Training
Domain Chairs share their programme highlights on pages 2 and 3.
Bringing you all the standout moments with EACTS TV
You can still be a part of the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting even if you are unable to join us in-person in Lisbon! By registering for our online package, you will have access to the EACTS TV channel and scientific programme on demand.
This comprehensive offering allows you to enjoy a feast of world-class education including debates on the hottest topics, eye-opening research, presentations on the intricacies of complex surgery and much more from wherever you are in the world.
Exhibition and industry-led satellite symposia programme
Keep up to date on the technologies that are transforming the everyday practice of cardiothoracic surgeons across the globe at this year’s trade exhibition at the Lisbon Congress Centre.
The EACTS exhibition is a focal point of each EACTS Annual Meeting, bringing together delegates and industry leaders to exchange knowledge, share ideas and demonstrate new-to-market technology in a vibrant, energetic environment.
The exhibition is centrally located in Pavilion 1 and 2 on the ground floor of the
EACTS TV will broadcast a dynamic mixture of live and recorded content. Professionally moderated and produced, you can catch:
• Daily preview shows exploring the day’s hottest topics and can’t-miss sessions
• Thrilling debates with our line-up of expert panellists as they discuss the big topics
• In Focus sessions with influential opinion leaders
• Live broadcasts of selected keynote presentations from Lisbon
• The nail-biting final of the CT Surgery Resident Showdown
• All the latest inspiring ideas and groundbreaking innovations from the renowned trade exhibition.
Don’t forget: If you’re not able to attend the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting in-person, then almost 200 sessions will be available for you to enjoy via our Video-on-Demand package.
conference centre. Both halls will have their own catering areas and are in close vicinity of the session rooms – making it easier than ever to immerse yourself in as much of the Annual Meeting as possible! Further details about the venue can be found on the official website
In addition to the trade exhibition, industry colleagues will be hosting a suite of satellite sessions on Thursday 10 October and Friday 11 October from 12:15 –13:30. Join experts as they discuss the latest clinical data, current and future approaches to valve and LVAD therapies, new methods to improve patient-centric care and much more.
For the full list of satellite symposia, please visit the website
Elevating collaboration with the Residents’
The Residents’ Committee has curated an exciting line-up of sessions designed to help you navigate new horizons. Featuring both new and returning sessions, you will be treated to a dynamic and engaging programme that has been designed to support your personal growth and foster your professional development.
Committee
Thursday 10 October
Residents' Lunch
Debate key issues with peers and senior surgeons over a relaxed lunch. Sign up on arrival in Lisbon.
Escape the coffin
Embark on an immersive journey through complex cardiac, thoracic and congenital surgery cases. Download the EACTS App before the session to take part!
Friday 11 October
Residents’ Non-Technical Skills - navigating excellence: insights from the sky to the OR Ryanair pilots, Martin Masat and Anna Modos, delve into the fascinating parallels between aviation and cardiothoracic surgery. Shirin Bemelmans-Lalezari will also be sharing invaluable advice on how to integrate non-technical skills into everyday practice.
Scalpel scars – nightmares untold
Learn from experienced surgeons as they discuss three cases (acquired cardiac, congenital and thoracic) that didn't go to plan.
Leading the way with the Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery Committee
Thursday 10 October
Bias and Leadership in Cardiothoracic Surgery
Explore the progress and challenges experienced by women in cardiothoracic surgery and learn more about leading effectively with insight and impact.
Saturday 12 October
From incision to emission – a sustainable future Join us for a thought-provoking session on the environmental impact of cardiothoracic surgery and ways to reduce our specialty’s carbon footprint.
Working together with the Allied Health Professionals Committee
Saturday 12 October
Multidisciplinary teams working to keep patients at the centre of care
Discover how patients are helping to shape a safer future for Aortic Dissection and what patients can expect from the new EACTS guidelines.
Nursing & Allied Health Professionals : Abstracts Hear from nurses and allied health professionals on topics across different parts of the patient journey from aspects of quality and clinical care to research and workforce issues.
Gain new perspectives from inspiring keynote speakers
Three exceptional keynote speakers will share their valuable insights and experiences.
