"If I was to need valve surgery again, there would be no doubt I would only want Dr. Castro leaving his fingerprints on my heart."
"This was my second aortic valve replacement surgery, both via open chest (not TAVR). The first was done 14 years earlier by a different surgeon, so I have a point of comparison.
I can say unequivocally that Dr. Castro is incredible. Everything went smoothly. I have recovered extremely quickly, which I attribute to his skill. I was walking up and down the stairwell in the hospital 48 hours after waking up. Dr. Castro is also a kind and attentive doctor.
My entire experience at Sequoia Hospital was outstanding. I could not be more grateful to Dr. Castro and his team."
-- Bernie McGoldrick, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 03/14/2024
"Valve replacement. Dr. Castro is not only a phenomenal surgeon, but if I could choose a best friend, he will be it. He is one of the best human beings I've ever met. I like this Dr. so much, no praise could do him justice!"
-- George Khoury, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/08/2024
"A doctor does not get over 200 5 star reviews unless he is a great heart surgeon. I believe that Dr. Castro is a very gifted and skillful surgeon. He is also a very likable person. That is the primary reason I ended up selecting Dr. Castro as I could have gone anywhere for the surgery.
If you know that one day you will need cardiac surgery this my advice: Get a great surgeon that has performed the surgery you need thousands of time. Don't smoke or drink. Be at your ideal body weight and exercise if it is possible.
Being in the best physical condition will help a lot with the recovery which can be long and slow. But, each day gets a little better and one day you will be a healthy version of yourself."
-- Michael Trolan, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Bloodless Surgery, 02/01/2024
"I worked in hospitals for over 40 years. During that time, I observed many cardiac surgeons.
Dr. Castro is by far the best. From our first visit to now, he has been very compassionate and concerned about my care. He listens and communicates clearly. His down to earth personality makes you feel at ease. He took as much time as he needed to answer all my questions. The whole procedure was professional. The follow-up care spot on. His bedside manner was outstanding.
The results could not have been better. I would highly recommend Dr. Castro. I feel fortunate that I went to him and I sing his praises anytime someone asks about my surgery."
-- Steve Hosler, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 01/05/2024
"I had a Mitral Valve repair on 12/11/2023 with Dr Luis Castro and the amazing team and Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, California. I was impressed by the professionalism, organization and friendliness of the entire staff during my operation and recovery. I cannot thank them enough for giving me a second chance at life!"
-- Alex Desoto, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 12/11/2023
"Dr Castro is phenomenal! In addition to replacing the valve, he also implanted an epicardial ventricular pacemaker lead as I had mine extracted in October, and he replaced a section of aorta, and excised the left atrial appendage.
I sing his praises every opportunity I get. I was very well-cared for by him and his associate, Dr. Sarkeshik, including collaboration with the electrophysiologists and Medtronic techs. My surgery was a success, but my pacing afterward definitely needed that lead plugged in!
I am an active 70 year old, female, currently going to cardiac rehab for monitoring so I don't over-do. I'm back to a lot of my regular activities, including walking a mile over the dune to the beach for a total walk of 5+ miles. I'm still not hiking steep hills (trying to keep my heart rate below 85-90% of age related max) but getting stronger every day.
I'm not on any medications. Yesterday s/p 5 months and a day after surgery I got back on my electric mountain bike to do a 15 mile town ride using power level 2 out of 5 on the hills to not push it too much. Felt great! So thankful and grateful my issue was finally resolved after decades of trying to figure out why I was having so much difficulty with exertion while doing things I love.
Can't say enough good things about Dr. Castro. "
-- Kathleen Davis, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 12/07/2023
"I could not recommend Dr. Castro and his team more highly. Dr. Castro performed a mitral repair and a surgical Cox Maze procedure. I am now 9 weeks out and am essentially fully recovered. I am quite active and have returned to tennis, working out, Peloton riding and weights. My scar is barely noticeable.
Aside from being incredibly skilled as a surgeon, Dr. Castro has a wonderful manner, always took as much time as I needed to discuss the procedure, anxiety, options, risks and was very good on follow-up after the procedure. He provided me with his personal cell number for any questions prior or after the procedure. I am not sure what else I could have asked for from a care team."
-- Richard Innenberg, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 09/25/2023
"I chose Dr. Castro for the aortic valve replacement and graft for the aortic aneurysm because he was confident he could do it with a hemi-sternotomy and within two hours. Another surgeon would only consider a full sternotomy and the surgery would take at least four hours. Dr. Castro is also very warm and caring. He takes the time to answer all your questions and explains things very well.
He was able to achieve everything he said and it's now been seven weeks since the surgery and the recovery has been going well. It was very reassuring that he performs all the functions from start to finish as this is not a teaching hospital.
I wholeheartedly (pun definitely intended) recommend Dr. Castro for your heart valve surgery or, at least, to get a second opinion."
-- Clifford Teoh, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 08/29/2023
"I believe Dr. Castro is the best heart surgeon anyone could have. I would not want to have any other heart surgeon than Dr. Castro to replace my Aortic and Mitral valves. He is thorough, competent and super congenial. His staff is competent and very caring, too. I am 87 years old and he gave me a second chance at life. He also is excellent in following up after surgery."
-- Rodney Piert, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/24/2023
"Exceptional care, competence and compassion by Dr. Castro and the whole team. The best!"
-- Rob Rouland, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/19/2023
"I was extremely scared until I met Dr. Castro the first time. He explained everything completely and made it seem so simple to fix. He is an amazing doctor. I will recommend everyone to him. I research my doctors thoroughly before all of them!"
-- Dorothy Silverberg, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 07/11/2023
"Dr. Castro was phenomenal from the Zoom pre-op call prior to my surgery date through the entire procedure and my recovery. Dr. Castro explained the entire procedure he would do to replace my bicuspid valve and triple bypass. He addressed my concerns as well as my wife’s. His nurses kept us informed through all the pre-op tests and during surgery kept my wife informed.
