When it comes to heart surgery, choosing the right hospital can significantly impact recovery, safety, and long-term health. Pennsylvania is home to several nationally recognized hospitals offering world-class cardiac care, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to complex open-heart surgeries and transplants. Below, we explore the top 15 heart surgery hospitals in Pennsylvania, highlighting their strengths, specialties, and what makes them leaders in cardiac care.
1. Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania – Penn Medicine (Philadelphia)
As one of the top-ranked hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania stands out for its innovative heart surgery programs. Penn Medicine’s cardiovascular team performs over 3,000 cardiac procedures annually, including complex valve repairs, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and heart transplants.
Key Highlights:
Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted heart surgeries
Cutting-edge TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement)
Integrated heart failure and transplant program
Advanced imaging and diagnostics
The hospital is also involved in groundbreaking research, ensuring patients have access to the latest treatments and clinical trials.
2. Penn Presbyterian Medical Center (Philadelphia)
Also part of Penn Medicine, Penn Presbyterian is one of the busiest and most respected cardiac centers in the region. Home to the Penn Heart and Vascular Center, it specializes in high-risk surgeries and post-operative cardiac rehabilitation.
Strengths:
Hybrid operating rooms
ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) services
Robotic CABG and valve surgeries
National leader in structural heart disease programs
The collaborative care model ensures cardiologists, surgeons, and intensivists work together for optimal patient outcomes.
3. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh)
A flagship hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is recognized for its comprehensive heart and vascular institute. The hospital consistently ranks in the top tier for cardiovascular care in the state and the nation.
What Sets It Apart:
Large volume of cardiac and thoracic surgeries
Advanced ventricular assist device (VAD) program
World-renowned research in heart transplantation
Emphasis on personalized, evidence-based care
Its affiliation with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine means continuous innovation and physician training.
4. Allegheny General Hospital (Pittsburgh)
Allegheny General is a high-volume center for cardiac surgeries, especially known for complex coronary and valvular procedures. The hospital is part of the Allegheny Health Network and features a renowned cardiovascular institute.
Special Programs:
One of the first centers in PA to perform TAVR
Electrophysiology labs for advanced arrhythmia treatment
Onsite rehab and cardiac wellness center
Leading-edge technology like 3D mapping for surgical precision
The team includes nationally recognized cardiac surgeons, making it a go-to hospital for second opinions and complex cases.
5. Geisinger Medical Center (Danville)
Geisinger offers a unique blend of community-centered care and advanced cardiac surgery. Known for their integrated care model and pioneering use of electronic health records, Geisinger’s cardiac program is both patient-focused and technologically advanced.
Top Features:
Minimally invasive CABG and valve surgery
Comprehensive heart failure management
Telecardiology services
Multi-disciplinary care teams and care coordinators
Their heart surgery program is particularly strong in outcomes for older adults and those with comorbid conditions.
6. Lancaster General Hospital (Lancaster)
Part of the Penn Medicine network, Lancaster General delivers high-level cardiac care in a more community-focused setting. It is nationally ranked for heart surgery and is frequently awarded for patient safety and quality.
Highlights:
Full-service heart and vascular institute
Ranked in Healthgrades’ Top 50 for cardiac surgery
Expertise in cardiac catheterization and surgical valve repair
Strong postoperative care program
Its Heart Group offers education and lifestyle coaching, making it ideal for long-term cardiovascular health.
7. Lankenau Medical Center (Wynnewood)
A member of Main Line Health, Lankenau Medical Center is consistently recognized for its high performance in heart bypass and aortic valve surgery.
Unique Attributes:
Advanced electrophysiology and ablation programs
Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries
Cardiothoracic ICU with specialized nursing
Accredited Chest Pain Center
Their cardiac imaging program is among the most advanced in the region, allowing precise diagnoses and treatment plans.
8. Temple University Hospital (Philadelphia)
Temple’s Heart & Vascular Institute is a leader in complex cardiac surgery, especially for underserved and high-risk populations.
Strengths:
Expertise in end-stage heart failure surgery
Ventricular assist devices (VADs) and transplant services
Dedicated cardiac ICU and step-down units
Focus on culturally competent care
Temple is also one of the busiest transplant centers in Pennsylvania, offering both mechanical and biological heart replacement options.
9. Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (Philadelphia)
With a legacy of innovation, Jefferson Health provides an extensive range of surgical cardiac services, supported by one of the region’s most experienced cardiovascular teams.
Features:
Coronary artery bypass and complex valve surgeries
Congenital heart defect repairs in adults
Fellowship-trained cardiac surgeons and interventionalists
Strong focus on patient education and shared decision-making
Jefferson’s heart surgery program also boasts low complication rates and high patient satisfaction.
10. Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia
Einstein’s cardiovascular institute offers robust cardiac surgery services, including interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. It is known for treating patients with complicated health profiles.
Benefits:
Team-based care for multi-condition patients
Minimally invasive mitral valve repair
Advanced diagnostic cardiology lab
Community-focused wellness and rehab initiatives
Einstein also serves as a teaching hospital, ensuring access to the latest techniques and protocols.
11. Chester County Hospital (West Chester)
Affiliated with Penn Medicine, Chester County Hospital has emerged as a regional leader in heart care. It combines big-city capabilities with small-town compassion.
Cardiac Programs:
Comprehensive diagnostic cardiology
Coronary intervention and open-heart surgery
Cardiac rehab and lifestyle management
Access to Penn specialists and clinical trials
Patients often praise the hospital for its personalized care and short wait times.
12. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest (Allentown)
This flagship Lehigh Valley Health Network hospital offers a full-service cardiac surgery program and is a regional referral center.
Top Capabilities:
CABG, valve replacement, and TAVR
Round-the-clock cardiac catheterization lab
Stroke prevention programs linked to heart health
High-tech hybrid operating rooms
Its seamless care coordination between ER, ICU, and cardiac units ensures fast, efficient care delivery.
13. Reading Hospital (Reading)
Reading Hospital’s McGlinn Cancer and Heart Institute is a major regional hub for cardiac and vascular surgery. The hospital combines modern facilities with a strong tradition of patient-focused care.
Key Points:
Certified Chest Pain Center
Heart rhythm monitoring and AFib procedures
Accredited cardiac rehabilitation program
Skilled nursing support for post-op patients
Its community outreach programs also help with early detection and prevention of heart disease.
14. WellSpan York Hospital (York)
A trusted name in central Pennsylvania, WellSpan York provides high-quality surgical services for cardiovascular conditions, supported by a team of board-certified specialists.
Service Highlights:
TAVR and minimally invasive valve surgeries
24/7 STEMI response team
Integrative cardiac rehab
Hybrid OR for combined surgical/interventional cases
WellSpan also emphasizes preventative care through lifestyle counseling and cardiac fitness classes.
15. St. Luke’s University Hospital – Bethlehem Campus
St. Luke’s is a fast-rising cardiac care provider, with a strong reputation for safety, surgical precision, and patient education. Its Bethlehem campus houses the health system’s top cardiac surgery team.
Why It’s on the List:
Gold award for heart failure and stroke care from the AHA
Innovative heart failure clinic
Valve clinics and structural heart programs
Excellent physician-to-patient ratio
Their approach blends traditional surgical expertise with the latest digital health tools.
Pennsylvania is home to a robust network of heart surgery hospitals, many of which rank among the best in the United States. Whether you’re facing a routine procedure or a complex cardiac issue, these institutions offer specialized expertise, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate care.
When choosing the right hospital, always consider:
Hospital ranking and specialty certifications
Surgeon experience and patient volume
Rehabilitation and post-op care availability
Location, insurance, and personal comfort