Chandigarh – More than 100 leading heart specialists from around the world gathered for the 15th Cardiomersion Global Conference, a three-day international event recently held in Chandigarh, India, and Rome, Italy. The conference focused on new advancements in heart disease treatment, with a spotlight on artificial intelligence (AI), robotic surgery, and minimally invasive techniques.
Doctors and researchers used the platform to present their latest findings and discuss advanced tools aimed at improving outcomes for heart patients. The goal was to explore methods that make surgery safer, less invasive, and more effective.
Dr. Deepak Puri, global head of the Cardiomersion organization, delivered two major presentations. In one, he introduced a new technique called Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (UVATS). This approach allows surgeons to carry out complex chest procedures using a single, small incision of about three centimeters. According to Dr. Puri, UVATS offers a view similar to that of traditional open-heart surgery, but with the added benefit of less pain, quicker recovery, and reduced hospital costs.
Another key speaker, Dr. Johannes Bonatti, a heart surgeon based in Pittsburgh, U.S., described how robots are playing an increasing role in heart surgery. He explained that robotics are no longer limited to basic procedures like bypass surgeries, but are now used in more complex operations such as heart valve replacements and even heart-lung transplants. He spoke about the evolution of surgical robots, noting that the latest models offer greater flexibility and precision, and can even be used for remote surgeries.
Expanding on this theme, Dr. Eric J. Lehr, a minimally invasive heart surgeon from Seattle, U.S., explained how the combination of robotics and artificial intelligence is set to transform the future of cardiac surgery. He showcased systems like the “da Vinci” robot, which enable more precise and patient-friendly procedures, including valve repairs and bypass operations.
Dr. Nidhi Puri, an anatomy professor from AIIMS Bilaspur, also addressed the conference. She shared insights about the anatomical variations in a key blood vessel used during bypass surgery. Her research emphasized the need for surgeons to thoroughly assess a patient’s anatomy before an operation to reduce risks and improve outcomes.
The conference underscored the fast-changing landscape of heart surgery, driven by AI, robotics, and innovative surgical techniques. Experts agreed that these technologies hold great promise for making heart care safer, smarter, and more accessible around the world.
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