Nationally Recognized Expertise

As the most comprehensive heart and vascular program in Fairfield County, Stamford Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute provides the full spectrum of cardiac support and treatment, close to home. Through our partnership with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, our dedicated and skilled heart team works together in one setting to provide coordinated, compassionate, specialized, world-class care. We offer the latest technologies and treatments, whether you’re looking for a general cardiologist or need open-heart surgery. Our patients can expect:

  • Expert physicians who are trained to treat heart conditions including congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, heart rhythm disorders, and heart valve diseases.
  • State-of-the-art technology to identify and treat cardiac issues.
  • New private patient rooms to facilitate a healing environment.
  • Access to the latest, most advanced research and clinical trials.

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Stamford Health’s award-winning Heart & Vascular Institute has expanded its relationship with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, one of the top ten cardiac programs in the country.* This ensures that our patients will have access to world-class cardiac treatment and expertise from Columbia University Irving Medical Center’s nationally recognized heart surgeons right here in Stamford.
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An expert heart team who will work to create a thorough treatment plan and manage a patient’s heart care journey.
Adult Echo
State-of-the-art technology to evaluate cardiac stress, electrical activity of the heart, abnormalities of the heart, and much more.
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The WATCHMAN™ Left Atrial Appendage Closure Implant offers a new treatment option that can eliminate the need for blood thinners.
This safe and noninvasive imaging test produces detailed pictures of your heart’s structure and blood vessels to detect or track heart conditions.
Modern surgical techniques performed by world-class physicians from Stamford Health and Columbia University Irving Medical Center alike.
Conventional 2D echocardiograms, 2D cardiograms with strain imaging, and 3D cardiograms are offered as part of cancer treatment.
Physician-directed, ECG-monitored exercise sessions supervised by trained exercise physiologists and licensed nurses.
Targeted treatment plans designed to alleviate symptoms, decrease your risk of stroke and sudden cardiac death, and improve quality of life.
Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that include coronary stenting and balloon angioplasty.
Expert cardiologists offer the most advanced treatments including a full range of heart and valve procedures.
Diagnosis and treatment of vascular problems such as peripheral artery disease, carotid artery disease, deep vein thrombosis, and varicose veins.
Advanced technology to provide early detection of heart disease in women.

Lifesaving Cardiac Surgery Allows Dad To Walk Daughter Down The Aisle

The July wedding of his daughter Molly was one of the most memorable events of Dr. George Chapar’s life. So was the lifesaving cardiac surgery at Stamford Health that allowed him to walk her down the aisle.

“It all started in early March,” he began, recounting the feeling of illness that struck him suddenly one afternoon. “My wife realized that something was wrong with me, and she called the ambulance that took me directly to Stamford Hospital. When I got there, I had a fever of 104.” Watch the video to learn more about Dr. Chapar’s story.


Compassionate Care Leads To Exceptional Outcomes

The Heart & Vascular Institute is committed to providing genuine patient-centered care with exceptional quality outcomes. Stamford Health participates in several national safety initiatives including the American College of Cardiology National Cardiovascular Disease Registries and the American Heart Association’s Get With the Guidelines® Program. These programs measure the level of care provided to heart patients.


MOST EXTENSIVE HEART CARE

Fairfield County’s most extensive cardiac care features lower Fairfield County’s only open-heart surgery program and the most advanced technologies.

WORLD-CLASS PARTNERSHIP

Five of Columbia University’s top surgeons see and operate on patients at Stamford Health. These surgeons perform both scheduled and emergency heart surgery at Stamford Hospital.

A HEART TEAM WITH HEART

A unified care team of physician experts, navigators, and physician assistants who put the patient’s needs and preferences first.


RANKED IN THE 90TH PERCENTILE NATIONALLY

Because of our approach to person-centered care the Stamford Health Heart & Vascular Institute is in the 90th percentile for patient’s likelihood to recommend to a friend or family member.

STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY

Eight outpatient cardiology and cardiac testing sites throughout Fairfield County and three catheterization/electrophysiology labs, plus a dedicated cardiac surgery operating room.


NONINVASIVE TESTING & GENERAL CARDIOLOGY

Painless procedures allow you to resume your normal activities almost immediately.


Our Leadership

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Chief, Cardiology, Co-Director of the Heart & Vascular Institute, and Professor of Clinical Medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons

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Chief, Cardiac Surgery and Co-Director of the Heart & Vascular Institute

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Associate Chief, Division of Cardiac, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

Expert Care Throughout Fairfield County

With eight locations throughout lower Fairfield County, we eliminate the need for you to travel outside the area for the world-class care you need and deserve. Stamford Health has recently expanded our cardiac services to Norwalk and Wilton with new physicians who offer regular appointments.