Honoured Guest Amy Kerdok
Thursday 10 October | 11:15am – 12:00pm
Staying curious
This year we are delighted to welcome Amy Kerdok, Head of Product at Capstan Medical, as our honorary guest speaker. Amy has played a critical role in developing and delivering usercentred medical products worldwide including multiport surgical and vision systems at Intuitive and Integrated Table Motion, an innovation to improve the efficiency and safety of surgical operations.
Amy says, “Innovation is about evolution. It’s about translating an issue or a user’s needs and developing new technological solutions or finding different ways to adopt existing technologies from other fields. To truly understand and solve a problem we need to cast a wide net, engaging with engineers and
multidisciplinary teams, and put ourselves in the shoes of the people that are interacting with the product.
“We must stay curious. Once you solve the problem, you've probably opened the door for six more problems.”
Join Amy Kerdok on Thursday 10th October as she discusses technological advancements in cardiothoracic surgery and the process of innovation, bringing to life her experiences with personal anecdotes and examples.
She will provide an overview of Capstan Medical's commitment to transforming the treatment of structural heart disease, which includes pioneering a patient-optimised approach to repair and replace heart valves by merging surgical robotics with catheter-based technology and next generation implants.
Presidential Address
Franca Melfi, EACTS President
Friday 11 October | 11.15am - 12.00pm
A pioneer in the field of robotic thoracic surgery and the current EACTS President, Franca Melfi’s Presidential Address will be a thoughtful and eye-opening speech highlighting the vital elements that are needed to push the boundaries, embrace technology and improve outcomes.
Keynote lecture
Roberto Jorge Canessa Urta
How I survived impossible odds Saturday 12 October | 12:35pm – 13:20pm
Roberto Jorge Canessa Urta is a paediatric cardiologist, motivational speaker and former rugby player with a wealth of experience and insights. He is also one of the 16 survivors of the Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, which crashed in the Andes mountains on 13 October 1972. Roberto will be sharing his experience in a moving speech.
NOTICE – COUNTERFEIT AGENCIES AND WEBSITES!
Please be vigilant of unauthorised emails or companies offering services on behalf of EACTS or the EACTS Annual Meeting. Such companies typically imply that they are working with EACTS, but in reality are unauthorised.
Step into the future with Techno-College
Registration is also now open for Techno-College.
With two streams available – cardiac and thoracic –Techno-College has long held an excellent reputation for giving delegates insights into the innovations that could positively impact patient outcomes in the future.
Read on to learn more about the cardiac and thoracic programmes at this year’s Techno-College.
Thoracic Robotics Workshops
Join experts in the field as they share their expertise and experience in our popular Robotic Workshops, giving junior surgeons the opportunity for a hands-on test drive with the latest navigational systems on the market.
Wednesday 9 October
Starting every 30 minutes from 09:00 – 17:00
There are a number of counterfeit websites and agencies – EACTS cannot guarantee any rooms/rates offered within these. If you are in any doubt as to the authenticity of such sites or companies, please notify the EACTS Executive Secretariat immediately.
Joerg Kempfert, Chair of the New Technology Task Force
Techno-College is back this year with more live-in-a-box and live surgery demonstrations focused on the latest trends and new techniques in cardiac surgery. The cardiac stream includes advances in transcatheter techniques such as transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention as well as new developments in the more conventional surgical field, such as a live-in-abox presentation focused on a new technique for full arch replacement and a new left ventricular assist device, which has just had the first implants in Europe.
For the first time paediatric cardiac surgery will feature in the Techno-College adult cardiac programme as we explore new technologies in paediatric minimally invasive surgery.
Following positive feedback on last year’s session on aortic root enlargement the concept of featuring one specific surgical technique returns. This year the focus will be on the Ross procedure showcasing Reinforced Ross with beating-heart harvesting of pulmonary autograft.
Experts in their field will feature as procedural analysts during the live-in-a-box cases, providing their expert opinion during the demonstrations.
We have also introduced a new format for the afternoon session ‘New technologies on the horizon – a glimpse into the future’, with a series of shorter presentations focused on new technical developments across cardiac surgery. We have collaborated with the Chairs of the EACTS task forces to identify the most interesting developments in their specific fields. As such, delegates can expect to learn more about the latest advancements in the field of robotic cardiac surgery, robotic assisted epicardial ablation for atrial fibrillation and endoscopic saline testing for David repair and much more.