When Dr. Castro completed the surgery, he talked to my wife right away. This made her feel much better. I remained in the ICU for three days and up on the cardiac floor for an additional five days.
Dr. Castro personally saw me daily as well as his associate. Though I was not completely aware of things for a few days, my wife was with me 24/7 and she thinks very highly of Dr. Castro and the care I received. She has made the statement that if she ever needed cardiac surgery, she would want Dr. Castro to do it. I think that is the highest praise any body can give a doctor."
-- Robert Fletcher, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Coronary Artery Bypass, 06/01/2023
"Excellent."
-- Frederick Drayer, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Coronary Artery Bypass, 04/20/2023
"Amazing experience. Kind, happy, enthusiastic, and engaged. I cannot express the level of quality that I received. I have the utmost gratitude for Dr. Castro and the entire cardiac team."
-- Dwayne View, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 11/17/2022
"I was introduced to Dr. Luis Castro by my cardiologist. I was hoping to have a TAVR operation. Unfortunately, I was not a candidate for that procedure. Dr. Castro took the time to explain the entire procure to me and my wife and addressed all our concerns.
While he was replacing my valve, he also repaired an aortic aneurysm. I can't say enough good things about Dr. Castro.
I recovered quickly and each day is better than the last day. Dr. Castro is one of the best heart surgeons in California. I am very fortunate.
"
-- Frank East, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/09/2022
"Dr. Castro is simply AMAZING! From the initial consultation, pre-op, surgery & post-op follow up, he is present, precise, thorough, empathetic, and expertly skilled.
He listens, is patient and most importantly for those undergoing such a serious surgery, he's human and realizes you are, too! I evaluated the top surgeons and facilities across the Bay Area (and beyond) and although they are all good, without question I made the right decision by choosing Dr. Castro for my procedure.
Dr. Castro and his entire team at Dignity Health (formerly Sequoia Hospital) were superb! If you find yourself needing heart valve surgery, look no further."
-- Gary Schofield, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 11/08/2022
"Dr. Castro was very informative prior to surgery. He eased a lot of my concerns. After 3.5 months, healing is going along pretty good. I would definitely recommend Dr. Castro if heart surgery is required."
-- Brian Owens, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 10/27/2022
"I'm posting this review on behalf of my dad. My family and I are so grateful for Dr. Castro. He is an amazing surgeon and treated my dad with kindness and compassion. My dad is 75 years old and needed mitral valve replacement surgery. He was in pretty bad condition due to the poor work done by a different surgeon on a previous robotic mitral valve repair.
My parents had also been consulting with another surgeon for a new surgery, who repeatedly delayed and eventually cancelled, wasting precious months of my dad's time. My parents were fortunate enough to find Dr. Castro. He was thoughtful and informative, and also saw the urgency of my dad's situation.
One moment my mom shared with me from their first meeting was how Dr. Castro had her listen to my dad's heart on the stethoscope. (She said it sounded like an ocean.) This was such a small gesture but showed a lot of empathy and really helped my mom understand what my dad has been going through.
It's been over a month now since Dr. Castro performed the valve replacement surgery. There were some challenges due to my dad's decision to avoid a blood transfusion but overall my dad is recovering well. Dr. Castro and his team have been wonderful and responsive with monitoring his care throughout the whole process.
We're happy my dad is home now and healing!"
-- Fred Sarao, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Bloodless Surgery, 10/24/2022
"Amazing non-blood procedure! Zero blood loss. Everyone was so supportive in regards to my decision to not have transfusions of whole blood or of red cells, white cells, platelets, or plasma. Over in less than 2 hours. In ICU one night!!! Wow!!!
Mitral valve replaced with porcine valve. I loved visiting with Doctor Castro and his entire team including Liz who helped so much with our Zoom meetings and phone calls!!!! Thank you Adam Harmon and Taemin Surh, plus many, many others to name a few of the nurses Julius, & Tanya in ICU and Bonnie, Aurora and Wesley (so many more I have to send cards to everyone!) and the physical therapist Jenny Lee!
The anesthesiologist Doctor Tarang Safi was excellent. I feel very strongly about the team of people that worked with me during my stay. My surgery was 8/16/22 and I came home 8/21/22. Best thing ever is I am not out-of-breath anymore and my hands and feet aren’t falling asleep!
So grateful my Doctor Deepak Khlosa referred me to Doctor Castro! For the past few years, I thought I was out of shape!!! Hah!!! Now, I know why!!!"
-- Jennifer Jan (jenny) Jackson-Crespin, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Bloodless Surgery, 08/16/2022
"I have never met a physician that was more human, more approachable, and more giving of his time than Dr. Castro. From our very first face-to-face meeting, there was no feeling of pressure - he stayed and talked until all my questions were answered and understood. And when I had a few followups, he called me directly. He described the surgery completely, and made sure at the end that I was doing okay. He has followed up with me religiously, and even does video visits as I live 200 miles from his office. I would recommend him with absolutely no hesitation. "
-- David Stepner, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/11/2022
"I can't recommend Dr Castro enough! He was thorough and clear in all of my pre-op and post-op meetings, providing information in an easy to understand way. He spent as much time with me as needed, answering all of my many questions. He (and his team) did a great job!"
-- Jody Jannisse, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 07/21/2022
"It is a pleasure to recommend Dr. Luis Castro as well as his entire team. He is what everyone hopes their physician to be. Not just competent but calm and caring. His confidence gives you confidence. His explanations are given to you in lay language, free of as much medical jargon as possible. He understands that while this may be just another day at the office for him and his team, it is an intense time for you.
For as busy as he must be, he spends an incredible amount of time with his patients, before and after the procedure. This also goes for pre-surgery and follow ups after the surgery as well. I was in the hospital during the July 4th weekend and Dr. Castro and Dr. Harmon were there with their patients every day.
I also can't say enough about Lyn, Theresa, and Dr. Kelly. Everybody, you will come in contact with at Sequoia Hospital truly cares about your outcome and I really enjoyed just talking with everybody there and hearing their stories as well. They all want to assist you with your recovery and get you back to living your best life. A life that he and his team have truly given you a new lease on. Thank you again Dr. Castro!"
