Top 25 Cardiac Surgeons Across the US
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What is a Cardiothoracic Surgeon?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A cardiothoracic surgeon is a highly specialized physician who performs surgical procedures on the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other organs within the chest cavity. These surgeons treat life-threatening conditions including coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, aortic aneurysms, congenital heart defects, and lung cancers. Cardiothoracic surgery requires exceptional technical precision, as procedures often involve stopping the heart and utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass machines to maintain circulation during complex repairs.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 5-7 years of general surgery residency with comprehensive surgical training
- 2-3 years of cardiothoracic surgery fellowship specializing in heart and lung procedures
- Total of 14-18 years of education and training beyond high school
- Optional additional fellowship training in congenital heart surgery, heart transplant, or minimally invasive cardiac surgery
Board Certification: American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS). Certification requires completion of an accredited cardiothoracic surgery fellowship and passing rigorous written and oral examinations. Subspecialty certification available in congenital cardiac surgery. Maintenance of certification requires ongoing continuing education and periodic re-examination.
When Should You See a Cardiothoracic Surgeon?
You should consider seeing a cardiothoracic surgeon if:
- You have been diagnosed with severe coronary artery disease requiring bypass surgery (CABG)
- You have a heart valve disorder (stenosis or regurgitation) that requires surgical repair or replacement
- You have been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection
- You have a congenital heart defect requiring surgical correction
- You are being evaluated for heart transplantation or ventricular assist device
- You have been diagnosed with lung cancer or other thoracic tumors requiring surgical removal
- You have pericardial disease or cardiac tumors requiring surgical intervention
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Cardiothoracic Surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that cardiothoracic surgeons help patients manage.
Coronary Artery Disease (CABG)
Blockages in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, often requiring coronary artery bypass grafting when multiple vessels are affected or stenting is not feasible.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cardiothoracic surgeons perform CABG using arteries and veins from other parts of the body to bypass blocked coronary arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart muscle and relieving symptoms while improving survival in appropriate patients.
Heart Valve Disease
Malfunction of one or more heart valves (aortic, mitral, tricuspid, or pulmonary) causing stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leaking), leading to heart failure if untreated.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cardiothoracic surgeons repair diseased valves when possible or replace them with mechanical or bioprosthetic valves. Minimally invasive and transcatheter approaches (TAVR, MitraClip) offer options for high-risk patients.
Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections
Abnormal enlargement or tearing of the aorta, the body's main artery. Thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections are life-threatening conditions requiring urgent or emergency surgical intervention.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cardiothoracic surgeons replace diseased sections of the aorta with synthetic grafts, often requiring circulatory arrest with deep hypothermia for complex repairs. Endovascular stent grafts offer less invasive options for some aneurysms.
Congenital Heart Disease
Structural heart defects present from birth, ranging from simple holes between heart chambers to complex malformations requiring multiple staged surgeries for correction.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Congenital heart surgeons perform intricate repairs of septal defects, valve abnormalities, and complex conditions like tetralogy of Fallot and transposition of great arteries, often operating on newborns and infants.
Heart Failure and Transplantation
End-stage heart failure that no longer responds to medical therapy, potentially requiring mechanical circulatory support devices or heart transplantation.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cardiothoracic surgeons implant ventricular assist devices (VADs) as bridge to transplant or destination therapy, and perform heart transplantation for eligible patients, giving new life to those with end-stage heart failure.
Lung Cancer and Thoracic Tumors
Malignant tumors of the lung, pleura, or mediastinum requiring surgical resection as part of curative or palliative treatment strategies.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Thoracic surgeons perform lobectomy, pneumonectomy, or wedge resection to remove lung cancers while preserving as much healthy lung tissue as possible. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic approaches minimize recovery time.
Transcatheter Valve Procedures (TAVR/TMVR)
Minimally invasive heart valve replacement using catheters inserted through blood vessels rather than open-heart surgery, offering options for patients at high surgical risk.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cardiothoracic surgeons work with interventional cardiologists as the heart team to perform TAVR, placing new valve leaflets inside the diseased native valve through a catheter, avoiding open-heart surgery and enabling faster recovery.
