Facing heart surgery brings fear, anxiety and countless questions. For patients at St. Elizabeth, these feelings are met with compassion, proficiency and the reassurance that world-class cardiac care is available right here in Northern Kentucky.
Expertise with Heart
Every patient’s journey begins with uncertainty. Whether it’s an unexpected diagnosis or a condition that’s gone unnoticed for years, the emotional weight can be overwhelming. The cardiac surgery program at St. Elizabeth offers more than medical skill – from the first appointment to the last follow-up, this team provides genuine reassurance and guidance.
Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang, a cardiac surgeon at the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth, believes, “Knowledge is power. When you are a patient, understanding what’s going on with your heart and knowing what to expect is paramount in decreasing anxiety and moving forward with confidence.”
Barbara, one of Dr. Castillo-Sang’s patients, described feeling “seen and supported,” with every question answered and every concern addressed. “Heart surgery is frightening,” she said. “Dr. Castillo-Sang was so compassionate and explained everything clearly.”
TECS: The Real Deal in Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery
Not all “minimally invasive” heart surgeries are created equal. At St. Elizabeth, Dr. Castillo-Sang performs totally endoscopic cardiac surgery (TECS) – a highly focused method that offers the ultimate less-invasive approach. During TECS, Dr. Castillo-Sang performs the entire operation by viewing a magnified, high-definition video feed on a screen next to the patient. Inserting a 3D 4K camera (endoscope) and specialized instruments through a single incision, about the size of a postage stamp – he can repair or replace heart valves, remove tumors, or close holes in the heart – all without opening the chest or cutting any bone.
This technique is considered the gold standard of minimally invasive heart surgery. It’s not just “smaller scars” – it’s a fundamentally different, more sophisticated operation that demands exceptional skill and training. Dr. Castillo-Sang utilizes this revolutionary technique every day – right here in Northern Kentucky – for a wide range of heart conditions. “Totally endoscopic cardiac surgery means less pain, faster recovery and better outcomes. It’s a game-changer for our patients,” he explains.
Patients like Kim have experienced these benefits firsthand: “It being minimally invasive is a beautiful thing for a woman and her body. You can’t even tell you have a scar.” Patricia, another TECS patient adds, “I was really happy that you could do the surgery here. I didn’t have to have everything opened up. That made me feel so much better.”
Unsung Heroes Behind Every Triumph
While Dr. Castillo-Sang may be the face of innovation, every successful heart surgery at St. Elizabeth is the result of seamless teamwork. From the moment a patient is diagnosed to the day they return home, a multidisciplinary team – including nurses, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, surgical techs and rehabilitation specialists – works in perfect harmony to ensure safety, comfort and the best possible outcome.
Barbara recalls, “Everyone in the hospital was wonderful and kind. They cared about me as a person, not just a patient.” Kim adds, “All the doctors coordinate with one another. Everybody’s on the same page and knows what you need. I really appreciated that.”
Dr. Castillo-Sang describes it as “an orchestrated dance that requires so many people. I may be the face of it, but there is a whole team behind every patient’s success.” This culture of collaboration and compassion is what truly sets St. Elizabeth apart – and why so many patients trust their hearts to this team.
World Leaders, Local Advantage
St. Elizabeth isn’t just keeping up with the world – it’s leading it. As one of only a handful of centers in the U.S. to offer totally endoscopic cardiac surgery for complex conditions, St. Elizabeth is a destination for both patients and surgeons seeking the very best. Dr. Castillo-Sang’s pioneering techniques have drawn cardiac surgeons from around the globe to Northern Kentucky for training and collaboration.
St. Elizabeth gained international recognition by hosting the annual Endoscopic Cardiac Surgeons Club meeting, bringing together global experts to share breakthroughs and scientific advancements in heart surgery. As Dr. Castillo-Sang affirms, “We’re not just participating in the future of heart surgery – we’re defining it.”
Patients like Barbara appreciate the local advantage: “I didn’t have to go anywhere else for world-class care.” With groundbreaking technology, global expertise and a relentless focus on patient outcomes, St. Elizabeth is setting the standard for cardiac care – right here at home.If you or someone you love is facing heart surgery, hope and healing are closer than you think. To learn more visit, stelizabeth.com/heartsurgery or schedule a consultation by calling (859) 301-9010.