-- Kenneth Southard, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 06/30/2022
"My experience with Dr. Castro was and is fantastic. When we first met, I was scared to death. I left his office knowing that I was going to be just fine.
He is very caring and takes his time with you. He explains the procedure in a way that you can understand. He exudes confidence yet still manages to be down-to-earth and has a great sense of humor. You leave his presence knowing you're in the best care of a very skilled surgeon. When I left his office, I had a smile on my face knowing I was going to make it.
My surgery was on June 26, 2022 and was a success. Thank You Dr. Castro!! You are the very best!!!"
-- Debera Strobach, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 06/16/2022
"I am 19 years old and have known about my bicuspid aortic valve since birth. After contracting Covid last fall, I needed clearance from my cardiologist to return to playing college baseball. The MRI results showed that the regurgitation had increased to the point where intervention was required. My parents and I had been worried about this day for my entire young life, and now in Feb 2022 it had arrived.
We began asking a ton of questions and scouring the internet on the procedure, options, and surgeons. My parents and I interviewed a lot of surgeons but didn’t feel we were quite there with a decision. The more surgeons we interviewed; the more questions came up with each surgeon offering their unique approach to the procedure. Our goals were (1) to avoid Coumadin if possible, and (2) to gravitate towards a surgeon who didn’t open me up and need to see my stomach in order to work on the top half of my heart.
After an exhaustive search, we found Dr. Luis Castro and Sequoia Hospital on this website while looking through the reviews. We were amazed at the stories and feedback and thought we need to give him a call for one last interview before making the decision. It was the best call we’ve ever made.
After our first call we were convinced Dr. Castro was the choice. He was very thorough and knowledgeable and most importantly, very empathetic and kind. We went through many Zoom calls to make sure we understood everything about the procedure and what our options were.
Once we made the decision official, the team at Dr. Castro’s office and those at Sequoia Hospital were amazing and really helped to make sure we were well informed and comfortable with the decisions we had to make. His first goal was to repair the valve, but if that was not possible the decision was made to use an artificial valve and just deal with the ramifications of Coumadin for the rest of my life.
One the day of the surgery, my parents escorted me to the surgical prep ward where I was prepped for the surgery. The nursing staff was very kind and put us all at ease. That is the last I remember before waking up in the ICU.
My parents waited in the surgical waiting room for a few hours while Dr. Castro performed a small miracle on my heart. He was able to actually repair my bicuspid aortic valve! Dr. Castro visited us later in the ICU to let us know about the operation (I was still a bit groggy, so this story is relayed from my parents).
Dr. Castro took my case very personal and challenged himself to find a way to repair my valve. Most patients he cares for with this operation are much older and the long-term effects of Coumadin aren’t as impactful as they would be for me. He said he took this challenge to heart and got up earlier than usual and researched previous case studies in preparation for the surgery. The cardiologist who came to visit (and is now my full-time cardiologist) told us she wanted to see the miracle patient with the repaired valve! She told us there are only a handful of surgeons in the world who could have pulled this off, and Dr. Castro is one of them!
Dr. Castro came to see me every day in the recovery ward and was so kind. The hospital staff at Sequoia was also very kind and helpful and made my parents as comfortable as possible. I’m 5 months into my 6-month recovery at this point and everything is going fantastic. I’m allowed to do light workouts and I’m feeling stronger every day.
I can’t thank Dr. Castro and the team at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City enough for providing me with a new lease on life! "
-- Koby Maitland, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 06/09/2022
"The most comprehensive care before and after the surgery. The surgery was successful and the follow-up was exceptional. Dr. Castro is not only an extremely skilled surgeon, he his also a caring doctor that treats his patients with respect. The level of attention each patient receives from Dr Castro and his team is absolutely the best you could ever want. Way above expectation!"
-- Michael Lannoy, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 06/08/2022
"Dr. Castro is simply the best! I cannot recommend him, Dr. Harmon and their team highly enough. From our first appointment to the follow-up appointments after surgery, his manner was informative, compassionate and caring. He clearly explained my options and involved my husband in every discussion and decision and most importantly perhaps, he truly listened to our concerns and answered every question we had throughout the process.
Dr. Castro's entire team at Sequoia Hospital is superb and I mean everyone from the office staff to the cleaners and of course the medical, nursing and paramedical staff. Even the accounting department is easy to deal with! All were very professional and the surgery went exactly as described.
I experienced some (not unexpected) post-operative issues due to prior radiotherapy but again, these were promptly addressed and my recovery has been excellent.
At my latest check up, both valves are working well and in perfect positions. Again, I cannot recommend Dr. Castro highly enough and I and my husband are very grateful to Drs. Castro and Harmon and their team for all their dedication and hard work."
-- Caroline Wojtkowiak, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 06/03/2022
"Dr. Luis Castro has a wonderful bedside manner. He is kind and compassionate and is easy to talk too.He addressed all my concerns about my heart surgery. I recovered quickly and feel that Dr. Castro is one of the best heart surgeons in California. I was very for fortunate. Thank you Dr. Castro! "
-- Vanda Caturegli, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/02/2022
"Dr. Luis Castro is the epitome of a caring doctor. His demeanor from start to finish was highly professional, friendly, empathetic, knowledgeable, highly skilled and completely engaged. I can't imagine anyone, anywhere that is better. Stellar experience with Dr. Castro. More than highly recommended. "
-- Don May, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 05/25/2022
"The advertisement of Dignity Healthy “Human Kindness” appropriately describes Dr. Castro and his staff as well as the nurses at Sequoia Hospital.
After seeing another surgeon, I decided to ask Dr. Castro to perform the mitral valve surgery on me. In addition to his extensive experience, I find him very compassionate and easy to talk with. He listened to my issues and he explained my options. He explained the advantages of the surgery and gave ample time to make a decision.
My surgery was successful.
I’m so glad I chose Dr. Castro. My family and I will ever be grateful to Dr. Castro, his staff and Sequoia Hospital.
