Cardiac Surgery Program

Dameron Hospital brings a new level of cardiac and cardiothoracic treatment to residents in Stockton and San Joaquin County by leveraging the brightest minds in medicine with state-of-the-art technology and advanced surgical techniques. Our innovative program offers:

• Access to breakthrough clinical care and research programs.
• Cardiac and cardiothoracic surgeries that result in less pain and shorter recovery times.
• Fewer physical restrictions after surgery (e.g., patients can drive and lift objects during the recovery process).

Cardiothoracic Surgery

Cardiothoracic surgery pertains to all organs in the thorax, such as the heart, lung, esophagus and other chest organs. Common cardiothoracic procedures include:

• Advanced coronary grafting techniques
  (i.e., coronary artery bypass grafting or CABGs)
• Surgery for coronary artery disease
• Tumor removal
• Arrhythmia surgery
• Aortic valve repair and replacement
• Ventricular Remodeling
• Mitral valve repair and replacement (including complex repairs)
• Structural heart defect repair
• Lung surgery for cancer
  
  

Coronary Artery Disease

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, coronary artery disease is responsible for 1 in 4 deaths in the U.S. In this case, certain risk factors, such as smoking, high cholesterol, and diabetes, can cause plaque to build up inside the coronary arteries, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart.

If left untreated, the plaque can harden and rupture, creating blood clots that can limit blood flow and trigger angina, or chest discomfort. This pain typically starts in the chest and can move to other locations in the body, like the arms, jaw, and back. When blood flow is cut off from the heart for an extended period, it can lead to heart attack, stroke and other serious health complications.