Top 10 Cardiothoracic Surgeon in USA

Cardiothoracic surgery is a highly specialized field focusing on surgical interventions of the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other thoracic organs. Conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, and lung cancer require the expertise of skilled cardiothoracic surgeons who employ advanced techniques like minimally invasive procedures and robotic surgery. The United States is home to some of the world’s leading cardiothoracic surgeons, practicing at top-ranked hospitals. Compiling a definitive "top 10" list is challenging due to subjective rankings and limited comprehensive data on individual doctors. However, based on peer nominations, patient reviews, and hospital rankings from sources like U.S. News & World Report, Castle Connolly, and RateMDs, this article highlights 10 exceptional cardiothoracic surgeons in the USA for 2025. Each entry includes their address and an external link for further information. This 800-word article aims to guide patients seeking outstanding cardiothoracic care.



1. Dr. David H. Adams – New York, NY

Dr. Adams, at Mount Sinai Hospital, ranked #4 for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News & World Report, is a global leader in mitral valve repair. His innovative techniques and 4.8 rating on RateMDs reflect his surgical precision and patient care. His practice is at 1190 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. Visit mountsinai.org for more details.

2. Dr. Joseph E. Bavaria – Philadelphia, PA

Dr. Bavaria, at Penn Medicine’s Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (#8 nationally), specializes in aortic surgery and heart valve procedures. His 4.7 rating on RateMDs highlights his expertise and patient rapport. He practices at 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104. Learn more at pennmedicine.org.

3. Dr. Michael J. Mack – Dallas, TX

Dr. Mack, at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital (#13 for cardiology), is a pioneer in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). His 4.9 rating on RateMDs reflects his leadership in minimally invasive techniques. His office is at 1100 Allied Dr, Plano, TX 75093. See bswhealth.com for more information.

4. Dr. Craig R. Smith – New York, NY

Dr. Smith, at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center (#3 nationally), is renowned for heart transplantation and ventricular assist devices. His 4.8 rating on RateMDs praises his compassionate care. He practices at 177 Fort Washington Ave, New York, NY 10032. Visit columbiasurgery.org for details.

5. Dr. Robert L. Kormos – Pittsburgh, PA

Dr. Kormos, at UPMC Presbyterian (#10 for cardiology), specializes in heart failure and mechanical circulatory support, earning a 4.7 rating on RateMDs. Patients value his thorough approach. His office is at 200 Lothrop St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. See upmc.com for more.

6. Dr. Thoralf M. Sundt – Boston, MA

Dr. Sundt, at Massachusetts General Hospital (#5 for cardiology), excels in aortic and mitral valve surgeries, with a 4.8 rating on RateMDs for his surgical expertise and patient communication. He practices at 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114. Visit massgeneral.org for details.

7. Dr. David A. Fullerton – Aurora, CO

Dr. Fullerton, at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, focuses on adult cardiac surgery, including coronary artery bypass grafting, with a 4.7 rating on RateMDs. His office is at 12605 E 16th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045. See ratemds.com for more information.

8. Dr. Joseph S. Coselli – Houston, TX

Dr. Coselli, at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center (#15 for cardiology), is a leader in aortic aneurysm repair, earning a 4.9 rating on RateMDs for his exceptional outcomes. His practice is at 6770 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030. Visit bcm.edu for details.

9. Dr. Pirooz Eghtesady – St. Louis, MO

Dr. Eghtesady, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital (#12 for cardiology), specializes in pediatric cardiothoracic surgery, with a 4.8 rating on RateMDs. Patients praise his care for congenital heart defects. His office is at 1 Childrens Pl, St. Louis, MO 63110. See ratemds.com.

10. Dr. Vinod H. Thourani – Atlanta, GA

Dr. Thourani, at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, is recognized for his expertise in TAVR and mitral valve repair, earning a 4.7 rating on RateMDs. His practice is at 95 Collier Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309. Visit ratemds.com for more.

Choosing the Right Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Selecting a cardiothoracic surgeon involves evaluating their expertise, hospital affiliations, and patient feedback. Top institutions like Mount Sinai, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Massachusetts General lead in cardiothoracic care, offering advanced procedures like robotic surgery and heart transplantation. Patients should verify board certifications and consult platforms like Castle Connolly or RateMDs. Consultation costs range from $200 to $600, per Bookimed, depending on location and procedure complexity. Appointments can be scheduled via hospital websites or platforms like Zocdoc. These surgeons represent the pinnacle of cardiothoracic care in 2025, providing innovative treatments and exceptional outcomes for patients nationwide.

Comments