We’re looking forward to insightful presentations, expert opinion and lively discussions. We hope you can join us as we step into the future
Our world-renowned, high-quality publications are trusted within the cardiothoracic surgical community for advancing knowledge, disseminating best practice, and promoting research excellence.
Latest articles
Robotic intrapericardial bilobectomy with stapler on the atrium and pericardial reconstruction
Haisam Saad, Nicole Asemota, Obada Alqudah et al
EJCTS
Aortic valve performance after remodelling versus reimplantation in a propensity-matched comparison
Jan Gofus, Jan Vojacek, Mikita Karalko et al
ICVTS
Perioperative and mid-term outcomes of mitral valve surgery with and without concomitant surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation: a retrospective analysis
Fabio Pregaldini, Mevlüt Çelik, Selim Mosbahi et al
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2023
REVIEWERS OF THE YEAR
Congratulations to our 2023 Reviewers of the Year, selected by the Editors for EJCTS and ICVTS.
Invited reviewers have an important role in reviewing the manuscripts submitted to EACTS journals, ensuring the originality, significance and validity of the material presented. The Reviewer of the Year recognises this work, awarding the top reviewers from each journal, based on the volume and quality of reviews.
Dr Haruhisa Matsuguma
Haruhisa Matsuguma is awarded the 2023 Reviewer of the Year for EJCTS
Haruhisa Matsuguma says, “I am very surprised and very delighted to have won the EJCTS reviewers of the year 2023. I’ve been involved in peer review for EJCTS since around 2009, and when I heard the award, I looked up the website to see how many reviews I had done last year and was surprised to find that I had done 35 reviews in a year. I feel that the statistical and other knowledge, I gained through my involvement in clinical research at JCOG (Japan Clinical Oncology Group) is extremely useful when conducting reviews. I will continue to do my best to increase the value of the EJCTS.”
Mohamed Rahouma says, “I am deeply honored to be recognised as the Reviewer of the Year 2023 by the Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Journal (ICVTS) and to join the editorial board. This acknowledgment reflects my commitment to advancing research in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. Peer review is essential for maintaining the integrity and quality of scientific literature, and I am privileged to contribute to this vital process. I extend my gratitude to the editorial board for this recognition and to my fellow reviewers and authors whose dedication makes our collective progress possible. I look forward to continuing to support the journal and its mission.”
Over 2,000 submissions were received by EJCTS last year from over 65 countries worldwide.
Over 500 manuscripts were submitted to ICVTS
Dr Mohamed Rahouma
Mohamed Rahouma is awarded the 2023 Reviewer of the Year for ICVTS
Heart and lung transplantation
Gain an understanding of the evolving difficulties associated with transplantation, and how innovative techniques are improving organ preservation in this recent episode of A Cut Above.
Edris Mahtab, Leiden University Medical Center and Andreas Zuckermann, Medical University of Vienna, discuss in this episode their influential work in the developing field of heart and lung transplantation.
Whether you are on the go or have limited time, our podcast, A Cut Above, provides access to valuable insights, the latest research and fascinating debates on the hot topics with key opinion leaders in cardiothoracic surgery.
Register today for the 2024 EACTS/STS/LACES Latin
America Cardiovascular Surgery Conference!
Taking place in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 5-7 December, the 2024 EACTS/STS/LACES Latin America Cardiovascular Surgery Conference will showcase the latest surgical innovations and research.
The programme features a world-class, international faculty with experts from Europe, Latin America and North America.
Designed for surgeons at all stages in their careers, Rafael Sádaba, Programme Chair, explains, “We have sessions dedicated to residents and other sessions focused on more complex procedures. Various topics across adult cardiac and congenital cardiac surgery will be discussed, including mitral valve, aortic valve, aortic dissections, coronary surgery and more.”
The line-up includes original scientific abstracts, interactive panel discussions and technical videos – described by Programme Director, Joseph Bavaria, as “an excellent portion of the conference that’s really important for surgeons as they need to know how to do these operations.”
Speaking about this year’s event, Patrick Myers, EACTS Secretary General, remarks, “We’re really focusing on what is most important and relevant for surgeons in Latin America. I’m particularly looking forward to the session on the Ross procedure, an operation that’s been around for a long time but has had a resurgence over the past few years.”
Register today to advance your skills and elevate patient care at your home centre!
