Welcome

Cardiac transplantation, ventricular assist devices, and surgery for heart failure are the focus for the entire cardiac faculty, from both the clinical and research standpoints.

The general thoracic service continues to provide state-of-the-art treatment for esophageal disease, surgery for pulmonary insufficiency, and lung cancer.

The pediatric cardiothoracic program continues to grow under the leadership of James E. Davis, MD, with respect to complex repairs for congenital heart disease and general thoracic procedures such as minimally invasive repairs for chest wall deformities in pediatric patients. 

The Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery's dedicated nurse clinicians and physicians work closely with the patients and physicians in outpatient and inpatient settings. This part of our service provides continuity of care within the department which continues to be one of our greatest strengths.

The Department of Thoracic Surgery, established in 1948 by Johann (Hans) Ehrenhaft, MD, is one of the oldest surgical and educational programs in the United States. Ehrenhaft’s interest in general thoracic surgery for tuberculosis and lung cancer established the program. Soon it was expanded to the developing specialty of cardiac surgery. 

In 1985, Nicholas Rossi, MD, assumed the role of Interim Chairman until Douglas Behrendt, MD, was recruited in 1986 and established pediatric cardiac surgery as a premier program in the Midwest. Since that time, numerous advancements have been made not only pediatric cardiothoracic surgery, but also adult cardiothoracic surgery and general thoracic surgery, all of which continue to burgeon. 

Mark Iannettoni, MD, MBA, joined the department as chairman in 2004.

Our thoracic surgery residency program continues to improve and is becoming one of the most sought after residencies in the country, educating two residents per year in a two-year clinical program. 

Our trainees have passed the American Board of Thoracic Surgery qualifying exam and are employed in both academic and private practice situations. More of our graduates obtain excellent fellowships in both pediatric cardiothoracic surgery and general thoracic/transplantation positions throughout the country.

While research LINK has always been a strong aspect of the cardiothoracic program, clinical research is becoming a much more predominant and basic science research continues to thrive through the generous aid of our grateful patients and families. For more information on how you can help in these endeavors please contact us or see the section on development on our web site. 

If there is anything we can do to improve your experience at UI Hospitals and Clinics please don’t hesitate to contact our offices. 

Sincerely,

Mark D. Iannettoni, MD, MBA
Johann Ehrenhaft Professor of Surgery
Departmental Executive Officer of Cardiothoracic Surgery

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