A Message From Our Program Leader
The Cardiothoracic Surgery Program at HonorHealth Research Institute is committed to improving outcomes for patients with atrial fibrillation and other complex heart conditions. Our team combines expertise in surgical innovation, robotics, biologics, and artificial intelligence to create safer procedures, shorten recovery times, and reduce recurrence rates.
We lead one of the world’s largest hybrid atrial fibrillation programs, pioneered the first total artificial heart 50cc implant in North America performed at the University of Arizona, and developed cutting-edge robotic cardiac surgery programs. Additionally, we performed the world’s first robotic IST ablation at HonorHealth in Scottsdale. Our work is grounded in both clinical excellence and transformative research, setting new standards for care locally, nationally and globally.
About Our Program
HonorHealth Research Institute’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Program is at the forefront of advancing care for atrial fibrillation and complex heart disease. We integrate robotic and minimally invasive surgical techniques with biologic therapies, mechanical circulatory support innovations, and AI-powered decision tools to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Cardiothoracic Surgery Facts and Figures
World’s largest hybrid atrial fibrillation program
North America’s first total artificial heart 50cc from SynCardia performed
World’s first robotic IST ablation
Pioneer in robotic LVAD implantation
First LVAD in Scottsdale
First robotic CABG in Scottsdale; largest robotic cardiac program in the Southwest
First Barostim implant in Scottsdale with CVRx
Leading institute in left atrial appendage ligation
Innovator in wireless sternal closure, TIGER TAPE Trial upcoming
Robust collaboration with electrophysiology and heart rhythm programs
Multiple ongoing clinical trials in biologics, robotics, and AI.
Cardiothoracic Surgery Clinical Trials
The Cardiothoracic Surgery Program is advancing research in:
- Hybrid robotic ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation
- Biologic materials to reduce post-operative atrial fibrillation
- AI-driven predictive tools for patient selection and surgical outcomes
- Minimally invasive valve and coronary surgery with AF prevention protocols
- Wireless sternal closure (TIGER TAPE Trial)
