CTSNet

Monthly Newsletter -September 2009

Table of Contents

What's New

EACTS Annual Meeting

European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) 23rd EACTS Annual Meeting Vienna, Austria 17-21 October 2009

Complete Scientific Programme

“Special Topics”
Advanced Techniques in Cardiothoracic Surgery
How to Publish in a Scientific Journal
What is the place of homografts in the present day of cardiac surgery?
The two year SYNTAX trial data in perspective
The 2009 Guidelines for Resuscitation after Cardiac Surgery
Surgical Spectrum of Rheumatic Heart Valve Disease
Anatomical Exhibition
Breakfast Sessions

European Cardiothoracic Resident's Meeting 2009

The European Cardiothoracic Residents' Meeting 2009 will be held during the 23rd EACTS Annual Meeting from 18:00 - 20:00, Monday, 19 October 2009, Hall K, Austria Center Vienna, Austria. The meeting will address 'Strict hierarchy in surgical education: pro and contra debate.' We invite residents to listen to renowned speakers. The EACTS Residents' Meeting is organized by the EACTS Surgical Training and Manpower Committee. For more information.

Thoracic Literature Watch -Second Quarter

Thoracic Literature Watch - Second Quarter 2009 - is now available for viewing. Articles published 4/1/2009 – 6/30/2009. Content selected and edited by Thoracic Portal Editor Mark K. Ferguson, MD.

Congenital Clinical Case

"Double Aortic Arch" by Anto Ramayyan Sahayaraj MS, MCh, R. Mohan, Smartin Abraham MBBS, MS, MCh, Ravi Agarwal MD, Kotturathu Mammen Cherian MS, FRACS, all of Chennai India, and A. Thomas Pezzella MD, Worcester, Massachusetts USA.

New Residents Section Video

"Exploring Cardiothoracic Surgery" a video developed by Nicholas Stephen Amoroso, a medical student at George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington DC USA.

This video was filmed from the perspective of a medical student investigating a career in cardiothoracic surgery. With each video chapter, he provides information that answers many of the questions students and residents have about the field of CT surgery. Candid interviews and action reels of surgeons-at-work are used to illustrate many of the basic responsibilities of surgeons and the complex issues they face.

Endovascular Literature Watch - Second Quarter 2009

The Second Quarter 2009 Endovascular Watch(Articles published 4/1/09 – 6/30/09)is now available for viewing. Dr. Paul S. Lajos, Editor of the section, selects and compiles the list of publications.

MMCTS Additions - September 2009

Four new contributions have been added in the past month, bringing the total to 152.

Mihaljevic T, Gillinov AM, Jarrett C, Seto L, Savage R, DeVilliers P.
Endoscopic Robotically-Assisted Mitral Valve Repair.
MMCTS (September 14, 2009). doi:10.1510/mmcts.2008.003608.

Bisleri G, Muneretto C.
Endoscopic Radial Artery Harvesting.
MMCTS (September 7, 2009). doi:10.1510/mmcts.2008.003780.

Rakovich G, Bussières J, Fréchette E.
Postpneumonectomy Syndrome.
MMCTS (August 31, 2009). doi:10.1510/mmcts.2008.003475.

Graffigna A, Branzoli S, Sinelli S Vigano M.
Incisional Left Atrial Isolation for Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation in Mitral Valve Surgery.
MMCTS (August 27, 2009). doi:10.1510/mmcts.2008.003301.

AATS Academy - Applications Now Available

Thursday Evening and Friday, April 29 & 30, 2010, Toronto, ON, Canada
(Immediately prior to the AATS Annual Meeting)

Following the successful inaugural AATS Academy in 2009, applications are now available for the 2010 AATS Academy. The AATS Academy is an intensive didactic and interactive program for surgeons showing significant promise as potential future division chiefs or who have recently assumed the role of division chief.

GOALS

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

FACULTY
Academy faculty will consist of well-known leaders in cardiothoracic surgery as well as invited guest speakers.

COST
AATS will provide Complimentary Annual Meeting Registration and:

Successful candidates are responsible for transportation to and from Toronto.

APPLICATION AND DEADLINE
Applications for consideration must be submitted electronically at www.aats.org by December 1, 2009. Academy participants will be selected by the Academy Committee and notified by February 5, 2010.

2010 AATS Summer Intern Scholarship Applications Now Available

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) Summer Intern Scholarship program introduces the field of cardiothoracic surgery to first and second year medical students from North American medical institutions. By providing an opportunity to spend 8 weeks during the summer working in an AATS member’s cardiothoracic surgery department, the summer intern scholarship provides medical students with insight into the scientific investigation and study of cardiothoracic surgery. For more information and to submit an application please visit www.aats.org

Application Deadline: January 15, 2010

Lung Metastasis Meeting

Lung metastasis meeting will be held 20 November 2009 at the Auditorium Pentalfa - Auditorium GAI, Leuven, Belgium. For information, contact: Secretariaat Thoraxheelkunde, Bea Libert, UZ Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49,3000 Leuven, Belgium; Phone: +32 16 34.68.22; Fax: +32 16 34.68.21; Email: Bea.Libert@uzleuven.be. For more information.

Thoracic Surgery Director's Association (TSDA) Important Dates

The Thoracic Surgery Directors Association (TSDA) General Session will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2010 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Broward Convention Center in Ft. Lauderdale, FL (room to be determined).

2010 Match Dates for 2011 Appointment Year
Match registration opens: January 6, 2010
Rank order list system opens: April 7, 2010
Quota change deadline: May 12, 2010
Rank order list closes: May 26, 2010
Match Day: 12:00 p.m. ET, June 9, 2010

2010 TSDA In-Training Exam
Exam Day: April 10, 2010
Backup Exam: April 17, 2010
Information and registration materials will be mailed to program directors in early 2010.

SCTS Annual Meeting 2010 Now Accepting Abstracts

The online abstract submission is now open for the Annual Meeting and Cardiothoracic Forum of the Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain and Ireland (SCTS), 7–9 March 2010, Arena & Convention Centre, Liverpool, UK. Please click here to download instructions and the abstract submission form. DEADLINE FOR ABSTRACT SUBMISSION: 5 NOVEMBER 2009. If you have any questions please contact Isabelle Ferner at sctsadmin@scts.org.

Aortic Symposium 2010: Call for Abstracts Now Open

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) is now accepting abstracts for the Aortic Symposium 2010 to be held at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers in New York City, New York USA, April 29 - 30, 2010. All are encouraged to submit abstracts of original work or "state of the art reviews." ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 11, 2009.

Investigators are invited to submit original work to include BOTH of the following: OR

Accepted presentations will be available on the Presentation on Demand (POD) System, a network of computer stations distributed throughout the meeting area that permits attendees to review PowerPoint presentations and videos on demand.

Aortic Symposium 2010 will primarily feature faculty presentations of original work or “state of the art reviews.” Manuscripts selected from submitted abstracts will comprise the balance of the program and be considered for publication in a supplement of The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery.

For submission guidelines. Submit abstracts here. Visit here to learn more about Aortic Symposium 2010.

Program Overview:
Aortic Symposium 2010 is a two-day symposium focused on the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms and dissections. This conference is designed for cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, residents, perfusionists, ICU and OR nurses and those involved with the care of individuals with aortic disease. The faculty consists of world leaders in this field who have been invited to share their experience regarding difficult problems in aortic disease.

Course Directors: Randall B. Griepp, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Steven L. Lansman, MD, PhD, Westchester Medical Center.

STS Looking to the Future Scholarship Program

Applications are now open for the Looking to the Future Scholarship Program, sponsored by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. The scholarship seeks to identify general surgery residents in the United States and Canada who are considering, but are not yet committed to, a career in cardiothoracic surgery.

Scholarships will be awarded to cover registration fees for the STS 46th Annual Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Jan. 25-27, 2010 and will also include up to a three-night hotel stay at an STS-designated hotel with reimbursement of up to $500 in related travel expenses. Each scholarship winner will be assigned a mentor in cardiothoracic surgery to assist in planning a schedule of educational programming, answer questions and facilitate introductions. In addition, special events will be available for scholarship recipients throughout the Annual Meeting. Scholarship recipients will also have the opportunity to participate in STS/AATS Tech-Con 2010, January 23-24, at no cost.

