Surgeon in Los Angeles

[brianm]

I was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm 5.5 and bicuspid valve. Need surgery for both and looking for referrrals to a Los Angeles based surgeon. I am considering Mohammad Ghavari (Tarzana/Los Robles), Robert Kass (Cedars Sinai) or Michael Soltero (Holy Cross-Mission Hills). Any referrals are appreciated. Thanks.

Brian

 

[ALCapshaw2]

Dr. Laks at UCLA is a highly regarded Aorta Surgeon who has been used by several members on this website.

Do an "Advanced Search" (see the red line at the top of the page) and then scroll down the page and select "any date" in the box at the lower left corner.

You can also find information on Dr. Laks by doing a Google Search for his name.

With an Ascending Aortic Aneurism, you definitely want a Surgeon who has considerable experience doing Surgery of the Aorta. IF you also have a BiCuspid Aortic Valve, there is a significant correlation with Connective Tissue Disorder(s). Then you will also want a Surgeon who has the Knowledge, Skill, and Experience to recognize and deal with defective tissues. I believe Dr. Laks has this kind of knowledge and experience but be sure to confirm that with him (and any other Surgeons)
you interview.

'AL Capshaw'

 

[brianm]

Thanks, AL. Much appreciated. I have a call into Richard Shemin at UCLA for a consultation and will also call Dr. Laks. Thanks. again.

 

[escargome]

Brian,
Dr. Soltero did my valve replacement in May 2008. He is a wonderful doctor who listens to your thoughts and answers your questions directly. I recommend him highly.

 

[michela]

I have a 4.6 BAV and in the waiting room in Los Angeles. Brian, did you decide on a surgeon and were you happy with them? Or does any one else have a Los Angeles/West Coast recommendation? My cardiologist is Dr. Ray Matthews at USC in Los Angeles, but I'm now looking for a surgeon.

 

[OldManEmu]

The chairman of the Bicuspid Foundation scientific advisory board is Sharo Raissi who is also a surgeon.
There were a number of members that had surgery by him a few years ago at the Cedars Sinai.
I think he is now at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

 

[Greg a]

Brian a heart felt WELCOME to our OHS family glad you are getting the information that you are seeking and there is swealth of knowledge here for the future .....
a list of acronyms and short forms http://www.valvereplacement.org/forums/showthread.php?27413-List-of-Acronyms-and-Glossary

what to ask pre surgery http://www.valvereplacement.org/forums/showthread.php?26668-Pre-surgery-consultation-list-of-questions

what to take with you to the hospital http://www.valvereplacement.org/forums/showthread.php?13283-what-to-take-to-the-hospital-a-checklist

Preparing the house for post surgical patients http://www.valvereplacement.org/forums/showthread.php?19034-Getting-Comfortable-Around-the-House&p=218802

These are from various forum stickies and there is plenty more to read as well

 

[michela]

Thanks for the info about Sharo Raissi, I'll be sure to look him up.

 

[Protimenow]

I had my OHS 19 years ago. It was done by a Dr. Yamagata. At the time, he was supposed to be one of the best (but, I guess, if anyone has a surgery, his or her belief is that the best surgeon is doing the surgery). I don't know if he's still practicing, but his surgeries are/were done at St. Vincent's.

I'm sure that, in the years since my aortic valve surgery, a LOT of surgeons in L.A. have gotten pretty darned good.

Good luck in your search for the right surgeon/hospital.