Cardiothoracic Surgery - Overview

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What is cardiothoracic surgery?

Cardiothoracic surgery is a type of specialty surgery that involves procedures on the organs in the chest cavity (thorax), such as the heart, aorta, lungs and oesophagus.

These surgical procedures include open-chest operations, thoracoscopic procedures and robotically-assisted surgeries.

A cardiothoracic surgeon is a specialist who surgically treats conditions of the organs in the thorax.

Differences between cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiologists

While cardiothoracic surgeons are trained in a surgical specialty, cardiologists are trained in internal medicine. As part of your heart team, they work closely together on the various aspects of your care.

A cardiologist specialises in the diagnosis and medical treatment of heart disease. They may also perform minor surgical procedures such as angioplasty and stenting, cardiac ablation and pacemaker implantation.

Your cardiologist will refer you to a cardiothoracic surgeon if you need complex surgery, such as a coronary artery bypass or heart valve repair.

The cardiothoracic surgeon will manage your care directly after your surgery, in consultation with your cardiologist. Once you are discharged, your cardiologist will typically take over for your long-term care.

Our approach

At Mount Elizabeth Hospitals, we have built a reputation for offering quality and personalised cardiovascular care and treatment for our heart patients.

We were one of the earliest hospitals in Singapore to successfully implant a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in a patient with advanced heart failure, to help give them a new lease on life.

You will have access to our experienced team of cardiothoracic surgeons, trusted in the region for their skills and experience in treating a wide spectrum of heart conditions.

Our well-equipped hospital facilities and multidisciplinary medical team ensure that you get the care and focus you deserve on your journey to recovery.

Why choose Mount Elizabeth Hospitals?

Strategically located in the heart of Singapore's city district, Mount Elizabeth Hospital is a trusted medical institution in the region for cardiovascular expertise and technologies.

Our selection of well-designed hospital rooms and trained professional nurses put your experience at the centre of our focus.