Episode Description
Dr. Jeremy Leidenfrost, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon at St. Luke's, opens up about the extraordinary effort required to maintain a top-ranked cardiothoracic surgery program. Listeners will learn how high surgical volumes are key to sharpening the skills of both surgeons and their teams. Dr. Leidenfrost also discusses the vital roles of specialized anesthesiologists and post-operative care, revealing the meticulous standards based on Medicare data and risk-adjusted mortality rates that contribute to their prestigious ranking.
Drawing parallels to Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule, we discuss the dedication required to excel in this challenging field. Dr. Leidenfrost provides personal anecdotes from his training days, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and mentorship in shaping a successful career.
Personal and humorous accounts highlight the importance of physical fitness amidst a busy career, inspired by mentors who lead by example. This episode is a testament to the power of a skilled team, where trust and reliability elevate patient care and outcomes.