A Cut Above: Cardiothoracic insights from EACTS
The podcast series from the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery. Published monthly, episodes aim to keep listeners informed of the latest research findings and Guideline recommendations. It inspires and educates with interviews from key opinion leaders and residents from the community, encouraging debate and discussion on key hot topics. A Cut Above allows the cardiothoracic and wider Heart team community to keep abreast of latest research and key discussions impacting day-to-day practice while on the go.
Episodes
Rebuilding a destroyed heart: the Commando procedure
A pioneer of modern cardiac surgery, Tirone David, joins A Cut Above for a deep dive into one of the specialty's most feared and technically demanding operations: the Commando procedure. Also featuring Eduard Quintana, listen for discussions from radical reconstruction for infective endocarditis and massive annular calcification to the mindset required when "there is no other option". This episode
Valve Therapy in 2026: Is Surgery Losing Ground? A Debate with ESC/EACTS Guideline Co-Authors
In this episode, our hosts are joined by Michael Borger and Nikolaos Bonaros to break down the new valvular heart disease guidelines—what's changed, why it matters, and how the decisions were really made. They cut through the headlines to explain the thinking behind key recommendations, from TAVI thresholds and bicuspid valves to atrial functional MR, concomitant ablation, and the push for heart v
A Stitch That Changed Mitral Repair
How did a simple stitch transform mitral valve repair? In this episode, we spotlight the pioneers of cardiothoracic surgery, Ottavio Alfieri and Francesco Maisano - the minds behind the edge-to-edge repair. They revisit the early 1990s, when mitral repair was complex and inconsistent, and share how the now-famous Alfieri stitch—inspired by a congenital double-orifice valve—offered a simple, reliab
Between Hope and Hardware: LVAD Therapy in 2026
This episode focuses on long-term mechanical circulatory support and how durable LVAD therapy is shaping contemporary heart failure management. Joined by Gloria Färber and Daniel Zimpfer, we discuss key advances in device technology, the ongoing challenge of driveline complications, and the critical question of patient selection and timing. The conversation explores LVADs as destination therapy or
Pushing the Boundaries of Thoracic Surgery with Robotics
In this episode, our hosts turn their focus to robotic thoracic surgery, exploring how robotics is reshaping everyday clinical practice. Joined by Virginia Litle (host of the Thoracic Surgery Clinics Podcast) and Vasileios Kouritas, the discussion examines where robotic approaches add clear value, where other techniques still have a role, and how surgeons decide which cases truly benefit from the
Prime the Pump: The Essentials of Perfusion in 2025
This episode examines the foundations of cardiopulmonary bypass, focusing on the 2024 EACTS/EACTAIC/EBCP Guidelines on cardiopulmonary bypass in adult cardiac surgery & the EBCP Expert consensus statement on basic qualifications and competencies for clinical perfusionists in Europe developed in collaboration with EACTS and EACTAIC. Joined by Alexander Wahba and Adrian Bauer, our hosts discuss what
President's Choice Abstracts from the Annual Meeting 2025
CABG Nightmares – Practical Solutions for Complex Cases
Recorded live at the EACTS Annual Meeting, this special episode explores the theme "Nightmares in CABG." Our hosts are joined by Faisal Bakaeen, Thomas Gudbjartsson, and Miguel Sousa Uva for an open and practical discussion on the challenges of coronary surgery. The panel shares their approaches to complex scenarios—from fragile conduits and calcified aortas to dissected mammaries and "full metal
Scalpel to Startup: Turning Ideas into Impact
Our hosts are joined by Joseph Bavaria for a practical discussion on surgical innovation and industry collaboration. The conversation covers pathways from idea to device - patents, partnering with companies, and when a startup makes sense - along with funding from angel backing to venture rounds and the realities of regulatory approval. Bavaria reflects on advisory board work, managing conflicts o
From One Heart to Another: The Renaissance of Heart Valve Transplants
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Emile Bacha to discuss the emerging field of partial heart transplantation. The conversation explores the history of the concept, its reintroduction in recent years, and how techniques such as domino procedures are being developed to expand donor availability. Dr. Bacha explains the practical challenges of regulation, organ procurement, and immunosuppression,
