All Members

At a time when surgeon burnout is on the rise, STS is making wellness a priority. In this video message from STS President Jenna C. Romano, MD, MS, hear about the importance of being intentional about wellness and achieving a balanced life in this ever-evolving profession. 

Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced the enactment of a final rule to ban non-compete clauses as an unfair method of competition. This groundbreaking rule prohibits employers from entering into or maintaining non-compete agreements with workers, with limited exceptions. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons has been a strong advocate for this ban, recognizing that non-compete clauses significantly hinder cardiothoracic surgeons by limiting their ability to serve their communities, maintain continuity of care, and ensure patient access to specialized surgical services.  

"STS members and the broader physician community will benefit from the ban on non-competes," says STS President Jennifer C. Romano, MD, MS, and a practicing cardiothoracic surgeon. "Eliminating non-compete clauses removes major barriers for cardiothoracic surgeons, enhancing their ability to decide where and how they practice without undue restrictions. This change is especially crucial in improving access to specialized surgical care across various regions, fostering a more dynamic and responsive healthcare system." 

The unfortunate exclusion of most non-profit hospitals from this rule significantly constrains its benefits. We encourage Congress to continue the momentum on this important issue by enacting S. 220 / H.R. 731, the Workforce Mobility Act, which would extend these crucial protections to all healthcare providers, ensuring a truly competitive and patient-centered healthcare environment.  

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall for nearly 14,000 Abbott and Thoratec HeartMate left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). This recall comes after reports of multiple deaths and injuries associated with these devices, which are used to aid patients with advanced heart failure. 

The recalled devices include: 

• Product names: HeartMate II and HeartMate 3 Left Ventricular Assist System (LVAS) 
• Product codes: DSQ 
  • Class 1 Device Recall HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist System (fda.gov) 
  • Class 1 Device Recall HeartMate 3 Left Ventricular Assist System (fda.gov) 
• Model numbers:  Full List of Affected Devices 
• Distribution dates: Starting April 21, 2008 

The problem at the center of this recall is the gradual buildup of biological material in these devices develops over 2 or more years, potentially obstructing the device and diminishing its ability to support the heart's pumping action. This issue can trigger alarms for low blood flow and impair the device's effectiveness. 

Recall Action: This recall is classified as a correction rather than a complete product withdrawal. The FDA has not advised the return of all affected devices. However, heightened vigilance concerning low-flow alarms, which may indicate significant outflow obstructions, is recommended. 

Customers should have received an Urgent Medical Device Correction letter on February 19, 2024, providing detailed guidance on monitoring for and addressing potential obstructions. 

Abbott and Thoratec have made efforts to educate physicians on the importance of heeding persistent low-flow alarms as early indicators of potential obstructions and have shared diagnostic recommendations to identify obstructions and discussed treatment options available for managing such issues.  

If you have questions about this recall, contact Abbott and Thoratec directly at (844) 692-6367. To report a problem with these devices, complete the FDA reporting form