EACTS EDUCATION SOARS TO NEW HEIGHTS
A RECORD-BREAKING START TO THE YEAR FOR THE EACTS ACADEMY
For over a decade, the EACTS Academy has proudly been at the forefront of global cardiothoracic surgical education, delivering high-quality training to empower surgeons and cardiothoracic teams. Our education offer continues to go from strength to strength with the launch of new initiatives and an ever-increasing number of courses available to members.
Importantly, more people are accessing our courses. In just the first six months of 2024 over 1,700 participants benefited from taking part in an EACTS course, either in-person or virtually from around the world.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRE-TRAINEES
As well as an extensive range of courses planned for 2025, we have introduced new opportunities for students and pre-trainees at the very start of their careers.
In collaboration with the Pre-Trainee Committee, the Next Generation webinar series is designed to inspire and attract talented individuals to become the future generation of cardiothoracic surgeons through education and collaboration.
These tailored webinars cover key topics such as lung cancer, coronary artery disease, treatment options and patient care, and provide surgeons early on in their career with the foundational knowledge and first-hand insights needed to excel.
New educational grants have also been made available to our pre-trainee members to attend the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting and gain insights from cutting-edge research and forge global connections for career development. The scientific programme for this year’s prestigious EACTS Annual Meeting includes bespoke sessions specifically for pre-trainees to ensure they receive the guidance and knowledge they need to thrive in their early careers.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES WITH THE FRANCIS FONTAN FUND
The prestigious Francis Fontan Fund Fellowship programme is also expanding. In addition to increasing the number of fellowships available to members, we are delighted to offer more places on our most popular fellowships and provide more opportunities for EACTS members to elevate expertise, foster professional networks and gain valuable experience.
5
13
16 Fellowships 18
Fellowships 22
First Pre-Trainee Grant Awardees
There was a fantastic response to the new educational grants, which are available to EACTS pre-trainee members who are passionate about cardiothoracic surgery. Following a high number of applications, we increased the number of grants available from five to eight.
The grants include registration for the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting and a grant towards travel and accommodation costs.
Congratulations to the following pre-trainees.
• Habib Olatunji Alagbo
• Natasha Bocchetta
• Anne Dijkstra
• Theresia Feline Husen
• Damandeep Singh Kharoud
• Luka Mitar
• Bana Samman
• Chengji Zhao
26-27 November 2024 I
The EACTS Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery Committee (WiCTS) is pleased to introduce an inperson course focusing on communication, leadership, and bias and discrimination.
During this two-day course, participants will
• understand how to recognise their leadership style.
• explore their emotional intelligence.
• learn how to lead through complex transitions and overcome bias and discrimination.
• gain useful theoretical and practical advice on how to lead a team.
Learn more at eacts.org
Aortic Forum programme launched
The highly anticipated programme for the 3rd EACTS Aortic Forum is now available. Highlights include sessions devoted to the pathology of the aortic root with a special focus on the latest advances in aortic valve repair and in the Ross Operation, as well as discussions on the pathology of the ascending aorta and arch, in its acute or chronic forms.
Taking place in Prague in June 2025, the Aortic Forum brings together the most important and influential voices in the field of aortic surgery for three days of education, discussion and networking.
Ruggero De Paulis, Aortic Forum Taskforce Chairman says, “The recent EACTS/STS Guidelines for diagnosing and treating acute and chronic syndromes of the “aortic organ” have recently highlighted the importance of these pathologies for an extremely large group of patients. Interactive sessions will guarantee a lively discussion and interaction with the whole faculty as we explore topics such as the current controversies for the best treatment of each individual aortic pathology. We are proud to offer this exciting opportunity to our members and colleagues across the world. We look forward to seeing you in Prague next year.”
Get notified when registration opens
Interactive sessions will guarantee a lively discussion and interaction with the whole faculty as we explore topics such as the current controversies for the best treatment of each individual aortic pathology.