If you know a resident with an interest in CT surgery, please encourage him/her to apply. Only one scholarship is allowed per institution. Applicants must complete an online application form. CVs are required and can be e-mailed to residents@sts.org. In addition, application materials must include a letter from the applicant’s Program Director (either general surgery or thoracic surgery). The letter should be on university letterhead and give a brief description of the candidate’s strengths. Recommendations from the Program Directors should be e-mailed to residents@sts.org or faxed to Sharon Porta at +1 312 202-5829.

Please have residents submit the appropriate materials (application form, CV and letter of recommendation)
by October 1. Scholarship awardees will be announced by November 16. If you have questions, please contact Sharon Porta at +1 312 202-5844 or sporta@sts.org.

Society for Heart Valve Disease (SHVD) COUNCIL - 2009-2011

At the 2009 Biennial Scientific Meeting held 27th-30th June 2009 in Berlin, Germany, the SHVD selected the following to serve as Councillors 2009-2011.

President
Robert O. Bonow

Past President
Friedrich W. Mohr

President-Elect
Jose L. Pomar

Secretary General/Treasurer
Adrian H. Chester

Editor
Robert W. Emery Jr.

Councillors:

David Adams
Luigi Badano
Joseph Bavaria
Michael Borger
Blase A. Carabello
Gino Gerosa
Dieter Horstkotte
Karyn Kunzelman
Yutaka Okita
Johanna J. M. Takkenberg
Pilar Tornos

STS 2009 Membership Application Materials Are Due Oct. 15, 2009

Cardiothoracic surgeons interested in applying for membership in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons can view membership requirements and download an application by visiting www.sts.org/membership. All applications and supporting materials must be received at STS Headquarters by October 15 for the application to be voted on by the Society’s membership during the upcoming STS 46th Annual Meeting in Fort Lauderdale.

Membership includes: Free subscription to The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, STS News, and other STS newsletters

2009 Heart Valve Summit: Medical, Surgical, and Interventional Decision Making

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) and the American College of Cardiology Foundation (ACCF) recently collaborated to host the 2009 Heart Valve Summit: Medical, Surgical, and Interventional Decision-Making from September 10 – 12, 2009 in Chicago, Illinois. The goal of this joint effort was to establish a comprehensive and innovative valve course covering both fields of cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery. The 2009 program was directed by: David H. Adams, MD, FACC of Mount Sinai Medical Center; Steven F. Bolling, MD, FACC of University of Michigan; Robert O. Bonow, MD, MACC of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; and Howard C. Herrmann, MD, FACC of University of Pennsylvania Medical Center; and Nurse Planner Michele Langenfeld, RN, MS of Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Drawing upon ACC, AHA and ABTS Guidelines, expert faculty presented evidence-based strategies and an integrative approach to managing medical, surgical and interventional challenges in valvular disease. One attendee remarked, “This was one of the best meetings I have attended in my entire career. Putting surgeons together with cardiologists to discuss controversial topics is a superb format.” With nearly 400 professionals in attendance and positive feedback, plans are already in place for the 2010 Heart Valve Summit to be held October 7 – 9, 2010 in Chicago.

Turkish Society of Cardiovascular Surgery Executive Committee

At the General Assembly of the Turkish Society of Cardiovascular Surgery the Executive Committee was selected. These members are:

President
Serap Aykut Aka

Vice President
Ali Gürbüz

General Secretary
Erol Şener

Cashier
Cem Alhan

Accountant
Mehmet Ali Özatik

Editor
Sertaç Çiçek

Members
A. Rüçhan Akar
Anil Apaydin
Hasan Sunar

The next National Congress of the Turkish Society of Cardiovascular Surgery will be held 27 - 31 October 2010 in Antalya, Turkey.

Southern Thoracic Surgical Association (STSA) 56 Annual Meeting

Register by October 9 for the upcoming STSA 56th Annual Meeting, to be held November 4-7, 2009 at the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in Marco Island, FL.

The Program Committee has designed a robust program that provides a balance between education, opportunity for thoughtful discussion, and time to renew friendships and experience camaraderie – all of which make the Southern so special. The resort is situated on three miles of pristine southwest Florida beaches and offers a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Please visit the STSA website to view the advance program and download a meeting registration form.
The Southern Thoracic Surgical Association is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. STSA designates this activity for a maximum of 19.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The advance registration deadline is October 9, 2009. If you are unable to register by October 9 you may register on-site, but please note, there will be an additional $50 charge for attendees registering on-site in Marco Island.

Please contact Katie Bochenek at STSA headquarters with any questions at 800-685-7872 or by e-mail at kbochenek@stsa.org.

Johann 'Hans' Ehrenhaft 1915 – 2009

Read the tribute to Dr Ehrenhaft by J. Bruce Ehrenhaft, J.D., his son, of Coral Gables, Florida, and Mark D. Iannettoni, MD, Johann L. Ehrenhaft Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa USA.

ISMICS 2009 Annual Winter Workshop

The Preliminary Scientific Program of the ISMICS 2009 Annual Winter Workshop which will be held 11-13 December in Medanta - The Medicity, Delhi NCR, India is now available on the official Winter Workshop Website of ISMICS.

The date for Abstract Submissions for the 2009 Annual Winter Workshop has been extended to October 15, 2009.

This three day interactive program with the world’s leading Cardiac Surgeons and Cardiologists offers an integrative approach to managing the medical, surgical and interventional challenges in cardiac diseases. The focus will be placed on the new horizons in minimally invasive therapies. The expert faculty will provide evidence-based strategies that will impact our practice performance and improve outcomes in our patients. Additionally, this program will afford participants the unique opportunity to network and share best practices in a focused and intimate setting.

ISMICS 2010 ANNUAL MEETING - CALL FOR ABSTRACTS

The International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery is now accepting abstracts for their Annual Meeting to be held at the InterContinental Hotel, Berlin, German from 16-19 June, 2010. You and your colleagues are encouraged to submit your abstracts. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 14 DECEMBER 2009. Abstracts must be submitted electronically. Additional information.

New Advances in Blood Management

The American Society of ExtraCorporeal Technology is proud to announce the 17th Annual Symposium on New Advances in Blood Management, October 1-3, 2009 at the Westin Crown Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The meeting is dedicated to presenting the latest information on the field of perioperative blood management and its impact on patient care. Program and Registration information.

Major subject areas for the meeting include the following:

Each session will have a minimum of three scientific sessions followed by a question and answer session. Speakers have been chosen who reflect the current state-of-the-art for all content areas and will report on both the physiological aspects of their subjects and on clinical studies. Emphasis will be placed on those interventions that have been scientifically shown, through techniques of evidenced-based medicine, to promote enhanced patient outcome.

The Westin Crown Center is located in the historic downtown area of Kansas City across the street from Union Station, and close to Westport and the Plaza, all of which offer excellent restaurants, shopping, and cultural events. The hotel reservation form should be completed and faxed directly to the hotel. AmSECT's group rate is available through September 14 only.

We anticipate receiving approximately 23 Category I American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion continuing education points, and an equal number of nursing CEU's.

For information, contact: Donna Pendarvis, AmSECT, 2209 Dickens Rd., Richmond, VA 23230 USA; Phone: +1 804 565-6363; Fax: +1 804 282-0090; Email: donna@amsect.org or amsect@amsect.org; Additional information.

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Industry Forum

FDA Panel Recommends Approval of the Medtronic Melody® Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve under HDE

This month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Circulatory System Devices Panel unanimously recommended conditional approval of a Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE) for the Melody Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve. The panel’s recommended conditions of approval include a post-approval study, revision of the patient brochure and instructions for use, and implementation of a physician training and education program. The Melody Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve provides a less invasive means to address the effects of a dysfunctional pulmonary valve for children and adults with congenital heart disease.

