Nearly 200 U.S. facilities were eligible for these rankings. Each one is either a freestanding children’s hospital or a large multidisciplinary pediatric department within a major medical center.

Specialists from the fields of interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery collaborated to perform what is believed to be the first completely catheter-based Fontan procedure in U.S. history. The young patient's recovery was much easier than it would have been otherwise. 

The 50-page document outlines what the FDA would like to see as vendors submit their technologies for regulatory review. It covers robotic systems of all types, including those used for various cardiac procedures. 

The size-adjustable pulmonary valve was originally developed by Autus Valve Technologies, which Edwards Lifesciences acquired for $128.9 million. The device was designed to grow with pediatric patients as they age. Clinicians can expand it as necessary with a minimally invasive balloon procedure. 

The WVU Heart and Vascular Institute was founded in 2016 to help advance the diagnosis, management and treatment of cardiovascular disease. It is now nationally recognized for delivering high-quality care in addition to being a world leader in robotic cardiac surgery.

If passed, new bipartisan legislation would allow eligible residents and interns to defer interest accrual on any federal student loans during their required postgraduate training. The bill has support from more than 40 U.S. healthcare organizations, including SCAI, ACC and STS.

Jennifer S. Lawton, MD, is known for her research on how to protect the heart and brain during cardiac surgeries. She has also spent her career mentoring trainees and serving in a variety of leadership positions. 

The news comes as clinical evidence supporting heart preservation at 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) continues to grow.