Saddleback Medical Center Announces Expansion of Cardiac Surgery Team with Two Renowned Surgeons

Saddleback Medical Center Expands Its Cardiac Surgical Team

The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute (MHVI) at Saddleback Medical Center recently announced a significant enhancement to its medical team with the recruitment of two prominent cardiothoracic surgeons, Dr. Asad Shah and Dr. Timothy Lee. This strategic move is set to elevate the cardiac surgery services available in South Orange County, making advanced surgical procedures more accessible to the community.

Dr. Asad Shah, who will take on the role of Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the institute. His extensive background is rooted in esteemed institutions, having completed his medical education at Duke University along with a surgical residency and cardiothoracic surgery fellowship there. Dr. Shah is particularly recognized for his focus on areas such as thoracic aortic disease and minimally invasive valve surgery, as well as robotic cardiac surgery. He has contributed to the field through innovative research, exploring the genetics behind crucial cardiovascular conditions.

On the other hand, Dr. Timothy Lee has made a name for himself with specialties that include coronary artery bypass grafting and heart valve replacements. With a distinguished academic career that began at Harvard College, Dr. Lee's journey into cardiac surgery solidified during his time at the University of Michigan Medical School. His commitment to advancing cardiovascular care is evident through his dual board certification, ensuring patients receive cutting-edge treatment options. Furthermore, Dr. Lee's expertise extends to minimally invasive techniques, echoing a growing trend in modern surgery that prioritizes shorter recovery times and reduced trauma.

Both surgeons express enthusiasm about their new roles at Saddleback Medical Center. “Dr. Lee and I are eager to bring our experience and skills to this incredible team,” shares Dr. Shah. “With the increasing demand for innovative strategies to manage heart disease, we are committed to fulfilling that need and serving this vibrant community.”

The arrival of these surgeons marks a pivotal moment for the MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute, underscoring its commitment to delivering state-of-the-art heart and vascular care to the residents of South Orange County. Liz Acord, vice president of clinical institutes at MemorialCare, expressed her excitement about the addition of Dr. Shah and Dr. Lee to the facility. “Their advanced capabilities in minimally invasive and robotic cardiac surgery will greatly boost our service offerings and enhance our ability to provide top-tier cardiac care,” she stated.

As part of a broader commitment to excellence, Saddleback Medical Center has long been recognized for its high performance in various medical fields. It holds notable rankings from U.S. News & World Report and has consistently been acknowledged among Healthgrades' America’s Best Hospitals. This expansion of the cardiac surgical team is another step toward enhancing the hospital’s already impressive reputation for specialized care.

In addition to its array of offerings, the medical center is also in the process of developing a groundbreaking Women's Health pavilion, which aims to centralize women's specialty care under one roof. Expected to open in Fall 2024, this initiative further reflects the center's dedication to comprehensive healthcare.

As Saddleback Medical Center continues to advance its services, the addition of Dr. Shah and Dr. Lee will undoubtedly contribute to achieving its goal of providing high-quality heart care closer to home for the South Orange County community, ensuring patients receive the best possible outcomes from their medical treatments.

For anyone in Southern California seeking advanced cardiac care, the MHVI at Saddleback Medical Center offers a promising option, with a focus on innovative, less invasive surgical techniques designed to improve recovery and overall health outcomes.