Melody is on track to become the first transcatheter heart valve of any kind to receive FDA approval for use in the US; however, following the panel recommendation, the Melody Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve remains an investigational device in the US, where its use is limited to a clinical trial approved by the FDA. Approval of the Melody system as an HDE is under review by the FDA.

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Books

New Book Available in CTSNet Bookstore

"Robotic Surgery" by Farid Gharagozloo, Surgeon-in-Chief Washington Institute of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chief of Clinical Cardiothoracic Surgery and Clinical Professor of Surgery at the George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC USA, and Farzad Najam, Associate Director of Cardiac Surgery and Assistant Clinical professor of Surgery at the George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC USA.

Representing a landmark in the medical literature, Robotic Surgery is the first complete robotic surgery sourcebook. In its pages, you'll explore the new frontiers of robotic and remote technologies, which bring us closer to the goal of achieving the benefits of traditional surgery with the least disruption to the normal functions of the human body. The authors take you through the fundamental principles of robotic surgery and provide clear instruction on their clinical application.

The book can be purchased through the CTSNet (Amazon) Bookstore.

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Clinical Resources

Cardiac

Thoracic

Videos


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Organizations

The 23rd EACTS Annual Meeting

The 23rd EACTS Annual Meeting will be held 17 - 21 October 2009 at the Austria Centre, Vienna, Austria. For information, contact: EACTS Executive Secretariat, 3 Park Street, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1LU, UK; Phone: +44 1753 832166; Fax: +44 1753 620407; Email: info@eacts.co.uk Additional information.

New Improved Job Center Launched on CTSNet

CTSNet has partnered with JobTarget to provide the CTSNet community with new tools to manage job searches. The CTSNet Job Center now provides a highly targeted focus on employment opportunities in the CT field and allows you to browse and organize jobs by keyword, location, job type, and other categories. An advanced Job Alert system notifies candidates of new opportunities that match pre-selected criteria. Employers and recruiters can browse resumes and post jobs through specialized employer accounts.

Visit the new CTSNet Job Center today and learn about the many new features that will help you find the perfect professional position.

ABTS - Recent Announcements and Activities

New Congenital Heart Surgery Certificate
The Board will be offering a subspecialty certificate in Congenital Cardiac Surgery starting in 2009. For more information on the requirements and application process, Click Here.

SESATS
The publication of SESATS X has been delayed. The expected release date is now Fall 2009.

Due to the delay, the Board will be using SESATS IX for the cognitive components of the 2009 Maintenance of Certification process. In early August, the Board sent an email to Diplomates who have been approved for MOC in 2009 with instructions on how to obtain a free copy of SESATS IX. If you are a Diplomate who has been approved for MOC in 2009, but has not heard yet from the Board, please contact the Board office.

Due to the publication delay of SESATS X, Penn State College of Medicine has extended CME credit for SESATS IX through June 30, 2010.

Penn State College of Medicine designates this educational activity (SESATS IX) for a maximum of 70 AMA Category 1 Credit(s) TM. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

2010 MOC Exam
The first Maintenance of Certification secured exam will be given from September 13-25, 2010. The exam will be given in an electronic format at Pearson Vue Testing Centers, which are located nationwide. Diplomates whose certificates expire in 2012 are eligible to take the exam, which should take approximately 5-6 hours. Diplomates will be able to choose the day of their exam and their testing center. More information about the process will be forthcoming.

Certification Categories
As recommended by the American Board of Medical Specialties, the ABTS has recently redefined its clinically active and clinically inactive status. For a full description of these two categories, click on ABTS home page.

Save the Date! STS 46th Annual Meeting – 25 - 27 January 2010 – Fort Lauderdale, Florida USA

Make plans now to attend the pre-eminent event in cardiothoracic surgery, the STS 46th Annual Meeting. Highlights include:

Registration will open soon. Watch the STS website for details.

Cardiothoracic Surgery in the Future: Technology Overview for Residents and Medical Students.

General surgery residents and medical students can get hands-on experience and learn more about the exciting specialty of cardiothoracic surgery at the upcoming American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress in Chicago. On October 12, 2009 ACS, STS, and AATS will collaborate to present a special interest course, Cardiothoracic Surgery in the Future: Technology Overview for Residents and Medical Students.

This course, taught by leaders in minimally invasive cardiac and general thoracic surgery procedures, will introduce attendees to the specialty’s current and future technology. Participants will have the opportunity to experience cardiac procedures for percutaneous valves and OPCAB, as well as vessel suturing and mitral valve repair. General thoracic hands-on procedures include VATS lobectomy, endoluminal esophageal surgery, EBUS, and pulmonary RFA. The course will also provide timely information about plans for a six-year integrated cardiothoracic surgery training program. If you know of a general surgery resident or medical student with a possible interest in CT surgery, please pass on this information. The cost of the course, which will run from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. on October 12, is $25, and includes dinner. For additional information, contact Damon Marquis, STS Director of Education & Member Services, at dmarquis@sts.org or (312) 202-5813. To register, residents and medical students must complete the ACS registration form and fax to (800)-682-0252 or mail to: American College of Surgeons, Attn: Registration Services, PO Box 92340, Chicago, IL 60675-2340.

AATS 2010 Annual Meeting - Call for Abstracts

The AATS is now accepting abstracts for the 90th Annual Meeting to be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada from May 1 - 5, 2010. You and your colleagues are strongly encouraged to submit abstracts of original work for consideration as part of the scientific program. Abstract Submission Deadline is October 5, 2009.

Submissions will be accepted within the following areas:

Regular Session Categories Presentation Types
  • Adult Cardiac
  • General Thoracic
  • Congenital
  • Regular Session
  • Laboratory Research Forum
  • Emerging Technologies Forum
  • C. Walton Lillehei Resident Forum
  • Other

Abstracts must be submitted electronically at this site. Specific instructions for abstract submission are located on the website, including how to submit graphics and charts. Manuscripts are due in advance of the meeting for all accepted abstracts.

Call for Abstracts for the 13th Annual C. Walton Lillehei Resident Forum
Residents are encouraged to submit abstracts, based on basic science, for the 13th Annual C. Walton Lillehei Resident Forum which will consist of presentations of original work by North American thoracic surgical residents and/or residents in general surgical training programs who are working in a cardiothoracic surgical laboratory or clinical rotation. The presentations are selected by the AATS CT Residents’ Committee: Training Program Directors must acknowledge that the material presented is original work and that of the resident.

Target Audience
The AATS Annual Meeting is specifically designed to meet the educational needs of:

Annual Meeting Accreditation
The American Association for Thoracic Surgery is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. This activity has been approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™.

Registration & Housing Information
Registration and housing will open during the fall of 2009. Take advantage of the early registration discount and register by April 2, 2010. For more information about the meeting.

2010 WTS Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted

Women in Thoracic Surgery (WTS) is again offering scholarships for attendance at the STS 46th Annual Meeting. Scholarships will be awarded to woman medical students or resident physicians in training in an accredited thoracic surgery program or residents in an accredited general surgery program interested in a career in thoracic/cardiac surgery. International residents are eligible to apply. The scholarship covers meeting registration fees, hotel accommodations, and up to $500 in related travel expenses to be used to attend the STS 46th Annual Meeting in January 2010. The application deadline is Oct. 1, 2009. Winners will be notified by the end of Nov. 2009. If you know a resident physician in training at an accredited thoracic surgery or general surgery program, or a medical student, who is interested in a career in thoracic or cardiac surgery, please encourage them to apply. Applications are available on the WTS website.

AATS Applications for Membership Now Available Online

Applications for membership in the American Association for Thoracic Surgery are now available online at www.aats.org. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the membership requirements and guidelines on the AATS Website.

To apply for membership a current member of the Association must act as the primary sponsor by initiating the application process in the Members Only area of the AATS Website. Applications must be received by November 30, 2009 for consideration. All applications received after that deadline will be automatically deferred until 2010.

