Why Choose Baptist Health for Heart Surgery Care
When it comes to heart surgery, experience, innovation, and personalized care make all the difference. At Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, we are proud to be the region’s most comprehensive heart surgery program. Our nationally recognized cardiac surgeons perform thousands of procedures each year using robotic-assisted, endoscopic, and minimally invasive techniques. From routine bypass surgeries to the most complex aortic and valve repairs, we tailor every treatment to the individual, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery: Faster Recovery, Less Pain, Better Outcomes
Our cardiac surgeons use minimally invasive procedures, such as open heart, endoscopic and robotic surgery, whenever possible. These techniques offer several benefits compared to open heart surgery, including:
- Faster recovery
- Fewer activity restrictions
- Less pain and scarring
- Lower risk of infection
- Shorter hospital stay
Not all surgeries are right for all patients. That’s why we take an individualized approach. Sometimes, an open heart procedure may be the better option. Your doctor will discuss which approach may be best for you.
Our Approach
We understand surgery isn’t always the first step. That’s why our heart surgeons collaborate with cardiologists and other specialists to personalize your treatment plan. Our team uses the most advanced technologies available, delivering compassionate care and outstanding outcomes.
When You May Need Heart Surgery
Aortic Aneurysms
Aortic Dissections
Arrhythmias (Abnormal Heart Rhythms)
Congenital Heart Defects
Specialized Centers at Baptist Health
Center for Aortic Disease
Center for Coronary Artery Disease
Center for Heart Valves
Center for Robotic Heart & Vascular Surgery
By the Numbers: Heart Surgery
50%+ of heart surgeries at Baptist Health are minimally invasive, reducing recovery time by up to 40%.
Robotic surgery patients experience 30% fewer complications and shorter hospital stays.
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) program earned a 3-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, their highest honor.
Up to 70% of AFib strokes are preventable with appropriate monitoring and therapy.
Popular Conditions and Treatments
What to Expect
Cardiac surgery can be a complex process. Our experienced team will guide you, ensuring you have the necessary information and resources. We’ve created a helpful booklet so you know what to expect before, during and after surgery. This booklet provides details about:
- How to prepare for heart surgery
- What usually happens after surgery in the hospital
- What you can do to enhance your recovery
Booklet: What to Know Before and After Your Heart Surgery
Embarking on the journey of cardiac surgery is a significant step towards a healthier heart. At Baptist Health, our dedicated team of cardiac surgeons is committed to providing exceptional care throughout your surgical experience.
Types of Heart Surgery
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In minimally invasive endovascular surgery, the surgeon creates two small (often just one- to two-inch) incisions in your groin area. Then, the surgeon inserts long, thin tubes (catheters) through the blood vessels in the groin. The surgeon advances surgical tools through the catheters to operate on areas of concern in and around the heart. Surgeons can use endovascular techniques for:
- Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation (Mini-Maze): A procedure to treat irregular heart rhythms (atrial fibrillation) by creating small scars in the heart tissue to help restore a normal rhythm.
- Aortic Arch Repair: A surgery to fix problems in the aorta that could be damaged or weakened, often caused by an aneurysm.
- Aortic Repair: A surgery to fix problems in the aorta, such as an aneurysm or tear, to prevent bursting.
- Aortic Root Repair (Endo-Bentall): A surgery to repair a weakened area at the base of the aorta, sometimes including valve replacement.
- Atrial Septal Defect Repairs: A procedure where a stent is placed in the aorta to strengthen it and prevent rupture or damage.
- Ascending Aortic Repair: A surgery to fix issues with the ascending aorta, often due to an aneurysm or tear.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (MICS CABG): A minimally invasive surgery that uses a graft to bypass blocked heart arteries.
- Heart Valve Replacement or Repair (Aortic, Mitral, Pulmonary, Tricuspid): Surgery to restore proper valve function.
- Left Atrial Appendage Closure: A procedure to close off a small pouch in the heart to reduce stroke risk.
- MICS Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR): Replacement of a damaged aortic valve via a minimally invasive method.
- MICS Mitral Valve Repair: Repair of a leaking or narrowed mitral valve.
- MICS Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR): Replacement of a diseased mitral valve.
- MICS Tricuspid Valve Repair: Surgery to repair the tricuspid valve and improve blood flow.
- Structural Heart Surgery (e.g., TAVR): Surgeries addressing structural heart problems like valve replacements without open-heart surgery.
- Thoraco-Abdomen Repair: Surgery to repair major blood vessel issues in the chest and abdomen.
- Tumor Removal: Surgery to remove tumors from the heart or surrounding area.
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Open heart surgery involves making an incision in the chest to access and operate on the heart. Surgeons use open heart surgery for:
- Aortic Arch Repair (Hybrid or Full Arch): Treatment for aneurysms or tears in the aortic arch.
- Aortic Dissection Repair (Type A): Emergency surgery for a tear in the aorta’s inner lining.
- Aortic Repair: Repair of any damaged or enlarged aortic segments.
- Aortic Root Replacement (Bentall Procedure): Replacement of the aortic root and often the valve.
