Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery

Advances in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery

Scripps Health has long been recognized as a leader in cardiovascular care, distinguished by our renowned specialists, advanced technology and landmark research. Among these specialists are the dedicated and highly experienced surgeons of Scripps Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Group. These physicians perform some of the most innovative cardiovascular and thoracic surgery options. One of these innovative treatment options is robotic cardiothoracic surgery, which is performed by Dr. James Hemp.

Our physicians have performed more heart surgery and thoracic surgeries than any other surgical group in San Diego, making Scripps Health the premier choice for cardiovascular and lung care.

Cardiovascular and thoracic procedures performed by the group include:

Cardiac surgery

• Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG)
  A heart surgery designed to re-route blood and oxygen due to a blockage in the normal pathway
• Valve repair and replacement, including percutaneous aortic valve implant
• Robotic surgery for coronaries and valves
• Atrial and ventricular septal defect repairs
  A heart surgery to repair holes or defects in the heart’s chambers
• Aneurysm surgery
  A procedure to repair a balloon in the wall of an artery due to a weakened portion of the blood vessel
• Cardiac arrhythmia surgery, including Maze procedure
• Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) procedure for advanced and end-stage heart failure

Thoracic Surgery

• Lung resection
  Surgery to repair or remove a portion of the lung
• Lung biopsy
  The removal of a small portion of the lung to check for disease
• Lung reduction
  Surgical removal of diseased lung tissue to allow healthy lung tissue to function better
• Mediastinoscopy
  An instrument is inserted into the neck to help a surgeon better see the structure of the lungs
• Lung pleurodesis
  A procedure to adhere the membranes around the lung together to prevent the buildup of fluid between tissue
• Lung decortication
  A surgical peeling of the lining of the lung to improve lung expansion
• Bleb resection/stapling
  The stapling of a bubble on the lung surface to prevent leakage and improve lung function
• Pericardial window
  An opening made between the ribs to drain fluid that has accumulated around the heart
• Trachea and esophagus surgery
  Surgery to correct conditions of the trachea and esophagus
• Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)
  Surgery on the lungs performed with the aid of an endoscope