Heart and vascular surgery
If your heart or blood vessels have been damaged — by conditions such as heart failure or congenital heart abnormalities — cardiovascular surgeons work to repair them. They may use traditional surgery or minimally invasive approaches, which can enable a faster recovery for you.
Heart conditions we treat
Our surgeons treat and manage a variety of heart-related issues, such as:
- Atrial septal defect
- Constrictive pericarditis
- Heart murmur
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Valve prolapse
- Valve regurgitation
- Valve stenosis
Heart and vascular surgical services
Our surgical solutions cater to a broad spectrum of heart conditions, including treatment for birth abnormalities.
Heart and vascular surgery
At our medical centers, we perform heart and vascular surgery, including open heart, bypass and valve surgery. We also treat aortic disease. Our heart hospital specializes in minimally invasive surgery and cardiovascular procedures that include:
Vascular surgery
In addition to our comprehensive heart surgery program, St. David’s HealthCare offers specialized vascular surgery focused on diseases of the arteries and veins outside of the heart.
Our board-certified vascular surgeons treat complex circulatory conditions using both traditional open surgery and advanced minimally invasive, catheter-based techniques. From preventive screenings to emergency intervention, we provide coordinated, patient-centered care for the full spectrum of vascular disease.
Advanced aortic care
Our surgeons have extensive experience in treating aortic disease, including abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms.
An aortic aneurysm occurs when a weakened area of the aorta begins to bulge. Many aneurysms develop silently with few symptoms, making screening and early detection critical. If left untreated, they can become life-threatening.
Depending on the size, location and overall health of the patient, treatment options may include:
- Careful monitoring with advanced imaging
- Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR/TEVAR) using minimally invasive techniques
- Open surgical repair for complex cases
Our surgeons work closely with cardiology, imaging specialists and critical care teams to ensure seamless, comprehensive care — from diagnosis through recovery.
Comprehensive vascular services
We provide expert treatment for a wide range of vascular conditions, including:
Our goal is to restore healthy blood flow, relieve symptoms, prevent complications such as stroke or limb loss and improve overall quality of life.
Minimally invasive options
Whenever appropriate, our vascular surgeons utilize minimally invasive endovascular procedures that may offer:
- Smaller incisions
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery times
- Reduced postoperative discomfort
For patients who require complex open procedures, our surgical teams offer deep expertise and a steadfast commitment to the safety and quality standards that define St. David’s HealthCare.
Coordinated care
Vascular disease often overlaps with heart disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions. Our vascular program is fully integrated within our broader cardiovascular services. Patients benefit from a collaborative team approach that includes heart specialists, imaging experts, wound care professionals and rehabilitation services.
Structural heart procedures and care
Catheter-based valve replacement is a less invasive alternative to traditional open heart surgery. Catheter-based valve replacement has many potential benefits, including reduced pain, a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery time.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)
If you are intermediate or considered high risk for traditional surgery, another option is transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). During this minimally invasive procedure, your failing aortic valve is replaced using a catheter and imaging technology.
Heart arrhythmia management
If you need heart arrhythmia treatment, we offer a variety of surgical procedures, including:
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation
- Pacemaker implantation
- Radiofrequency ablation
Our surgical teams
A specialized team of cardiothoracic surgeons and interventional cardiologists work together to build your comprehensive and customized treatment plan. Your cardiologist will oversee your general heart health, while an extensively trained structural heart specialist will focus on specific internal heart issues.
Other medical professionals who may assist in treatment include:
- Cardiovascular surgeons
- Electrophysiologists
- Vascular surgeons
For more information about our treatment options for structural heart disease, call (512) 407-7000 or (512) 477-2211.