Patient Stories

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Rachel had been experiencing dizziness, fatigue and increasing shortness of breath. A heart tumor in a rare location at 38 was something she had never before considered.


RACHEL K'S STORY

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At just 37 years old, a heart attack was the last thing on Christine’s mind. Even though she hoped the feeling would pass, she made a lifesaving decision to call 911.


CHRISTINE W'S STORY

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John never thought he would experience a life-threatening tear in his heart just before his daughter’s wedding. It began with extreme tightness and intense pain.


JOHN B'S STORY


Awards & Recognition

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Recognized by U.S. News & World Report 2024-2025 as a High Performing Hospital in heart failure and heart attack care.


Stamford Hospital has received three awards from the American Heart Association for demonstrating commitment to following up-to-date, research-based guidelines for the treatment of heart disease and stroke.


Cardiac Care FAQs

  • What cardiac services does Stamford Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute provide?

    Stamford Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute offers an extensive range of cardiac services to patients, including diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, interventional cardiology, and advanced surgical procedures such as valve replacement. Our experienced team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, in partnership with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, utilize state-of-the-art equipment to accurately diagnose and treat conditions such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure.

    The cardiologists at Stamford Health have extensive expertise and advanced technology capabilities in interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, diagnostics & imaging, and open-heart surgery to diagnose and treat your heart health needs. The Heart & Vascular Institute also provides cardiac rehabilitation programs to help patients recover after heart procedures and improve their overall heart health.

    With a commitment to providing exceptional cardiac care, Stamford Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute is dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for its patients.

  • How can I make an appointment with a Stamford Health cardiologist?

    To make an appointment with a Stamford Health cardiologist, you can call the cardiology department directly at 203.276.7511. For virtual visits, you should check with your cardiologist or contact Stamford Health’s cardiology department to determine if virtual visits are available for your condition. New patients may need a referral from their primary care physician, depending on their insurance requirements. Stamford Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute is committed to providing patients with timely access to cardiac care and works to schedule appointments as soon as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

  • How is heart disease diagnosed and treated at Stamford Health?

    At Stamford Health, we understand that being diagnosed and treated for heart disease can be overwhelming. That’s one reason why our team of expert cardiologists work together in partnership with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, one of the top five cardiac programs in the country, to ensure that you get the best care possible. We use the latest technologies and personalized approaches to diagnose and treat cardiac conditions, and we offer a range of diagnostic tools, including lab tests, blood tests, EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterization to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Once we’ve determined a diagnosis, we work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your unique needs. This may include medication management, lifestyle modifications, minimally-invasive procedures, and surgical interventions.

    If you’re concerned about your heart health or have been diagnosed with a cardiac condition, please don’t hesitate to contact our cardiology department at 203.276.7511. We’re here to help you navigate your diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan that works for you.

  • How do I know if I am at risk for heart disease, and what steps can I take to prevent it?

    Taking care of your heart is crucial for a healthy life, and Stamford Health is here to help you. To lower your risk of heart disease, we recommend adopting healthy habits, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding smoking. Our experienced cardiologists can assess your heart health and risk factors and provide personalized recommendations to keep your heart healthy. Whether you have a family history of heart disease or are simply concerned about your heart health, we encourage you to speak with your doctor or book an appointment with one of our cardiologists. It is important to schedule regular checkups with your health care provider to monitor your heart health and make any necessary adjustments to your lifestyle or medication regimen. By taking proactive steps to manage risk factors, you can help prevent heart disease and maintain a healthy heart for years to come.

  • How does Stamford Health use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat cardiac conditions?

    Stamford Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute is proud to offer patients the most advanced technology available in cardiac care. Our state-of-the-art facilities include advanced imaging techniques such as echocardiograms (ECG/EKG) and imaging, which provide detailed images of the heart and blood vessels for diagnosing and treating heart conditions. Our team of experienced cardiologists employs minimally-invasive procedures, allowing for faster recovery time. For more complex procedures, we offer advanced technologies such as robotic-assisted surgery and 3D mapping to provide precise and effective treatment. Additionally, we offer innovative therapies such as the WATCHMAN™ Device, which reduces stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation. With our advanced capabilities, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, valve replacement, and open-heart surgeries, patients can receive a comprehensive range of cardiac services close to home.

    Our expert team of cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, and technicians are committed to delivering personalized and compassionate care using the most advanced technology available. At Stamford Health, rest assured that you will receive the highest level of care for your cardiac needs.

*Columbia/New York-Presbyterian is the #1 hospital for cardiology and heart surgery in New York and #6 in the nation, according to the U.S. News & World Report rankings for 2023–2024.

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