For centuries, the heart was believed to be an inoperable organ. Through the development of new technologies and techniques, the initial difficulties inherent with operating on a moving organ began to fade. But as surgeons in the last century pushed the boundaries of cardiac repair, new problems arose. To solve them, they enlisted the help of physiologists, residents and engineers. By taking a multidisciplinary approach, sharing information and ideas, and working collaboratively, University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic investigators found themselves at the forefront of cardiac surgery. This article reviews Minnesota's contributions to the field.