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Residents Section

Major Renovations for the Resident Section

A Message from the Editors:
We are pleased to announce that the Residents Section of CTSNet has undergone a major renovation that should allow for easier use and access to important websites. We are also pleased to announce that several new sections have been created which are directed towards cardiothoracic and general surgery residents as well as medical students. These include links for resident education, program profiles, AHA/ACC guidelines, and updated links to important associated cardiothoracic surgery websites. Future goals include an e-video library of basic cardiothoracic surgical techniques and an updated meeting event link. We are interested in feedback to continue to improve and make this the major integrative site for those interested in cardiothoracic surgery.

Michael E. Halkos, MD and Tom C. Nguyen, MD, Editors of the CTSNet Residents Section


New content added recently:

Under Guidelines, an extensive listing of ACC/AHA and STS Guidelines has been provided.

Under Resident Education, a Pro/Con discussion on Two- versus Three-year Cardiothoracic Training Programs:
Stephen H. McKellar MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota USA favors three years (his subtitle: Barking Up the Wrong Tree).
Peter I. Ellman MD, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida USA favors two years (his subtitle: A Two Year CT Program is One Year Shorter Than a Three Year CT Program)

A new Program Profile has been added: Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Children’s Hospital Medical Center. The profile of this program is written by Elizabeth H. Stephens, Baylor/Texas Children’s, Houston Texas USA, and by Michael E. Halkos, MD and Tom C. Nguyen, MD, Editors of the Residents Section.

New Horizons Contribution

"Simulation in Cardiothoracic Surgery" by M. Blair Marshall, MD, Chief, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC USA.

Material for the New Horizons page of the Residents Section is selected by the Editor, Dr. Walter H. Merrill, University of Mississippi, Jackson, Mississippi USA.

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Journals

Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - September 2009

TWO SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

All articles in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery older than three years are now available for free, in an open access format, on CTSNet.

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery now has over 200 articles available in its In Press section. Check it out today!

CME ARTICLES:

Acquired Cardiovascular Disease
Dzemali O, Risteski P, Bakhtiary F, Singer E, Zierer A, Kleine P, Moritz A.
Surgical Left Ventricular Remodeling Leads to Better Long-term Survival and Exercise Tolerance than Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Alone in Patients with Moderate Ischemic Cardiomyopathy.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:663-68.

Congenital Heart Disease
Dos L, Dadashev A, Tanous D, Ferreira-González IJ, Haberer K, Siu SC, Van Arsdell GS, Oechslin EN, Williams WG, Silversides CK.
Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot: Determinants of Early Postoperative Adverse Outcomes.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:553-59.

General Thoracic Surgery
Leers JM, DeMeester SR, Chan N, Ayazi S, Oezcelik A, Abate E, Banki F, Lipham JC, Hagen JA, DeMeester TR.
Clinical Characteristics, Biologic Behavior, and Survival after Esophagectomy are Similar for Adenocarcinoma of the Gastroesophageal Junction and the Distal Esophagus.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:594-602.

SELECTED ARTICLES OF INTEREST

This month the following articles appear on the cover of The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery:

Congenital Heart Disease
Dos L, Dadashev A, Tanous D, Ferreira-González IJ, Haberer K, Siu SC, Van Arsdell GS, Oechslin EN, Williams WG, Silversides CK.
Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot: Determinants of Early Postoperative Adverse Outcomes.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:553-59.

General Thoracic Surgery
Stratakos G, Zuccatosta L, Porfyridis I, Sediari M, Zisis C, Mariatou V, Kostopoulos E, Psevdi A, Zakynthinos S, Gasparini S.
Silver Nitrate Through Flexible Bronchoscope in the Treatment of Bronchopleural Fistulae.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:603-607.

Acquired Cardiovascular Disease
Mannacio VA, De Amicis V, Di Tommaso L, Iorio F, Vosa C.
Influence of Prosthesis–Patient Mismatch on Exercise-induced Arrhythmias: A Further Aspect after Aortic Valve Replacement.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:632-38.

Perioperative Management
Liakopoulos OJ, Choi Y-H, Kuhn EW, Wittwer T, Borys M, Madershahian N, Wassmer G, Wahlers T.
Statins for Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation after Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Literature Review.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:678-86.

Evolving Technology/Basic Science
Lansac E, Di Centa I, Raoux F, Bulman-Fleming N, Ranga A, Abed A, Ba M, Paolitto A, Letourneur D, Meddahi-Pellé A.
An Expansible Aortic Ring for a Physiological Approach to Conservative Aortic Valve Surgery.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:718-24.

Transplantation
Januszewska K, Malec E, Juchem G, Kaczmarek I, Sodian R, Uberfuhr P, Reichart B.
Heart–Lung Transplantation in Patients with Pulmonary Atresia and Ventricular Septal Defect.
J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2009;138:738-43.

UPCOMING ARTICLES OF INTEREST

Our OCTOBER issue features articles on in situ tissue engineering for tracheal reconstruction, endovascular stent-graft placement in type B aortic dissection, long-term results of right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction, prolonged mechanical ventilation after cardiac surgery, hydrogen sulfide therapy attenuates the inflammation of myocardial ischemia - reperfusion injury, and 'valve-in-valve' implantation for stentless bioprosthesis aortic regurgitation. The NOVEMBER issue focuses on the AATS presidential address ‘The Quality Conundrum,” transapical aortic valve implantation, stent-graft repair of descending aortic dissection in Marfan patients, analyzing outcomes of congenital heart surgery, reconstruction of the pulmonary artery for lung cancer, and predicting mortality after lung transplant.

Annals of Thoracic Surgery - September 2009

CME:

General Thoracic Surgery
Shiono S, Kawamura M, Sato T, Okumura S, Nakajima J, Yoshino I, Ikeda N, Horio H, Akiyama H, Kobayashi K.
Pulmonary Metastasectomy for Pulmonary Metastases of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;88:856-60.

Adult Cardiac Surgery
Haft JW, Pagani FD, Romano MA, Leventhal CL, Dyke DB, Matthews JC.
Short- and Long-Term Survival of Patients Transferred to a Tertiary Care Center on Temporary Extracorporeal Circulatory Support.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;88:711-18.

Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology
Tisdale JE, Wroblewski HA, Wall DS, Rieger KM, Hammoud ZT, Young JV, Kesler KA.
A Randomized Trial Evaluating Amiodarone for Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation After Pulmonary Resection.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;88:886-95.

Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Chen J, Zimmerman RA, Jarvik GP, Nord AS, Clancy RR, Wernovsky G, Montenegro LM, Hartman DM, Nicolson SC, Spray TL, Gaynor JW, Ichord R.
Perioperative Stroke in Infants Undergoing Open Heart Operations for Congenital Heart Disease.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;88:823-29.

ATS Discussion Article - September 2009

Cardarelli M, Vaidya V, Conway D, Jarin J, Xiao Y.
Dissecting Multidisciplinary Cardiac Surgery Rounds.
Ann Thorac Surg 2009;88:809-13.

In the September 2009 Annals, we find an interesting paper in which the authors assess the actual value of the more or less traditional multidisciplinary rounding practises found in most academic medical centers. Such rounds in the critical care environment have, according to the authors, demonstrated increased communication, a reduction in medical errors, a shorter hospital stay, and consequently, economic savings. The reporting team analyzed video-recorded weekly multidisciplinary teaching rounds on cardiac patients in a PICU. Rounding time was categorized as presentation or discussion and was measured in minutes. In a novel analysis, the cost of a round was calculated by multiplying the hourly salary of all healthcare professionals present by the time spent rounding.

Median rounding time per patient was 15 minutes (range, 5 to 29). Patient presentation took between 2 and 8 minutes (median 4), or 26% of the rounding time. Time needed for discussion,including teaching and planning, varied between 2 and 25 minutes (median 10.5). Median number of participants was 13.5 (range, 11 and 16). Mean cost in salaries per patient rounded was US$140.87 (95% confidence interval: $106.80 to $174.90).

The authors maintain that multidisciplinary rounds are a low-cost medical practice with proven benefits. Available tools and rounding cultural changes should be adopted to shorten data retrieval and presentation time to the benefit of discussion and teaching. Current billing requirements for rounding multidisciplinary teams do not reflect the realities of their time use.

