Surgeons from around the world came to the Baptist Health Education Center this week to learn from Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care experts as part of the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS) annual meeting.

The educational experience brought together leading cardiothoracic surgeons for hands-on training focused on the next wave of mitral valve innovation. Through advanced simulation, wet labs, and expert-led education, participants explored minimally invasive repair, replacement, and cannulation strategies designed to improve outcomes and expand treatment options for patients with structural heart disease.

This year’s meeting was especially significant for Baptist Health, as Tom C. Nguyen, M.D., System Chief Executive, Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care; Chief Medical Executive, Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute; Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery; Barry T. Katzen Endowed Chair, Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute; and Chair and Professor, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, assumed the role of President-Elect of ISMICS, one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to advancing minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery.

As part of the meeting, Dr. Nguyen helped lead several sessions, including expert talks, live surgical demonstrations, and discussions focused on technical challenges in cardiac surgery. He also joined cardiothoracic surgeon Masaki Nakamura, M.D., in leading hands-on workshop sessions focused on minimally invasive mitral valve replacement at the Baptist Health Education Center, providing participants with practical experience in advanced surgical techniques and emerging technologies.

A highlight of the meeting was a live surgical broadcast from Baptist Health, during which physicians streamed a cardiac surgery procedure from one of the system’s operating rooms directly to ISMICS attendees. The real-time case demonstration provided an opportunity for international participants to observe advanced techniques, discuss complex clinical considerations, and learn directly from Baptist Health surgeons, showcasing the program’s leadership in innovation, education, and minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

“ISMICS brings together some of the most innovative cardiac surgeons in the world, creating an unparalleled opportunity to share ideas, refine techniques, and advance the future of minimally invasive heart surgery,” said Dr. Nguyen. “We were honored to welcome colleagues from across the globe to Baptist Health and showcase the collaborative culture, surgical expertise, and commitment to innovation that define our program. By sharing knowledge and learning from one another, we can continue advancing the field and improving care for patients everywhere.”

Makoto Hashimoto, M.D., cardiac surgeon at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, and professor and director of robotic cardiac surgery at Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, presented on robotic-assisted minimally invasive, direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) during the meeting. He also led a workshop on robotic cardiac surgery, demonstrating how advanced robotic surgical systems can enhance precision, visualization, and technical execution in minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

The workshops highlighted Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care’s leadership in surgical education and innovation, providing an environment where experienced surgeons, trainees, and international faculty could exchange knowledge and share best practices. Participants engaged in simulation-based learning, technical skill development, and peer-to-peer discussions centered on advancing the field of minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery.

This global exchange reflected the caliber of innovation taking place across Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care, where cardiac and thoracic surgeons continue to advance minimally invasive approaches, train the next generation of surgical leaders, and help shape the future of cardiovascular care. Hosting ISMICS educational programming further reinforces Baptist Health’s growing reputation as a destination center for clinical excellence, physician education, and cardiovascular innovation on the world stage.