What is the primary role of a cardiothoracic surgeon?

The primary role of a cardiothoracic surgeon is to perform surgeries on chest organs, which includes a variety of procedures related to the heart, lungs, and other thoracic structures. This specialty focuses on surgical interventions, allowing surgeons to treat conditions such as coronary artery disease, valve disorders, lung cancer, and other serious ailments affecting the chest area.

While managing heart diseases, diagnosing heart conditions, and conducting cardiac rehabilitation are vital components of cardiovascular care, these responsibilities typically fall within the scope of practice for other healthcare professionals, such as cardiologists and rehabilitation specialists. The cardiothoracic surgeon's expertise specifically lies in the surgical aspect, making their role critical during complex operations that can save or significantly improve a patient's life.