This paper is an excellent example of application of commonly used business practise to the cardiac surgical environment. Obviously an analysis of this type would be influenced by many local factors, but might be worth doing. Read the article, and then add your own comments to this discussion in the Adult Cardiac Surgery Forum. Other models of care would be of particular interest.

The monthly articles for discussion are selected and summarized by Dr. Tom R. Karl, Mater Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia. Dr. Karl is Editor of the ATS Discussion Section.

EACTS Publications - September 2009

EJCTS: October issue now published, including 3 CME articles.

ICVTS: EACTS 23rd Annual Congress Vienna Abstracts now published.
October issue now published.
You are cordially invited to join-in with the interactive discussion at ICVTS. To submit an eComment for a particular article in the listing, open it then simply click on the link 'eComments: submit' which appears in the content box to the right of the article Abstract or PDF proof. To respond to a specific eComment simply click on the link which appears to its left. We would be delighted if you could look at the papers posted and contribute any appropriate 'eComments' - your comments will be citable, posted on-line and subsequently published in print in ICVTS. eComments will also appear in PubMed.

MMCTS: has 4 new procedures and a total of 152 multimedia surgical procedures on-line.

Asian Annals - August 2009

SELECTED ARTICLES OF INTEREST

Congenital
Furlanetto G, Passerino CH, Siegel R, Chueng DT, Levitsky S, MD, Casagrande ISJ.
Biointegration and Growth of Porcine Valved Pulmonary Conduits in a Sheep Model.
Asian Cardiovasc Thorac Ann 2009;17:350-56.

Thoracic
Bar I, Papiashvilli M, Fink G, Sandbank J, MD, Stav D.
Cervical Mediastinoscopic Lymphadenectomy for Accurate Staging in Lung Cancer.
Asian Cardiovasc Thorac Ann 2009;17:357-61.

Cardiac
Ooi Su Min J, Rahman A, Ramzisham M, Zamrin MD.
Is 6% Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 Safe in Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery?
Asian Cardiovasc Thorac Ann 2009;17:368-72.

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Transitions

Vallee L. Willman 1925 - 2009

Read the beautiful tribute to Val Willman by C. Rollins Hanlon, MD, Executive Consultant, American College of Surgeons, Chicago, Illinois USA.

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Abstract Deadlines

More meeting abstract deadlines are available.

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Upcoming Meetings

New Advances in Blood Management

The American Society of ExtraCorporeal Technology is proud to announce the 17th Annual Symposium on New Advances in Blood Management, October 1-3, 2009 at the Westin Crown Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The meeting is dedicated to presenting the latest information on the field of perioperative blood management and its impact on patient care. Program and Registration information.

Major subject areas for the meeting include the following:

Each session will have a minimum of three scientific sessions followed by a question and answer session. Speakers have been chosen who reflect the current state-of-the-art for all content areas and will report on both the physiological aspects of their subjects and on clinical studies. Emphasis will be placed on those interventions that have been scientifically shown, through techniques of evidenced-based medicine, to promote enhanced patient outcome.

The Westin Crown Center is located in the historic downtown area of Kansas City across the street from Union Station, and close to Westport and the Plaza, all of which offer excellent restaurants, shopping, and cultural events. The hotel reservation form should be completed and faxed directly to the hotel. AmSECT's group rate is available through September 14 only.

We anticipate receiving approximately 23 Category I American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion continuing education points, and an equal number of nursing CEU's.

For information, contact: Donna Pendarvis, AmSECT, 2209 Dickens Rd., Richmond, VA 23230 USA; Phone: +1 804 565-6363; Fax: +1 804 282-0090; Email: donna@amsect.org or amsect@amsect.org; Additional information.

Controversies and Advances in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease

Controversies and Advances in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease: The Ninth in the Series will be held 1-2 October 2009 at The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, California USA. CME available. For information, contact: Heather Wilson, Promedica International CME, 2333 State Street, Suite 203, Carlsbad, CA 92008 USA; Phone: 1.760.720-2263; Fax: 1.760.720.6263; Email: hwilson@promedicacme.com; Additional information.

Venice 2009 Arrhythmias

Venice 2009 Arrhythmias - 11th International Workshop on Cardiac Arrhythmias will be held 4-7 October 2009 at Fondazione Vini, Venice Italy. For information, contact: Rita Reggiani - Project Leader, Rimini - Italy; Phone: +39 0541 305822-305811; Fax: +39 0541 305842; Email: infor@venicearrhythmias.org Additional information.

Pennsylvania Association for Thoracic Surgery

The Pennsylvania Association for Thoracic Surgery (PATS) 47th Annual Meeting October 8-10, 2009 will be held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Amelia Island, Florida USA. For meeting registration and hotel accommodations. Contact Tara Kressler, Executive Director; Phone: +1.484.884-1011; Fax: +1.484.884-1012; Email: Tara.Kressler@lvh.com; For more information.

ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery

The ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery will be held 8-9 October 2009 at the Covidien European Training Center, Elancourt France. For information, contact: Sue Hesford, ESTS Secretariat; Phone: 44 1392 430671; Fax: 44 1392 430671; Email: sue@ests.org.uk Additional information.

ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery

The ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery will be held 8-9 October 2009 at the Covidien European Training Center, Elancourt, France. For information, contact: Sue Hesford, Administrative Secretary, European Society of Thoracic Surgeons, PO Box 159, Exeter, UK EX2 5SH; Phone: 44 1392 430671; Fax: 44 1392 430671; Email: sue@ests.org.uk Additional information.

Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery Summit

The Second International Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery Summit will be held October 9-10, 2009 in Boston, Massachusetts USA.

This summit is the first to bring together a group of thoracic surgeons dedicated to the field of minimally invasive general thoracic surgery. The goal is to present the current state-of-the-art and give insights and data based on the faculty's experience on where the field is heading.

The agenda discusses a range of topics presented by leaders in the field. Pertaining to lung cancer, these include minimally invasive approaches to lung cancer treatment, lung cancer screening, and new developments in lung cancer molecular biology. The workup and staging of esophageal cancer and benign esophageal disorders as well as the best treatment for esophageal malignancy are highlighted.

Minimally invasive approaches to the mediastinum are reviewed. For each area, the potential for application of the robot is featured. A fascinating section focuses on new developments in technology, including stent therapy, navigational bronchoscopy, lung localization options, sentinel node identification in lung cancer, and ablative and innovative radiation techniques.

An outstanding compilation of the most up-to-date information in the field of minimally invasive thoracic surgery.

Course Director - Scott Swanson, MD, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA.

More information: Ciné-Med, Inc., 127 Main Street North, Woodbury, CT 06798; Phone: (203) 263-0006; Toll Free: (800) 253-7657; Fax: (203) 263-4839. For Registration and Accommodations.

American College of Surgeons 95th Annual Clinical Congress

The American College of Surgeons 95th Annual Clinical Congress will be held 11-15 October 2009 at McCormick Place - West Building, Chicago, Illinois USA. For information, contact: American College of Surgeons, 3300 Dundee Road, Northbrook, Illinois 60062-2348, Phone: 1 847 498-1400; Additional information.

European Conference on Perfusion Education and Training

The 9th European Conference on Perfusion Education and Training will be held 17 October 2009 at the Austria Center Vienna, Vienna Austria. For information, contact: Carole Hamilton; Email: carole.hamilton@gmx.net; Additional information.

European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery

The 23rd EACTS Annual Meeting will be held 17 - 21 October 2009 at the Austria Centre, Vienna, Austria. For information, contact: EACTS Executive Secretariat, 3 Park Street, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1LU, UK; Phone: +44 1753 832166; Fax: +44 1753 620407; Email: info@eacts.co.uk Additional information.

Society of Clinical Perfusion Scientists of Great Britain and Ireland

Society of Clinical Perfusion Scientists of Great Britain and Ireland Congress 2009 will be held 23 - 24 October 2009 at the Marriott Hotel, Leicester, United Kingdom. For information, contact: Simon Phillips, St. Georges Healthcare NHS Trust, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT UK; Email: simon.phillips@stgeorges.nhs.uk Additional information.

