Your Guide to Heart Surgery
What you need to know to prepare for your surgery.
We know that preparing for heart surgery can feel overwhelming. At Jackson Health System, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We hope the information below helps you feel more confident and prepared for the upcoming procedure.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 305-585-5271—your health and well- is our number one priority.
What to expect before the surgery
You’ll have an appointment at the hospital a few days before your surgery to complete these important steps:
What to expect before the surgery
You’ll have an appointment at the hospital a few days before your surgery to complete these important steps:
Registration
Bring your identification and insurance information. Our staff will help answer any questions.
Health checks and tests
You’ll have a physical exam and tests, like bloodwork, to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery.
Meet with your surgeon
Your surgeon will explain the procedure, including the risks, benefits, and what to expect before and after the surgery. You’ll need to sign consent forms for the surgery. Be sure to ask any questions and mention any allergies or medicines you’re taking.
Anesthesia consultation
You’ll meet with the anesthesiologist the morning of your surgery.
Blood transfusion or donation
You may need a blood transfusion during surgery. All blood is carefully matched and screened for safety. If you wish to donate blood ahead of time, speak with your doctor.
Important details before surgery
If you have a fever or feel cold or flu-like symptoms before surgery, call us right away at 305-585-5271.
Special instructions
If you’re taking aspirin or a blood thinner, please talk to your doctor as you may need to stop these medications before surgery.
We’ll schedule you for a pre-operation testing and anesthesia clearance appointment. Please arrive 30 minutes before your appointment time.
Location
Jackson Memorial Hospital
Clark Diagnostic Treatment Center
First-floor registration,
1611 N.W. 12th Ave., Miami, FL 33136
The most convenient parking garage is the North (Blue) Garage, located at 1120 N.W. 20th St., Miami, FL 33127. Valet parking is also available.
Surgery
The day before the surgery
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
The day of the surgery
Please arrive at 5:30 a.m. on the day of your scheduled surgery to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Clark Diagnostic Treatment Center, first floor registration, 1611 N.W. 12th Ave., Miami, FL 33136.
While you’re in surgery
Your family can wait in the family waiting room until your surgery is complete.
If you have additional questions or need resources, please let us know. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Description
If you have additional questions or need resources, please let us know. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Meet the Heart Team
You are just about to enter a carousel of physicians.
Congenital Cardiac Surgery, Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Thoracic Surgery
Congenital Cardiac Surgery
Leo Harris, Physician Assistant
Barbara Davis-Sears, nurse practitioner
Jami Ferrare, nurse practitioner
Description
Leo Harris, Physician Assistant
Barbara Davis-Sears, nurse practitioner
Jami Ferrare, nurse practitioner
Comprehensive Pediatric Heart Care from Womb to Adulthood
Expertise, innovation, collaboration, and family-centered care shape our mission to provide exceptional cardiac treatment for children with congenital or acquired heart disease.