Training program

1) Lecture of the President of the Cardiovascular Surgery Section   Japanese

Speaker

Minoru Ono

Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The University of Tokyo

2) Lecture of the President of the Thoracic Surgery Section   Japanese

Speaker

Masayoshi Inoue

Department of Thoracic Surgery, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine

3) Lecture of the President of the Esophageal Surgery Section   Japanese

Speaker

Hiroya Takeuchi

Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine

4) Presidential Address   Japanese

5) President’s Program   Japanese

6) Special Lecture1   Japanese

7) Special Lecture2   Japanese

Cross‑disciplinary

1) Symposium   Japanese

Medical device development for the treatment of thoracic disease

2) Symposium   Japanese

Application of artificial intelligence to cardiovascular and thoracic surgery

3) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Current Status and Future Prospects of Task-Sharing in Donation of Brain-Dead Donor Hearts and Lungs

4) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Intraoperative troubleshooting in robot-assisted surgery in the field of thoracic surgery

5) Workshop   Japanese

Joint thoracic surgery for locally advanced thoracic malignancies: perioperative treatment, adjacent organ resection, cardiopulmonary support, and aortic stenting

Cardiac

1) Symposium   English

Clinical management of ischemic heart disease in light of upcoming guideline updates

Outline

In light of changes and ongoing discussions in healthcare systems following the revision of Western guidelines for chronic coronary artery disease, this study aims to foresee the future direction of clinical guideline updates for chronic coronary syndromes in Japan.

2) Symposium   Japanese

Ischemia assessment in CABG (FFR,NHPR,etc)

3) Symposium   Japanese

Mechanical circulatory support in single ventricle

4) Symposium   Japanese

Surgery for right heart valve in adult congenital heart disease

5) Symposium   Japanese

Lifetime Management and Surgical Strategy for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection

6) Symposium   Japanese

Lifetime management of aortic diseases with genetic background

7) Symposium   English

The Next Generation of Heart Transplantation

Outline

Innovative approaches to heart transplantation—such as donation after circulatory death (DCD), beating heart transplantation, and combined organ transplantation—are rapidly gaining ground worldwide. In this symposium, we will welcome Dr. Akinobu Itoh from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dr. Joseph Woo from Stanford University, who will share the latest advances in DCD and beating heart transplantation, respectively. By exploring global trends and cutting-edge bench-to-bedside research, we aim to discuss the future direction of heart transplantation in Japan. We invite enthusiastic submissions that align with the theme and contribute to shaping the next era of cardiac transplant therapy.

8) Symposium   Japanese

Translational Advances in Cardiothoracic Surgery: The Role of Large Animal Models in Biomedical Innovation

9) Symposium   Japanese

Contemporary Evidence-Based Approaches to SAVR and TAVR in Low-Risk Patients

10) Symposium   English

Rhythm or Protection? Surgical Decision-making in LSPAF: Maze vs. Beating-heart LAA Closure

Outline

The Cox-Maze procedure is well established as an effective surgical intervention for restoring sinus rhythm in patients with long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (LSPAF). However, large-scale clinical trials such as the AFFIRM study have demonstrated no significant difference in prognosis or quality of life (QOL) between rhythm control strategies—aiming for sinus rhythm—and rate control strategies in patients with both paroxysmal and persistent AF.
In recent years, the development of novel occlusion devices has enabled left atrial appendage (LAA) closure to be performed on the beating heart without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. This advancement has led to a growing interest in stroke prevention strategies that do not aim for rhythm control but instead rely on rate control combined with LAA closure.
This session will bring together leading experts from Japan and the United States to engage in an in-depth discussion on the optimal surgical approach for LSPAF: Should we pursue rhythm control through the Maze procedure, or is rate control with beating-heart LAA closure sufficient? Through this transpacific dialogue, we aim to clarify the future direction of surgical management for LSPAF.

11) Video Symposium   Japanese

3D Models: Visualization Aids or Decision-Making Tools? A Reevaluation of the Clinical Utility of 3D Simulation

12) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Real world in CABG (multi-vessel? MICS? OPCAB? ONCAB?)

13) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Perioperative Management of CABG to Reduce Surgical Site Infection

14) Panel Discussion   English

Surgical strategies for congenital aortic valve disease

Outline

Aortic valve repair for congenital aortic valve disease, including autologous pericardial reconstruction and the Ozaki procedure shows favorable early outcomes. However, long-term durability remains a challenge that warrants discussion. In addition, we encourage institutions to share and discuss strategies for improving autograft durability in Ross procedures, optimal timing for surgical intervention, and technical innovations.