Konkul International Live Symposium - Dr. Song's Cardiac Valve Repair 2009

Konkul International Live Symposium - Dr. Song's Cardiac Valve Repair 2009 (The eve of ATCSA 2009 Seoul) will be held 24 October 2009 at Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul Korea (South). For information, contact: Secretariat: Soo-Jin Lee, Konkuk University Medical Center, 265 Guuiro, Gwanglin-gu, Korea; Phone: +82 2 2030 7016; Fax: +82 2 2030 7018; Email: soojin@kuh.ac.kr; Additional information.

Association of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons of Asia (ATCSA)

Association of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons of Asia (ATCSA) 19th Biennial Congress 2009 will be held 25 - 28 October 2009 at the Sheraton Grande Walkerhill Hotel, Seoul Korea (South). For information, contact: Ms. Hyo-Shin Nam, InSession International Convention Services, Inc., Phone: +82 2 3471 8555; Fax: +82 2 521 8683; Email: atcsa2009@insession.co.kr; Additional information.

Contemporary General Thoracic Surgery

Contemporary General Thoracic Surgery will be held 29-30 October 2009 at the Eric P. Newman Education Center, Washington University Medical Center St. Louis, Missouri USA. For information, contact: Washington University CME/WUSM, Campus Box 8063, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis Missouri 63110 USA; Phone: +1 314 362-6891; Fax: +1 314 362-1087; Email: cme@wustl.edu; Additional information.

AmSECT Pediatric Perfusion Meeting

The American Society of ExtraCorporeal Technology is proud to announce its Pediatric Perfusion meeting, October 29-31, 2009 at the Westin City Center in Dallas, Texas. For Program and Registration information.

The Pediatric Planning Committee has formulated a curriculum encompassing an eclectic range of contemporary and provocative topics. In addition to discussions and presentations on the latest pediatric perfusion techniques, the conference will begin with a workshop comprised of perfusion bypass circuits from a number of distinctive pediatric institutions and the differing manufacturers of pediatric perfusion supplies. Also featured:

With its Southwestern warmth and Old West charm, Dallas is the number one tourist destination in Texas. At the Westin City Center Dallas, you will be located in the midst of a revitalized and dynamic downtown area that is conveniently located in close proximity to numerous cultural and culinary attractions and is only 30 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Use the form here to reserve lodging now http://www.amsect.org/sections/education/pediatric/HotelForm.pdf.

We invite you to join us for what promises to be an enlightening and informative meeting.

21st Century Techniques for Complex Valve Surgery

Vanderbilt Valve Symposium: 21st Century Techniques for Complex Valve Surgery will be held 29-30 October 2009 at the Nashville Marriott Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee USA. For information, contact: Joan Lorber, Vanderbilt Heart, Department of Surgery, 1215 21st Avenue South, 5209 MCE, Nashville, TN 37232-8802; Phone: 1 615 343-7363; Email: joan.lorber@vanderbilt.edu

Australasian Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons

The 2009 Australasian Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons Annual Scientific Meeting will be held 4-8 November 2009 at the Sheraton Noosa Resort & Spa, Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia. For information, contact: Wayne Taylor, PO BOX 247 Ashgrove, QLD 4060; Phone: +61 07 3366 2205; Fax: +61 07 3366 5170; Email: 2009ascts@tayloredimages.com.au; Additional information.

WORLD CONGRESS OF THE WORLD SOCIETY OF CARDIO-THORACIC SURGEONS

The XIXth World Congress of the World Society of Cardio-Thoracic Surgeons will be held November 4-6, 2009 at the Panamericano Buenos Aires Hotel and Resort, Carlos Pellegrini 551, (1109) Buenos Aires, Argentina.

This Congress is designed for cardio-thoracic surgeons, anaesthesiologists, cardiologists, research scientists, medical residents, biomedical and clinical engineers, nurses, perfusionists, respiratory technologists, and other health care professionals involved in the care of patients with cardio-thoracic disease. The scientific programme will focus on the rapidly evolving advancements in the field, covering medical devices, emerging interventional procedures, novel pharmaceutical agents, advances with imaging technologies, and innovative surgical approaches. Chairman: Roberto Favaloro, M.D. Fundación Favaloro, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Congress Secretariat: Email: secretariat@wscts2009.org; Phone: +5411-4378-1127; Fax: +5411-4378-1107. For more information.

Southern Thoracic Surgical Association

The Fifty-Sixth Southern Thoracic Surgical Association Annual Meeting will be held 4-7 November 2009 at Marco Island, Florida USA. For information, contact: Nancy Gray Puckett, 633 North Saint Clair, Chicago, IL; Phone: 1 800 685-7872; Fax: 1 312 202-5801; Email: stsa@stsa.org; Additional information.

Advances in Thoracic Surgery

Advances in Thoracic Surgery will be held 5-6 November 2009 at the Royal Brompton Hospital, London UK. This meeting will celebrate the contributions and achievements of Peter Goldstraw, MD. For information, contact: Maria Leung (PA to Eric Lim), National Heart and Lung Institute, Fax: +44 207 351 8560; Email: ats09@rbht.nhs.uk. Additional information.

International Berlin Symposium on Mechanical Circulatory Support

The Sixth International Berlin Symposium on Mechanical Circulatory Support will be held 6-8 November 2009, Berlin, Germany. For information, contact: Mrs. Sabine Huebler, Conference Organizer, German Heart Institute Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; Tel. +49 30 4593 2333; Fax: +49 30 4593 2332; Email: shuebler@dhzb.de; Additional information.

The 13th Heart Lab Workshop

The 13th Heart Lab Workshop will be held 11-14 November 2009 at Hotel Renaissance Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. For information, contact Ludwig K. von Segesser, M.D., Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier, Universitaire Vaudois, CHUV, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Phone: +41 21 314-2280; Fax: +41 21 314-2278; Email: Ludwig.von-Segesser@chuv.hospvd.ch; Additional information.

Summit on Acute Aortic Diseases: Lux et Veritas

The Summit on Acute Aortic Diseases: Lux et Veritas will be held 12-13 November 2009 in Washington, DC USA. For information, contact: Laurel Steigerwald, Promedica International; Phone: 1 760 720-2263; Fax: 1 760 720-6263; Email: lsteigerwald@promedicacme.com; Additional information.

Surgical Intervention for Esophageal Cancer

The Heart, Lung and Esophageal Surgery Institute under the direction of James D. Luketich invites you to attend the CME accredited course: Surgical Intervention for Esophageal Cancer to be held on November 12-13, 2009 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center-Presbyterian-Watson Education Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA.

Course Directors: Drs. James D. Luketich, Blair A. Jobe, Rodney J. Landreneau and Katie S. Nason
Guest speakers: Drs. Thomas Fabian and Benny Weksler
CME credits: 12.75

Highlights Include:
New Staging of Esophageal Cancer
Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy Techniques
Building a Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy Program
Live teleconference of Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy from the operating room
Thoracoscopic Anastomosis Workshop led by Dr. Fabian

Please see the attached brochure for complete details.

Please register online by clicking on this link. If you need further information please contact Kristin Seth at sethkm2@upmc.edu or call +1 412-647-2845.

14TH Congress on Cardio-Thoracic Surgery

The 14th Congress on Cardio-Thoracic Surgery will be held 14 November 2009 at the Sodehotel, Woluwe, Brussels, Belgium. For information, contact: Dr. A. Poncelet, Chairman Scientific Committee, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Cardio-Thoracic & Vascular Unit; Phone: +32 (2) 764 6107; Fax: +32 (2) 764 8960; Email: poncelet@chir.ucl.ac.be For more information.

American Heart Association: Navigate the Cardiovascular World

The American Heart Association: Navigate the Cardiovascular World will be held 14-18 November 2009 at the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida USA. For information, contact: Convention Data Services (CDS) Customer Service; Phone: 1 508 743-8517; Fax: 1 508 759-4552; Email: sessions@xpressreg.net; For more information.

