ISMICS 2025 | Minimally Invasive and Robotic CT Surgery Career Preparation

In May 2025, the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery brought together professionals in the field of cardiothoracic surgery to discuss and share knowledge on minimally invasive techniques. Watch for more ISMICS 2025 videos in the coming weeks.  

At the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery Annual Scientific Meeting 2025, leading surgeons presented tips on how residents can prepare for a career in minimally invasive and robotic cardiothoracic surgery.  

Dr. Johannes Bonatti, professor of cardiothoracic surgery and Director of Robotic Cardiac Surgery at UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, discussed the evolution of robotic devices. He explored various robotic systems, highlighting their distinct features and advancements.  

Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang, Surgical Director of Mitral Valve and Heart Failure Therapies at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, presented on the role of simulation in minimally invasive cardiac surgery. He discussed low-, medium-, and high-fidelity simulations, and the challenges faced during minimally invasive cardiac surgery, including emergencies, morbid obesity, and calcific aorta.  

Dr. Nirav C. Patel, professor of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and Director of Robotic Cardiac Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health, discussed his approach to teaching residents robotic minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass. He outlined guiding principes such as simulation training, individual component competency, step-by-step incremental progress, recording of surgery, practicing off-pump coronary artery bypass techniques, and mastering internal mammary artery harvesting.  

Dr. Bob Kiaii, professor of surgery at the University of Calgary, presented on the importance of soft skills for a robotic cardiothoracic surgeon. He examined what soft skills are and discussed various soft skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and adaptability.  

Dr. Marc Ruel, MICS Director, Research Chair, and Professor at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, explored high-quality research in minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery, providing a primer for trainees. He reviewed the various types of research and clinical trials relevant to minimally invasive surgery.  

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