Where to now for paediatric cardiac surgery?

Abstract

ns_5888 659..660With the rise of adult cardiac surgery, those aspiring to be surgeons are often surprised that that the specialty was conceived by those dreaming of closing atrial and ventricular septal defects. From cross circulation to the modern oxygenator, technological evolution was coupled with a surgical revolution of over 50 highly productive years. More recently, the quality of care for the majority of paediatric cardiac conditions has become more consistent with an overall mortality of 2-4% across the developed world. This marks what can be regarded as a phase of refinement and maturation. Efforts to improve cardiac surgery safety have been ongoing, yet the literature provides little guidance regarding best practices for identifying errors, improving safety and sustaining high reliability. A reflection on our current structures and models of engagement suggest that changes will be required to support the next phase of growth in Australasia. EDITORIAL ANZJSurg.com