Development and Validation of a Low-Cost, High-Fidelity Simulation Model for Robotic Internal Mammary Artery Harvest Using the da Vinci Xi Robot.

Objective: We created and validated a low-cost simulation model for robotic internal mammary artery (IMA) takedown.

Methods: The simulation model utilized a calf fetus thorax cavity stented open internally and secured to a table. The simulation model was validated at a 2-day robotic cardiac surgery workshop.

Association of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Versus Aortic Dissection on Outcomes After Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair.

Background Because thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has become the standard of care for complicated type B aortic dissection (TBAD) and descending thoracic aortic (DTA) aneurysm, it is important to understand outcomes and use of TEVAR across thoracic aortic pathologies. Methods and Results This was an observational study of patients with TBAD or DTA undergoing TEVAR from 2010 to 2018, using the Nationwide Readmissions Database. In-hospital mortality, postoperative complications, admission costs, and 30- and 90-day readmissions were compared between the groups.

Impact of tricuspid valve regurgitation on intermediate outcomes of degenerative mitral valve surgery.

Background: In patients undergoing mitral valve surgery, optimal management of less-than-severe concomitant tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) is unclear, as there are few long-term data. This study examines progression of TR, patient survival, and reoperations in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery.

Methods: There were 1588 patients who underwent degenerative mitral valve surgery and had pre- and postoperative echocardiograms for assessment of TR severity and tricuspid annulus diameter.

Autologous blood patch pleurodesis for prolonged postoperative air leaks.

Background: A prolonged air leak (PAL) is the most frequent complication after pulmonary resection. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of autologous blood patch pleurodesis (ABPP) to treat PAL.

Methods: A prospectively maintained database identified patients with a PAL after pulmonary resection for lung cancer between 2015-2019.

Does Referral Bias Impact Outcomes of Surgery for Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease?

Background: Geographic origin is cited as a possible factor influencing outcomes of operation for repair or replacement of degenerative mitral valve (MV) disease. Our study aimed to identify the potential impact of referral bias on clinical outcomes of MV surgery.

Methods: We analyzed clinical and echocardiographic information of 2353 patients undergoing primary or secondary MV surgery for degenerative MV disease.

Predictors of Patient-Reported Reflux After Esophagectomy.

Background: Patient-reported reflux is among the most common symptoms after esophagectomy. This study aimed to determine predictors of patient-reported reflux and to ascertain whether a preserved pylorus would protect patients from symptomatic reflux.

Methods: A prospective clinical study recorded patient-reported reflux after esophagectomy from August 2015 to July 2018.