This webinar will explore the evolving landscape of neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment for lung cancer. Oncologists and surgeon experts will highlight the latest data, including immunotherapy and targeted mutation strategies from ASCO and WCLC, and examine how these advances impact surgical decision-making, techniques, and patient outcomes. A live discussion will address key controversies, including the role of radiation and adjuvant therapy choices.
Supported by AstraZeneca
Moderator
Joseph Shrager, MD Stanford University Palo Alto, CA
The next generation of cardiothoracic surgeons took a major step forward in their training during the 2025 STS Boot Camp, held August 21–24 in Chicago. Over four days, 60 junior residents from across the country received intensive, hands-on guidance from leading CT surgeons. Attendees engaged in high-fidelity simulations of real-world and emergency scenarios, gaining valuable experience in a structured instructional framework.
Image
Participants practiced core critical thinking skills in a focused setting.
“This year’s Boot Camp offered first-year residents a unique chance to practice fundamental cardiothoracic skills in a low stress setting,” said program co-chair Jonathan Nesbitt, MD, of Vanderbilt University. “Personalized instruction from experienced faculty, combined with realistic scenarios, helped participants build both competence and confidence in a focused environment.”
The curriculum included training in cardiopulmonary bypass techniques, vessel anastomosis, diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopies, open and robotic lobectomy, TAVR/TEVAR, and wire skills. Participants also received instruction on mitral and aortic valve surgery, echocardiography, communication in the operating room, and the role of surgical ablation.
Image
First-year CT surgery residents simulated real-world and emergency scenarios.
For many participants, the Boot Camp also sparked inspiration and enthusiasm about their path ahead. "I'm truly excited about building a foundation at the beginning of my fellowship and what the future holds for me," said Boot Camp participant Weston Andrews, MD, a cardiothoracic fellow at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
“We designed this program to strengthen technical skills while also fostering reflection, discussion, and connection,” said Dr. Nesbitt. “From complex procedures to feedback in the OR, this experience supports a smooth, engaged transition into surgical training—with mentorship every step of the way.”
More than 200 cardiac surgeons gathered in Chicago for a successful STS Coronary Conference, June 12-14, 2025. Attendees enjoyed a hands-on Training Village, two days of didactic lectures, original abstracts, scientific posters, plus networking and mentorship.
When I was selected for the Looking to the Future Scholarship Program by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), I expected the 61st Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, California to be an inspiring academic experience. But it was much more than that.
3 min read
Jad Elharake, The Ohio State University College of Medicine
In this episode of Thinking Thoracic, Dr. Elliot Servais, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, joins host Dr. Erin Gillaspie to share how he developed a robotic 1st rib resection program. Initially trained in the traditional transaxillary open approach, Dr. Servais was candid about his early reluctance to take on these technically challenging cases. That changed when he saw the potential of a minimally invasive, robotic technique that aligned with his existing surgical skill set. Recognizing an unmet need at his institution, he seized the opportunity to build a dedicated program.
The 2025 STS Leadership Institute meeting held in Chicago was a fantastic experience that far exceeded my expectations. I was not only able to network and get to know many people in the field, but was also able to take away many lessons that helped me to determine the path I would like to take to become a better leader as I grow and mature as a surgeon.
The 2025 STS Coronary Conference was held from June 12–14 in Chicago, bringing together more than 200 healthcare specialists from around the world. This three-day event was delivered groundbreaking insights and hands-on training for professionals involved in coronary surgery. “More and more, the concept of a coronary surgery specialist is emerging, and this conference supported that development by providing the education needed to acquire and validate the relevant skills and knowledge at each surgeon’s institution,” said co-course director Marc Ruel, MD, of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
Image
New for 2025, the Training Village offered attendees hands-on opportunities to build their skill set.
The conference featured a comprehensive program that focused on advanced surgical techniques, minimally invasive methods, and the latest technological innovations in the field. Attendees engaged with leaders in cardiothoracic surgery through lectures, panel discussions, and collaborative learning activities.
Each day included expert-led sessions covering a wide range of topics, including radial artery and BITA grafting, evidence-based practices, and technical pearls in coronary surgery. Participants also attended sessions on academic career development and minimally invasive, hybrid, and robotic CABG techniques. Highlights of the conference included keynote lectures, interactive case discussions, and surgical video presentations that allowed attendees to explore complex intraoperative and postoperative decision-making strategies in greater depth.
Image
Between sessions, attendees explored poster presentations and visited industry exhibits.
A key feature of the event was the introduction of the Training Village, a non-CME, hands-on learning space that featured cutting-edge surgical simulations and demonstrations and allowed attendees to gain practical experience under expert guidance.
The Training VIllage was organized into three stations:
Anastomosis Masterclass, which focused on advanced anastomotic techniques
Flow Measurement & Quality Control, where attendees practiced using intraoperative assessment tools to improve graft outcomes; and
Atrial Fibrillation Treatment, which provided instruction on left atrial appendage clipping and intraoperative Maze procedures.
“The Training Village was a great example of the conference’s practical component—emphasizing ‘know-how’ and ‘how-to’ over abstract concepts or theory, if you will,” said Dr. Ruel.
Throughout the conference, attendees participated in a wide array of engaging sessions, such as "Mastering Coronary Surgery: Expert Techniques," "Making the Most of Your Conduits," and "Which Kind of Academic Surgeon Do You Want to Be?" These sessions focused on developing both technical skills and strategic thinking.
Image
Dr. Brittany Zwischenberger (left) and her father, Dr. Joseph Zwischenberger (right), both presented at the conference.
By the end of the conference, participants had expanded their clinical knowledge, honed their skills, and networked with peers and leaders in coronary surgery. “As both a moderator and presenter, I left feeling inspired by the exchange of ideas and the shared commitment to advancing progress in coronary surgery,” said Brittany Zwischenberger, MD, of Duke University.
