Target Audience

Cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, perfusionists, cardiothoracic anesthesiologists, critical care physicians, general anesthesiologists, nurses, others (cardiologists, pulmonologists), epidemiologists/researchers and all those involved in the perioperative care of cardiovascular surgery will benefit from attendance to this meeting.

Course Objective

This course is designed to update those who care for patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass and other cardiovascular procedures. Sessions are devoted to focused topics of interest: pathophysiology, organ protection, hematologic considerations, new technologies, critical care, pediatrics, heart failure, aortic disease, coronary artery revascularization, transesophageal echocardiography and others. Most sessions offer a case conference, which uniquely allows the participant to engage the experts in lively discussion. Upon completion of this course the participant will: 1) have a better appreciation for the spirit of teamwork; 2) value the knowledge base that each sub-specialist brings to the operating room; 3) have learned of cutting edge and evolving ideas and technologies; and 4) will have had the opportunity to interact with experts in the field. The week's educational experience highly values the diversity of backgrounds of the audience.

Statement of Need

The successful outcome of each cardiopulmonary operation is dependent upon the teamwork of highly skilled professionals. Members of each of the sponsoring societies have asked for more interaction, scheduling of joint meetings, and ways to appreciate each others' needs. The boards of the sponsoring organizations have worked to enhance these interactions and this course directly answers both the needs of the rank and file as well as the strategic directions of the societies involved. Ultimately the purpose of this course is to enhance care of the cardiac surgical patient.

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