Cardiac surgery and the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic

COVID-19 is having an impact on both infected and non-infected patients. During the outbreak period, a smaller number of patients underwent cardiac surgery. These patients experienced more symptoms, had longer procedures, and had a higher in-hospital mortality rate. While the consequences of the pandemic are not fully understood, one thing is certain; we must prepare for a possible new outbreak. Currently, the future of cardiac surgery after the pandemic is unclear as the evidence is still emerging. However, the lessons learned from these unprecedented times can be taken forward to inform future service planning. Moving forward, routine screening of patients for SARS-CoV-2 infection will undoubtedly play a key role in identifying asymptomatic or subclinical infections. Ultimately, clear guidelines should be implemented to ensure the safe resumption of surgical services, while also reassuring patients concerned about safety. Although the future trajectory of this pandemic is uncertain, the insights from the impact of COVID-19 on cardiac surgery will undoubtedly shape the future delivery of cardiac surgery.