May God bless Sequoia Hospital and the staff so they can continue doing God’s work."
-- Maria Marantal, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/20/2022
"Dr. Castro, Dr. Harmon, Taemin Surh, the ICU nurses, and the hospital nurses were all outstanding, professional, and I believe are miracle makers.
About a year after surgery, I feel strong, and experiencing no problems and no recurrence of symptoms. I would absolutely recommend the entire team to anyone who needed a valve repair. It was a long way to drive for me, but well worth it.
The care I received was superb, and the follow-up appropriate. I'm alive because of these folks, and will forever be grateful. Not what I'd call a fun experience, but a very successful one. Thank you."
-- Kirk Ford, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 05/11/2022
"I’m so amazed with Dr. Luis Castro and his staff that cared for me for my double bypass open heart surgery. Every step of the way was professional, caring and tops! If I ever have to have any heart surgery again, I would have Dr. Castro be my surgeon again. I am truly grateful and blessed that I had him as my heart surgeon. Thank you again Dr Castro, Dr. Harmon, and their staff. You’re all amazing! I'm so lucky. Thank you!"
-- Florence (Dede) Seward, Aortic Valve, 04/22/2022
"Dr. Luis Castro is a top notch surgeon! My results were perfect and the recovery was fast. He is a very personable doctor that takes the time to go over all aspects of your treatment. In my case, we even looked at alternatives but I came to the conclusion with him that repair was the best scenario. Do yourself a favor and at least get a consultation with him."
-- James Hoffman, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 04/06/2022
"I was born with non-functioning aortic valve and this was without me knowing about it. On March 8th, 2022, walking the stairs up to get to the bus stop, I fainted and thank God there were more people waiting for the bus and they called the ambulance for me. I was admitted to CPMC Van Ness Campus and they released me 5 hours later with a bill of $5,846.
On March 31st, it happens again and this time I was admitted at St. Francis Hospital and this time they kept me until all the exams were completed and they recommended an immediate surgery and for that they transferred me Sequoia Hospital where Dr. Castro was assigned to performed my surgery. Thank God for that!
Dr. Castro came to visit me and had a conversation with me regarding the surgery procedures, and explained me the different types of valves which were tissues and metals. He explained me the pros and cons of each one. Dr. Castro advised me to think about the different valves and advised him the next day which one I was going with. The next day at 7:30am, prior to the surgery, he called by phone and we talked again and confirmed the type of valve I was going to have and since he was going to be the surgeon, he needed to be 100% sure of my decision.
The surgery was a Success! The nurses while I was on recovery until I left the hospital were all fantastic, very polite and very attentive to all my needs. This is the first surgery I have received in my life! And, if I am to have another one, I hope Dr. Castro will be there to perform it. He is the best surgeon this hospital has. "
-- Gladis Martinez, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/05/2022
"Dr. Castro is very patient and down to earth in explaining your procedure and following up after surgery. My surgery went very well and my post-op pain was very mild with minimal scarring. I have a great rebuilt heart! "
-- Stephen Traynor, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 01/21/2022
"Dr. Castro performed a surgical procedure in early 2022 to successfully address my extremely complicated valve disease. In addition to his incredible skill, he was, both before and after my surgery, incredibly kind, patient, and reassuring. He transformed a very scary health situation for me (65 years old on the surgery date) into an interesting life journey, and managed to leave only a small reminder scar when he was finished! I will always be grateful to him."
-- George Keller, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 01/05/2022
"Things went really well. Great surgeon and bedside manner. Very optimistic. Highly recommended!"
-- Monte Peckinpah, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 12/27/2021
"I am so grateful I found Dr. Castro and the team at Sequoia Hospital (part of Dignity Health). My mitral valve is in perfect repair and my care was everything I could have hoped for, from the very first phone call to hospital stay, support with travel arrangements, and follow up. I traveled from out of state to have a major surgical and would 100% recommend others to do the same."
-- Shelby Abramson, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 12/21/2021
"Fabulous! Dr Castro was extremely attentive and caring. I felt I was in very competent hands and his follow-up care was extensive. He always took as much time with me as I needed. I never felt rushed at all."
-- Janice Nowak, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 10/29/2021
"Dr. Castro took the time to explain the need for open heart surgery to replace my Aortic Valve and answered my many, many, questions. His patience, understanding, and support were outstanding.
The surgery was only a week ago, but I feel much better with my new valve."
-- Konrad Sosnow, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/27/2021
"Excellent expertise and knowledge. Quite reassuring and able to help me overcome my fears of major surgery and risks, with good post-op follow up."
-- Jayson Gatdula, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/21/2021
"I can't say enough good things about Dr Castro. He is a great surgeon and a great person. He answered all my pre-surgery questions in a patient and thoughtful way. I never felt rushed at all. After surgery his obvious care and concern for me was most welcome. I would highly recommend Dr Castro to anyone needing heart surgery. "
-- Robert Wolfson, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/09/2021
"It has just been 4 months since my mitral valve repair surgery. Dr. Castro and his team did an incredible job from the first appointment to the final appointment releasing me to drive. Dr. Castro answered all my questions in the beginning as I was hesitant to have the surgery because I did not exhibit the typical symptoms.
In retrospect, your body gets accustomed to dealing with challenges. Since my surgery, I have noticed a difference in my heart rhythm and energy. While the pandemic did create a challenge and I had to postpone the surgery, Dr. Castro was very open to understanding my concerns.
His office staff was polite and did everything possible to make this procedure as seamless as possible for me. The scheduling and working with the hospital were also seamless and was so impressed with Sequoia Hospital and the staffing.
Dr. Castro and his team have a wonderful reputation and the hospital staff eased my nerves as they also concurred how fantastic he and his team were. Dr. Castro also recommended a cardiologist for me to follow up with and will stay with him going forward. He is also highly regarded and I feel confident with his care.