15) Panel Discussion   Japanese

The Pros and Cons of Preemptive TEVAR

16) Panel Discussion   English

Advanced Surgical Strategies for High-Risk Patients with Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Outline

In this session, we will discuss indications and strategic approaches for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair in patients with multiple high-risk factors—such as age over 80, frailty, shaggy aorta, dialysis dependence, and reoperations. Experts from multiple institutions will share their perspectives, allowing for a multifaceted discussion.
We aim to contrast international trends with the current situation in Japan and examine which approach—open surgery, hybrid procedures, or conservative/palliative treatment—should be selected based on clinical evidence and real-world experience. The session will provide a platform for an in-depth discussion on how to manage these complex cases in contemporary practice.

17) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Current Status and Challenges of Destination Therapy

18) Panel Discussion   English

Root replacement at boderline age. Native valve vs Prosthetic valve

Outline

Regardless of the severity of aortic regurgitation (AR), various surgical techniques are available for the treatment of annulo-aortic ectasia (AAE). Valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) is recommended for younger patients; however, in Japan, there are few institutions that meet the guideline-defined criteria for an “experienced center,” and avoiding reoperation due to recurrent valve regurgitation remains a concern.
Meanwhile, with the expanded indications for bioprosthetic valves, bioprosthetic composite valve graft aortic root replacement (CVG-ARR) has become a viable option. However, comparative long-term outcome data among bioprosthetic CVG-ARR, mechanical valve CVG-ARR, and VSRR remain insufficient. In this session, we aim to explore the indications and limitations of VSRR in patients around the borderline age of 60 and in cases with cusp degeneration, as well as the criteria for selecting among different types of CVG-ARR.

19) Panel Discussion   Japanese

How to treat severe TR with right heart failure: Approaching the indications and limitations of catheter treatment and surgery

20) Workshop   Japanese

MCS in CABG: State-of-the-Art Strategies

21) Workshop   Japanese

Systemic pulmonary shunt: Future prospects

22) Workshop   Japanese

Surgical Management of Congenital Coronary Artery Anomalies and Arteriovenous Fistulas

23) Workshop   Japanese

Innovations in Aortic Treatment Brought by Advances in Imaging Modalities

24) Workshop   Japanese

Impella as a Potential Therapeutic Standard in Heart Failure Management — Exploring Its Scope and Limitations from Acute to Chronic Phases

25) Workshop   English

Reconsider Aortic Valve Surgeries related to LVAD

Outline

In aortic valve insufficiency under VAD circulation, quantitative assessment is challenging, leading to decisions on the necessity of aortic valve intervention being determined by institutional guidelines. The severity diagnosis and impact on hemodynamics differ from those in aortic valve insufficiency under physiological pulsatile circulation, rendering existing diagnostic criteria inapplicable.In this regard, aortic valve insufficiency under LVAD circulation can be considered a “new valvular disease.” That is, it requires a different perspective from existing aortic valve insufficiency. Furthermore, a history of treatment with Impella has been suggested to be associated with the onset or worsening of aortic regurgitation under LVAD circulation, and the treatment history leading up to LVAD further complicates the decision regarding intervention.For this “new valvular disease,” aortic valve repair, aortic valve reconstruction (including Park’s stitch), and aortic valve replacement are selected based on institutional criteria. Here, we aim to re-evaluate LVAD-related aortic valve surgery from a surgical perspective, focusing on whether each procedure effectively controlled aortic regurgitation in the long term and whether there are differences between procedures.

26) Workshop   Japanese

New Frontiers in Translational Cardiac Surgery Enabled by Next-Generation Technologies

27) Workshop   Japanese

Optimal anticoagulation therapy after surgical left atrial appendage closure

28) Video Workshop   Japanese

Technical challenges in valve repair for infective endocarditis

29) JATS-JSMP Joint Symposium   Japanese

Lung

1) Symposium   English

Treatment outcomes and clinical impact of the TNM classification 9th edition for thymic epithelial tumors

Outline

In 2025, the TNM classification for thymic epithelial tumors was revised for the first time and is now being used in clinical practice. Tumor size has been newly incorporated into the T factor, and phrenic nerve invasion and lung invasion, which were previously classified as T3, have been changed to T2. There has been no change in the staging logic, but the survival curves by disease stage and the suitable postoperative treatment may have changed. In addition, while many treatment results have been reported using the Masaoka classification, in the future, evidence of treatment based on the TNM classification will be required. In this symposium, we will discuss whether the treatment results and policies in each institutes, including whether the addition of the new TNM staging classification to the WHO histological classification, a traditional pathological prognostic factor, will have an impact on the treatment of thymomas, thymic carcinomas, and thymic neuroendocrine tumors.