Be part of the Aortic
Forum programme
Abstract submissions open in October 2024. Submit an abstract on one of the following topics:
• Root
• Arch
• Dissection
• Descending/TEVAR
Find out more
UPCOMING COURSES 2024
Case Corner – The Bridge to Success: From MCS to transplant 19 September, Online
Cerebral and Visceral Protection Webinar 26 September, Online
Fundamentals in Thoracic Surgery: Part 2
Robotics Revascularisation Training
– 25 October, Windsor, UK
– 29 October, Leuven, Belgium
Congenital Imaging Webinar 5 November, Online
8th EACTS Mechanical Circulatory Support Summit
– 9 November, Prague, Czech Republic
Thoracic Surgery meets Neurology: Myasthenia Gravis 13 November, Online
Congenital Skills Course
– 19 November, Rome, Italy Endovascular Aortic Repair Webinar
EACTS Emerging Leaders Masterclass: Leading Effectively with Impact & Insight
– 27 November, Windsor, UK
EACTS/STS/LACES Latin America Cardiovascular Surgery Conference 5 – 7 December, Buenos Aires, Argentina Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: PEA and the New Kids on the Block
NEW LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Twelve research and leadership fellowships have been awarded as part of the 2025 Francis Fontan Fund fellowship programme. Congratulations to the following successful recipients who will have an exciting opportunity to expand their knowledge, practice new skills and gain critical experience working alongside leading surgeons in their fields.
Learn more about the Francis Fontan Fund.
MSC STATISTICS FOR CLINICAL TRIALS AT UCL
Maroua Eid, University Hospital of Angers
‘I am deeply honoured to have been awarded the FFF MSc Statistics for Clinical Trials at UCL. In an era where research is crucial to understand our practices and patient outcomes, I feel it is essential to be able to speak the language of statistics. I am confident that the MSc will help me gain grounding in data analysis to add on to my surgical experience and strengthen my abilities to conduct and coordinate clinical trials, adding on to our knowledge in the cardiac surgical field.”
ATRIAL FIBRILLATION FELLOWSHIP IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ATRICURE
Mohamed Hassan, University Hospital Würzburg
“In the intricate dance of the heart, where every beat matters, managing atrial fibrillation isn't just a task – it's a calling. Let's compose a future where every heartbeat is a testament to our collective brilliance.”
Diana Kalnina, Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital
"As a cardiac surgery resident from Latvia and the honoured recipient of the 2024/25 Francis Fontan Fellowship Award, I eagerly anticipate learning from the most experienced in this field. I am committed to raising the standards of patient care and making an impact. It is in the present that we shape our future, and I am ready to contribute to that future."
ADULT CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE FELLOWSHIP
Yael Ag-Rejuan, Wolfson Medical Center
ROBOTIC THORACIC SURGERY FELLOWSHIP
Kristiina Palve, Turku University Hospital
“During my Robotic Thoracic Surgery Fellowship my goal is to absorb as much as I can from the world-renowned thoracic surgeons beginning from the patient selection, surgical techniques till postoperative care.”
VATS FELLOWSHIP IN GENERAL THORACIC SURGERY
YenZhir Tay, Kuala Lumpur Hospital
"I am deeply honoured and excited to receive the Francis Fontan Fund VATS Fellowship.
“This recognition not only acknowledges my dedication to advancing minimally invasive thoracic surgery but also gears up my passion to innovate and contribute to the future of healthcare and leadership in thoracic surgery in my country. May this be the beginning of a new chapter filled with growth, learning, and endless possibilities. My heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee and everyone who has supported me onto this journey. Together, we are shaping a brighter, healthier tomorrow."
NURSES AND ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS FELLOWSHIP IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ATRICURE
Karin Hinterbuchner, Medical University of Innsbruck
ROBOTIC CARDIAC SURGERY FELLOWSHIP IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MEDTRONIC
Sleiman Sebastian Aboul-Hassan, Zbigniew Religa Heart Center
“It is a great honour and privilege for me to have this great opportunity to be the Robotic Cardiac Surgery Francis Fontan Fellow. Thanks to this fellowship, I will have the chance to gain extremely valuable theoretical and practical skills before starting our Robotic Program at our Institution. I am really looking forward to this exciting robotic adventure!”
THORACIC & MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FELLOWSHIP
Nadejda Cojocari, Oncological Institute Bucharest
Mario Pezella, Azienda-Ospedale Università di Padova
TRAVELLING LEADERSHIP FELLOWSHIP FOR WOMEN IN CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ATRICURE
Ling Zhu, National Heart Centre Singapore
Nora Goebel, Robert Bosch Hospital
