ALERT!

Five experts made presentations on topics including the future of non-surgical management of coronary disease, the future of coronary surgery research, new coronary guidelines, and more.

Pulmonary Endoarterectomy without Circulatory Arrest and Deep Hypothermia

May 26, 2009

Pulmonary endoarterectomy is the treatment of choice in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Traditionally, PEA is achieved by adopting periods of deep hypothermia at 18° Celsius and circulatory arrest. We present an alternative strategy, based on the application of a negative pressure in the left chambers and also in the superior vena cava.

Thoracoscopic (VATS) Enucleation of a Proximal Esophageal Leiomyoma

March 24, 2009

Minimally invasive VATS enucleation of a proximal esophageal leiomyoma is a safe approach to treat this unusual benign esophageal tumor.

Carinal Resection via Median Sternotomy

March 24, 2009

Surgical resection of carinal tumors can be safely accomplished via median sternotomy. Resection effectively alleviates airway obstruction. The transsternal approach provides excellent excellent exposure and should be considered for carinal tumors.

Closure of coronary fistula in a 79-year-old patient: a hybrid approach

February 23, 2009

A multidisciplinary team approach is demonstrated to close coronary fistula in a 79-year old patient. All steps from diagnosis to treatment of this rare clinical case are shown.