AATS Foundation Cardiac Surgical Robotics Program

About this program

The AATS Foundation Cardiac Surgical Robotics Program, sponsored by the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) Foundation, offers a fellowship to advance cardiac surgeons' expertise in robotic cardiac surgery. The program covers training, cadaver lab work, procedure observation, simulation, and proctoring, with a requirement to complete 50 cases and report outcomes to the foundation. Eligibility is limited to North American cardiac surgeons with 3-5 years of experience, a minimum of 100 mitral valve repairs, and excellent outcomes, along with institutional commitment and access to a da Vinci Xi robot. The award provides up to $6,000 for travel and lodging expenses.