The Unplanned Plan B: SAVR After TAVR
In this episode, our hosts are joined by Sabine Bleiziffer and Augusto D'Onofrio to discuss SAVR after TAVR - exploring key decision-making factors, including valve selection, explantation techniques, and patient-specific risk profiles. The guests share experiences with challenging cases, technical tips, and thoughts on how procedural volume, planning, and shared decision-making can impact outcome
Dissection Roulette: How to Survive the Most Unforgiving Surgery
This month's episode focuses on the complex management of acute aortic dissection. Our hosts are joined by Florian Schoenhoff and Chris Malaisrie to discuss current strategies in surgical planning and intraoperative decision-making. Topics include CT-based assessment, cannulation techniques, malperfusion management, and valve preservation. The conversation also considers how to optimise outcomes,
Double-valve trouble or life-time solution: mastering the Ross procedure
Recorded at the AATS annual meeting in Seattle, our hosts are joined by Dr. El-Hamamsy & Dr. Ouzounian to explore the resurgence of the Ross procedure. The discussion covers the evolving evidence base, training requirements, and technical considerations surrounding this increasingly prevalent operation. Dr. El-Hamamsy and Dr. Ouzounian share their own learning curves, views on centralising care, a
Surgical Leadership: Democracy or Dictatorship
In this thought-provoking discussion, our hosts explore the multifaceted world of leadership in cardiac surgery. Joined by Shirin Bemelmans-Lalezari and Volkmar Falk, we delve into how leadership styles evolve, the balance between authority and empathy, and the importance of team dynamics. Learn of the real-life challenges in managing surgical teams and navigating hierarchy. With insights from bot
Pulse Check – Key Papers at a Glance: Infective Endocarditis
We are pleased to announce the first of a new series of upcoming episodes, titled 'Pulse Check – Key Papers at a Glance'. Our host Can discuss two recent and impactful EJCTS articles on infective endocarditis. Joined by the renowned, Michael Borger and Torsten Doenst, we explore firstly the implications of preoperative septic cerebral embolism for patients undergoing valve surgery. Then followed b
Expanding aortic roots and surgical horizons
Are you curious about the origins and future of aortic root enlargement surgery? In this episode, our hosts discuss the surgical horizons of this underutilised technique. Featuring the well-respected Bo Yang, Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen explore the creation of this innovative technique, as well as its reputation and utility in the surgical community. Listeners can expect to hear fir
Guidelines: Perioperative Medication
Are you looking to deepen your understanding of perioperative medication? Join us for the first episode of 2025, where we offer listeners an author insight into the recently published '2024 EACTS Guidelines on perioperative medication in adult cardiac surgery'. With working group members Anders Jeppsson and Emma Hansson, our host Miia L Lehtinen explores the fundamental intricacies considered to e
The Tricuspid Revolution: Past Myths, Present Challenges, Future Solutions
In our final episode of the year, our hosts discuss the notorious complexities of the tricuspid valve, joined by specialists Nikos Bonaros and Victoria Delgado. Join Miia L Lehtinen and Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü in their exploration of the increasing relevance of tricuspid valve interventions, analysing the dynamic considerations of diagnostics, imaging, anatomy, cardiology and surgical interventions
Pioneering Progress: Key Trials from EACTS 2024
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen for their late-breaking trials highlights presented at the 38th EACTS Annual Meeting in Lisbon, including: (0:39 - 4:31) Long-term mortality after PCI or CABG in patients with diabetes and multivessel coronary artery disease: A SWEDEHEART study by Dr Emma C Hansson (4:32 - 8:33) Long-term (>10 years) results of transcatheter Mitral valve-i
Atrial Fibrillation
Following the European Society of Cardiology's (ESC) guidelines publication in collaboration with EACTS, Miia L Lehtinen and Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü host the esteemed Atrial Fibrillation experts, Manuel Castella and Niv Ad. In this month's episode, our guests explore the nuances of how a surgical approach might be used to treat Atrial Fibrillation and why cardiac surgeons are increasingly intereste
Robotics in cardiac surgery: hope or hype?
