DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.    >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.        Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. Introduction to our guest Today, we dive deep into the world of cardiac surgery with our esteemed guest, Dr. Bobby Yanagawa, Division Head of Cardiac Surgery at St. Michael's Hospital. This episode unpacks the thrilling, yet demanding life of a heart surgeon, exploring everything from the adrenaline of emergency surgeries to the finesse required for elective procedures. Dr. Yanagawa, distinguished for his mastery in the realm of heart health, shares his insights on managing heart disease risk factors and the advances in surgical technology like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We'll also touch on the emotional weight of decision-making in life-threatening treatments, and how surgeons like Dr. Yanagawa navigate the complexities of patient care. Moreover, beyond the scalpel and sutures, we discuss the critical balance between personal life and professional dedication, aiming to unearth the reality of medical practice in contrast to its often sensationalized portrayals. So, tune in as we explore the heart of the matter on "Ditch the Labcoat." Episode Breakdown : The discussion opens with Dr. Yanagawa comparing the intensive concentration required in the operating room to entering a martial arts dojo, a place where focus is paramount and the external world fades away. This analogy extends into a broader discussion on the parallels between martial arts and medical education, emphasizing humility, continual learning, and respect for expertise. Moving through the intricacies of heart health, the conversation covers a wide array of topics, from the technological advancements in procedures like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) to the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance in such a demanding field. Dr. Yanagawa shares insights into the surgical intricacies of managing acute emergencies like aortic dissections and the bread-and-butter of elective coronary bypass procedures. A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the ethical and emotional dimensions of heart surgery, particularly regarding patient interactions and the decision-making process concerning surgical risks and life expectancy. The emotional weight of conveying the realities of heart surgery to patients and their families highlights the profound impact of medical professionalism and empathy in clinical practice. Moreover, Dr. Yanagawa reflects on the broader implications of modern lifestyle choices on health, contrasting today's sedentary habits with the more active, hunter-gatherer past, and how these shifts contribute to chronic health issues. This serves as a springboard into a deeper discussion on the interplay between genetics, lifestyle, and preventive health care. As the episode winds down, both doctors discuss the future of heart surgery, including the potential for growing organs in labs and the evolving role of artificial hearts. The conversation also touches on the use of different heart valves, from pig and cow valves to mechanical options, outlining the co