Welcome

The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Fletcher Allen Health Care is a multi-disciplinary group dedicated to the evaluation and treatment of diseases involving the heart and thorax. This includes all adult cardiac pathology, limited pediatric abnormalities, aneurysms of the thoracic aorta and diseases involving the lungs, mediastinum, esophagus and chest wall. We provide the most current modes of therapy for this broad spectrum of surgical pathology, including valvular replacement and repair, off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting, resection of complex thoracic and thoracoabdominal aneurysms, and surgery for atrial arrhythmias.

The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery has recently established a Center of Excellence for diseases of the thoracic aorta. This involves a multidisciplinary group including members of the departments of Radiology, Cardiology and Vascular Surgery. The purpose of this center is to diagnose, treat and provide long-term follow-up for patients with thoracic aortic aneurysmal disease, dissections, connective tissue disorders, congenital abnormalities and traumatic injuries. Another new initiative involves surgery for acute atrial arrhythmias. This is called the Maze procedure and can be performed as either an isolated operation or in conjunction with valvular or bypass surgery.

The members of the Division of Cardiothoracic  Surgery are involved in both laboratory and clinical research projects. Many of these are being performed in collaboration with the Department of Cardiology. Dr. Schmoker and his laboratory staff are investigating a model for thoracic aortic trauma, cerebral perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass, and factors effecting the longevity of both venous and arterial grafts. The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery is a founding member of the Northern New England Cardiovascular Research Group, with Dr. Leavitt as our representative. We have participated in myriad clinical projects that have led to a progressive decrease in both our cardiac surgical morbidity and mortality. The Northern New England group now has one of the largest databases for coronary and valvular surgery in the United States.

The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery is comprised of four Board Certified Cardiothoracic Surgeons and many support staff who are invaluable in terms of providing care and assistance to our patients and their families. This includes three physician assistants, two nurse practitioners, a nurse clinician, and a hard working and devoted office staff. All of these individuals are dedicated to providing the highest possible quality of care to our patients.

To schedule an appointment please call (802) 847-4152.

Frank P. Ittleman, MD
Chief, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Interim Chair, Department of Surgery