Manuel J. Antunes

Faculty (United Kingdom), Hospitais da Universidade de Coimbra

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Total Citations

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About

Manuel J. Antunes is a pioneering cardiac surgeon whose career has been defined by transformative contributions to mitral valve surgery, particularly in the treatment of degenerative mitral regurgitation. His landmark 2017 study on mitral valve repair (MVRepair) established it as the gold-standard procedure, demonstrating its clear superiority over valve replacement in preserving left ventricular function and improving long-term survival—work that has earned 69 citations and shaped international surgical guidelines. Antunes’ research spans the evolution of mitral valve management, from his historical analysis of open-heart surgery’s pioneers to modern robotic techniques, as seen in his 2008 review. Beyond his published work, he is recognized for advancing surgical education and patient outcomes in Portugal and globally, having trained generations of surgeons. With a career that bridges the legacy of Lillehei’s first open mitral repair to contemporary minimally invasive approaches, Antunes remains a vital voice in cardiothoracic surgery, championing evidence-based, patient-centered care that has saved countless lives.