A project close to our hearts

Heart medicine is becoming much more interdisciplinary: cardiologists and heart surgeons are increasingly working together on the same team. A new training program at the University Hospital Zurich prepares specialists for this collaboration. The program is supported by the University Hospital Zurich Foundation.

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Adolfo Ferrero is delighted. The Argentinian cardiologist took part in the new «Cardiac Structural Interventions» training program at the University Hospital Zurich (USZ). The internationally publicized training program is aimed at the next generation of leading heart surgeons, cardiologists and other medical specialists, and addresses diseases affecting the heart valves. “I’ve learned a lot and the discussions with colleagues working in heart surgery were extremely valuable,” says Ferrero, who works at the Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba.

Bringing cardiologists and heart surgeons closer together is a central aim of the new training program that earns participants a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) from the University of Zurich. Heart medicine has made huge progress over the last few decades. Certain surgical procedures are now also possible using a catheter, which were previously the cardiologists’ domain.

The “Cardiac Structural Interventions” training program was designed by Francesco Maisano, Head of the University Heart Center Zurich that unites cardiology and heart surgery under a single roof. Maisano is convinced, “The heart medicine of the future will take place in interdisciplinary teams.” The training program is aimed at the future leaders of these “heart teams.” For four weeks, the participants learn with and from each other. The cardiologists demonstrate catheter procedures, for example, while the surgeons demonstrate how to stitch a heart valve. The aim is not for everyone to master all of the procedures, but simply for them to develop an understanding of when these methods can be useful.

The first CAS took place in spring 2018 with 24 participants from 14 countries and focused on procedures involving the aortic valves. A total of four CAS programs addressing different heart valves and imaging procedures are planned, as well as a possible Master of Advanced Studies (MAS).

Leading and networking
Alongside clinical skills, participants in the training program acquire leadership skills such as communication and team leadership. They also have the opportunity to expand their personal network, including with industry contacts. “In this regard, the program is the only one of its kind in the world,” says project coordinator Barbara Jenny.

The University Hospital Zurich Foundation offers grants for participants who need financial support to cover the cost of the course. Adolfo Ferraro is one of those who has benefited. Alongside his specialist knowledge, he was also able to bring new contacts back to his home country: together with other CAS participants, the Argentinian cardiologist is now planning a specialist conference for interdisciplinary heart medicine in South America. For the future of heart medicine.

The University Hospital Zurich Foundation is looking for funding partners to support future participants in the training program. Help the University Hospital Zurich to establish interdisciplinary heart medicine around the world.

100% financed

Abbott
Boston Scientific
Edwards Lifesciences
Georg und Bertha Schwyzer-Winiker Stiftung
Medtronic (Schweiz)