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About

Gennaro Ismeno is a pioneering cardiac surgeon whose work has been instrumental in advancing minimally invasive and robotic heart surgery. His primary research focus is the development and clinical application of totally endoscopic techniques for cardiac procedures, most notably for atrial septal defect (ASD) closure. Ismeno’s major contributions lie in demonstrating the feasibility and safety of performing complex open-heart procedures without a sternotomy, using the da Vinci robotic system. His landmark 2001 paper, "Totally endoscopic computer-enhanced atrial septal defect closure in six patients," which has garnered 86 citations, was among the first to show that ASD closure could be achieved entirely endoscopically, reducing surgical trauma and improving recovery. He further validated these findings in a 2002 study of seven cases (31 citations). Ismeno also explored robotic applications in coronary revascularization, as seen in his work on the LAST (Left Anterior Small Thoracotomy) operation. By pushing the boundaries of what is possible through a few small incisions, Ismeno’s pioneering clinical series have helped establish the foundation for modern, less invasive cardiac surgery, directly impacting patient outcomes and recovery times.