Dr. Tedi Vlahu, a fellowship-trained cardiothoracic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive heart surgery, has joined Memorial Health University Physicians | Heart Care Waters Ave. He trained at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic to perform robotic-assisted cardiac surgery.

A native of Munster, Indiana, Vlahu says watching a knee replacement video in high school convinced him that surgery was his calling. Then, early in his residency, he was exposed to cardiac surgery.

“In my first year of surgical training, I worked with an amazing team in cardiothoracic surgery at Cook County Hospital in Chicago,” he says. “The surgeons’ highly technical skills and knowledge made me commit to cardiothoracic surgery.”

He focuses on finding minimally invasive options to repair or correct heart and heart valve problems. “There are so many approaches to cardiac surgery, from robotic and minimally invasive to standard surgery to catheter-based,” he says. “I believe the best approach is for our team to thoroughly evaluate every patient and tailor the safest treatment to provide the best possible outcomes.”

He works to deliver compassionate, thoughtful, informed care for every patient.

Vlahu enjoys playing the violin and guitar, and listening to and playing all music genres. An avid outdoorsman, he likes to golf, cycle, fish and hike through national parks. He and his fish, Harvey, are considering adding a dog to their family soon.

Patients can make an appointment with Vlahu at MemorialHealthDoctors.com, or by calling (912) 273-1150.