Historical perspective of cardiovascular devices and techniques associated with the University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota has a unique history relative to advances in cardiovascular research, surgery, and the development of medical devices. Interestingly, the writing of this textbook coincides with two important anniversaries in cardiovascular medicine at the University. Sixty years ago, in 1954, cross-circulation for intracardiac operations was first introduced, sparking a number of innovations in the area of open-heart surgery. Additionally, in 2014, the University of Minnesota celebrated the 800th heart transplant performed since 1978 and sustains one of the longest-running heart transplant centers in the world. In this chapter, we will review some of this history and how it has led to the creation of a dynamic medical device industry in the state of Minnesota and surrounding regions.