Lung Metastasis Meeting

Lung metastasis meeting will be held 20 November 2009 at the Auditorium Pentalfa - Auditorium GAI, Leuven, Belgium. For information, contact: Secretariaat Thoraxheelkunde, Bea Libert, UZ Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49,3000 Leuven, Belgium; Phone: +32 16 34.68.22; Fax: +32 16 34.68.21; Email: Bea.Libert@uzleuven.be. For more information.

14th Annual Perspectives in Thoracic Oncology

The 14th Annual Perspectives in Thoracic Oncology will be held November 20-21, 2009 at the Westin New York at Times Square, New York, New York USA. Course Director Corey J. Langer, MD, University of Pennsylvania. For more information.

Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery "Normothermia" Workshop

The Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery "Normothermia" Workshop will be held 23-24 November 2009 at the Centre Chirurgical Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson, France. For information, contact: Lydia Bouclier, Centre Chirurgical Marie Lannelongue, 133 avenue de la Resistance, 92130 Le Plessis-Robinson, France; Phone: +33 1 46 48 55 55; Email: l.bouclier@ccml.fr

International Joint Meeting on Thoracic Surgery

The International Joint Meeting on Thoracic Surgery will be held 25 - 27 November 2009 at the Auditorio Fomento de Trabajo Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. For information, contact: Oriol Seto, ACTO SERVEIS, C/ Bonaire, 7; 08301 Mataro, Barcelona, Spain; Phone: +34 937 552 382; Fax: +34 937 552 383; Email: thoracic.surgery@actoserveis.com Additional information.

Symposium on Current Management of Pleural Malignancy

The Symposium on Current Management of Pleural Malignancy will be held 29 November 2009 at the Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong. For information, contact: Secretariat, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 4/F, Clinical Sciences Building, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong; Phone: +852 - 2632 2629; Fax: +852 - 2647 3074; Email: cmpm@surgery.cuhk.edu.hk; Additional information.

Surgery of the Thoracic Aorta

Surgery of The Thoracic Aorta - Live Surgery Session from the Operating Room of the S. Orsola Hospital will be held 30 November-1 December 2009 in Bologna Italy. For information, contact: Noema Srl Unipersonale, Via Orefici 4, 40124 Bologna - Italy; Phone: +39 051 230385; Fax: +39 051 220955; Email: info@noemacongressi.it; Additional information.

Kuala Lumpur Valve Summit 2009

The Kuala Lumpur Valve Summit 2009 will be held 3-5 December 2009 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. For information, contact: Secretariat - Marini Kamarudin, Phone: +603 26178515; Fax: +603 26928418; Email: klvs2009@ijn.com.my; Additional information.

Innovations in Cardiovascular Interventions (ICI)

Innovations in Cardiovascular Interventions (ICI) - Leading Technology for Medicine will be held 6-8 December 2009 at the David InterContinental Hotel, Tel-Aviv Israel. For information, contact: Secretariat: Dan Knassim Ltd., PO Box 1931; Phone: +972-3-5767731; Fax: +972-3-5767731; Email: ici09@paragon-conventions.com; Additional information.

PATACSI-Getz Scientific Research Forum

The 14th PATACSI-Getz Scientific Research Forum will be held 7 December 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Pasay City, Philippines. For information, contact: Annia S. Paceño, 2nd Floor, Management Service Office; Phone: (632) 9293826; Fax: (632) 9293826; Email: patacsi_tcvs@yahoo.com.

ISMICS 2009 Annual Winter Workshop

The Preliminary Scientific Program of the ISMICS 2009 Annual Winter Workshop which will be held 11-13 December in Medanta - The Medicity, Delhi NCR, India is now available on the official Winter Workshop Website of ISMICS.

The date for Abstract Submissions for the 2009 Annual Winter Workshop has been extended to October 15, 2009.

This three day interactive program with the world’s leading Cardiac Surgeons and Cardiologists offers an integrative approach to managing the medical, surgical and interventional challenges in cardiac diseases. The focus will be placed on the new horizons in minimally invasive therapies. The expert faculty will provide evidence-based strategies that will impact our practice performance and improve outcomes in our patients. Additionally, this program will afford participants the unique opportunity to network and share best practices in a focused and intimate setting.


2010 - JANUARY - MARCH

Minimally Invasive Robotic Association (MIRA)

The Minimally Invasive Robotic Association (MIRA) 5th International Congress will be held January 27-30, 2010 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel, San Diego, California USA.

The Congress takes place over 4 days. It will comprise of three Master Robotics Hands-On Courses focusing on Colorectal, Urology and Gynecology topics. The congress will host two Post Graduate Courses targeting Urology and Cardio-Thoracic specialties. The scientific session will explore the latest trends in robotics and its increasing role in general surgery, pediatrics, colorectal, urology and gynecology surgery.

Members and Non-Members are encourage to submit online abstracts for oral, poster and video presentation on the following topics: Urology, Pediatrics, Colorectal, OB/GYN, CardioThoracic, General Surgery, New Systems and Novel Technologies. For more information.

Tenth Annual International Symposium on Congenital Heart Disease

The Tenth Annual International Symposium on Congenital Heart Disease will be held February 5–9, 2010 at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort, St. Petersburg, Florida USA.

German Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery

The 39th Annual Meeting of the German Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery will be held February 14–17, 2010 at the International Congress Center Stuttgart (ICS) in Stuttgart, Germany. Special emphasis will be placed on Reconstructive Aortic and Mitral Valve Surgery, Interventional and Hybrid Procedures, Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm/Dissection, Long-term Outcome after Univentricular Palliation, Plastic and Reconstructive Sternal Procedures, Strategies in Treatment of the Tricuspid Valve including Ebstein, Terminal Heart Failure and Intensive Care. Special Sessions for Nurses, Physician Assistants and Perfusionists are also part of the program. A special "Training Village" with simulators and wet-labs will be available throughout the time of the meeting. Congress President is Prof. Dr. Ruediger Lange, German Heart Center Munich. For information, please contact jahrestagung@dhm.mhn.de

Go to the website for information about the meeting, including submission and registration online.

ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery (Practical Course in the Laboratory)

The ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery (Practical Course in the Laboratory) will be held 15-16 February 2010 at the Covidien European Training Center, Elancourt, France. For information, contact: Sue Hesford, ESTS Secretariat; Phone: +44 1392 430671; Fax: +44 1392 430671; Email: sue@ests.org.uk Additional information.

CTCOMCON 2010

CTCOMCON 2010 - Combined Annual Meeting of the Asian Society for Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery (18th) and the Indian Association of Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgeons (56th) will be held 26 February-1 March 2010; 02/26/10: All India Institute of Medical Sciences; 02/27/10-03/01/10: The Ashok, New Delhi, India. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 31 OCTOBER 2009. For information, contact Conference Secretariat Dr. A Sampath Kumar, President, Organising Committee, Professor & Head, Dept. of CTVS, Chief CT Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi - 110 029 India; Telefax : +91 011-26589646; Fax : + 91 011-26588663; E-mail: ctcomcondelhi2010@gmail.com; Website: www.ctcomcon2010.com. Additional information.

AATS-ASCVTS-IACTS Postgraduate Course

The AATS-ASCVTS-IACTS Postgraduate Course will be held February 27, 2010 at the Ashok Hotel, New Delhi, India. Additional information.

Cardiothoracic Surgery Symposium

The 30th Annual Cardiothoracic Surgery Symposium will be held 4-7 March 2010 at The Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Marina, San Diego, California USA. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 1 FEBRUARY 2010. For information, contact: Susan Westwood, San Diego Cardiothoracic Surgery Symposium, 793-A E. Foothill Boulevard, #119, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405; Phone: 1 805 541-3118; Fax: 1 716 809-4082; Email: susan@amainc.com; Additional information.

SCTS Annual Meeting

The Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery in Great Britain & Ireland Annual Meeting and Cardiothoracic Forum will be held 7-9 March 2010 at the Arena & Convention Centre, Liverpool United Kingdom. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 5 NOVEMBER 2009. For information, contact: Isabelle Ferner, SCTS, Phone: +44 (0)20 7869 6893; Fax: +44 (0)20 7869 6890; Email: sctsadmin@scts.org; Additional information.

