Cardiac Surgery
We are one of the leading centers for advanced robotic valve surgery and advanced robotic bypass surgery in the country, putting patient care first with outstanding experiences and outcomes.
Life-changing cardiac care from the most comprehensive team of experts using advanced procedures and latest surgical techniques.
At the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, our team of board-certified, and fellowship-trained cardiothoracic surgeons perform procedures ranging from mitral valve repair, cardiac bypasses, and congenital heart defect repairs to heart transplants and other complex procedures for high-risk adults. We use the most advanced equipment and latest surgical techniques, including minimally-invasive robotic surgery in state-of-the-art operating rooms.
We are committed to providing the safest and highest quality patient care, and work closely with cardiologist, and other specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for both common and complex cardiac conditions, one that is grounded in trust and open communications, and built on the notion that every patient deserves a compassionate care team whose only focus is to care for that patient and provide them the best outcome possible.
Robotic Cardiac Surgery
At the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, surgeons continue developing and implementing a uniquely novel approach to aortic valve replacement, performing the entire surgery robotically.
QUICK FACTS
First in West Virginia to...
- repair mitral valve robotically via right mini thoracotomy using the da Vinci® Surgical System
- perform a heart transplant, including the First Dual Organ Transplant
- implant a left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
- develop a Comprehensive Advanced Heart Failure Program
- develop a Center for Advanced Robotic Surgery (CARS)
- develop a Comprehensive Atrial Fibrillation Center
- develop a Comprehensive Aortic Program
First in the region to...
- perform a fully robotic aortic valve replacement in the northeastern U.S.
First in the world to...
- perform an aortic valve reconstruction in combination with a mitral valve repair.

Mitral Valve Repair Reference Center Award
Awarded by the American Heart Association and the Mitral Foundation to organizations who have a demonstrated record of superior clinical outcomes in degenerative mitral valve repair resulting from evidence-based guideline treatment. We join a small group of only eight distinguished organizations in the entire country. Learn more→
Patient Story
Peter is “living his life” thanks to the cardiac surgical care he received.
Video
Advanced heart care
View more related videos →
Latest News
The WVU Heart and Vascular Institute Advanced Heart Failure team was the first in West Virginia to implant the Cordella® Pulmonary Artery Pressure Sensor System as part of the PROACTIVE-HF Pivotal Trial sponsored by Endotronix.
Clinical Research
The experts at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute conduct ongoing heart and vascular clinical trials and research studies.
Academics & Fellowship Programs
Learn more about the WVU School of Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery.
For more information or to schedule an appointment,
call 855-WVU-CARE, or schedule online.
Our Cardiac Surgery Faculty
Vinay Badhwar, MD
Gordon F. Murray Professor and Chair of the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Executive Chair, WVU Heart and Vascular Institute and Service Line
James Mehaffey, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Lawrence Wei, MD
Associate Professor, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Clinical Director, Cardiac Surgery; Co-Director of the Center for Aortic Surgery; Director of the Center for Aortic Valve Disease; Director of Robotic Revascularization, WVU Heart and Vascular Institute
Luigi Lagazzi Garros, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Surgical Director, Advanced Heart Failure, WVU Heart & Vascular Institute
George Comas, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Surgical Director, Advanced Heart Failure, WVU Heart & Vascular Institute
Locations
Through partnerships and affiliations with local hospitals and clinics, we bring access to complete comprehensive care for patients across West Virginia, and into surrounding regions, including Maryland, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, and beyond.
WVU Heart and Vascular Institute Main Campus at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital
1 Medical Center Drive
Morgantown, WV 26506
Phone: 877-988-4478
Services: Clinic, Surgery
WVU Heart and Vascular Institute at Camden Clark Medical Center
705 Garfield Avenue
Parkersburg, WV 26101
Phone: 304-424-4760
Services: Clinic, Surgery

WVU Heart and Vascular Institute at Wheeling Hospital
20 Medical Park, Ste. 105
Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: 304-242-4800
Services: Clinic, Surgical Procedures