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.
QUICK FACTS
First in West Virginia to...
- Repair mitral valve robotically via right mini thoracotomy using the da Vinci® Surgical System
First in the region to...
- to perform a fully robotic aortic valve replacement in the northeastern U.S.

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
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Latest News
WVU Heart and Vascular Institute surgeons perform the first completely robotic-assisted aortic valve replacement, mitral valve repair, and surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation.
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
Harold Roberts, MD
Assistant Professor, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Co-Director of Program Integration for Advanced Cardiac Surgery, WVU Heart and Vascular Institute
Chris Cook, MD
Associate Professor, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Director of the Thoracic Surgery Residency Program, WVU Heart and Vascular Institute
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
Geoffrey Cousins, MD
Assistant Professor, Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
Chief of Cardiac Surgery at Camden Clark Medical Center
Ganga Prabhakar, MD
Director of Cardiac Surgery, Wheeling Hospital; Assistant Professor of Medicine, WVU Heart & 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
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