At Tampa General’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Center, we deliver world-class care for complex heart and lung conditions. As a national leader in advanced procedures, we are redefining what’s possible in cardiac care. 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 Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantation using 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.
Patients referred to our center benefit from innovative, minimally invasive procedures such as sternal-sparing mitral and tricuspid valve repair, and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) combined with robotic bypass techniques. These approaches support faster recovery and improved outcomes, especially for high-risk patients.
Why Choose TGH
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.
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.
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 Top 50 in the Nation for Heart & Vascular care in 2025-26. Additionally, Newsweek has ranked TGH as the #1 hospital in Tampa and West Central Florida for Cardiac Care for 2025.
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.
Our Team
Conditions Treated
The multidisciplinary team in TGH’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Center of Excellence provides expertise for all types of cardiothoracic conditions, including:
- Angina
- Aortic Aneurysms
- Aortic Dissections
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Endocarditis
- Valvular Disease
- Cardiomyopathy
- Mechanical Circulatory Support Needs
- Heart and Lung Transplantation
Treatment Options
TGH’s Cardiothoracic Cancer of Excellence offers the latest treatment options for cardiothoracic related conditions, including:
- Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery
- Aortic Valve Replacement
- Mitral Valve Replacement and Repair
- Pulmonic Valve Replacement
- Tricuspid Valve Replacement
- Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantation
- Minimally Invasive Robotic Valvular Procedures
- Adult Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
- Open Heart Transplant
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.