Dr. Castro or his team came every day while I was in the hospital to check in and provided answers to questions regarding my surgery and next steps. It is my pleasure to highly recommend Dr. Castro and his team for any cardiac needs. I have already recommended him to family and friends.
Honestly, I owe my improved cardiac health and well-being to Dr. Castro and team and look forward to long healthy life."
-- Deb Negrete, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/03/2021
"Dr. Castro was extremely helpful in explaining and understanding what needed to be done during my procedure. He was very approachable and understanding of any apprehensions I might have concerning my surgery. There was constant communication before-and-after surgery.
Following my discharge, I had one in person and two Zoom follow-up visits to keep track of my recovery. The results of the surgery were as expected and I was told to call anytime I had questions or concerns. Dr Castro treats his patients as family and is very empathetic. Would highly recommend him to anyone who has to have surgery."
-- David Marsh, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/22/2021
"Dr. Castro took the time to explain, answer questions, and ask if I had any questions. He introduced his staff before my surgery, and definitely made both my wife and me feel totally comfortable about what was to come.
Following my surgery, I saw him and the assisting surgeon every morning while I was in recovery, even on the weekend days. His staff is extremely professional and friendly. I would recommend Dr. Castro and his team without question. "
-- George Haines, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 07/08/2021
"Doctor Castro is the best heart surgeon you will ever find. He replaced my aortic valve. He also found that the area around the old valve required a little more work before replacing it with a cow valve.
Doctor Castro also found that I had an aneurysm while preforming the above surgery. Doctor Castro
handled both of these issues with great skill.
If you are a "fence-sitter" like I was... Well, get off the fence and make an appointment to see Doctor Castro soon.
I can never find the correct words to say "Thank You!" to Doctor Luis Castro!"
-- Robert Koehler, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/21/2021
"Dr. Castro won our confidence with his comprehensive and unhurried communication in advance of surgery. After the successful surgery, he and his team were attentive at the hospital and very supportive. When I experienced inflammation and afib complications a couple weeks after going home, Dr. Castro was with me all the way, referred me to an excellent electrophysiologist and continued to be interested in my progress. 11 months later, I am enjoying epic bike rides with a fully functioning valve and no afib or inflammation. My wife and I are both grateful that we found Dr. Castro, and enthusiastically recommend him."
-- Mitchell Herbert, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/20/2021
"This is the surgeon that you want to see. Doctor Castro was able to repair, instead of replace, my mitral valve. He also did coronary artery bypass graft x3. I was released from the hospital after 6 days and my recovery has gone great. Look no further. He is the one that you want to see. Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City is the best. Had I known how good the whole experience would be, I would have done this sooner. I know it’s scary, but you can be sure that with Dr. Castro you are getting the best care possible."
-- Kevin Peterson, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 05/06/2021
"Dr. Castro is an outstanding surgeon. I had surgery 6 months ago. Mid-recovery, I had gall bladder/pancreatitis surgery and my heart was OK. I fully endorse Dr. Castro and his team. He is very patient compatible and accessible. "
-- William Jump, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 05/06/2021
"I am a 74 year old male who hikes and mt. bikes every day. I live in Redding, CA. This was my second open heart surgery in 2 years. The first surgeon had performed a 4-way bypass and replaced my aortic valve. The mitral valve was leaking but the surgeon determined not enough to warrant repair. Two years later I needed another open heart surgery to replace the mitral valve and repair the tricuspid valve, as well as perform another bypass.
I did significant research to find the right surgeon as this was a more complicated surgery, largely because it was my second sternotomy. As I looked, one name kept surfacing, Dr. Luis Castro. He seems to have performed many more of these second sternotomies than anyone else in Northern California, and perhaps in the country. I was surprised at how available he was. I called his office and a zoom call was scheduled for just a few days later. Dr. Castro is very down to earth and was unhurried in our call. He took the time to answer all of my questions and to assure me this was a surgery he was very familiar with and that he was very confident it would go well. He has had much experience with second sternotomies. After the call I was absolutely sure that Dr. Castro was the right choice for me.
The most amazing thing he has done is to stay involved with me after the surgery. I have spoken with him 2-3 times over the phone or with zoom meetings. He is available when I call, or returns my calls promptly. This has been especially important to me since my local cardiologist has been much less responsive. After my first surgery, my cardiologist (different from my current Dr.) was very involved, and guided my recovery. My current cardiologist has not done so, and Dr. Castro has stepped in to fill that void.
Bottom line is that Dr. Castro seems to have much more experience with more difficult surgeries, such as mine, to the point that they seem routine to him. He has a great bedside manor and he genuinely cares about his patients. And he follows up during recovery. When I was researching the right surgeon one of my doctors here in Redding stated that, "If I were having open heart surgery, Dr. Castro would be performing it for me". I cannot recommend Dr. Castro enough...and to top it all off, he is a very nice person!"
-- Alan Clough, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 04/22/2021
"Dr. Castro and his staff are the greatest that I have ever come across in
70 + years. From the front desk to the staff of Drs. they are so personable they seem like friends. I had an aorta valve replaced and two arteries bypassed. In 5 weeks I felt great. I feel so fortunate to have decided to travel to Sequoia from a rural area in CA to get this procedure. My hat is off to Dr. Castro and his great staff. What a team!!! Don't hesitate coming here, your life may depend on it."
-- Earl Gertz, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/15/2021
"EXCELLENT CARE. All pre-surgical communication was thorough and easy access. The hospital care was excellent. I had my own hospital room. The nurses were amazing. Dr. Castro has excellent bedside manner, very nice and caring. His personality promoted his surgical confidence. He has an excellent team. The associate surgeon Dr. Harmon was terrific. My surgical results have been great. My post surgical care has been quite thorough including visits with the heart failure cardiologist Dr. Mary Larson.
I feel that I am alive because of Dr. Castro's excellent care. I've talked with two patients who had mitral valve replacement with Dr. Castro, they both recommend Dr. Castro and are both in excellent cardiac health. I totally recommend Dr. Castro even if it means traveling to see him. I drove over 100 miles to see Dr. Castro."
