Quality Improvement

Providers Should Pursue Quality Assurance as Screening Proliferates

‘Very revealing’ data show patients in disadvantaged communities experience more complications 

**A recorded press briefing featuring this research is available.**

Leading societies release first comprehensive guideline of its kind

CHICAGO (January 25, 2022) — The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) released a new clinical practice guideline that includes major recommendations for managing patients with type B aortic dissection (TBAD). The guideline was published online today in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery and The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery.

Research challenges use of ‘just in case’ opioid prescriptions

**A recorded press briefing featuring this research is available.**

CHICAGO (December 16, 2021) — Many patients who undergo heart surgery may be able to safely and effectively control postoperative pain without opioids after hospital discharge, according to research published online today in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery.

Strategic collaboration aims to expand treatment options, improve patient outcomes

CHICAGO (November 3, 2021) — The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) has entered into a partnership with biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca in an effort to advance and improve lung cancer treatment and eliminate disparities in health care.

This partnership will help facilitate a series of educational programs that range from conducting advanced skills courses to helping early career surgeons design optimal clinical trials.

Longtime society efforts advance connecting clinical outcomes and claims data 

WASHINGTON, DC (October 21, 2021) — The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) applaud Representatives Larry Bucshon, MD (R-IN), and Kim Schrier, MD (D-WA), for introducing the Meaningful Access to Federal Health Plan Claims Data Act of 2021.

First-of-its-kind study examines the impact of ‘sham feeding’ on patient recovery

CHICAGO (September 10, 2021) — Chewing gum after heart surgery may kickstart the digestive tract, helping patients feel better and potentially be discharged sooner than those who don't use this generally safe and simple intervention, according to research presented today at the 18th Annual Perioperative and Critical Care Conference from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.