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Transcatheter procedures in structural heart disease -- The surgeon stepping-in.
  • Walter Gomes ,
  • Nelson Hossne Jr
Walter Gomes
Federal University of Sao Paulo

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Nelson Hossne Jr
Federal University of Sao Paulo
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Abstract

The seismic impact of transcatheter interventions is rocking the spectrum of structural heart disease (SHD) treatment, with the compelling and attractive appeal of minimally invasive procedures and fast-track discharge. The trend is relentless and continual innovation comes to our doors nearly on a daily basis. Litwinowicz and colleagues describe their trailblazing experience in 223 consecutive patients in whom they performed left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) via the percutaneous route. All interventions were performed by surgeons, who had undergone pre-training in a simulation model. Soon thereafter, they were able to achieve outcomes that were comparable to those obtained by experienced interventional cardiologists. The unique surgeons’ training and skills in open-heart surgery make their contribution to perfection and safety of SHD treatment, which are potentially exceptional and distinctive. Extrapolating for the entire field of SHD, which is blossoming ahead, the message to be conveyed is that cardiac surgeons must be trained and embrace every aspect of SHD.
20 Aug 2020Submitted to Journal of Cardiac Surgery
20 Aug 2020Submission Checks Completed
20 Aug 2020Assigned to Editor
20 Aug 2020Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
20 Aug 2020Editorial Decision: Accept