Post 1
February is American Heart Month, but cardiovascular innovation, patient outcomes and clinical leadership are year-round priorities at the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth.
As regional leaders in minimally invasive cardiac surgery, our team performs both totally endoscopic and robotic-assisted approaches. Our cardiac surgeons perform complex heart procedures through small keyhole incisions, leveraging advanced endoscopic visualization and robotic technology to enhance precision, safety and long-term durability—all through a closed‑chest approach.
Using advanced endoscopic instruments, 3D 4K endoscopy and robotic technology our team delivers minimally invasive treatment for a wide range of conditions, including valve repair and replacement, atrial fibrillation, cardiac tumors and atrial septal defects—without large incisions or rib spreading. This technology enhances visualization and depth perception to support greater precision and safety, particularly in complex mitral valve repair, all while reducing physical trauma for patients.
Beyond valve surgery, our cardiac surgeons collaborate closely with cardiologists, electrophysiology, and advanced heart failure teams to deliver comprehensive care, including minimally invasive surgical ablation, left atrial appendage ligation and LVAD implantation when appropriate.
As we recognize American Heart Month, this commitment to innovation, collaboration and outcomes underscores how the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth continues to shape the future of cardiac surgery.
Post 2
As we observe Black History Month, honoring the history, contributions and impact of Black Americans, it is important to recognize ongoing disparities in cardiovascular health within the African American community.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and for Black patients, it’s often more advanced and diagnosed at a younger age. More than half of African American adults experience hypertension (high blood pressure), which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, and many are managing overlapping risk factors, including diabetes, obesity and the effects of social determinants of health.
As Dr. Ephese Moise, Hospitalist and Department Chief of Medicine at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, explains, “The risk of heart disease is higher in African Americans compared to non-Hispanic whites often because hypertension, diabetes and obesity occur together rather than in isolation.”
At the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth, our teams remain committed to advancing equitable cardiovascular care through prevention, specialty expertise and coordinated multidisciplinary treatment, delivering meaningful impact right here.
For more resources visit, stelizabeth.com/medical-services/heart-vascular/take-time-for-your-heart/african-american-heart-health/
Post 3
On Valentine’s Day, we recognize a cardiac surgeon whose life and career have been shaped by a deep personal connection to cardiac care.
Happy birthday to Dr. George Christensen, Cardiac Surgeon at the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth!
Dr. Christensen was inspired to pursue medicine after witnessing his father’s battle with heart disease. Experiencing both the challenges of illness and the impact of compassionate care shaped his approach to cardiac surgery.
We are always proud to have Dr. Christensen on our team, caring for patients at the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth. Please join us in wishing him a happy birthday!
Post 4
On National Wear Red Day, I’m reminded how powerful it is when our community comes together. It’s not too late to help advance the mission of the American Heart Association through the Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball, supporting cardiovascular research, prevention and education that save lives and strengthen hearts across our region.
Thank you to everyone who has already shown up, given generously and helped move this mission forward!
If you’re still interested in getting involved, message me for more information on how you can help support.
I’m proud to wear red today and stand behind a cause that truly matters. ❤️
Post 5
Hands-Only CPR can mean the difference for someone you love. 🫀
When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, every second without CPR reduces the chance of survival. Hands-Only CPR provides a simple, effective way to keep blood flowing until first responders arrive.
That reality hit for Shawn and Emily Martin in what began as a quiet Thanksgiving weekend walk. When Shawn suddenly collapsed from a massive heart attack, Emily acted immediately, using Hands-Only CPR training she had completed just two weeks prior. With help from a nearby retired firefighter, she kept Shawn alive until first responders arrived.
Shawn was rushed to St. Elizabeth Healthcare, where cardiology specialists confirmed that early CPR made the difference between life and death.
Today, Shawn is back at work, healthy and grateful for more holidays and milestones with his family.
At the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth, we are committed to empowering our community with lifesaving skills.
Read Shawn’s full testimonial: https://www.stelizabeth.com/shawn-martin-cardiac-arrest-survival-story/
➡️ Learn how to perform Hands-Only CPR and be prepared to act:
stelizabeth.com/medical-services/heart-vascular/prevention-wellness/hands-only-cpr/
Post 6
Cardiovascular screenings close to home. 💙
Heart disease and stroke remain leading causes of serious illness, but early detection can make a meaningful difference.
The St. Elizabeth CardioVascular Mobile Health Unit brings convenient cardiovascular screenings directly to the community, making it easier to understand your risk and take action early.
These screenings take about 30 minutes and include immediate results, a cardiovascular risk assessment and a one-on-one conversation with a health educator about steps you can take to protect your heart health. Reservations are required.
Whether you’re managing risk factors or prioritizing prevention, these screenings offer an important opportunity to stay informed and protect your heart health.
➡️ Find an upcoming screening location and schedule your appointment:
stelizabeth.com/medical-services/heart-vascular/cardiovascular-mobile-health-unit/
📞 Or call (859) 301-9355 for more information.
Post 7
This National Women Physicians Day, we recognize Dr. Shola Adekoya, whose work in cardiology is shaped by both clinical excellence and a deep commitment to women’s cardiovascular health.
Drawn to cardiology early in her medical training, Dr. Adekoya was fascinated by the heart’s physiology and its essential role in sustaining the entire body. Influenced by strong mentors, she pursued the specialty with purpose, knowing there was no alternate path.
A growing focus of her practice is reproductive health and cardio-obstetrics, a developing specialty of cardiology that addresses cardiovascular risk in women from early adulthood through pregnancy and beyond. Dr. Adekoya emphasizes the importance of identifying and managing cardiac risk before and during pregnancy, particularly given the rising rates of maternal morbidity and mortality.
Her approach to care centers listening first. By allowing patients to share their full story, she gains insight into how physical health, stress, sleep and life circumstances influence cardiovascular well-being. This whole-person perspective builds trust, empowers patients and ensures care that extends beyond a single diagnosis.
We are proud to recognize Dr. Adekoya for her leadership, compassion and dedication to advancing cardiovascular care for women and families!
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Adekoya or schedule an appointment: https://www.stelizabeth.com/providers/bio/olusolaadekoya/
Post 8
Cardiovascular risk is often shaped by multiple factors working together. For many patients in the African American community, conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity can overlap, making early detection essential.
As Dr. Ephese Moise, Hospitalist and Department of Medicine Chief at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, shares, “I always tell my patients, if you take care of your body, your body will take care of you.”
At the Florence Wormald Heart & Vascular Institute at St. Elizabeth, we support proactive cardiovascular care through Take Time for Your Heart, a complimentary prevention and wellness program designed to identify risk factors and guide patients toward healthier outcomes.
If you have heart-related concerns or need specialty care, schedule an appointment with a cardiologist by calling (859) 287-3045 or learn more about our cardiovascular services at:
🔗 stelizabeth.com/medical-services/heart-vascular/
Post 9
The Cincinnati Business Courier has announced the finalists for its 2026 Health Care Heroes awards, recognizing professionals who elevate healthcare across Greater Cincinnati through innovation, leadership, community impact and patient care.
We are proud to share that Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang, Surgical Director of Mitral Valve and Heart Failure Therapies at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, has been named a finalist in the Provider category!
This recognition reflects Dr. Castillo-Sang’s leadership in minimally invasive cardiac surgery and his continued commitment to delivering exceptional care for patients and families.
Congratulations to Dr. Castillo-Sang and all of this year’s finalists for their contributions to advancing health care in Greater Cincinnati!