Practice Patterns in Pediatric Cardiothoracic Presurgical Conferences: A Multicenter Survey Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Medical Education

Background:

• Pediatric cardiothoracic surgeries are complex and require multidisciplinary review.
• Presurgical conferences are standard practice in US pediatric cardiology centers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current practice patterns of presurgical multidisciplinary conferences in US pediatric cardiothoracic surgery.
• To identify variations in conference logistics, fellow involvement, quality improvement (QI) integration, and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to directors at 124 US pediatric cardiology centers.
• Data collected on conference frequency, duration, format, fellow roles, QI processes, and satisfaction.
• Statistical analysis compared practices between high-volume and low-volume centers.

Main Results:

• All 47 responding centers hold weekly presurgical conferences, predominantly hybrid.
• Fellows present diverse clinical data, influencing patient management in most cases.
• High-volume centers were more likely to hold multiple conferences but less likely to have a designated moderator.
• While rated as important (median 10/10), satisfaction was more moderate (median 7/10).
• Formal QI processes were infrequent (17%), with concerns about discussion length and efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric cardiothoracic presurgical conferences are a collaborative and impactful component of patient care.
• Opportunities exist for standardizing conference structure and enhancing efficiency.
• Integrating formal quality improvement initiatives could further optimize these critical multidisciplinary meetings.