Pericardial and Cardiac Tumors
Diseases of the pericardium (sac surrounding the heart) and tumors arising within the heart chambers requiring surgical intervention.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Cardiothoracic surgeons perform pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis, drain pericardial effusions, and resect cardiac tumors such as myxomas while preserving normal heart structures.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Cardiothoracic Surgeons treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified cardiothoracic surgeon for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive review of cardiac imaging studies (echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization, CT angiography)
- Detailed medical history including all medications, allergies, and previous surgeries
- Physical examination focusing on cardiovascular and pulmonary status
- Discussion of your diagnosis, surgical options, and expected outcomes
- Risk assessment using validated scoring systems (STS risk score for cardiac surgery)
- Review of anesthesia and cardiopulmonary bypass considerations
- Initial consultation typically lasts 45-60 minutes with surgeon and team
Diagnosis & Testing
- Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography to assess heart valves and function
- Coronary angiography (cardiac catheterization) to evaluate coronary artery blockages
- CT angiography for aortic disease, lung masses, and surgical planning
- Pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacity before thoracic surgery
- Stress testing (nuclear or exercise) to evaluate ischemia
- Cardiac MRI for complex structural heart disease and tumor evaluation
- PET scan for staging lung cancer and assessing mediastinal lymph nodes
Treatment Options
- Pre-operative optimization including cardiac rehabilitation, nutrition, and medication adjustments
- Detailed surgical planning with the cardiac anesthesia and perfusion team
- Surgical procedure under general anesthesia, often with cardiopulmonary bypass
- Post-operative intensive care unit monitoring for 1-3 days following major surgery
- Step-down unit recovery with gradual mobilization and cardiac rehabilitation
- Hospital stay typically 4-7 days for CABG, 5-10 days for complex procedures
- Outpatient cardiac rehabilitation and regular follow-up appointments for recovery monitoring
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your cardiothoracic surgeon provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certification by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS)
- Completion of accredited general surgery residency and cardiothoracic fellowship
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Membership in Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) or American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS)
- Hospital privileges at accredited cardiac surgery center
- Additional fellowship training for specialized procedures (congenital, transplant, minimally invasive)
Important Considerations
- Surgeon and program surgical volume - higher volume centers generally have better outcomes
- STS database participation and publicly reported quality outcomes
- Experience with your specific condition and planned procedure
- Availability of complete heart team (interventional cardiology, cardiac anesthesia, perfusion)
- Hospital resources including cardiac ICU, ECMO capability, and 24/7 cardiac surgery coverage
- Surgeon's expertise in minimally invasive or robotic approaches if appropriate
- Outcomes data compared to national benchmarks (mortality, complication rates)
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple cardiothoracic surgeons before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a cardiothoracic surgeon can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$250-$500 (surgical consultation)
Follow-up Visit
$150-$300
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance covers medically necessary cardiothoracic surgery
- Pre-authorization is typically required for cardiac surgery procedures
- Centers of Excellence programs may offer enhanced benefits for cardiac surgery
- Out-of-network surgeons may result in significant out-of-pocket costs
- Heart transplant coverage varies significantly between insurance plans
- Cardiac rehabilitation is usually covered but may require separate authorization
Medicare Information
Medicare Part A covers inpatient cardiothoracic surgery including hospital stay, operating room, anesthesia, and post-operative care. Part B covers surgeon's professional fees at 80% after deductible. Medicare covers TAVR at approved centers meeting volume requirements. Heart transplant is covered at Medicare-approved transplant centers. Cardiac rehabilitation is covered following qualifying cardiac events.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your cardiothoracic surgeon is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a cardiothoracic surgeon.
How many of these procedures do you and your hospital perform annually?
What are your personal outcomes compared to national benchmarks?
Is minimally invasive surgery an option for my condition?
What are the specific risks given my medical history and anatomy?
What type of valve do you recommend and why?
How long will I be in the ICU and hospital?
