World-Class Expertise. Cutting-Edge Technology. Right Here in Pensacola.
Baptist Health Care offers advanced cardiothoracic surgery right here in Pensacola. Our Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute team is the largest and most experienced heart and vascular practice in Northwest Florida. Our physicians have introduced and pioneered virtually every new heart-treatment innovation in our community. As the area’s leading cardiothoracic surgery program, we offer nationally recognized care for the most complex, high-risk cases—so there’s no need to travel for skilled and specialized care. Advanced heart care is here for you, at Baptist.
Trusted Leaders in Cardiothoracic Surgery
Our program is led by two highly-skilled surgeons who bring decades of experience and a deep commitment to patient care:
- Russell Ronson, M.D., FACS, FACC
- Robert Turnage, M.D., FACS
They collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care, from diagnosis through recovery. Together, they ensure every patient receives the highest level of expertise and support throughout their heart health journey.
Technology That Sets Us Apart
Cardiothoracic surgery is performed at Baptist Hospital, Northwest Florida’s newest and most advanced health care campus. Our facility is designed to foster healing and comfort and is equipped to provide the latest treatments and protocols.
Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge repair of Mitral Valve(T-Teer) with TriClip ™
Minimally invasive device for treating tricuspid regurgitation by clipping the valve leaflets together to reduce leakage and improve heart function.
TriClip™ G4 Transcatheter Transcatheter valve therapies
Including TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) and TMVR (Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair using MitraClip®), offering life-saving options for high-risk patients.
Hybrid operating
Seamlessly integrate imaging, catheter-based tools, and surgical equipment for complex procedures.
Advanced imaging and diagnostics
Featuring 3D echocardiography, CT angiography, and AI-powered risk modeling for personalized care.
Heart-lung perfusion systems
Provide real-time monitoring and support during open-heart procedures.
Care That’s Close to Home
At Baptist, we believe in making high-quality cardiothoracic surgery accessible. Our patients benefit from:
- Centralized access to all cardiac services.
- Specialty surgical procedure rooms designed for complex care.
- A dedicated inpatient cardiovascular surgery unit.
- Recovery spaces that promote rest and wellness.
- Seamless coordination of pre- and post-operative care.
We are honored to serve our neighbors in Pensacola and beyond to provide the latest in cardiothoracic surgery with compassion and excellence.
Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation has long been the standard protocol for healing and regaining strength following a serious heart event. At Baptist Hospital, we offer an elevated level of intensive cardiac rehabilitation through a partnership with Pritikin ICR™. While traditional cardiac rehab places significant emphasis on exercise, the Pritikin ICR™ program uses a comprehensive approach that also incorporates the roles of healthy eating and a positive mindset.
Baptist Hospital Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation is staffed by an experienced and compassionate team that provides personalized care. Located on the second floor of the Bear Family Foundation Health Center, the department offers an extensive array of exercise equipment for complete cardiovascular and strength workouts in an environment that fosters healing.
Do You Need a Referral?
Your insurance company may require a referral. Most people get a referral from a doctor who can’t treat the problem with medicine or a simple procedure. A referral may be provided by a:
- Heart doctor (cardiologist)
- Lung doctor (pulmonologist)
- Primary care provider
- Digestive system doctor (gastroenterologist)