2) Symposium   English

Contemporary Indications and Clinical Significance of Pneumonectomy in Lung Cancer

Outline

Recent advancements in non-surgical therapies for lung cancer—including high-dose radiotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, immunotherapy, and molecular targeted agents—have led to an increased number of opportunities for salvage surgery. In many of these cases, pneumonectomy is required due to the extent and location of the residual disease. However, the clinical significance and optimal role of pneumonectomy in this setting remain controversial and are yet to be clearly defined. In addition, completion pneumonectomy is occasionally performed for complications arising from multimodal treatment, including medical, surgical, and radiation therapies. Given the marked decline in the number of pneumonectomies performed for lung cancer in Japan in recent years, it is timely and necessary to re-examine and discuss the contemporary indications and value of this procedure.

3) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Exploring future strategies in pneumothorax: Recurrence prevention and management of secondary refractory cases

4) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Impact of COVID-19 infection on lung transplant recipients: onset, association with CLAD, and prognosis

5) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Mid- to Long-Term Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Patients with Thymic Epithelial Tumors

6) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Challenging Surgery through a Minimally Invasive Approach

7) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Preventive measures and Management of Postoperative Complications Following Extended Surgery

8) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Optimizing Surgical Training for Thoracic Surgeons in the New Workstyle Era

9) Panel Discussion   English

Shaping the Surgeon: Global and Domestic Fellowships That Made the Difference

Outline

In this session, we will focus on domestic and international study and fellowship experiences that have significantly influenced the careers of thoracic surgeons. Beyond clinical practice and basic research, the presentations will highlight multidimensional growth, including the development of clinical perspectives, research attitudes, and global outlooks. By sharing how insights gained through exposure to different cultures and healthcare systems have shaped the presenters’ current activities in clinical practice, education, and research, we aim to discuss the value of such cross-border experiences in nurturing the next generation of thoracic surgeons.

10) Panel Discussion   English

Salvage surgery for local recurrence after segmentectomy for lung cancer

Outline

Based on the results of the JCOG0802 and CALGB140503 trials, the proportion of segmentectomy for lung cancer surgeries in Japan is on an upward trend. However, local recurrence is more common after segmentectomy than after lobectomy. Therefore, it is essential to develop treatments for local recurrence and establish optimal treatment strategies for this condition. Surgical treatment for local recurrence is particularly technically challenging, and careful consideration is required when selecting surgical procedures and determining the feasibility of resection.
In this session, we invite you to share your treatment outcomes and strategies for local recurrence after segmentectomy, presenting practical approaches and innovations in salvage surgery for challenging cases. This will improve our understanding of the indications for and case selection in segmentectomy for lung cancer.

11) Workshop   Japanese

Surgical treatment strategies for pulmonary infectious diseases:～evaluation of surgical indications and extent of resection, and techniques for reducing perioperative complications

12) Workshop   Japanese

Reconsidering treatment strategies for bronchopleural fistula

13) Workshop   English

Innovations and New Techniques in Lung Transplantation

Outline

Although lung transplantation may appear to be a standardized procedure, various innovations and new technologies are continuously being introduced. By sharing recent technical updates from each institution, we aim to contribute to the overall progress of lung transplantation in Japan.

14) Workshop   Japanese

Novel findings of lung transplantation from Japan

15) Workshop   Japanese

The role of surgery in the multimodality treatment of mediastinal germ cell tumor

16) Workshop   Japanese

Current status of simulation education and training

17) Workshop   Japanese

Surgical strategies for challenging cases after ICI and TKI treatment in lung cancer

18) Workshop   Japanese

Facing the Rising Challenge of High-Risk Cases: Limits and Perspectives in Lung Cancer Surgery

19) Workshop   Japanese

Ongoing Lung Cancer Surgical Clinical Trials

20) Japanese Joint Committee of Lung Cancer Registration   Japanese

Esophagus

1) Symposium   Japanese

Traetment strategy for cT3br/T4 esophageal cancer

2) Symposium   Japanese

Surgical Techniques and Treatment Outcomes of Robot-Assisted Esophagectomy

3) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Indications and Pitfalls of Conversion Surgery for Esophageal and Esophagogastric Junction Cancer

4) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Treatment Strategies for Super-Elderly Patients with Esophageal Cancer

5) Panel Discussion   Japanese

Best choice for gastric tube reconstruction after esophagectomy：Ivor Lewis vs. McKeown method

6) Workshop   Japanese

Training Program for Young Esophageal Surgeons in the Era of Robot-Assisted Surgery

7) Workshop   Japanese

Techniques for gastric tube reconstruction after esophagectomy

8) Workshop   Japanese

Troubleshooting for Mediastinoscopic Esophagectomy

9) Video Session   Japanese

Left recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph node dissection ~Video clinic with unedited videos~

10) JATS/JES/JSES Joint Seminor   Japanese

Pathway to Certification: JES board certified esophageal surgeon and JSES qualified surgeon