Celebrating 40 Years of EACTS | 1986 – 2026

Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence in Cardiothoracic Surgery

In 2026, the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) will proudly celebrate its 40th Anniversary. Established in 1986 by a visionary group of eleven cardiac and thoracic surgeons – guided by the vision of renowned cardiac surgeon Francis Fontan – EACTS has grown into a global community of nearly 4,000 members, including surgeons, perfusionists, and allied health professionals. Over four decades, EACTS has embraced innovation and research, integrating the latest technologies into its educational programmes and advancing the field alongside its global network of professional societies and collaborators.  With a steadfast commitment to excellence, EACTS continues to support the global cardiothoracic community, improve patient outcomes, and shape the future of the specialty.

Founding Fathers:

Francis Fontan, Hans Borst, Maurizio Cotrufo, Louis Couraud, Hans Huysmans , Keyvan Moghissi, Ingolf Vogt-Moykopf, Ramiro Rivera, Marko Turina, David Wheatley, Ernst Wolner

Take part in the celebrations!

We invite you to be part of the celebration by sharing a photo or message that reflects your connection with the EACTS.

Whether it’s attending one of our Annual Meetings, becoming a member, publishing in one of our journals, taking part in a Fellowship or leading an Academy course, we want to hear from you! Post your highlight on social media using #40YearsofEACTS and tag us – your story could be featured in our official anniversary campaign!

Share your story and help us to honour our past, embrace our present and help shape the next 40 years of excellence in cardiothoracic surgery.

Post your highlight now!

The 40th EACTS Annual Meeting

A highlight of our anniversary year will be the 40th EACTS Annual Meeting – a landmark gathering that brings together thousands of cardiothoracic professionals from across the globe.

This special edition of the EACTS Annual Meeting will not only showcase the latest advances in clinical practice, research and innovation, but also celebrate the extraordinary journey of our Association. Attendees can look forward to:

  • World-leading scientific sessions driven by our domains, committees and task forces
  • Hands-on training and educational opportunities
  • Networking with an international community of peers
  • Special anniversary activities reflecting on our history and looking towards the future

The 40th EACTS Annual Meeting will be a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of EACTS while shaping the next chapter of cardiothoracic surgery together.

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