Frequently Asked Questions

A thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon performs surgical procedures that treat diseases affecting organs in the thorax, or chest, which includes conditions of the heart (cardiovascular disease) and lungs (lung disease), and treats problems of the peripheral arterial tree.

What procedures does a thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon perform?

A thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon performs a variety of procedures including coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), heart valve repair and replacement, heart and/or lung transplantation, arrhythmia surgery, thoracic aorta repairs, and peripheral vascular surgery. Carolina Cardiac Surgery Associates’ surgeons also can apply an increasing number of minimally invasive techniques to traditional operative approaches. Minimally invasive procedures put less stress on the patient’s body, thus reducing pain, recovery time, and length of post-operative stay in the hospital. This leads to a quicker return to normal activity or work.

How do I make an appointment?

First, you will need a referral from your physician, such as your primary care physican, nurse practicioner, cardiologist or pulmonologist. Your doctor’s office will send us the appropriate forms and medical records and schedule an appointment for you. You might be directed to schedule the appointment yourself after a referral has been sent to us by your doctor.

What should I bring with me to my appointment?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to ensure we have all appropriate information. Bring your insurance card(s) and any information or films your doctor’s office instructed you to bring. Also, bring all prescription and over-the-counter medications you currently take. You should bring a list of the medications with you as well.

Where do I go for my appointment?

Carolina Cardiac Surgery Associates is located in Eight Richland Medical Park, Suite 400, adjacent to the Palmetto Health Heart Hospital on the Palmetto Health Richland campus in Columbia, S.C. For detailed directions, go to Location.

What do I need to do be ready for my surgery?

Your physician will instruct you on what you need to do depending on your individual needs and what type of surgery you will have. Your surgeons will tell you when to arrive for surgery. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring a trusted friend or family member with you who can stay throughout the duration of the surgery.

After my surgery, when will I see my physician again?

We will schedule you for a follow-up visit within three weeks following your procedure.

How do I reach my physician if I experience problems after surgery?

Carolina Cardiac Surgery Associates is available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact our office at 803.765.0871 during normal business hours, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. After hours, call the same number. Our answering service will connect you with our on-call physician.