When it comes to your heart and lung health, choosing the right provider is key. At AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiothoracic Surgery, we are proud to offer the most comprehensive, cutting-edge care available in Lake County.

Our commitment to excellence and emphasis on a patient-centered team approach makes us the preferred choice of leading heart experts in the area.

Whether you are looking to assess your cardiovascular risk, need an accurate diagnosis, require emergency surgery or seek restorative, cardiac rehabilitation services, our multidisciplinary team is here to provide you with the exceptional care you deserve.

Plus, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the condition. Integrating physical healing with emotional and spiritual well-being, we strive to ensure comprehensive whole-person care for every patient. This philosophy has established us as the premier provider of heart and lung care in the community.

Meet our experts in heart and lung care.

Our team’s combined nearly 130 years of experience sets us apart in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.

AdventHealth Waterman is the only facility in Lake County to offer an all-star program for complex heart and lung surgeries — providing a level of expertise that’s second to none.

Whether it’s a complex procedure or a routine operation, our skilled surgeons are equipped to deliver the highest quality care. And, we’re dedicated to bringing unparalleled compassion to every patient interaction.

Complete Cardiovascular Care for Every Age and Stage of Life

Assessing your cardiovascular disease risk

Your heart is the cornerstone of your health, and safeguarding it begins with understanding your cardiovascular risk. Our expert cardiologists are dedicated to evaluating all aspects of your heart health and collaborating with our specially trained cardiothoracic surgeons. 

Dr. Olivas emphasizes the holistic approach we take. “Our varying backgrounds and specialty interests allow us to provide very comprehensive care for most any condition of the heart and lungs.”

Our process starts with a detailed assessment, considering your family history, lifestyle and current health status. By combining these elements with advanced diagnostic tools, we create a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs. Our goal is to help you maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle while guiding you towards a positive future.

Accurate Diagnosis and Customized Treatment

If you are experiencing cardiovascular symptoms, a timely and precise diagnosis is crucial. Our team is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to evaluate a wide range of heart and lung conditions. From atrial fibrillation and arrhythmias to heart valve disease and vascular issues, we provide a thorough assessment and tailor a treatment strategy just for you.

Dr. Allen highlights the advancements in our care. “I am proud to have participated in the foundation and evolution of AdventHealth Waterman’s heart surgery program. We have brought exciting new services to the community, including our extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) program that provides critical life support for patients with acute heart and lung conditions, and cardiac robotics technology.”

This dedication to integrating innovative technologies ensures that you receive the best possible care if you are diagnosed with a complex heart or lung condition.

Rapid Response for Cardiac Emergencies

In a cardiac emergency, every moment is critical. We understand the urgency of such situations and are prepared to act swiftly. Our premier heart program is equipped with the latest technologies and staffed by skilled professionals trained in rapid response and advanced treatment techniques.

With over 25 years of surgical experience in North Lake County, Dr. Cook has made a tremendous impact on the community. He knows the importance of this preparedness and the effect it has on each patient.

He notes, “Seeing patients get well from life-threatening conditions is the best part of my job. As a cardiac surgeon, I only interact with my patients for a few weeks, but it is very intense. We get to know each other well during that time. They place their lives in our hands, and I feel honored to do this kind of work.”

From non-invasive procedures to open-heart surgery, our team provides superior outcomes with a focus on compassion and precision. We are committed to delivering effective treatments while supporting you through the recovery process.

Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation

Recovery is not just about physical healing. It involves strengthening your body, mind and spirit, as well. Our intensive cardiac rehabilitation services are designed to support you every step of the way. We offer a comprehensive program that includes physical therapy, nutritional counseling and emotional support — ensuring that you recover fully and regain your strength.

Dr. Olivas knows the benefits of our whole-person care approach. “It is very rewarding when a patient comes back to the office after surgery, with a smile on their face, proclaiming that their recovery went better than they ever expected.” Our team’s dedication to your holistic recovery reflects our commitment to providing the highest level of care.

We specialize in outstanding outcomes

High-Acuity Cardiothoracic Surgery

Our high-acuity, cardiothoracic surgery program is unparalleled in Lake County. We are the only program in the region with a 3 out of 3-star rating by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons for the most complex heart procedures — mitral valve replacement and repair combined with coronary artery bypass graft surgery (MVRR/CABG). This distinction reflects our ability to handle both the most complex and routine cases with exceptional skill and precision.

Cardiac and Thoracic Robotics Program

Our cardiac and thoracic robotics program represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive surgery. Using state-of-the-art robotic technology, we offer more precise procedures with quicker recovery times. Dr. Allen explains, “The robotic systems enhance our ability to perform complex surgeries with minimal disruption to your body, leading to faster healing and a more comfortable recovery.”

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Our TAVR program is a prime example of our commitment to minimally invasive techniques. This advanced procedure involves using a catheter to insert a new heart valve into place. It is designed for patients with severe aortic stenosis who may not be suitable for traditional valve replacement surgery. Our superior expertise in this procedure makes us the area leader in outcomes and patient satisfaction.

You can trust your heart to us!

We are proud to be the first hospital in North Lake County to receive accreditation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care for our Chest Pain Center. This prestigious recognition reflects our overall dedication to maintaining the highest standards in heart and lung care. When you choose AdventHealth, you choose the most experienced team of experts in the area that will support your whole health every step of the way to recovery.

A Full Scope of Cardiothoracic Care

From cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery to intensive cardiac rehabilitation, we offer a complete range of services to support your heart and lung health journey.

Rapid Response and Advanced Treatments

Our advanced technologies and quick response capabilities ensure effective treatment for the most common and complex conditions.

The only cardiac and thoracic robotics program in lake county

Our cutting-edge robotic-assisted surgeries provide more precise treatments and faster recoveries, setting us apart from the competition.

Exceptional Outcomes Close to Home

We provide you easy access to the most experienced, award-winning team without the need to travel outside Lake County.

Photos: Nicole Hamel