Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Thesis Topics

Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CVTS) Thesis Topics

Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery (CVTS) is a highly demanding superspeciality that includes coronary artery bypass grafting, valve surgery, aortic aneurysm and dissection repair, congenital heart surgery, thoracic oncology, minimally invasive and robotic procedures, transplant, and mechanical circulatory support. This page provides a structured, search engine optimised list of one hundred practical and clinically relevant CVTS thesis topics suitable for Master of Chirurgiae and equivalent superspeciality trainees in India. The topics are designed as comparative, cross sectional, and observational studies that are feasible in Indian tertiary care centres, with strong clinical relevance and publication potential in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery journals.

1. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery

Comparative study of on pump and off pump coronary artery bypass grafting in multivessel coronary artery disease. This study compares perioperative haemodynamics, completeness of revascularisation, blood transfusion requirements, postoperative complications, and short term outcomes between on pump and off pump coronary artery bypass grafting in an Indian tertiary care centre.
Observational study of clinical profile and outcomes of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting at a government teaching hospital. The thesis describes demographic characteristics, risk factors, extent of coronary artery disease, operative details, and in hospital mortality and morbidity in consecutive patients undergoing surgical revascularisation.
Prospective study of completeness of revascularisation and its association with symptoms and left ventricular function after coronary artery bypass grafting. This project evaluates angiographic and intraoperative grafting patterns, and correlates them with relief of angina, improvement in functional class, and change in left ventricular ejection fraction at medium term follow up.
Comparative analysis of single versus multiple arterial graft strategies in coronary artery bypass surgery. The research assesses use of internal mammary and radial artery conduits compared with predominantly venous grafting, and evaluates graft patency, recurrent angina, and major adverse cardiac events.
Study of early postoperative atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting and its clinical predictors. This thesis evaluates age, left atrial size, perioperative inflammation, electrolyte imbalance, and other risk factors for new onset atrial fibrillation, and its impact on hospital stay and complications.
Observational study of acute kidney injury after coronary artery bypass grafting and associated risk factors. The project analyses preoperative renal function, use of contrast, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, hypotension, and transfusion, and examines their relationship with acute kidney injury, length of stay, and mortality.
Study of sternal wound complications and their determinants in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. This research investigates obesity, diabetes mellitus, bilateral internal mammary artery harvesting, operative time, and infection control practices as contributors to superficial and deep sternal wound complications.
Comparative study of conventional median sternotomy and minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass for isolated anterior descending artery disease. The thesis evaluates operative time, pain scores, hospital stay, cosmetic results, and graft patency between full sternotomy and limited thoracotomy approaches.
Study of quality of life and functional capacity after coronary artery bypass grafting using validated questionnaires. This project assesses symptom relief, exercise tolerance, return to work, and psychosocial adjustment in patients at six months and one year after surgery.
Observational analysis of perioperative blood conservation strategies in coronary artery bypass grafting. The research examines use of cell saver, acute normovolemic haemodilution, restrictive transfusion thresholds, and topical agents, and their association with transfusion rates and outcomes.

2. Valve Surgery and Valve Repair Techniques

Comparative study of valve repair and valve replacement in rheumatic mitral valve disease. This thesis compares feasibility, operative time, postoperative valve function, complications, and survival between repair and replacement strategies for rheumatic mitral valve lesions in Indian patients.
Study of clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after mitral valve repair using different repair techniques. The project evaluates annuloplasty rings, chordal replacement, leaflet resection, and combined techniques, and assesses residual regurgitation, left ventricular function, and functional class at follow up.
Observational study of aortic valve replacement outcomes with mechanical and bioprosthetic valves in a government tertiary care hospital. This research examines patient selection, anticoagulation requirements, thromboembolic and bleeding events, structural valve degeneration, and survival in patients receiving mechanical versus bioprosthetic valves.
Study of pulmonary hypertension regression after mitral valve surgery for rheumatic mitral stenosis or regurgitation. The thesis evaluates preoperative pulmonary artery pressures, right ventricular function, and their changes following successful valve surgery, and correlates them with symptom improvement.
Comparative analysis of minimally invasive and conventional valve surgery approaches. This project compares limited thoracotomy or mini sternotomy with full sternotomy in terms of operative time, bleeding, pain, length of stay, and valve related outcomes.
Study of prosthesis patient mismatch in aortic valve replacement and its impact on left ventricular mass regression. The research assesses effective orifice area indexed to body surface area, and examines its association with symptomatic improvement and left ventricular remodelling.
Observational study of infective endocarditis requiring valve surgery and its outcomes. This thesis examines patient profile, microbiology, timing of surgery, complications such as abscess and embolisation, and in hospital and medium term outcomes after surgery.
Study of tricuspid valve repair techniques in patients undergoing left sided valve surgery. The project evaluates different annuloplasty methods for functional tricuspid regurgitation, intraoperative results, and persistence or recurrence of regurgitation on follow up.
Comparative study of isolated valve surgery and combined valve and coronary artery bypass grafting. This research assesses risk profile, operative complexity, complications, and survival in patients requiring combined procedures compared with isolated valve surgery.
Study of anticoagulation control and valve related events in patients with mechanical prosthetic valves. The thesis evaluates time in therapeutic range, adherence to monitoring, incidence of thromboembolism, valve thrombosis, and major bleeding events in real world practice.

3. Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection Surgery

Observational study of clinical profile and outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for ascending aortic aneurysm. This project describes indications, associated valve disease or genetic syndromes, operative techniques including root replacement, and short term morbidity and mortality.
Study of acute type A aortic dissection surgery and its early outcomes in a tertiary care CVTS unit. The thesis evaluates time to diagnosis, transfer delays, operative variables, neurological complications, renal dysfunction, and in hospital mortality in patients with acute type A dissection.
Comparative analysis of hemiarch replacement and total arch replacement in aortic arch disease. This research compares cerebral protection strategies, operative times, complications, and short term outcomes between limited and extensive arch replacement procedures.
Study of extent of aortic replacement and long term reintervention rates in patients with Marfan syndrome and related connective tissue disorders. The project evaluates patterns of residual aortic disease, need for subsequent distal procedures, and survival after initial surgery.
Observational study of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair and perioperative organ protection strategies. This thesis examines spinal cord protection, renal perfusion techniques, and outcomes including paraplegia, renal failure, and mortality in thoracoabdominal aneurysm surgery.
Study of hybrid aortic arch and descending aortic repair using combined open and endovascular techniques. The research evaluates feasibility, endoleak rates, reintervention, and overall outcomes of hybrid procedures performed in a centre with evolving endovascular facilities.
Comparative study of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and selective antegrade cerebral perfusion strategies in aortic arch surgery. This project compares neurological outcomes, renal function, bleeding, and intensive care unit stay between different cerebral protection methods.
Study of chronic type B aortic dissection patients undergoing surgical or endovascular intervention. The thesis analyses indications for intervention, procedural details, complications, and follow up imaging findings including false lumen thrombosis and aortic remodelling.
Observational analysis of postoperative quality of life in patients after aortic aneurysm and dissection surgery. This research assesses physical functioning, psychological wellbeing, and ability to return to work using validated questionnaires.
Study of predictors of mortality and major complications after surgery for acute aortic syndromes. The project identifies preoperative, intraoperative, and early postoperative risk factors that influence outcome, providing data relevant for risk stratification in Indian settings.

