Shaping the Future of Heart Surgery
The Division of Cardiovascular Surgery at University Health Network is one of Canada's leading centres for cardiac surgical care, research, innovation, and education.
Based within the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre at Toronto General Hospital, our division brings together internationally recognized surgeons, scientists, trainees, and healthcare professionals united by a single purpose: improving and extending the lives of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Every year, our team performs approximately 1,500 cardiac operations, making us one of the largest and most experienced heart surgery programs in the country. From routine procedures to the most complex surgical interventions, patients are referred to our division from across Ontario, Canada, and around the world to access expertise available at only a select number of centres globally.
Excellence in Complex Cardiovascular Care
Our surgeons provide comprehensive care across the full spectrum of cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, thoracic aortic disease, heart failure, mechanical circulatory support, and heart transplantation.
We believe exceptional outcomes are achieved through collaboration. Working alongside cardiologists, anesthesiologists, intensivists, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, and allied health professionals, we deliver multidisciplinary care tailored to the unique needs of every patient.
At every stage of the patient journey, we are committed to combining surgical excellence with compassion, partnership, and respect.
Research with Global Impact
As an academic surgical division, research is embedded in everything we do.
Our investigators lead nationally and internationally recognized programs spanning clinical outcomes, heart transplantation, mechanical circulatory support, aortic disease, valve repair and reconstruction, surgical innovation, and health systems improvement.
By integrating research directly into patient care, we generate evidence that informs practice, improves outcomes, and influences cardiovascular surgery far beyond our institution.
Advancing Innovation Through Discovery
Innovation is a defining characteristic of our division.
For decades, cardiovascular surgeons at UHN have contributed to advances that have transformed cardiac care worldwide. Today, we continue to lead the development and evaluation of new surgical techniques, technologies, and treatment strategies that improve outcomes and expand possibilities for patients with complex cardiovascular disease.
Our faculty work closely with scientists, engineers, industry partners, and investigators across disciplines to accelerate the translation of discovery into clinical practice.
Through research, innovation, and continuous improvement, we are helping define the future of cardiovascular surgery.
Educating Tomorrow's Leaders
Education is central to our mission.
Affiliated with the University of Toronto, the Division of Cardiovascular Surgery provides a world-class environment for medical students, residents, fellows, graduate students, and visiting clinicians from around the globe.
Our commitment extends beyond technical excellence. We strive to cultivate future leaders who are innovative, compassionate, collaborative, and dedicated to advancing the field through scholarship and discovery.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every patient benefits from safer surgery, faster recovery, and more effective treatment for cardiovascular disease.
By integrating outstanding patient care, groundbreaking research, transformative innovation, and exceptional education, we are advancing cardiovascular surgery for the benefit of patients in Canada and around the world.