This month's episode is hosted by Miia L Lehtinen and Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü, who are joined by Wouter Oosterlinck, exploring his experience and expertise in the field of robotic cardiac surgery. Although already popular amongst thoracic surgeons, Wouter discusses the creation of his fast growing minimally invasive programme, which has been influential in this emerging field. Listen in for insight
Fabrication, Falsification & Plagiarism- identifying scientific misconduct
In this Episode, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen speak with Karl-Henrik Grinnemo on the provocative subject of scientific misconduct. Listeners can expect to hear a firsthand experience of his notorious high-profile case discrediting the use of dangerous artificial tracheae. Karl describes his team's journey from reporting poor patient outcomes in 2013, to being wrongfully acc
Ex vivo organ perfusion - holy grail or costly care?
Joining our hosts this month are the esteemed 'Ex Vivo Organ Perfusion' experts, Edris Mahtab Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands) and Andreas Zuckermann (Medical University of Vienna, Austria). In this episode, Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen discuss how these guests have influenced the developing field of heart and lung transplantation. Listeners can gain an understandin
The return of CABG – The procedure of the future?
This month, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen explore the future of coronary surgery with renowned experts: Sigrid Sandner, Anders Jeppsson and Torsten Doenst. This discussion addresses the evolving utility of CABG following the introduction of PCI, involving evidence-based comparisons between these approaches. Listen for a detailed analysis of how patient risk versus benefit is
Disrupt, Transform, Evolve - Innovation Summit 2024
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen at the second EACTS innovation summit in Paris, an international event gathering diverse specialists and innovative ideas. (00:53 – 11:29) Paul Rulkens, a renowned expert in high performance, discusses how to courageously innovate and think beyond the limitations of preconceived notions. Rulkens also creatively advises how to approach f
Editor's Choice: A reinterpretation of SAVR vs TAVR trials
This month's episode features Sam Heuts, the first author of a recent Editor's Choice article published in ICVTS entitled 'TAVR vs. SAVR – A Bayesian interpretation'. Our hosts, Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, find out more about the analysis of trials comparing transcatheter valve replacement and surgical aortic valve replacement. Including discussions of the fundamental statistics us
Aortic Disease Guidelines
Following our joint publication of the highly anticipated Aortic Disease Guidelines, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen speak with Martin Czerny (University Clinic Freiburg, Germany) and Martin Grabenwöger (Clinic Floridsdorf, Vienna, Austria). This episode covers both the people involved in creating this influential document, as well as engaging detail regarding our current unde
End of story for aortic valve surgery?
This month, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen are joined by the esteemed Dr. Filip Casselman (of the OLV Clinic, Belgium) and Dr. Sabine Bleiziffer (of the Herz- und Diabeteszentrum NRW, Germany). Listen for an in-depth discussion on the often controversial, aortic valve, including key insight into current clinical practices as well as how these approaches are developing.
Behind the scenes: The daily life of the EACTS Secretary General
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen for the first episode of 2024. In this episode, our hosts chat to Dr. Patrick Myers, leading cardiothoracic surgeon and EACTS Secretary General (2022 – Present). Dr Myers talks about his journey to becoming the EACTS Secretary General and his experiences within the role including the merits and challenges.