4. Congenital Heart Surgery in Children and Adults

Cross sectional study of spectrum and age at presentation of congenital heart diseases requiring surgery in a tertiary CVTS centre. This thesis documents common acyanotic and cyanotic lesions, delay in diagnosis, nutritional status, and preoperative risk factors in paediatric and adult patients.
Study of early outcomes after corrective surgery for tetralogy of Fallot in children. The project evaluates operative details, residual lesions on echocardiography, complications, and mortality, and explores factors associated with prolonged intensive care unit stay.
Observational analysis of outcomes after ventricular septal defect closure performed beyond childhood. This research assesses feasibility, complications, pulmonary artery pressures, and symptomatic improvement in adolescents and adults undergoing late closure.
Study of single ventricle palliation stages and early outcomes after Fontan completion. The thesis evaluates survival, complications, and functional class after completion of staged palliation for single ventricle physiology in an Indian cohort.
Comparative study of arterial switch operation and atrial switch procedures in patients with transposition of the great arteries. This project compares early outcomes, reinterventions, arrhythmia burden, and ventricular function between the two surgical strategies where both are represented.
Study of postoperative complications in neonatal cardiac surgery. The research documents haemodynamic instability, arrhythmias, bleeding, infections, and neurological events, and analyses risk factors in neonates undergoing complex repairs.
Observational study of reoperations in congenital heart disease and associated challenges. This thesis examines indications, technical difficulties related to adhesions and distorted anatomy, and short term results of reoperative congenital surgery.
Study of outcomes of surgery for atrioventricular septal defects. The project evaluates valve function, residual shunts, pulmonary hypertension, and growth in children undergoing complete atrioventricular septal defect repair.
Cross sectional analysis of nutritional and developmental status in children before and after congenital heart surgery. This research assesses weight, height, and developmental milestones, and examines improvement after corrective procedures.
Study of pregnancy outcomes in women with previously operated congenital heart disease requiring CVTS follow up. The thesis evaluates maternal cardiovascular events, foetal outcomes, and adherence to risk stratification and counselling recommendations.

5. Minimally Invasive and Robotic Cardiac Surgery

Comparative study of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery and conventional median sternotomy mitral valve surgery. This research compares operative time, blood loss, postoperative pain, hospital stay, and early valve related outcomes between limited access and full sternotomy approaches.
Study of learning curve and operative performance in minimally invasive cardiac procedures in a teaching hospital. The thesis evaluates operative time, conversion to open procedures, complications, and outcomes as the surgical team gains experience with minimally invasive techniques.
Observational analysis of cosmetic and patient satisfaction outcomes after minimally invasive cardiac surgery. This project assesses scar appearance, body image, and satisfaction scores using validated tools in patients undergoing minimally invasive versus conventional procedures.
Study of peripheral cannulation related complications in minimally invasive cardiac surgery. The research examines vascular access methods, incidence of limb ischaemia, bleeding, infection, and strategies to minimise these risks.
Comparative study of early mobilisation and respiratory function after minimally invasive and conventional cardiac surgery. This thesis evaluates spirometry values, incentive spirometry performance, and time to ambulation in patients operated with two different approaches.
Study of robotic assisted mitral valve or coronary artery procedures: feasibility and early outcomes. The project describes patient selection, robotic setup times, operative duration, complications, and short term results in centres where robotic programmes are initiated.
Observational study of cost analysis of minimally invasive cardiac surgery in comparison with conventional surgery. This research examines operating room time, disposables, length of stay, readmissions, and overall cost to the healthcare system and patient.
Study of anaesthetic and perfusion challenges specific to minimally invasive cardiac surgery. The thesis documents positioning, single lung ventilation, peripheral perfusion, and carbon dioxide insufflation issues and their management.
Cross sectional analysis of indications and case selection criteria for minimally invasive cardiac procedures. This project evaluates inclusion and exclusion criteria adopted in practice and outcome differences between early and later cases in programme development.
Study of postoperative pain management protocols tailored for minimally invasive cardiac surgery. The research compares regional techniques, local infiltration, and systemic analgesia and their effect on pain scores and mobilisation.

6. Thoracic Surgery of Lung, Pleura, and Mediastinum

Observational study of clinical profile and operative outcomes in patients undergoing lung resections for primary lung cancer. The thesis describes staging, surgical procedures including lobectomy and pneumonectomy, complications such as air leak and pneumonia, and early survival.
Study of video assisted thoracoscopic surgery and open thoracotomy for management of pneumothorax and empyema. This project compares operative time, postoperative pain, hospital stay, recurrence, and complications between minimally invasive and open approaches in pleural disease.
Cross sectional analysis of benign and malignant mediastinal masses treated surgically. The research evaluates clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, operative approaches, histopathology, and outcomes in patients undergoing mediastinal surgery.
Study of lung resections for multidrug resistant tuberculosis and non resolving pulmonary infections. This thesis describes indications, types of resections, postoperative complications, and symptomatic and microbiological outcomes.
Observational study of decortication for chronic empyema thoracis. The project evaluates preoperative status, extent of disease, lung expansion, complications, and functional improvement after decortication.
Study of surgical management of chest wall tumours and reconstruction techniques. This research examines resection extent, use of synthetic or biological meshes, flap coverage, respiratory function, and recurrence rates.
Comparative study of intercostal nerve block and thoracic epidural analgesia for pain relief after thoracotomy. The thesis compares pain scores, pulmonary complications, mobility, and side effects of two commonly used analgesic modalities in thoracic surgery.
Study of postoperative pulmonary complications after major thoracic surgery and associated risk factors. This project evaluates spirometry, smoking history, coexisting lung disease, and operative factors that contribute to atelectasis, pneumonia, and respiratory failure.
Observational analysis of outcomes of diaphragmatic surgery for eventration and hernia. The research assesses symptom relief, recurrence, and radiological improvement after diaphragmatic plication or hernia repair.
Study of thoracoscopic sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis: technique and long term results. This thesis evaluates operative details, compensatory sweating, quality of life changes, and patient satisfaction after thoracoscopic sympathectomy.