What is the cardiac rehabilitation plan after surgery?
Will the same surgical team be involved throughout my care?
Does your center participate in the STS National Database?
What happens if there are complications during or after surgery?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a cardiothoracic surgeon, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Sudden severe chest pain radiating to back or jaw - may indicate aortic dissection or heart attack requiring emergency surgery
- Severe shortness of breath with inability to lie flat - may indicate acute heart failure or cardiac tamponade
- Coughing up blood or massive hemoptysis - may indicate pulmonary hemorrhage requiring urgent intervention
- Sudden loss of pulse or consciousness - may indicate cardiac arrest requiring immediate resuscitation
- New stroke symptoms (weakness, speech changes) after cardiac surgery - may indicate embolic complication
- High fever with sternal wound drainage after surgery - may indicate deep sternal wound infection (mediastinitis)
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Cardiothoracic Surgeon vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Cardiothoracic Surgeon vs. Cardiologist
A cardiologist diagnoses and treats heart conditions primarily with medications and monitors heart disease progression. A cardiothoracic surgeon performs surgical procedures when medical therapy or catheter interventions are insufficient. Many patients see both - the cardiologist manages ongoing care while the surgeon performs necessary operations. Interventional cardiologists perform stents and work alongside surgeons for procedures like TAVR.
Cardiothoracic Surgeon vs. Vascular Surgeon
Cardiothoracic surgeons focus on the heart, lungs, and thoracic aorta (within the chest). Vascular surgeons treat blood vessel diseases throughout the body, including the abdominal aorta and peripheral arteries. There is overlap in treating the thoracoabdominal aorta, where both specialties may operate. Some conditions like thoracoabdominal aneurysms may require both surgeons working together.
Cardiothoracic Surgeon vs. Pulmonologist
A pulmonologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats lung diseases with medications, oxygen, and other non-surgical therapies. A thoracic surgeon operates on lung conditions when surgery is needed, such as for lung cancer resection. They work together - the pulmonologist often diagnoses lung cancer and optimizes lung function, while the surgeon performs the operation.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about cardiothoracic surgeons is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about cardiac surgeons
What is the difference between a cardiac surgeon and a cardiologist?
A cardiologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart conditions primarily with medications and catheter-based interventions (like stents). A cardiac surgeon is a surgeon who performs open-heart and other surgical procedures to treat heart disease. They work together as the heart team - the cardiologist often identifies the problem and refers to the surgeon when surgery is the best option. Some procedures, like TAVR, require both specialists working together.
How dangerous is open-heart surgery?
Modern open-heart surgery is remarkably safe at experienced centers. For isolated CABG in average-risk patients, the operative mortality is approximately 1-2%. Risk varies significantly based on the procedure complexity, patient age, and presence of other conditions. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) risk calculator provides personalized estimates. High-volume centers with experienced teams typically have better outcomes.
What is the recovery time after heart surgery?
Hospital stay for CABG is typically 4-7 days. Full recovery takes 6-12 weeks, during which patients gradually increase activity. Sternal bone healing takes 6-8 weeks - during this time, patients cannot lift heavy objects or drive. Cardiac rehabilitation programs help optimize recovery. Most patients return to normal activities within 3 months, though some may take longer depending on their overall health and procedure complexity.
Is minimally invasive heart surgery an option for everyone?
Not everyone is a candidate for minimally invasive approaches. Factors like anatomy, body size, previous surgeries, and the specific procedure needed determine eligibility. Minimally invasive surgery offers benefits including smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery, but the priority is always achieving the best surgical result safely. Your surgeon will recommend the approach that offers you the best outcome.
How long do heart valve replacements last?
Mechanical valves can last a lifetime but require lifelong blood thinners (warfarin). Bioprosthetic (tissue) valves from cow or pig tissue avoid blood thinners but typically last 10-20 years depending on patient age and valve position. Younger patients' tissue valves may wear out faster. TAVR valves have shown excellent durability at 5-10 years, with ongoing studies tracking longer-term outcomes.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards