Cardiac Surgery

Welcome to the Division of Cardiac Surgery at Creighton University, CHI Bergan Mercy.  

The  Division of Cardiac Surgery is dedicated to advancing clinical care, research, education, and service. Focused on optimal outcomes, we've  integrated our care models, collaborating with  Cardiology, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Thoracic Surgery, Cardiac Anesthesia, and other specialties to create a gold standard approach. This extends beyond our hospitals to community outreach, ensuring equitable access to state-of-the-art comprehensive heart care across all of Nebraska, Iowa, and neighboring states. Our outpatient investments enhance patient access and introduce new clinical services through outreach clinics and virtual care visits. 

Our clinical investigators are committed to unlocking future advances in cardiac surgical care through research, including structural heart treatments. Our surgeon-scientists collaborate with medical device manufacturers to drive innovation.

To maximize the impact of clinical advancement and scientific discovery, we're devoted to training the next generation of surgeons. The Division of Cardiac Surgery is committed to diverse and inclusive talent development through programs spanning education levels. Our legacy in cardiac surgery is strong, and our journey to innovate, educate, and deliver world-class care continues to grow.

I eagerly anticipate updating you on our department's progress and the accomplishments of our faculty.

Robert Gallegos MD, PhD, FACS, FACC

Chief of the Division of Cardiac Surgery
Creighton University, CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center-Bergan Mercy

What is Cardiac Surgery?

This specialty involves the surgical treatment of conditions which affect the heart or blood vessels connected to your heart. Also called cardiovascular surgeons or heart surgeons, these specialists improve heart function by surgically correcting problems such as blockages, faulty valves and abnormal heart rhythms. Newer minimally invasive techniques make it possible to repair some heart issues without surgery. 

Why Choose CHI Health for Cardiac Surgery 

• Highly specialized surgeons.
• Collaborative approach.
• Minimally invasive surgery.
• Commitment to innovation.
• Rapid access to care.
• Telemedicine clinics.
• Complex cases. 

Conditions We Treat

• Coronary artery disease
• Valvular insufficiency or stenosis
• Structural heart disease
• Congestive heart failure
• Aneurysms (left ventricular, thoracic, thoracoabdominal)
• Aortic dissection 
• Aortic transaction 
• Atrial fibrillation 
• Heart failure

Procedures We Perform 

• Ablation procedures 
• Pacemakers/implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) 
• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) 
• Heart valve repair/replacement 
• Sutureless valve replacement
• Minimally invasive valve surgery
• Transcatheter procedures (add links)
  •       Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
  •       Transcatheter Edge fledge Repair (TEER)
• Ventricular assist device