Lokeswara Sajja

What Does the AATS Mean to You:

AATS is paramount in my career and the realm of cardiothoracic surgery. It signifies a prestigious, century-old society at the forefront of advancing thoracic and cardiovascular surgery. A symbol of excellence and innovation, AATS connects me with global experts, facilitating research dissemination. I am also the first surgeon practicing in India to present an original research paper at the Annual Meeting of AATS since 1917. My 2013 election as an Active Member, a rarity for Indian Cardiothoracic Surgeons, marked a pivotal moment. AATS fosters invaluable connections, mentorship, and a platform for impactful research and trials. Its knowledge and opportunities empower my mission to enhance cardiothoracic surgery and global patient care. AATS, in essence, is an enduring source of inspiration for my pursuit of surgical excellence.

My First Experience with AATS:

My first experience with AATS in 2006 was truly remarkable and unforgettable. It was a pivotal moment in my career as a cardiothoracic surgeon. Being at AATS for the first time and witnessing the gathering of global surgical leaders was awe-inspiring. The opportunity to learn from the forefront of the field was invaluable. The exchange of knowledge, innovative techniques, and groundbreaking research that I encountered during that event was transformative. It opened my eyes to the vast possibilities and horizons in cardiothoracic surgery. Presenting in front of a large audience for the first time was both exhilarating and humbling. It was an opportunity to share my own experiences and research with a diverse and knowledgeable audience. The support and encouragement I received from my peers and mentors at AATS were truly heartening. AATS, in that moment, became a beacon of inspiration for me. It fueled my determination to contribute to the field of cardiothoracic surgery and to strive for excellence in my work. My first experience with AATS was a stepping stone to a journey of continuous learning, growth, and innovation in the world of cardiothoracic surgery.

Why I became an AATS member:

I joined AATS for its unmatched standing in cardiothoracic surgery. AATS, with its rich history, champions the advancement of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery. It's a natural choice for connecting with world-renowned experts. As a member, I've tapped into a vast network of peers and mentors, igniting inspiration throughout my career. AATS isn't just a learning platform; it's an avenue to engage in the global cardiac surgery conversation. It has empowered me to share my research and experiences with a diverse, knowledgeable audience. Additionally, my AATS membership has been pivotal in participating in groundbreaking research and trials, propelling the field forward. In essence, joining AATS was a conscious decision to align with an organization that upholds the highest standards of excellence and innovation in cardiothoracic surgery. It serves as a wellspring of inspiration, propelling my unwavering commitment to advancing the field and enhancing patient well-being.

The most impactful presentation I have seen at an AATS meeting:

AATS meetings are renowned for featuring numerous impactful presentations. While I've had the privilege of attending many remarkable talks, identifying the single most impactful one is challenging. Bruce W. Lytle's presentation, "CABG: where have we been, where are we going," undoubtedly stood out. Bruce W. Lytle's prominence in the field of cardiothoracic surgery adds weight to his presentation. His talk likely offered invaluable insights into the historical evolution and the future trajectory of CABG, a cornerstone of cardiothoracic surgery. Understanding the past and anticipating the future of CABG holds great significance for our field. The most impactful presentation can vary among attendees, depending on their specific areas of expertise and the information they seek. While Bruce W. Lytle's presentation on CABG appears highly informative and relevant, AATS meetings have hosted numerous impactful presentations over the years. The perception of the "most impactful" presentation may differ among individuals depending on their unique perspectives and professional interests.

The first presentation I gave is:

My first presentation at the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery in 2006 marked a significant milestone in my career. I had the privilege of being the first Indian to present a paper based on a study conducted in India at this prestigious event, which has been a beacon of excellence in the field since 1917. The title of my presentation was "Coronary artery Bypass Grafting with or without cardiopulmonary Bypass in Patients with preoperative Non-Dialysis Dependent Renal Insufficiency: A Randomized Study." This study held particular relevance in the field of cardiothoracic surgery, as it addressed a critical aspect of patient care. Presenting this research in Philadelphia, PA, at the 86th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery was an honor and a momentous occasion. The exposure to a global audience of experts and peers provided valuable insights and feedback. This presentation was an opportunity to contribute to the international dialogue on cardiac surgery and share insights from a study conducted in India.

The first paper I had published is:

My first published paper was titled "Dual left anterior descending coronary artery: surgical revascularization in 4 patients" and was published in the "Texas Heart Institute Journal" in 2000 (Tex Heart Inst J. 2000;27(3):292-6. PMID: 11093416; PMCID: PMC101083). My first paper published in the "Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery" (JTCVS) was titled "Coronary artery bypass grafting with or without cardiopulmonary bypass in patients with preoperative non?dialysis dependent renal insufficiency: A randomized study" and was published in 2007 (The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Volume 133, Issue 2, 2007, Pages 378-388.e3).

I plan on becoming more involved in the organization through:

Having presented papers at previous AATS Annual Meetings in 2006, 2018, and discussed paper at the meeting in 2011& 2019, I am well-acquainted with the academic standards and expectations of this esteemed Association. Drawing upon my background in conducting research, delivering presentations, and publishing papers, I aim to provide insightful and constructive feedback. This will involve evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different methodologies employed in the presented research papers and assessing the novelty of the research, as well as its potential impact. My goal is to improve the overall quality and impact of research papers presented at the AATS Annual Meetings. In addition to my involvement in paper discussions, I aspire to contribute to the AATS Journals. This may involve reviewing submissions, ensuring the scholarly rigor of the content, and participating in the editorial process. Becoming a member of the editorial board would be a significant step towards actively shaping the scholarly discourse in the field of cardiothoracic surgery. I am actively engaged in membership candidate comments.