-- Anacleto "Nick" Gutierrez, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/09/2021
"Excellent surgeon with tremendous experience making a complicated surgery seem easy. Highly recommended!"
-- Ryan Thompson, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 04/08/2021
"Dr. Luis Castro is an excellent surgeon with great bedside manner, listens and explains everything surrounding the procedure clearly. I trust him and would recommend him to any family member."
-- Keith Anding, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 04/06/2021
"Dr. Castro discussed the issues and possible treatment options fully prior to surgery. He saw me every day post-op, both in the ICU and the CCU, to check on my status and to ask how I was feeling. Recovery was uneventful and as comfortable as could be expected. The MAZE procedure was successful and I remain in sinus rhythm. An echocardiogram confirmed a properly functioning valve and my cardiologist was impressed with the outcome and healing of the surgical site. Dr. Castro was very personable during my post-op check and volunteered that he remains available for any concerns I might have."
-- Don DiTullio, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 03/19/2021
"Repair involved aortic valve replacement and aneurysm repair. Dr. Castro and his team did an excellent job, even though my surgery was a little more complicated than normal."
-- James Mckiernan, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/04/2021
"Dr. Castro is very professional, an excellent surgeon, warm, kind, caring, sensitive, great bedside manner, understanding, great sense of humor and an absolute delight. I very highly recommend him. Originally I didn't want to go to him as he was 4 hours away from my residence. It was the best decision I made. I would travel 6 hours to have him do a procedure on me."
-- Jeri-Lynn Roitman, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 01/06/2021
"Wonderful. Results were excellent. He was direct, friendly, and easy to talk to. What he told me to expect was what happened. He inspired no end of confidence in me and, more important, in my wife, who thinks he's just great."
-- Hans Troesch, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 10/22/2020
"In September 2020 I met Dr. Luis Castro for the first time in his Redwood City office. He had my echo cardio test projected on his office TV. He took the time to explain my heart condition using the video of my heart and a heart model. I instantly liked his kind and gentle manner. He put me at ease with his confidence from 20 years of heart valve repair experience. I had to choose between a mini sternotomy or mini thoracotomy. Dr. Castro gave me the pros and cons of both. I chose a Thoracotomy. After meeting another surgeon, I was convinced that Dr. Castro was the best choice for my surgery.
His office staff was very receptive to questions, concerns and scheduling. I was able to talk to someone and or receive a return call every time I called. My surgery took place at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, an hour away from my home. The facility is modern, beautiful and safe with COVID. Dr. Castro and his team of Dr. Harmon and PA Surh, did a great job repairing my valve. I stayed in the hospital for an extra day, my choice, for 5 days.
I have met with Dr. Castro twice since the heart procedure. During each visit he was professional, informative and kind. Due to COVID one was virtual. After two months I have occasional pains at the under breast incision site and in my mid chest. My incision is about 5 inches and the thigh incision about the same. Both have healed well.
I would recommend Dr. Castro to repair your heart. He is knowledgable, experienced, kind, easy to talk to, and a good person."
-- LaRene Kidd, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 10/19/2020
"This was my second valve replacement done by Dr. Castro. As with the first one, within 15 minutes of meeting him, you will know you are in the right place with the right surgeon. His concern for both your surgical outcome and complete answers to all your questions, concerns, and apprehensions shine through immediately, and the care you receive under his guidance, along with the entire staff at the amazing Sequoia Hospital is as good as it gets.
After *two* critically important surgeries, I can tell you not only about the highest level of care you'll receive, but about the *consistency* of that level of care (and the second surgery was during the height of the corona virus pandemic, and Sequoia's preventative procedures put me completely at ease during this time when I was most vulnerable). You simply won't find better a better heart surgeon or surgical care anywhere else! "
-- Eddie Williams, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/16/2020
"Dr. Castro is the 'Best of the Best', both as a caregiver and a surgeon. Really a flawless experience for me throughout the immediate post-op period and the sustained improvement in my lifestyle."
-- Billy Lenser, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/08/2020
"I'm a 49 yr old that recently had AVR on a bicuspid valve. I was asymptomatic so it afforded me time to do research, a lot of research. Dr Castro was "The Common Denominator" for almost 2 years of due diligence while making a decision on my AVR. Dr. Castro's name was a consistently in the recommendations in every conversation as one of the best, most skilled, professionals doing heart procedures especially AVR's.
I met and spoke with Dr. Castro many times, in person and by cell phone. He was always courteous, listened, and never oversold the procedure. He provided the pros and cons and I appreciated his advice and thoughts.
Dr. Castro's "Manner" has high confidence in his abilities but not too much that he comes across as cocky (many surgeons can seem cocky), yet he's humble and appreciative that you've chosen to speak with him. He listens very well and even though he's heard 'your story' tens of thousands of times, you'll feel like your conversation is the first he's had on the topic. He's respectful of all levels of questions and concerns.
I want to also point out the fact that the 'Castro TEAM' is JUST AS IMPORTANT as Dr. Castro himself. Dr. Castro has skills but you'll learn that it's the collection of skills and how those many skilled professionals work together that makes a much bigger difference. Each person on the team was amazing at what they do and they all have an important part from logistics, to follow through, to hand holding, to support. I felt like I was dealing with a very well-oiled optimized machine. When I woke up from surgery and into the recovery, the follow through was impeccable. Dr. Castro and his staff came to see me every day and answered all my questions. Again, always patient and it was a pleasure to see them. One of my biggest fears was regret on timing, procedure (tissue), and surgeon. All those fears were 100% gone when I woke up.
Additionally, I was really impressed with Dignity Sequoia - It's like a boutique hospital. Very nice, clean, and all the nursing staff did a great job. I highly recommend Dr. Castro and I met with over 10 surgeons in 2 yrs."
-- Daniel Green, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 07/29/2020
"Dr. Castro is the "BEST OF THE BEST". He saved my life twice. No other doctor on the West coast or East coast would do surgery on me. UCSF sent me home to go into hospice.
