The Difference Between a Cardiologist and a Cardiothoracic Surgeon

Cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons—both play an important role in heart health. "The difference between a cardiac surgeon and a cardiologist really involves the training and what they take care of," explained Dr. David Cervantes, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the Lee Health Shipley Cardiothoracic Center.

Cardiologists are trained to identify, diagnose and treat patients with heart conditions. "Cardiac surgeons are trained in surgery and we go through a long training process which allows us to take care of mechanical issues involved in the heart," he said.

While both specialties work together to care for patients, doctors say there are certain diseases that should be managed by cardiologists and some that should be managed by cardiothoracic surgeons. "Cardiologists are the ones that traditionally implant stents, do heart caths, can implant pacemakers, and do arrhythmia procedures," said Dr. Cervantes.

Patients typically see a cardiologist first before being referred to a cardiothoracic surgeon if necessary. "If they identify a structural problem, whether it's coronary artery disease, valve stenosis, or regurgitation, then usually they'll refer them to a cardiothoracic surgeon as these mechanical diseases require a mechanical fix, often with open-heart surgery," he said.

Both work collaboratively to ensure the patient gets the care they need to live a heart-healthy life.


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