Leaders in robotic surgery.
When it comes to your heart and lung health, choosing the right care is essential. At Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery, we offer patients in our region access to leading heart and lung care options through advanced, minimally invasive procedures designed to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.
About NGPG Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery
NGPG Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery provides leading surgical care for conditions of the heart, lungs, esophagus, diaphragm and great vessels. Our highly skilled cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons offer expertise with innovative techniques to deliver exceptional outcomes for patients. Whether you need minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted procedures or open-heart surgery, we offer the full scope of options depending on your particular case and anatomy.
What We Treat
The physicians at NGPG Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery specialize in conditions of the heart, lungs, esophagus, diaphragm and great vessels including:
- Achalasia
- Aortic aneurysm
- Aortic valve disease
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
- Atrial Septal Defect
- Congenital heart disorders
- Coronary artery disease
- Esophageal cancer
- Heart tumors
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Lung disease (including malignant and benign)
- Mitral valve disease
- Reflux disease
- Tricuspid valve disease
- Zenker’s diverticulum
What We Do
At NGPG our cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons offer a comprehensive range of advanced surgical options to treat a variety of conditions affecting the heart, lungs, esophagus and chest.
Surgical Options
Open and Robotic Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting is performed to restore blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked or narrowed arteries. Whenever possible, our surgeons use minimally invasive robotic techniques to reduce recovery time and enhance precision. For complex cases, open CABG remains an effective approach, providing patients with life-saving results.
Minimally Invasive Vein Harvesting for CABG
As part of CABG, healthy veins are harvested to create bypass grafts. Our surgeons utilize minimally invasive vein harvesting techniques, which reduce scarring, lower the risk of complications and promote faster recovery.
Open and Robotic Heart Valve Surgery
Whether repairing or replacing a damaged heart valve, NGPG’s surgeons specialize in both open and robotic-assisted techniques to ensure the best outcomes. Robotic surgery offers improved precision and quicker recovery, while open procedures are reserved for more complex cases.
Robotic Thoracic Surgery
Our team leverages robotic-assisted technology to perform complex thoracic surgeries with accuracy and care. This approach is used to treat conditions like lung cancer, esophageal disorders and other diseases of the chest, minimizing trauma and enhancing recovery.
Maze Procedure for AFib
The Maze procedure is a surgical treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib), designed to restore normal heart rhythm. By creating a series of precise incisions or ablations in the heart tissue, the procedure interrupts abnormal electrical signals and promotes regular heartbeats.
Robotic Septal Myectomy
This specialized procedure treats hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thickened. Using a robotic-assisted approach, surgeons remove excess tissue to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
Surgery of the Chest Wall
Chest wall surgeries are performed to treat trauma, tumors or structural abnormalities. Our surgeons specialize in removing diseased tissue while ensuring the chest maintains its integrity and function. Reconstruction may involve the use of rib plating or artificial materials to restore stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if heart or lung surgery is the right option for me?
Determining whether surgery is the best course of action depends on factors like your overall health, the severity of your condition and previous treatments. At NGPG our specialists evaluate each case individually and collaborate across disciplines to ensure every patient receives the most effective care. If surgery is recommended, our team will thoroughly explain the procedure and recovery process.
What can I expect during my first heart or lung surgery appointment?
During your first visit, our team will discuss your medical history, symptoms and any previous diagnoses or treatments. We may also perform diagnostic tests or schedule imaging to better understand your condition.
What can I expect during heart or lung surgery recovery?
Recovery experiences vary depending on the type of treatment you receive. For surgical procedures, our team provides detailed instructions on wound care, medication, activity levels and follow-up appointments. We also connect patients with rehabilitation programs, if needed, to support their healing and long-term health.