Dr. Castro did surgery 6 months ago and I am playing golf now and totally healed from my valve replaced. His bedside manner is warm, informative and he treats you like family. He is an angel that has found his purpose as a surgeon. He is absolutely the most professional, gifted and humble doctor we have ever met.
Don’t go anyplace else. Dr Castro and his team are the BEST.
Also... Sequoia hospital is top notch. The staff from the top to the people delivering the food or cleaning the rooms are friendly and appear to love their jobs and are excellent at their service. All in all the most scary experience made safe and felt that we were being held together by family that truly care. "
-- Martin Hymowitz, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 01/31/2020
"There aren’t many people I would want in the foxhole with me. But, Dr. Castro is at the top of the list. His bedside manner was very warm and caring. Results are marvelous."
-- Jim Berthold, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 01/20/2020
"Surprised to find a heart surgeon who is an avid surfer and shares our love for Mexico and good food. Dr. Castro is very easy to talk to and very good at explaining what you will and have experienced. Recovery is longer than I wished but matches what I was told. Prior to surgery, I worked out 12 hours a week and now 3 months after I hope to be back there soon.
Highly recommend him and the Sequoia team."
-- Robert Dulsky, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/18/2019
"When reading the blogs from other heart valve patients it is easy to become totally freaked out and begin anticipating severe pain and suffering. Please don’t get identified with these as there are many thousands of patients who have undergone these surgeries and recovered without complication but just haven’t bothered to share. I know, I’ve just been through it.
My husband and I want to thank Doctor Luis Castro for the wonderful work of the surgery he and his team performed on me this past month, December 11th, 2019, but additionally many thanks for making me feel comfortable and safe in his hands well before the procedure. Everyone of us that has had to face the thought of undergoing something this complex and life threatening will agree that it can be terrifying. When I first called and spoke with Dr. Castro, though I had no appointment, he took over 30 minutes of his valuable time to stop what he was doing and listened to the concerns of a 75 years old woman who lives at 6300 foot elevation. From those first minutes on, the specter of what I had to face in the future no longer held me in terror. I was still frightened and nervous, but now I could think more rationally and put together a plan.
The following face to face meeting only served to secure my faith that he was the one to do the surgery. Now that the mitral valve replacement, Maze procedure, and left ventricle appendage removal is in my rear-view mirror, I am so grateful for his wise and calming counsel and can look forward to a much longer and healthier life to share with my family. I am getting stronger every day and the tender area around the incision becomes less sensitive. Incidentally the surgery was only 4 weeks ago, I only took Tylenol as my pain threshold never went above a 4, mostly a 1-2, and am now completely off any meds.
My husband and I agree that Dr. Luis Castro is the best surgeon, with the best team of Dr. Adam Harmon and PA Taeman Surh, with the best hospital care anyone could have to trust one’s heart! Incidentally, as I was preparing to send in my review, I came across other reviews from Dr. Castro’s patients for the first time and am even more humbled by the fact that I have been blessed to have been referred to and had my treatment with him. Please, read some of the other reviews of Dr. Castro and you will find a new source of inspiration and calm if you are facing this issue.
With sincere gratitude, Elizabeth and John McDonald "
-- Elizabeth McDonald, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 12/11/2019
"Dr. Luis Castro and his entire team at Sequoia Hospital are the absolute best! I am in full recovery from an Ascending Aortic Aneurysm repair. There is a reason for all of the great reviews associated with Dr. Castro, Dr. Harmon & the team they have assembled. I am grateful for this resource (Adam's Website) because without it, I am not sure that I would have found this great find. If you find yourself needing to make an Open Heart Surgeon decision, please take a look at Dr. Luis Castro."
-- Michael Emerzian, Aortic Valve, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 12/09/2019
"Had a wonderful experience with both Dr. Castro, and his partner, Dr. Harmon. My surgery and recovery went smoothly and both my care in the hospital and post-surgery was first rate. It’s nice to know that there are still a few doctors out there that really care about their patients and enjoy providing one-on-one personal care, instead of the all too common “assembly line” medicine that is becoming standard in the medical industry. "
-- Kathleen Shore, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/18/2019
"As I reflect on my aortic valve heart replacement with Dr. Luis Castro (exactly one year ago today), I’m embarrassed to realize that I neglected to share my incredible gratitude publicly. I honestly cannot say enough good things about Dr. Castro and his team and my experiences at Sequoia Hospital.
I was fortunate enough to have my aortic stenosis problem diagnosed early, which allowed me the opportunity to thoroughly research heart valve surgeons, based on the recommendations of friends of mine in the medical community. Prior to my surgery, I had a great deal of confidence that doctor Castro would be the best doctor for me.
In contrast to the two other physicians I interviewed, not only did Dr. Castro provide me with plenty of time during the appointment, he also provided me with his personal cell phone number and personal email address should I have any other questions. This was an experience I’ve never had with any doctor I’ve ever seen in my life! In contrast, another surgeon I interviewed — at a very prominent medical institution — required me to set a follow-up appointment to have any additional pre-surgery questions answered.
Another factor that influenced my decision to choose Dr. Castro was the confidence that he would be available post surgery should the need arise, unlike another prominent physician who operated out of several different medical facilities.
From the very first contact in setting the appointment with Dr. Castro to the follow up I received from the care team at Sequoia Hospital, I can’t imagine having a more positive experience. Prior to my surgery I had spoken to other patients of other heart valve surgeons who had a similar procedure and were not nearly as pleased with the outcome or the care that they received post surgery. Dr. Castro has earned the very highest rating in my book, and I am filled with nothing but gratitude for his help."
-- John Reis, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/25/2019
"Dr. Castro was very uplifting and reassuring at each visit and with very good reason as his artful skills with surgery as well and pre and post operative explanations made the whole experience exciting (in the good way). What a pleasure to place our trust in Dr. Castro for this important and life changing procedure!"
-- John Ehret, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/29/2019
"I did weeks of research and spoke to numerous individuals who had valve replacements before I chose Sequoia Hospital and Dr. Castro to do my bypass and replace my aortic valve.
