Best Cardiothoracic Surgeons in Shreveport

Introduction to Cardiothoracic Medicine in Shreveport

Overview of Cardiothoracic Medicine

Cardiothoracic medicine is a specialized field that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the heart, lungs, and chest. This medical specialty encompasses a wide range of procedures and treatments, from minimally invasive surgeries to complex open-heart operations.

Specialized care in cardiothoracic medicine is essential for patients with heart and chest conditions. These specialists have extensive training and expertise in managing complex cardiovascular and thoracic issues, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Cardiothoracic Medicine in Shreveport

Shreveport, Louisiana, boasts a robust healthcare system with several notable medical facilities and a range of specialized care options. The city is home to multiple hospitals and medical centers that offer advanced cardiothoracic services.

According to our data, Shreveport has a number of highly qualified cardiothoracic specialists. These physicians are affiliated with prominent healthcare institutions in the area, such as Willis Knighton North, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, and CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System. This concentration of expertise ensures that residents of Shreveport have access to high-quality cardiothoracic care without the need to travel to larger metropolitan areas.

Choosing a Cardiothoracic Specialist in Shreveport

Factors to Consider

Board certifications and qualifications

• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification
• Additional certifications in related fields

Experience and education

• Medical school background
• Residency and fellowship training
• Years of practice in cardiothoracic medicine

Hospital affiliations

• Major hospitals in Shreveport
• Importance of choosing a doctor affiliated with reputable institutions

Patient reviews and ratings

• Understanding the star rating system
• Considering the number of reviews
• Balancing ratings with other factors

Resources for Doctor Selection

Online physician directories

• Healthgrades and similar platforms
• Verifying information across multiple sources

Health insurance provider networks

• Checking in-network providers
• Understanding coverage for cardiothoracic procedures

Recommendations from primary care physicians

• Importance of professional referrals
• Discussing options with your current healthcare provider

Top-Rated Cardiothoracic Specialists in Shreveport

Dr. David Hamm

Education and Certifications

• MD from LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport School of Medicine (1980)
• Fellowship at Duke University Medical Center and Mayo Clinic-Rochester
• Board Certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• Willis Knighton North, 2600 Greenwood Rd, Shreveport, LA 71103

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0 star rating based on 8 reviews
• Highly regarded by patients

Dr. David Mull

Education and Certifications

• MD from University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine (1983)
• Fellowship at University of Louisville Hospital and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
• Board Certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• Willis Knighton North, 2600 Greenwood Rd, Shreveport, LA 71103

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0 star rating based on 6 reviews
• Highly recommended by patients

Dr. Syed Mehmood

Education and Certifications

• MD from Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School (2002)
• Fellowship at Brigham & Women's Hospital and Ohio State University Medical Center
• Board Certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• Willis Knighton North, 2600 Greenwood Rd, Shreveport, LA 71103

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0 star rating based on 4 reviews
• Highly respected by patients

Dr. Milon Karmakar

Education and Certifications

• MD from University of Pune / B.J. Medical College (1979)
• Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center - Moses Division (1998)

Hospital Affiliations

• No specific hospital affiliations listed

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0 star rating based on 3 reviews
• Well-regarded by patients

Dr. David Pennywell

Education and Certifications

• MD from LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Medicine
• Board Certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• St Francis Medical Center, 309 Jackson St, Monroe, LA 71201

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0 star rating based on 1 review
• Positive patient feedback

Additional Considerations for Selecting a Cardiothoracic Specialist

Language and Communication

Importance of clear communication

• Emphasize the need for effective doctor-patient communication
• Discuss how language barriers can affect medical care

Available language options

• Highlight that most specialists in Shreveport speak English
• Note that Dr. Vyas Rao also speaks Hindi
• Encourage patients to inquire about language services if needed

Gender Preferences

Availability of male and female specialists

• Mention that the majority of listed specialists are male
• Highlight Dr. Jane Eggerstedt as a female cardiothoracic surgeon option

Considering personal comfort

• Discuss the importance of feeling comfortable with your chosen specialist
• Encourage patients to consider their gender preference if it affects their comfort level

Location and Accessibility

Hospital affiliations in Shreveport

• List major hospitals: Willis Knighton North, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System
• Explain how hospital affiliation may affect care coordination

Proximity considerations

• Discuss the importance of choosing a specialist with a convenient location
• Mention the option of considering specialists in nearby cities if needed