Also known as: Hole in the heart
14-month-old Arthur has multiple VSDs with cardiomyopathy and heart failure, requiring ECMO support while awaiting heart transplant. The episode centers on an innovative surgical procedure to remove his ventricles and install a total artificial heart pump to bridge him to transplant.
Also known as: Heart failure
Arthur's heart muscle dysfunction is part of his complex cardiac condition requiring artificial heart support and eventual transplantation.
Also known as: Broken pelvis
Newlywed Shayne sustains an unstable open-book pelvic fracture in a motor vehicle accident, requiring surgical repair. The injury serves as backdrop for the marital drama between him and his wife.
Also known as: Head laceration
Karissa has a small brain contusion with minor bleed from the car accident. The injury is medically minor but drives plot as doctors joke about whether it could excuse her selfish behavior toward her husband.
Also known as: Coronavirus
Meredith remains hospitalized on a ventilator recovering from COVID-19. Jo visits her bedside to discuss career decisions. This is part of Meredith's season-long COVID illness arc.
Also known as: Heroin addiction
Amelia discusses her ongoing recovery and current cravings to use marijuana, which she identifies as a relapse risk. Link supports her commitment to staying sober. This is part of her recurring sobriety storyline.