Led by Division Head Carl L. Backer, MD, the Heart Center's renowned cardiovascular-thoracic surgery team provides comprehensive surgical care for all congenital and acquired cardiac defects.
The surgical team of Dr. Backer; Joseph M. Forbess, MD, MBA ; Osama M. Eltayeb, MD; and Michael C. Mongé, MD, has particular expertise in neonatal repairs, coronary artery problems, vascular rings, tracheal abnormalities, mitral valve repair, arterial switch for transposition of the great arteries, tetralogy of Fallot, palliative and reparative operations, and the Fontan and Norwood procedures.
With high volumes and strong outcomes, the team leads the nation in arrhythmia surgery, integrating this technique into the repair of congenital heart defects in infants and children as well as adults.
As the surgical core of the region's largest pediatric heart transplant program, the team collaborates closely with pediatric cardiologists.
Advanced care for infants, children and teens includes specialization in areas including:
Surgeons are supported by a Heart Center team of specially trained pediatric caregivers with experience treating congenital heart disease in children. These specialists include anesthesiologists, intensivists, advanced practice nurses, perfusionists and technologists.
