project 2

Transforming

Heart Surgery:

The Vision

for the Future

A New Era in Cardiovascular Care

In the dynamic landscape of cardiothoracic surgery, our mission is to elevate the standards of surgical training and education, with a special emphasis on pioneering minimally invasive robotic techniques. As we witness a transformative shift towards keyhole surgery, our foundation is dedicated to shaping the future of cardiovascular care, ensuring that the next generation of surgeons is fully equipped to embrace the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: The Power of Mentorship

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants:
The Power of Mentorship

At the heart of our foundation lies a deep reverence for the mentors who have blazed the trail for modern cardiothoracic surgery. These master surgeons—giants in their fields—have profoundly shaped our surgical practices today. They have imparted not only technical mastery but also the essential personal qualities critical for success: unwavering discipline, perseverance, grit, and the courage to act decisively, particularly in the face of complex cardiovascular procedures.
We proudly embrace the metaphor of “standing on the shoulders of giants,” recognizing that our advancements are built upon the vision, courage, and sacrifices of those who preceded us. Thanks to their trailblazing efforts, we now possess an array of surgical tools and techniques to treat heart and lung conditions more effectively than ever before. From beating heart bypass operations to minimally invasive aneurysm repairs and robotic heart valve surgeries, we honour their legacy by pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Imagine a world without heart surgery, without the bold surgeons who dared to innovate against all odds, and without the patients who courageously hoped for better outcomes. Where would we be today without these pioneers who refused to listen to the naysayers and fought tirelessly for what was right, despite the challenges?
As philanthropists, you have the power to help us continue this legacy. Your support can fund vital training programs, cutting-edge research, and the adoption of advanced robotic technologies that will transform the lives of countless patients. By donating to our foundation, you are not only supporting the evolution of cardiothoracic surgery but also empowering the next generation of surgeons to adapt, innovate, and reach new heights.

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

The Evolution of Cardiovascular Surgery: Embracing Technological Advancements

The field of cardiothoracic surgery has undergone a remarkable transformation, especially over the last decade. The Tristan Yan Cardiothoracic Surgery Foundation is steadfast in promoting surgical education and training, with a strong commitment to minimally invasive robotic techniques that are poised to revolutionize the future of cardiovascular care. We embarked on our journey in minimally invasive robotic techniques over a decade ago, firmly believing that robotic surgery holds the key to the future of cardiothoracic surgery. We have integrated robotic surgery as a crucial component of the modern treatment paradigm for our patients with heart and lung conditions.
While the learning curve for robotic surgery is steep, and the initial investment in technology like the da Vinci System was significant, the benefits are undeniable. Robotic surgery not only enhances patient recovery, resulting in shorter hospital and ICU stays, but also proves to be cost-neutral over time. As technology continues to advance rapidly, the number of surgeon adopters grows, signalling a clear trend towards a future dominated by robotic-assisted procedures. We are merely at the dawn of what is currently termed robotic surgery, which in reality is computer-assisted, instrument-controlled surgery. The future holds even more thrilling developments, such as AI-driven automation and nanomotor-driven instrumentation. It is our duty, and that of young surgeons, to carry this journey forward to unprecedented heights.
As Charles Darwin aptly noted, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” Let us embrace this spirit of adaptability and innovation to forge a new path in cardiothoracic surgery.

Fostering Surgical Education and Training

The Foundation champions collaboration, nurtures ground-breaking research, and provides robust training opportunities. We empower young surgeons to master an array of advanced techniques, from robotics and minimally invasive procedures to transcatheter interventions and state-of-the-art therapies for complex cardiovascular and thoracic conditions. Bound by our shared vision, we are dedicated to delivering the future of cardiovascular care to our patients today.

Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery The Human Cadaver Course (I)

Education & training highlights:

1.

Human cadaveric masterclass

Young surgeons can learn intricate procedural skills, gaining a realistic, hands-on learning experience without compromising patient safety. Surgeons can practice and refine their techniques in a controlled, risk-free environment, ensuring mastery of skills before operating on live patients.

2.

Increased confidence & competence

Our training programs boost surgeons’ confidence and competence, preparing them for the demands of modern surgery.

3.

Innovative training methods

We incorporate the latest advancements in surgical education and training modules, ensuring that young surgeons are well-prepared for the shift towards minimally invasive and robotic techniques in cardiothoracic surgery.

4.

Cardiothoracic symposiums

We support junior doctors, nurses, and students in attending national and international cardiothoracic conferences, where they can present their research outcomes and gain new insight.

5.

Integrated & assimilated training scheme

We offer experience-specific education to surgical scholars at various stages of their training. Experienced surgeons and Fellows can also enhance their surgical skills with proctorships by internationally recognized experts.

Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery The Human Cadaver Course (II)

"A heart surgeon is not merely an operator, but a master of a craft operating with hands, mind, and heart."

Tristan D. Yan

When a surgeon first begins practicing heart surgery, their focus is on mastering the craft with their hands. However, a true heart surgeon is a master of a craft that operates with hands, mind, and heart. It’s not only about knowing how to operate but understanding why we do it at all.
The Tristan Yan Cardiothoracic Surgery Foundation invites our grateful patients and philanthropists to join us in our mission to improve cardiovascular and thoracic healthcare.
Your generous support to our surgical education and training initiatives will directly support the development of advanced cadaveric models, innovative training methods, and global symposium participation, ensuring that the next generation of surgeons is well-equipped to deliver the highest standard of care. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of patients in Australia and around the world.

Donate today and be part of our

TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY

Contact us

Dedicated to advancing the future of heart and lung surgery through innovation, education, and research.
Tristan Yan Cardiothoracic Surgery Foundation Limited is a registered charity.
ABN 76657629484
© Copyright Tristan Yan Cardiothoracic Surgery Foundation 2025