Innovative Research. Academic Excellence. Patient-centered Care.

The University of Cincinnati Heart, Lung & Vascular Institute is one of three Institutes within the UC Health network, where expert physicians, advanced nurse practitioners and sub-specialty care providers come together with researchers from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine to uncover breakthroughs in cardiovascular medicine. In the areas of heart, lung and vascular research and care, the Institute is nationally known for discoveries and contributions and translating insights into real treatments that help patients every day.

UC Health is the only adult heart transplant program in Greater Cincinnati and northern Kentucky and has established a reputation for delivering innovative and compassionate heart disease treatment, from left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) to transplants, and now endoscopic cardiac valve surgery.

In July 2021, experts at UC Health performed the nation’s first-ever endoscopic triple valve surgery on a 63-year-old heart failure patient. With a single 1-inch incision, the surgical team utilized an endoscopic approach to replace aortic and mitral valves and repair the tricuspid valve. The endoscopic approach is the least invasive surgical procedure possible. Patients have decreased pain, no injury to any of the ribs, improved respiratory mechanics, reduced risk of perioperative bleeding and wound infection, and improved cosmetics when compared to traditional surgery. Importantly, patients who undergo minimally invasive valve surgery have a shorter intensive care stay and accelerated recuperation.