Cut The Fluff with Dr. Mark Pool

In this episode, we explore Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest, a fascinating technique used in complex heart and aortic surgeries where the body is cooled to extremely low temperatures and blood flow stopped.

Hear about how in reducing the body’s metabolic needs, circulatory arrest allows a surgeon to operate on delicate areas of the heart and blood vessels with no blood obscuring his or her view.

Whether you're preparing for a surgery involving circulatory arrest, know someone who is, or simply want to learn more about the heart and heart surgery, join us to discover more about this little-known technique.

In this podcast episode, learn seven things to know about aortic aneurysms that every patient should know.

We'll explore the definition of an aneurysm, risk factors, warning signs, and how aneurysms are treated.

Whether you have a family history of aneurysms, have just been diagnosed with one, or are curious to know more about the body, we've got you covered!

In this episode, we dive into five essential things you need to know about Ejection Fraction, the percentage of blood pumped out of the heart with each beat.

We discuss how EF is a key indicator of heart health, how it’s measured, and what a low or high EF can tell us about heart function.

Whether you're curious about heart failure, myocarditis, or how the heart works, understanding EF can help you better understand your heart.

This podcast explores important decisions around end-of-life care, including

DNR, Do Not Resuscitate

DNI, Do Not Intubate

CPR, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Comfort measures and hospice care.

We break down what each option means and how it can help ensure loved ones receive the care they truly want.

With practical tips and clear explanations, this episode is here to guide and support you in making thoughtful, compassionate choices for yourself or someone you love.

In this heartfelt episode, cardiac surgery patient Bruce Woods shares his personal journey from noticing how he felt "a bit off" to coming to terms with needing heart surgery, then going through the operation and recovery.

He offers candid insights into the physical and emotional challenges he faced, as well as the ways the experience strengthened his Christian faith.

Offering a message of encouragement and hope, Bruce provides a unique perspective on the ups and downs of making it through heart surgery and emerging stronger on the other side.

Ever wonder if CPR scenes on television and in the movies are true to reality? In this episode, we explore the differences between CPR as portrayed in the media versus real life.

From exaggerated success rates and quick recoveries to the often-overlooked physical toll, we break down the misconceptions perpetuated by media.

Join us as we separate fact from fiction and emphasize the importance of proper CPR training to act quickly and effectively in saving lives.

In this episode, we dive into a discussion about things you should never say to someone preparing for surgery.

Whether it’s a close friend, family member, or colleague, your words can have a profound impact on their emotional well-being, and even their physical outcome. We explore 20 common but misguided comments and questions —ranging from “You’re lucky it’s not worse” to “What if you don't wake up?”—and explain how these statements can increase fear and anxiety.

This episode will teach you compassionate alternatives for each of these no-no statements, and how to offer words of comfort and reassurance.

Perfect for anyone looking to support their loved ones, this episode will empower you to approach the sensitive time prior to surgery with kindness and understanding.

This episode highlights 8 essential keys to promoting optimal wound healing after heart surgery.

Discover insights on maintaining cleanliness, find out which activities to avoid and which activities are okay, and learn how to recognize signs of complications. .

Whether you're a patient or caregiver, this episode equips you with the knowledge and tools to maximize your chances of superb healing.

In this episode, we dive into the 10 things everyone should know about atrial fibrillation.

From an explanation of afib as an electrical problem to common terms you'll come across, this episode will help you better understand afib and its impact on the heart and body.

We explore how afib increases stroke risk, how lifestyle changes can help, and what treatment options are available, including medications and procedures like ablation.

Whether you're new to afib or looking for ways to better manage it, join us and learn the key facts to keep your heart in rhythm.

In this episode, we explore why most heart surgeries are not performed with robotic technology, despite the expected benefits of smaller incisions and quicker recovery.

Much like flying cars, there is a lot of talk about how robotic surgery will change the landscape of healthcare, yet progress is slow. Why is that?

Find out why and find out which heart surgeries can be done with robot now, and what to expect in the future.