7. Transplant and Mechanical Circulatory Support

Observational study of clinical profile and early outcomes of patients undergoing heart transplantation. The project describes indications, donor and recipient characteristics, immunosuppression protocols, early rejection episodes, infections, and survival in a developing transplant programme.
Study of selection criteria and timing of mechanical circulatory support in advanced heart failure. This thesis analyses clinical, haemodynamic, and echocardiographic parameters guiding the choice and timing of devices such as intra aortic balloon pump (IABP) and ventricular assist devices.
Observational analysis of outcomes in patients supported with intra aortic balloon pump in cardiogenic shock. The research evaluates indications, duration of use, haemodynamic improvement, complications, and survival to definitive therapy or recovery.
Study of perioperative complications and early outcomes in patients receiving ventricular assist devices. This project examines bleeding, thrombosis, infection, device malfunction, and right ventricular failure, and correlates these with patient characteristics.
Cross sectional study of quality of life in patients after heart transplantation compared with those on long term inotropic or device support. The thesis uses validated questionnaires to compare physical, emotional, and social functioning in these two groups.
Study of donor management practices and their impact on early graft function in heart transplantation. This research evaluates haemodynamic stabilisation, organ perfusion, and hormonal therapy in donors, and correlates them with primary graft function in recipients.
Observational study of right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device implantation. The project identifies preoperative and intraoperative predictors of right ventricular dysfunction and its impact on early outcomes.
Study of short term extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in patients with postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock. This thesis examines indications, cannulation strategies, complications, and survival in patients supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) after surgery.
Observational analysis of infection patterns in patients with mechanical circulatory support devices. The research documents driveline infections, sepsis, prophylactic strategies, and their effect on long term outcomes.
Study of ethical and psychosocial issues in candidate selection and follow up of heart transplant recipients. This project explores patient and family perspectives, adherence challenges, psychological adjustment, and quality of counselling in a transplant programme.

8. Extracorporeal Life Support and Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Observational study of complications related to cardiopulmonary bypass in adult cardiac surgery. The thesis documents bleeding, neurological events, renal dysfunction, and inflammatory response, and examines their association with CPB duration, temperature, and perfusion strategies.
Study of low flow and ultrafiltration strategies during cardiopulmonary bypass and their effect on postoperative fluid balance. This project evaluates use of conventional and modified ultrafiltration and correlates them with haemodynamics, lung function, and intensive care unit stay.
Comparative study of pulsatile and non pulsatile perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass. The research compares renal function, neurological outcomes, and inflammatory markers between patients receiving pulsatile and non pulsatile flow.
Study of anticoagulation monitoring during cardiopulmonary bypass using activated clotting time and additional coagulation tests. This thesis assesses adequacy of heparinisation, protamine reversal, and relationship with bleeding and thrombotic complications.
Observational study of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for respiratory and cardiac failure in a CVTS unit. The project evaluates indications, patient profile, duration of ECMO, complications, and survival in both venoarterial and venovenous configurations.
Study of weaning protocols from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery. This research examines echocardiographic and haemodynamic criteria used to assess readiness for weaning and outcomes after successful or failed weaning attempts.
Comparative analysis of central and peripheral cannulation strategies for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The thesis compares complications such as limb ischaemia, bleeding, and difficulty in mobilisation between central and peripheral cannulation.
Study of neurologic complications in patients supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. This project documents stroke, seizures, and cognitive changes, and evaluates risk factors and preventive practices.
Observational study of staffing patterns, training, and workload in perfusion services in a CVTS programme. The research examines perfusionist staffing, case volumes, training practices, and self reported stress and fatigue.
Study of infection prevention strategies in extracorporeal support circuits. This thesis evaluates catheter care protocols, circuit change policies, and antimicrobial strategies and their impact on infection rates.

