Texas Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates is dedicated to providing the highest quality surgical care for patients with diseases of the heart and lungs. We pride ourselves on personal service and a close relationship between the surgeon and the patient. In our practice, you will be seen by your physicians every day during your hospital stay and at each office visit.

TCSA works closely with primary care physicians, cardiologists, pulmonologists, oncologists, interventional radiologists, hospitals, and rehab programs to coordinate care and deliver it in the most comprehensive and efficient manner possible.

We also encourage our patients to make smart lifestyle changes:

• Stop smoking. Now. The single most important decision you can make to improve your health and increase your life expectancy is to avoid use of all tobacco products. Quitting smoking reduces your risk of heart attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cancer.
• Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure. Check these regularly , and consult your doctor about how to improve your weight and blood pressure control.
• Avoid fatty and fried foods. Choose fish and chicken over red meat, choose fresh fruits and vegetables over processed foods, and water over drinks high in sugar.
• Begin a program of regular exercise. Walk a mile a day at least five days per week. Ask your doctors or rehab therapist to recommend a program of aerobic exercise suitable for you.
• Keep alcohol and caffeine use in moderation.
• Establish a relationship with a primary care physician, and see your doctor regularly.

HISTORY

TCSA was formed in 1982 by Dr. Lonnie Whiddon, a renowned and respected cardiothoracic surgeon who practiced in Dallas for more than twenty-five years. Always inventive and forward thinking, Dr. Whiddon brought many of the newest techniques for heart surgery to Dallas, and in 1985 added heart transplantation to the practice. In 1992, Dr. Whiddon and a team of surgeons at Methodist Medical Center in Dallas performed the first triple organ (heart, kidney and pancreas) transplant . Dr. Whiddon retired from the practice of cardiothoracic surgery in 2006, but the spirit of excellence, dedication, and personal service he embodied continues at TCSA.