My career in CT Surgery was inspired by:

My inspiration to pursue a career in Cardiothoracic Surgery was indeed influenced by a combination of personal experiences and pivotal events in the field of medicine. The tragic loss of my sister due to severe mitral stenosis and heart failure in 1967 had a profound impact on me. Witnessing the devastating effects of cardiac conditions first hand motivated me to explore cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery. Furthermore, my father's struggle with pulmonary tuberculosis and massive hemoptysis in the same year only heightened my awareness of the critical importance of cardiovascular and thoracic health, the same year was also significant due to the ground breaking news of the first successful human heart transplantation performed by Dr. Christiaan Barnard. This momentous medical achievement captured my imagination and deepened my interest in cardiac surgery. In 1973, hearing about Dr. Denton Cooley's successful bypass surgery on a local physician reinforced my determination to pursue a career in Cardiothoracic Surgery. The ability to save lives through surgical interventions, particularly in the field of cardiac surgery, became a driving force behind my decision to enter this challenging but rewarding profession.

A significant case/patient interaction that impacted my career is:

Two impactful patient interactions have shaped my career in Cardiothoracic Surgery. The first case involved a 63-year-old male with acute severe mitral regurgitation post-MI, a LVEF (25%), and double vessel disease. We performed emergency coronary artery bypass grafting and mitral valve replacement. Although the initial recovery was uneventful, the patient later developed complete heart block, necessitating permanent pacemaker implantation. This case highlighted the importance of timely interventions in managing complex cardiac issues. The second case featured an 81-year-old female at high surgical risk, initially considered for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, a coronary angiogram revealed triple vessel disease, leading to a decision for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and CABG. The procedures were successful, with the patient receiving a bioprosthetic aortic valve. Her excellent postoperative recovery underscored the potential for successful outcomes in complex surgeries, emphasizing the need for individualized treatment decisions, even in high-risk patients.

The biggest impact my mentor had on my career is:

Denton A. Cooley has been a monumental figure and mentor in my career as a Cardiothoracic Surgeon. His influence has had a profound impact on my professional journey. Dr. Cooley's legacy, marked by pioneering surgical techniques and ground breaking advancements in cardiac surgery, served as a guiding light for me. The biggest impact my mentor, Dr. Cooley, had on my career was in instilling a deep commitment to innovation and excellence. His relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of cardiac surgery inspired me to continually strive for the highest standards of patient care and surgical precision. His mentorship not only provided valuable technical expertise but also emphasized the importance of research, academic contributions, and a dedication to advancing the field. Dr. Cooley's legacy of surgical achievements, such as the first successful human heart transplant in the United States and innovative approaches to cardiac procedures, served as a constant reminder of the potential for progress in our field. His dedication to patient welfare and his embodiment of the principles of compassionate and skillful care have left an indelible mark on my career and my approach to Cardiothoracic Surgery.

The topic most important to advancing the field of CT Surgery is:

Advancing the field of Cardiothoracic Surgery hinges on a multifaceted approach that prioritizes innovation and research, education and training, collaboration and multidisciplinary care, patient-centered treatment, global outreach, ethical and evidence-based practice, and advocacy for heart and lung health. Innovation drives the development of new techniques and technologies, ensuring ongoing progress and improved patient outcomes. Quality education and training cultivate a new generation of skilled surgeons. Collaborative, multidisciplinary care optimizes treatment for complex cases, and personalized, patient-centered approaches enhance individual outcomes. Global collaboration fosters cross-cultural learning and research opportunities. Adherence to ethical and evidence-based practice upholds patient safety and quality care, while advocacy for healthcare policies and public awareness campaigns reduces the burden of cardiothoracic diseases. This comprehensive approach underlines the path to advancing the field.

The most pressing issues impacting CT surgery are:

The field of Cardiothoracic Surgery faces several pressing issues, including the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases due to lifestyle factors, an aging population, and the need for more specialized care. A shortage of skilled professionals and the importance of ensuring a robust pipeline of well-trained surgeons present significant challenges. Additionally, the rapid evolution of technology and surgical techniques necessitates continuous education and adaptation, placing a premium on staying current in the field. The rising healthcare costs and the need for cost-effective approaches are also crucial concerns, as are the ethical dilemmas surrounding resource allocation and patient access to advanced treatments. Further, the ongoing quest for improved outcomes, reduced postoperative complications, and the incorporation of minimally invasive procedures are critical areas of focus. Lastly, addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, both within and between countries, is a vital issue to ensure equitable care for all patients. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic and proactive approach, combining innovation, education, collaboration, and advocacy to advance Cardiothoracic Surgery.

Advice for Trainees:

My advice for trainees in Cardiothoracic Surgery is to embrace a lifelong commitment to learning and growth. Stay curious, continuously seek knowledge, and never stop honing your skills. Approach each case with dedication, focusing on the well-being of your patients above all else. Be open to mentorship and collaboration, as the field thrives on shared expertise. Remember that innovation is key, so be prepared to adapt to new techniques and technologies. Stay patient-centered, tailoring your approach to individual patient needs and preferences. Develop a strong ethical foundation and adhere to evidence-based practice. Lastly, advocate for your patients and the field as a whole, as advancing Cardiothoracic Surgery also involves policy and public awareness efforts. In this ever-evolving field, your dedication to excellence, patient care, and advancement will be the cornerstones of your success.

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