The Surgery Department operates two specially-equipped heart surgery suites for patients who undergo bypass, valve replacement or other open-heart procedures. Cardiovascular surgeons are assisted by personnel who are skilled in performing specific surgical roles, including perfusionists, anesthesiologists and nurses.

Forrest General was the first area hospital to perform off-pump open-heart surgery in 1997, performed by cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Robert Robbins. Last year, more than 500 open heart procedures were performed at Forrest General Hospital.

Forrest General understands that family and friends play a vital role in the journey to recovery. Because visitors may need to spend extended hours at the hospital as their loved one recovers from a cardiac procedure, a a spacious and comfortable waiting room is provided to meet those needs.

For more information about open heart surgery at Forrest General, call FGH OnCall at 1-800-844-4445, then press 1, from 2 - 10 p.m., seven days a week or send an e-mail.