General Thoracic Surgical Club

General Thoracic Surgical Club will be held 11-14 March 2010 at the LaCosta Resort and Spa, Carlsbad, California USA. CME available. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 1 OCTOBER, 2009. For information, contact: Bonnie Lemmerman or Carla MacLean, General Thoracic Surgical Club, Mayo Clinic; 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905 USA; Phone: +1 507-538-4969; Fax: +1 507-284-0058; Email: blemmerman@mayo.edu or cmaclean@mayo.edu; Additional information.

Florida Valve 2010

The Florida Valve 2010 -“Emerging Valvular & Endovascular Therapies for the Surgeon and Cardiologist” will be held March 11 - 13, 2010 at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes Orlando, Florida USA. Co-Chairs: Vinay Badhwar, MD and Randolph P. Martin, MD. Program Administrator: Carole Erickson. Contact information: Tampa Bay Heart Foundation Inc; Phone: 1 727-522-9379; Fax: 1 727-522-9386; Email: info@TBHFoundation.org Additional information.

American College of Cardiology 59th Annual Scientific Session

The American College of Cardiology 59th Annual Scientific Session will be held 14-16 March 2010 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia USA. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: OCTOBER 6, 2009. For information, contact: J. Spargo & Associates; Phone: 1 703 449-6418; Email: accregistration@jspargo.com; Additional information.

ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery (Theoretical Course)

The ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery (Theoretical Course) will be held 17-21 March 2010 in Antalya, Turkey.
For information, contact: Sue Hesford, ESTS Secretariat; Phone: + 44 1392 430671; Fax: + 44 1392 430671; Email: sue@ests.org.uk Additional information.

15th Annual Update on Cardiopulmonary Bypass

The 15th Annual Update on Cardiopulmonary Bypass will be held March 21-26, 2010 at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Whistler, BC, Canada. Deadline for hotel registration is February 10, 2010, discounted rate prior to that time. Additional information.


2010 - APRIL - JUNE

European Society for CardioVascular Surgery - Heart and Health Foundation of Turkey

The 59th International Congress of the European Society for CardioVascular Surgery in conjunction with the 6th Congress of Update in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery - Heart and Health Foundation of Turkey will be held 15-18 April 2010 at the Sheraton Cesme Hotel, Izmir, Turkey. For information, contact: ESCVS General Secretariat, Professor Claudio Muneretto, ESCVS Secretary General, UDA Cardiochirurgia, Spedali Civili P.le Spedali Civili, 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy; Phone: +39 030 3996401; Fax: +39 030 3996096; Email: escvs.secretariat@gmail.com; Additional information.

AmSECT 48th International Convention

The AmSECT 48th International Convention will be held 26 April - 1 May 2010 at the Grand Sierra Resort, Reno Nevada USA. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 31 DECEMBER 2009. For information, contact: Joseph Deptula; Phone: +1 402-888-8290; Email: jdeptula@childrensomaha.org; Additional information.

3rd Central European Congress of Surgery

The 3rd Central European Congress of Surgery/Norman Barrett Symposium 2010: "From Reflux to Carcinoma"/5th Croatian Congress of Surgery with International Participation will be held 28 April-1 May 2010 at The Dubrovnik Palace, Dubrovnik Croatia. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 10 JANUARY 2010. For information, contact: Nina Vrdoljak, Kruge 48, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia; Phone: +385 1 4854 696; Fax: +385 1 4854 580; Email: nina@conventuscredo.hr; Additional information.

Aortic Symposium 2010: Call for Abstracts Now Open

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) is now accepting abstracts for the Aortic Symposium 2010 to be held at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers in New York City, New York USA, April 29 - 30, 2010. All are encouraged to submit abstracts of original work or "state of the art reviews." ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 11, 2009.

Investigators are invited to submit original work to include BOTH of the following: OR

Accepted presentations will be available on the Presentation on Demand (POD) System, a network of computer stations distributed throughout the meeting area that permits attendees to review PowerPoint presentations and videos on demand.

Aortic Symposium 2010 will primarily feature faculty presentations of original work or “state of the art reviews.” Manuscripts selected from submitted abstracts will comprise the balance of the program and be considered for publication in a supplement of The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery.

For submission guidelines. Submit abstracts here. Visit here to learn more about Aortic Symposium 2010.

Program Overview:
Aortic Symposium 2010 is a two-day symposium focused on the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms and dissections. This conference is designed for cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, residents, perfusionists, ICU and OR nurses and those involved with the care of individuals with aortic disease. The faculty consists of world leaders in this field who have been invited to share their experience regarding difficult problems in aortic disease.

Course Directors: Randall B. Griepp, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Steven L. Lansman, MD, PhD, Westchester Medical Center.

AATS 90th Annual Meeting

The AATS 90th Annual Meeting will be held May 1–5, 2010 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Make your plans to attend. The Abstract Submission site will close on Monday, October 5, 2009. Visit www.aats.org to submit beginning in early August. For more information.

Euro-Asian Bridge Society

The 7th Annual Euro-Asian Bridge Society will be held 21-23 May 2010 at Kepminski Palace Hotel, Portoroz, Slovenia. For information, contact: Ms. Dusica Todorovic, University Medical Centre, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Phone: + 386 1 241 71 24; Fax: + 386 1 241 72 96; Email: dusica.todorovic@cd-cc.si; Additional information.

18th European Conference on General Thoracic Surgery

The 18th European Conference on General Thoracic Surgery will be held 30 May-2 June 2010 at Feria de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 31 JANUARY 2010. For information, contact: Mondial Congress and Events, Mondial GmbH & Co; Phone: + 43 1 58804-0; Fax: + 43 1 58804-185; Email: ests2010@mondial-congress.com Additional information.

European Society for Surgical Research (ESSR)

The 45th Annual Meeting of the European Society for Surgical Research (ESSR) will be held 9-12 June 2010 at Centre Medical Universitaire, Geneva Switzerland. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 12 DECEMBER 2009. For information, contact: Mustafa CIKIRIKCIOGLU, MD, PhD, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Geneva Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, CH-1211 Genève 14, Switzerland; Phone: +41 22 37 276 63; Fax: +41 22 37 276 34; Email: mustafa.cikirikcioglu@hcuge.ch; Additional information.

2010 International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS) 12th Annual Scientific Meeting

The International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS) 12th Annual Scientific Meeting will be held 16-19 June 2010 at the InterContinental Hotel, Berlin, Germany. ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 14 DECEMBER 2009. For information, contact: EJ Weldon, 900 Cummings Center, Suite 221-U, Beverly, MA USA; Phone: +1 978 927-8330; Email: ISMICS@prri.com; Additional information.


2010 - JULY - SEPTEMBER

5th International Meeting of the Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center

The 5th International Meeting of the Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center: Current Trends in Cardiac Surgery and Cardiology will be held 16-18 September 2010 (NOTE DATE CHANGE) at the Eugenides Foundation Congress Center, Athens, Greece. REVISED ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: MARCH 1, 2010. For information, contact: Liana Iliopoulou, Triaena Tours & Congress, 206 Sygrou Avenue, 176 72 Athens (Kallithea); Phone: +30 210 7499353; Fax: +30 210 7705752; Email: lianae@triaenatours.gr. Additional information.

ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery Elancourt (Practical Course in the Laboratory)

The ESTS School of Thoracic Surgery Elancourt (Practical Course in the Laboratory) will be held 27-28 September 2010 at the Covidien European Training Center, Elancourt, France. For information, contact: Sue Hesford, ESTS Secretariat; Phone: +44 1392 430671; Fax: +44 1392 430671; Email: sue@ests.org.uk Additional information.

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MEMBER PHOTOS

We thank all those members who have sent your photos for posting on your home page. For those who have not yet done so, we urge you to send a photograph soon. We prefer a jpeg file attached to an e-mail (ats@wustl.edu), but will accept other types (bitmap, gif). Or simply send us a wallet-sized glossy print to the Editorial Office.


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