Behind the Scenes: An Editor's Life on EJCTS
In this episode, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, chat to Prof. Dr. Matthias Siepe, leading cardiothoracic surgeon and EACTS Editor-in-Chief (2021 – Present). Prof. Siepe talks about his journey to becoming the Editor-in-Chief for the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery and his experiences within the role. He provides an overview of the journal team structure and proce
Trial highlights from EACTS Annual Meeting 2023
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen for their late-breaking trials highlights presented at the 37th EACTS Annual Meeting in Vienna, including: (2:40 - 8:53) Subannular Repair for Secondary Mitral Regurgitation with restricted systolic leaflet Motion (type IIIb): 2-year results from REFORM-MR registry by Dr Jonas Pausch (8.53 - 13:47) Mechanistic insights from the CAST-HF
The art of guidelines: merging science, critical review and clinical experience
Where and how to train congenital cardiac surgeons
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, as they discuss where and how to train congenital cardiac surgeons with Prof. Mark Hazekamp, Prof. Jürgen Hörer and Dr Nabil Hussein. The speakers share their invaluable insights and experiences gained during their careers.
Editor's Choice: Valve sparing versus valve replacement in root aneurysms
This month's episode features Prof. Klautz and Dr. Arabkhani, the first authors of a recent Editor's Choice article published in EJCTS entitled 'A multicentre, propensity score matched analysis comparing a valve-sparing approach to valve replacement in aortic root aneurysm: Insight from the AVIATOR database'. Our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, find out more about the AVIATOR Reg
European Surgeons in the US
In this episode, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, chat with leading female surgeons, Dr Ourania Preventza, Dr Daniela Molena and Dr Joanna Chikwe, about their career journeys, what took them to the United States, and the difference in working cultures and practices between the US and Europe.
At the Heart of Innovation
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, as they discuss the importance of driving innovation within cardiothoracic surgery to improve patient outcomes. Prof. Friedhelm Beyersdorf and Prof. Mark Hazekamp share some of their highlights from the EACTS Innovation Summit held in April 2023 and how EACTS is exploring ways to support innovation in the field.
One board exam for all CTS surgeons worldwide?
Join our host, Miia L Lehtinen, as she speaks to Stephen Clark (Chairman of The European Board of Cardiothoracic Surgery (EBCTS)), Edu Quintana (Secretary, EBCTS) & Yvonne Hurst (Expert in examination science/educational advisor to EBCTS) about the history of the EBCTS, what the exam is like, why it's important and how it supports the mission to ensure high standards for cardiothoracic surgeons.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cardiothoracic surgery
In this episode, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen discuss the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within cardiothoracic surgery (CTS) with Sandy Engelhardt, Simo Syrjälä and Volkmar Falk. From whether there is a clinical need for AI, to the role of AI in the future of CTS, and its potential pitfalls. Join us in the latest episode to find out more.
The future of mitral valve therapy
Join our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, as they discuss the future of mitral valve (MV) therapy with Nikolaos Bonaros and Patrick Perier. In this episode, Nikolaos and Patrick share their expertise and advice on valve preferences; the evolution of MV surgery, how young surgeons can develop their skills to perform complex MV surgical techniques; and much more.
Standing on your shoulders: Friedhelm Beyersdorf
In this episode, our hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, chat to Prof. Dr. Friedhelm Beyersdorf, eminent cardiothoracic surgeon and past-President of the EACTS (2021 – 2022), about his career - how he got to where is today, the challenges he faced along the way, and his thoughts on the future of cardiothoracic surgery. Guest Speaker: Prof. Dr. Friedhelm Beyersdorf was born in Bochu
The war in Ukraine and the impacts on day-to-day practice of cardiothoracic surgery and residency
The inaugural episode of A Cut Above features guest speakers, Dr Igor Mokryk and Dr Ihor Stetsyuk, describing the impacts of the war in Ukraine on their day-to-day practice as a cardiothoracic surgeon and resident. Dr Mokryk and Dr Stetsyuk talk to our hosts, Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia L Lehtinen, about the challenges they face as a result of this unimaginable situation and how we can support
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