Best Cardiothoracic Surgeons in Mesa

Introduction to Cardiothoracic Medicine in Mesa

Overview of Cardiothoracic Medicine

Cardiothoracic medicine is a specialized field focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the heart, lungs, and chest.

This specialty encompasses a wide range of conditions, including heart disease, lung cancer, and thoracic disorders.

Cardiothoracic specialists often work closely with cardiologists and pulmonologists to provide comprehensive care.

Importance of Cardiothoracic Medicine in Mesa

Mesa, like many cities in Arizona, has a significant population affected by heart and lung conditions.

Access to skilled cardiothoracic specialists is essential for managing these complex health issues effectively.

Advanced cardiothoracic care can significantly improve quality of life and longevity for patients with heart and lung diseases.

Cardiothoracic Medical Landscape in Mesa

Mesa boasts several well-equipped medical facilities offering advanced cardiothoracic care.

Banner Gateway Medical Center is a prominent institution mentioned in the doctor profiles, indicating its significance in cardiothoracic medicine in the area.

The presence of highly rated specialists suggests that Mesa residents have access to quality cardiothoracic care.

Choosing a Cardiothoracic Medicine Specialist in Mesa

Understanding Cardiothoracic Medicine

Definition and scope of cardiothoracic medicine

• Focus on heart, lungs, and chest (thorax)
• Combines cardiology and thoracic surgery

Common conditions treated

• Heart disease
• Lung disorders
• Chest wall abnormalities

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Specialist

Qualifications and Certifications

• Board certifications (e.g., American Board of Thoracic Surgery)
• Educational background and training

Experience and Expertise

• Years in practice
• Specializations within cardiothoracic medicine

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Overall star rating
• Number of patient reviews

Hospital Affiliations

• Quality of affiliated hospitals
• Convenience of hospital locations

Top-Rated Cardiothoracic Specialists in Mesa

Dr. Elbert Kuo

• 5.0-star rating with 121 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Affiliated with Banner Gateway Medical Center

Dr. John Breard

• 5.0-star rating with 35 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Affiliated with multiple Banner Health facilities

Dr. Walter Wakwe

• 5.0-star rating with 103 reviews
• Board-certified in Surgery and Thoracic Surgery
• Expertise in robotic surgery

Making Your Decision

Scheduling consultations

• Prepare questions for the doctor
• Assess communication style and rapport

Considering practical factors

• Location and accessibility
• Insurance coverage and costs

Seeking second opinions

• Importance of multiple perspectives
• Comparing treatment approaches

Top-Ranked Cardiothoracic Medicine Specialists in Mesa

Dr. Elbert Kuo

Qualifications and Experience

• Board-certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Completed residency and fellowship at Barnes Jewish Hospital
• Medical degree from Brown University Alpert Medical School

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating based on 121 reviews
• Speaks English and Mandarin

Hospital Affiliations

• Banner Gateway Medical Center
• Banner Boswell Medical Center
• Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center

Dr. Walter Wakwe

Expertise

• Specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery, Surgical Oncology, and Thoracic Surgery
• Certified by both American Board of Surgery and American Board of Thoracic Surgery

Training and Certifications

• Fellowship in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Emory University
• Intuitive Surgery Robotics Certification

Patient Feedback

• 5.0-star rating based on 103 reviews

Dr. John Breard

Professional Background

• Board-certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Medical degree from LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport School of Medicine

Patient Reviews

• 5.0-star rating based on 35 reviews

Practice Locations

• Banner Gateway Medical Center
• Banner Thunderbird Medical Center
• Banner Boswell Medical Center

Choosing a Cardiothoracic Medicine Specialist in Mesa

Introduction to Cardiothoracic Medicine

Definition and scope of cardiothoracic medicine

• Explanation of cardiovascular and thoracic systems
• Common conditions treated by cardiothoracic specialists

Significance in healthcare

• Impact on patient outcomes
• Advancements in cardiothoracic treatments

Overview of Doctor Selection Process in Mesa

Factors to consider

• Board certifications and qualifications
• Experience and specializations
• Patient reviews and ratings
• Hospital affiliations

Resources for finding cardiothoracic specialists

• Online directories and review platforms
• Referrals from primary care physicians
• Local medical associations

Top-Ranked Cardiothoracic Specialists in Mesa

Dr. Elbert Kuo

• 5.0-star rating with 121 reviews
• Board certified by American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Education: Brown University Alpert Medical School
• Hospital affiliations: Banner Gateway Medical Center, Banner Boswell Medical Center, Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center

Dr. Walter Wakwe

• 5.0-star rating with 103 reviews
• Board certified by American Board of Surgery and American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Education: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
• Specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery, Surgical Oncology, and Thoracic Surgery

Dr. John Breard

• 5.0-star rating with 35 reviews
• Board certified by American Board of Thoracic Surgery
• Education: LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport School of Medicine
• Hospital affiliations: Banner Gateway Medical Center, Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, Banner Boswell Medical Center

Additional Resources for Patients

Preparing for your appointment

• Questions to ask your cardiothoracic specialist
• Medical history and documentation to bring

Understanding your treatment options

• Overview of common cardiothoracic procedures
• Importance of follow-up care

Support groups and patient education resources

• Local support groups in Mesa
• Online resources for cardiothoracic patients