Cardiothoracic Surgery
Heart and lung surgery
We are a highly specialised unit which provides surgical management of cardiac (heart) and pulmonary (lung) disease.
What we do
The Alfred service provides a broad range of highly specialised procedures including cardiac and pulmonary transplantation.
We provide services to patients living in metropolitan Melbourne, regional Victoria, and interstate patients.
What to expect
Patients who come under our care can be assured that they will have an experienced surgical team looking after them, with all of the advantages of a multidisciplinary approach.
The hospital and its resources can provide the full range of options for patients who find themselves having to undergo complex surgical treatment that might be associated with an increased risk.
How to access this service
Referral from your GP
You need a referral letter from your GP or medical practitioner to access this service. Your doctor will fax your referral letter to us. Once we receive it, we will send you a confirmation letter.
If you need surgery, you will be placed on a surgical waiting list after being seen in clinic. You may also need to attend the Pre-Admission Clinic prior to your surgery.
What to bring
Every time you come
- Medicare card
- Health Care Card and/or concession card (if you have one)
- Private health insurance card (if applicable/if you want to use it)
- Adverse drug alert card (if you have one)
- Previous X-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
- Medicines you need to take while you are here
- List of medicines you are currently taking (or the boxes), including medicines you have bought without a prescription, such as herbal supplements and vitamins
- Glasses, hearing aid(s) and/or walking frame if needed
For a clinic appointment
- Your appointment letter
- Any special items listed on your letter
- TAC or WorkCover claim number (if relevant)
For an overnight (or longer) stay
- Dressing gown and slippers, or comfortable day clothes and shoes
- Personal hygiene items, such as shampoo, shaving equipment, toothpaste and deodorant
- Something to do - like a book to read, a magazine or an iPad or tablet with headphones
What not to bring for an overnight (or longer) stay
- Your handbag, wallet, purse or large amounts of cash
- Valuables, such as jewellery or watches