SGMC Cardiothoracic Surgery

At SGMC Cardiothoracic Surgery, we specialize in comprehensive surgical care for the heart and lungs. Our team of expert surgeons provide advanced treatment for a wide range of conditions, including coronary artery disease, valve disorders, lung cancer, and other thoracic diseases.

We offer both traditional open-heart procedures and cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques, ensuring personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Dr. Murrah brings specialized expertise in robotic thoracic surgery and hybrid convergent ablation for atrial fibrillation, providing patients with innovative, less invasive options for faster recovery and improved outcomes.

Whether it’s coronary artery bypass, valve replacement, or lung cancer treatment, our commitment is to deliver the highest standard of care, helping you achieve optimal heart and lung health.

Advanced Treatment Options

We offer state-of-the-art procedures that combine innovation, precision, and proven outcomes to treat a wide range of conditions—from persistent atrial fibrillation to structural heart disease and thoracic cancers.

Convergent Procedure A Dual Approach to Treating Persistent Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

The Convergent Procedure integrates minimally invasive surgical ablation on the outer surface of the heart with catheter-based ablation from inside the heart. This hybrid technique offers a comprehensive solution for patients with persistent AFib who have not responded to traditional catheter ablation alone.

Cox-Maze IV Procedure The Gold Standard for Surgical AFib Correction

The Cox-Maze IV is a surgical treatment designed to restore normal heart rhythm in patients with persistent or long-standing AFib. By creating a precise pattern of scar tissue in the atria, the procedure blocks abnormal electrical signals. It is especially effective for patients undergoing other cardiac surgeries, such as valve repair or coronary bypass.

Robotic Thoracic Surgery Precision Treatment for Lung and Esophageal Conditions

Using advanced robotic technology, this minimally invasive technique allows for the treatment of thoracic conditions—including lung cancer and esophageal disorders—with enhanced precision and smaller incisions. Patients benefit from less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) Restoring Healthy Blood Flow Through the Aortic Valve

AVR is performed to treat severe aortic stenosis or regurgitation, replacing the damaged valve with a mechanical or bioprosthetic valve. Depending on patient anatomy and risk profile, the procedure can be done through open surgery (SAVR) or a minimally invasive transcatheter approach (TAVR). AVR improves heart function, relieves symptoms, and enhances survival for appropriately selected patients.

Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) Surgical Relief for Advanced Mitral Valve Disease

MVR is recommended when severe mitral stenosis or regurgitation cannot be effectively repaired. The procedure involves replacing the native mitral valve with a mechanical or bioprosthetic device via open surgery or, in select cases, a transcatheter method (TMVR). MVR alleviates symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, while improving blood flow and quality of life.

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) Surgical Bypass for Blocked Coronary Arteries

CABG is a proven surgical treatment for significant coronary artery disease, especially when lifestyle changes, medications, or stents are not sufficient. Surgeons use healthy vessels from the patient’s own body to bypass blocked arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart muscle. CABG reduces angina, improves heart function, and may extend life expectancy in certain patients.

Our Surgeons