9. Postoperative Outcomes and Critical Care in CVTS

Observational study of causes and predictors of prolonged intensive care unit stay after cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. The project identifies preoperative comorbidities, operative complexity, and postoperative complications associated with intensive care unit stay beyond the expected duration.
Study of ventilator associated pneumonia in post CVTS patients and its risk factors. This thesis examines incidence, microbiology, ventilator practices, and impact on hospital stay and mortality in patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation.
Study of acute kidney injury in the postoperative CVTS intensive care unit. The research evaluates incidence, staging, need for dialysis, and association with outcomes, and identifies modifiable perioperative risk factors.
Cross sectional study of pain assessment and analgesia practices in the CVTS intensive care unit. This project examines adequacy of pain documentation, use of multimodal analgesia, and correlation between pain control, mobilisation, and respiratory function.
Study of delirium in postoperative CVTS patients using validated screening tools. The thesis assesses incidence, duration, predisposing and precipitating factors, and association with length of stay and mortality.
Observational analysis of nutrition practices in postoperative CVTS intensive care and their association with outcomes. This research evaluates timing and route of nutrition, caloric adequacy, and relationship with infection, wound healing, and length of hospitalisation.
Study of readmission to CVTS intensive care unit after initial transfer to the ward. The project identifies causes, risk factors, and mortality associated with readmission, and examines possible improvements in discharge criteria and monitoring.
Study of physiotherapy and early mobilisation programmes in postoperative CVTS patients. This thesis evaluates feasibility, safety, functional outcomes, and impact on intensive care unit and hospital stay of structured mobilisation protocols.
Observational study of bleeding and transfusion practices in the postoperative CVTS period. The research examines chest drainage patterns, triggers for transfusion, use of blood products, and adherence to protocol based transfusion strategies.
Study of long term survival and quality of life after major cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. This project assesses survival at one and three years, functional capacity, symptom status, and patient reported quality of life using validated instruments.

10. Surgical Innovations, Biomaterials, and Emerging Technologies

Study of outcomes with newer generation bioprosthetic valves in Indian patients. This thesis evaluates early haemodynamic performance, structural valve degeneration, valve related events, and patient satisfaction with contemporary bioprosthetic valves.
Observational study of use of biological and synthetic meshes in chest wall reconstruction after tumour resection. The research examines indications for different materials, infection rates, structural stability, respiratory function, and cosmetic outcomes.
Study of tissue glues and sealants in reduction of postoperative bleeding and air leaks in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. This project assesses indications, application techniques, and their impact on drainage output, transfusion requirements, and hospital stay.
Cross sectional analysis of three dimensional imaging and printing in preoperative planning for complex CVTS procedures. The thesis evaluates surgeon perception, intraoperative utility, and changes in operative strategy based on three dimensional models where available.
Study of adoption and early outcomes of enhanced recovery after surgery protocols in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. This research assesses adherence to elements such as early feeding, mobilisation, and multimodal analgesia, and their association with complications and length of stay.
Observational study of telemedicine and remote follow up for postoperative CVTS patients. The project evaluates feasibility, patient satisfaction, detection of complications, and reduction in unnecessary hospital visits using teleconsultation.
Study of hospital infection control bundles and their impact on surgical site infection rates in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. This thesis examines implementation of bundles, compliance rates, and changes in superficial and deep infection rates over time.
Study of simulation based training modules for CVTS residents. The research evaluates impact of simulation on technical skills such as anastomosis, crisis resource management, confidence, and assessment scores in trainees.
Observational analysis of radiation exposure to CVTS surgeons and staff during hybrid and fluoroscopy guided procedures. This project measures exposure levels, use of protective equipment, and adherence to radiation safety practices in hybrid operating rooms.
Study of digital data registries and their role in quality improvement in CVTS. The thesis evaluates establishment and use of structured databases for outcomes tracking, benchmarking, and audit of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery services.
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