Making Rounds | 1,000 Open Hearts

Infirmary Health Reaches 1,000 Open Heart Surgeries in a Year

Infirmary Health has reached a major milestone, completing more than 1,000 open heart surgeries in a single year across Mobile Infirmary and Thomas Hospital. The achievement reflects both the volume and complexity of cardiac care being delivered on the Gulf Coast.

In a recent FOX 10 “Making Rounds” segment, Dr. Kareem Bedeir spoke about what goes into these procedures and why outcomes depend on more than just surgical skill.

Bedeir emphasized that strong coordination across departments plays a critical role in patient outcomes. From the ICU to radiology and emergency response teams, each part of the system supports patients before, during, and after surgery.

When asked how Infirmary Health compares to national benchmarks, Bedeir pointed to his own experience training at top institutions.

“What we are able to offer Mobile patients here locally is identical to what I was doing in Boston. There is no reason, outside of transplant for logistical reasons, for patients to go elsewhere. When it comes to adult cardiac surgery, no matter how complex it is, they're gonna get the same care here in Mobile that they will get anywhere in the world.”

While certain specialized procedures like transplants may still require referral to larger academic centers, most cardiac surgeries can be performed locally with a high level of expertise.

Reaching more than 1,000 open heart surgeries in a year highlights the strength of Infirmary Health’s cardiac program and its ability to provide advanced care close to home.