Cardiac Surgery: State of the Art and Future Perspectives

Dear Colleagues,

Cardiac surgery is a relatively young surgical specialty, with the first “modern” operations performed less than 70 years ago. Our mentors were pioneers in the field, and as knowledge and technology rapidly evolved, so too have the challenges facing current and future cardiac surgeons.

Today’s patients demand less invasive procedures, even for once-complex surgeries. At the same time, we must address the growing heart failure pandemic and the increasing prominence of transcatheter approaches.

Technology continues to be a driving force: minimally invasive techniques are becoming more accessible thanks to advanced training platforms and cutting-edge instrumentation, including ultra-high-definition 3D cameras and robotic surgery systems.

We have also seen significant progress in the durability of biological prostheses, extending their suitability for a broader patient population. Furthermore, percutaneous valves are evolving for mitral interventions, emphasizing the critical role of the “Interventional Cardiac Surgeon”.

Tailored endovascular approaches are expanding throughout the aorta, even addressing the once-formidable ascending tract. The field of transplantation is also reaching new frontiers with the introduction of DCDs and the timid attempts of xenotransplants in humans.

Long- and medium-term circulatory support options continue to improve. We are witnessing the development of miniaturized and fully implantable LVADs, artificial hearts, and versatile percutaneous pumps, offering a tangible vision of the future.

Finally, the integration of AI will revolutionize diagnosis, outcome monitoring, and the personalization of surgical risk calculations.

My co-guest editor, Dr. Folesani, and I aim to create a comprehensive and impactful scientific Special Issue that addresses these multifaceted aspects of cardiac surgery. We are honored to invite you to submit invaluable contributions, along with those of other esteemed experts in the field.

Dr. Sofìa Martìn-Suàrez
Dr. Gianluca Folesani
Guest Editors

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• minimal invasive
• robotics in cardiac surgery
• miniaturization
• DCDs
• FIVAD
• tissue valves