Cardiothoracic Surgery Center of Excellence | Tampa General Hospital

At Tampa General, patients referred to our innovative cardiothoracic surgery program benefit from cutting-edge, minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgical procedures with superior outcomes. These include minimally invasive valve and coronary artery bypass surgeries such as sternal-sparing mitral and tricuspid valve repair, replacement procedures, and robotic-assisted surgeries.

 Leaders in Surgical Advancement

Tampa General’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Center performs a high volume of advanced cardiothoracic surgeries annually, with expertise in both heart and lung transplants as well. Our team leads the way in innovative treatments, performing the first robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass surgery in Tampa Bay as well as the area's first minimally invasive Left Ventrical Assist Device (LVAD) implantation utilizing the latest device. Through a multidisciplinary approach focused on patients' heart, lung and vascular conditions, our team of surgeons and specialists treat a high volume of heart patients every year, resulting in a level of surgical expertise and skill that is among the best in the country. 

 Specializing in TAVR and CABG Procedures

Interventional cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons at Tampa General are leaders in the field of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures combined with robotic minimally invasive coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedures. 

Our program is led by Dr. Lucian Lozonschi, who used breakthrough technology to help pioneer a hybrid robotic coronary revascularization procedure, which combines interventional coronary stent placement with robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to make it possible for patients with multiple blocked arteries to benefit from CABG without cardiopulmonary bypass. This procedure is especially beneficial to women, older patients, and high-risk patients with advanced lung, kidney, and liver disease. 

 At the Forefront of Innovation

Tampa General was the first in Florida and fifth in the nation to implant the Impella RP flex, a minimally invasive right ventricular assist device. Shortly after, TGH was first in the world to implant both left and right ventricular assist devices, the Heartmate 3 and Impella RP flex, in combination.

 Nationally Recognized Care

Tampa General Hospital is known for providing world-class care and our collaboration with the University of South Florida has placed us at the forefront of innovation in the vascular treatment landscape.  

Because of our commitment to excellent care, U.S. News & World Report has recognized Tampa General Hospital as “high performing" in Heart & Vascular care, meaning we are ranked in the top 10% in the nation for 2023-24.

The Cardiothoracic Surgery team has also received a three-star rating, the highest rating a program can receive, from the Society for Thoracic Surgeons (STS) for pre-operative Beta Blockade. 

Joe's Story 

Support Services

At Tampa General, we are committed to providing world-class care for patients’ heart, lungs and chest, which goes well beyond diagnosis and treatment. To help meet any needs that may arise, we offer a comprehensive range of support services to patients throughout their care journey to recovery.

Our truly robust approach to treating cardiothoracic conditions includes cardiac rehabilitation, nutrition counseling, health psychology, support groups, and financial support services among other resources. Dedicated nurse navigators also interact closely with patients to assist them through the care process, answering any questions, providing support and addressing any concerns along the way.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program

Tampa General Hospital and the Integrative Medicine and Arts department offer Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), an initiative that supports self-care education and tools that participants can use for the rest of their lives. Learn more about our MBSR program.

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