Leading Hospitals for Thoracotomy in San Diego
UC San Diego Health
Overview: UC San Diego Health is widely regarded as the premier center for thoracic surgery in the region. Their thoracic surgeons are experienced in both open and minimally invasive procedures, including robotic-assisted and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). The team collaborates with experts in pulmonology, oncology, radiology, and other specialties to provide comprehensive, individualized care.
Specialty Services:
Lung and esophageal surgery
Chest wall and mediastinal tumor resection
Lung volume reduction and transplantation
Advanced diagnostics and clinical trials
Locations: Jacobs Medical Center (La Jolla), Hillcrest Medical Center
Why Choose UCSD: Consistently ranked among the top centers nationally, with a strong track record in complex thoracic procedures and innovative care pathways.
Sharp HealthCare (Sharp Memorial Hospital & Sharp Grossmont Hospital)
Overview: Sharp’s Thoracic (Lung) Surgery Program offers specialized surgical treatment for disorders of the chest, especially the lungs and esophagus. Their thoracic teams work closely with pulmonary and oncology experts to ensure seamless, evidence-based care.
Specialty Services:
Minimally invasive and traditional thoracotomy
Multidisciplinary cancer care
Comprehensive pre- and post-surgical support
Why Choose Sharp: Known for high-quality, compassionate care and modern facilities. Sharp Memorial Hospital is a major acute-care center in San Diego.
Scripps Health
Overview: Scripps provides advanced thoracic and cardiovascular surgery at several locations across San Diego County. Their surgeons are recognized for expertise in both traditional and minimally invasive thoracic procedures, and they offer a full spectrum of chest surgeries.
Specialty Services:
Lung and esophageal surgery
Robotic and minimally invasive thoracic surgery
Integrated cancer care
Why Choose Scripps: Nationally recognized surgeons and a reputation for innovative, patient-centered care.
Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center
Overview: Kaiser Permanente offers thoracic surgery by referral, with a dedicated team and modern surgical facilities. Patients benefit from coordinated care within the Kaiser system.
Specialty Services:
Thoracic and lung surgery
Comprehensive perioperative and follow-up care
Why Choose Kaiser: Integrated care model and high patient satisfaction.
Naval Medical Center San Diego
Overview: For active-duty military, retirees, and their families, the Naval Medical Center offers state-of-the-art thoracic surgery led by experienced surgeons and multidisciplinary teams.
Why Choose NMCSD: Comprehensive care for military beneficiaries, with a focus on collaboration and advanced surgical approaches.
Highly Rated Thoracic Surgeons in San Diego
Dr. Eugene Golts, MD (UCSD)
Dr. Michael Madani, MD (UCSD)
Dr. Mark Onaitis, MD (UCSD/Palomar Health)
Dr. Sam Baradarian, MD (Scripps)
Dr. Mark Huang, MD (Sharp/Palomar Health)
Dr. Ara Klijian, MD (Private/Sharp)
These surgeons are recognized for their expertise, patient satisfaction, and leadership in thoracic surgery.