- Ascending Aortic Aneurysm Repair: Repair of aneurysms in the ascending aorta.
- Arrhythmia Surgery: Correction of abnormal heart rhythms.
- Atrial Septal Defect Repair: Closure of a hole between the atria.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG): Creation of new blood flow paths around blocked arteries.
- Device Removal (e.g., Pacemakers): Removal of no-longer-needed or malfunctioning devices.
- Heart Valve Replacement or Repair: Includes the Ross procedure using the patient's own valve.
- Laser Lead Removal: Minimally invasive removal of pacemaker leads.
- Mitral Valve Repair: Surgical repair of a mitral valve.
- Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR): Replacement of a diseased mitral valve.
- Pulmonary Valve Replacement: Replacing a malfunctioning pulmonary valve.
- Ross Procedure: Uses the patient’s pulmonary valve to replace the aortic valve.
- Tricuspid Valve Repair or Replacement: Surgical treatment of the tricuspid valve.
- Tumor Removal: Surgery to remove heart tumors.
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Robotic heart surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery where the surgeon uses a robotic system for precise control. Available procedures include:
- Arrhythmia Surgery: Robotic correction of irregular heart rhythms.
- Atrial Septal Defect Repairs: Robotic closure of atrial holes with precision.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG): Robotic-assisted artery bypass surgery with smaller incisions.
- Heart Valve Repair and Replacement: Robotic valve surgeries with faster recovery times.
- Tumor Removal: Robotic removal of cardiac tumors with minimal incisions.
Advanced Heart Surgery Resources
The prospect of heart surgery can feel overwhelming. But it’s reassuring to know that Baptist Health offers state-of-the-art facilities and programs to help you along your way. Read about some of our facilities and programs below.
Talk to your healthcare team if you have any questions or concerns about an upcoming surgery. They are here to make your experience positive with as little stress as possible.
We offer a cutting-edge hybrid operating room that integrates advanced imaging and endovascular and surgical technologies in one location. Our surgeons perform procedures with high-quality angiographic imaging, eliminating the need for separate visits. This streamlined approach allows for a quicker anesthesia process, shorter procedure times, and reduced recovery time and complications.
Immediately after open heart, thoracic or vascular surgery, you will need a high level of care. We offer critical care units dedicated to our surgery patients to ensure you get the attentive care you need from our specially trained nursing staff. We also have a coronary intervention unit and a cardiac stepdown unit.
Successfully performing your surgery is only part of what we do. Our expert team also provides supervised rehabilitation services to help you recover faster so you can return to your everyday life as soon as possible.
Patient Testimonials: Real Stories, Real Results
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedures take about three to six hours.
The exact time depends on how complex your case is, the surgical approach used and how many blood vessels need to be bypassed.
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Off-pump CABG is a type of bypass surgery performed while the heart is still beating.
In traditional CABG, the heart is temporarily stopped and a heart-lung machine is used to circulate blood. In off-pump procedures, surgeons operate on the beating heart without using this machine.
Both approaches are safe and effective. Off-pump CABG may be considered for certain patients, depending on their condition and the surgeon’s experience.
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After surgery, you will be cared for in the cardiovascular intensive care unit, where your condition is closely monitored.
When you wake up, you may be connected to several tubes and monitors, including a breathing tube that supports your breathing until it is safe to remove. Your care team will focus on keeping you comfortable and helping you begin recovery.
Within one to two days, most patients move from the intensive care unit to a regular hospital room. The total hospital stay is typically five to seven days.
Recovery usually takes four to six weeks, although it may take longer to feel fully recovered. Cardiac rehabilitation is often recommended to help rebuild strength, stamina and confidence.
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Yes. Some heart valve procedures can be performed using minimally invasive techniques.
These approaches use smaller incisions in the chest and may lead to faster recovery compared to traditional open-heart surgery. The best approach depends on your specific condition and whether additional procedures are needed at the same time.
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Treatment decisions depend on several factors related to your condition and overall health.
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a balloon and often a stent to open a blocked artery. Bypass surgery creates a new pathway for blood to flow around the blockage.
Your care team considers factors such as:
- How well your heart is functioning
- The number of blocked arteries and severity of blockages
- The complexity of the blockage locations
- The reason for your current symptoms or hospitalization
- Your overall health and medical history
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Driving too soon after surgery can strain your incision and may be unsafe if you are taking pain medication.
Most people can begin driving again about four weeks after surgery, depending on the procedure and their recovery. Your care team will let you know when it is safe for you to resume driving.
Our Locations
Cardiothoracic Surgery | Boca Raton (Lynn Heart & Vascular Institute)
Cardiothoracic Surgery | Boca Raton (Cooperman Pavilion)
Cardiothoracic Surgery | Boynton Beach (Seacrest)
Pioneering The Cures Of Tomorrow
Our researchers play a vital role in helping us better understand heart and vascular disease. They participate in a wide variety of clinical trials dedicated to improving treatments that will ultimately lead to better patient outcomes. Learn more about their work and what it means to be involved in a clinical trial.
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