Surgeon

The volumes of two aortic valve replacements (AVR) procedures have changed dramatically over the past few years, with more transcatheter procedures now being performed than open surgical procedures. Four cardiac surgeons discuss the evolving trends in TAVR, why the changes are occurring, and what’s ahead for TAVR and SAVR. Wilson Y. Szeto, MD (University of Pennsylvania) moderates the discussion that also features Michael J. Mack, MD (The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano), John V. Conte, MD (Penn State University), and Thomas E. MacGillivray, (Houston Methodist).

The latest advances in mitral valve repair and replacement include a shift toward the transseptal platform. Four leading experts discuss how catheter-based techniques will re-emulate the gold standard for mitral valve surgery, the important role of 3D Echo technology, the need for transseptal puncture skills, and navigating the local politics.