Welcome Message
HVDF 2026
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Distinguished colleagues and honored guests, It is my great honor and privilege, as Chair of this year’s meeting, to welcome you to the 2026 Heart Valve Disease Forum (HVDF) in collaboration with the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS). This September, we convene to explore one of the most dynamic and rapidly advancing frontiers in contemporary cardiac surgery: Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery Aortic Valve Replacement (MICS AVR). The landscape of aortic valve intervention continues to evolve rapidly. In this era of innovation, our mission is to thoughtfully integrate the time-honored principles of surgical excellence with transformative advancements in minimally invasive techniques. This symposium has been meticulously designed to showcase state-of-the-art surgical strategies, evidence-based outcomes, and the latest clinical insights, equipping practitioners with the knowledge and perspective necessary to deliver the highest standard of patient-centered care. We are especially privileged to welcome world-renowned faculty, including distinguished leaders from STS. Participants will benefit from authoritative lectures, robust academic disclosure, and practical “gold-standard” insights drawn from the forefront of global surgical practice. It is my sincere hope that this meeting serves not only as a forum for academic enrichment but also as a catalyst for meaningful collaboration and enduring professional connections. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to advancing the science and art of cardiac surgery. I very much look forward to welcoming you in September.
Sak Lee, MD, PhD |