I was extremely impressed by Dr. Castro and his cardiac team at Sequoia Hospital. The worst part for me was the anticipation of the surgery but Dr. Castro helped calm me by knowing he had done this surgery successfully thousands of times before. Dr. Castro explained the surgery to us and made us feel very confident that the surgery would go well. My surgery could not have gone any better. My entire pain level never went past a four.
I have a pig valve now and am amazed as to how fast I healed and how good I now feel. I highly recommend Dr. Castro and his team and the care provided at Sequoia Hospital."
-- Gary Schaefer, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/28/2019
"Our appointment before surgery with Dr. Castro was a chat around a table which lasted over 30 minutes. It was like talking to a new best friend. He wanted to know a lot about me, talked about how the surgery could impact my life and left my wife and I completely at ease and grateful that such a skilled surgeon with a nation-wide reputation would take the time to get to know us.
Triple By-Pass had complications. Arteries were backward, inside the heart instead of outside and although I had stopped Plavix for a week I bled so much they had to give me 3 Units of blood. I am so glad Dr. Castro, with his skills and experience was the surgeon. Other doctors may not have been able to manage the unexpected twists in my surgery.
He was friendly and spent time with me in the hospital. I have more energy and endurance than I have had in 50 years, and I have an amazing doctor who wants me to come in now and then just to talk. His genuine interest in me and the time he has taken to get to know me are a truly unique experience for me with all the doctors I have ever met. This man has amazing skills but his extraordinary care and friendship for someone he didn't know before our appointment are even more amazing. Dr. Castro makes me want to be a better man. "
-- Paul Hoekenga, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/02/2019
"An outstanding and experienced surgeon. He took his time to explain in details my surgery. Very patient and kind. He took my questions and concerns very seriously. He is very approachable and professional. I recommend highly without hesitation. I would like to see more doctors following his footsteps. Thanks Dr. Castro!"
-- Salma Halteh, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/25/2019
"Dr. Castro is exceptional! He treats patients calmly, answers all your questions and does not make you feel that he is rushed. Plus, he has an excellent sense of humor. I highly recommend him!"
-- Thomas Hooper, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/23/2019
"I highly, highly recommend Dr. Castro and his team at Sequoia Hospital. I truly believe that if I would have had my surgery with any other doctor, my valve would not have been repaired but replaced. After doing our research, we decided to make the trip from Carlsbad, California to Sequoia Hospital to have Dr. Castro and his team do the operation and we are more than glad that we did. The personal attention Dr. Castro gave us was beyond what we expected, he even gave us his personal cell phone number and email address. Even after the operation, Dr. Castro would quickly respond to my texts answering all my questions. Before during and after all was said and done, our expectations were met beyond what we could have imagined. Thank you, Dr. Castro and the team!"
-- Gregg Vurbeff, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 06/27/2019
"I have the utmost respect for Doctor Castro and his team, I felt very safe and comfortable before, during and after the surgery. I highly recommend Doctor Castro. God Bless him and his team, I feel great. Top Notch, Five Stars. Thank you. "
-- Edward Esmaili, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/30/2019
"The experience with Dr. Castro and his team has been stellar throughout the entire procedure. I had a BAV replaced and part of the ascending aorta. Surgery was on Wednesday and I am planning to go home tomorrow (Sunday). Staff at the hospital have been great and very accommodating. Please seriously consider Dr. Castro and his team in your decision making process. Thank you Team!"
-- Steve DeVincenzi, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 05/04/2019
"If you have to have this surgery, there is no better team to take care of you. I absolutely recommend Dr. Castro, Sequoia hospital, the nurses, therapists, etc - the entire team is great."
-- Janet Stringer, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 04/18/2019
"Dr. Castro was congenial and communicative throughout the whole process. Surgery was a total success and has improved my well-being immensely."
-- David Somerville, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/05/2019
"Excellent experience all around. From initial consultation, through surgery, recovery and follow-up. I was very happy with Dr. Castro's entire practice. I would highly recommend him."
-- Ray Poydessus, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/04/2019
"Dr. Castro is very smooth. Great surgeon, great bedside manner. Good with follow up.
I was somewhat apprehensive (as anyone would be). Dr. Castro and his staff were very kind and informative.
After the surgery I was treated with utmost respect and caring by the nursing staff."
-- Jonathan Paquin, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/20/2019
"Dr. Luis Castro is the best of the best! I can't adequately express how grateful I am to him and his entire team. When my rare congenital heart defect reached the point where aortic valve replacement was necessary, I consulted with several well-known local Los Angeles heart surgeons. Despite their credentials and experience, none of them gave me the confidence to trust them with my life.
Then I found Dr. Castro.
His online videos were impressive, but it was our phone consultations that really convinced me to fly from LA to San Francisco for the procedure. Dr. Castro's confident knowledge and expertise amazed me. He even discovered something in the tests that every other surgeon had completely missed - a dangerous aneurism. Just as reassuring as his brilliance and his calm demeanor, was the fact that he sincerely cared about me as a patient and as a person. He told me that he absolutely would not let my child grow up without her mother. (In fact, his fatality rate is zero.) He patiently answered all of my questions and made it clear I could call him personally with any concerns I had. His assistant Claudia was fantastic. She coordinated all the scheduling with me over the phone, followed up on all my questions, gave me directions to the hospital, and even set up my pre-operative stay at Sequoia House, the medical group's low-cost lodging right next to the hospital. She was on top of every detail. Nurses Dana and Kelly took care of all of my needs before and after the surgery with kindness and efficiency. They are angels. Dr. Castro and his outstanding surgery partner, Dr. Harmon, flawlessly performed the valve surgery and fixed the aneurism in less than half the time it takes most other surgeons. The post-op team was phenomenal, and the staff at Sequoia Hospital couldn't have been more professional or accommodating.
Only two months after my surgery, I am walking 3 miles a day, have more energy and stamina, and feel much better than I have in years.
Literally putting my heart in Dr. Castro's hands is one of the best decisions I have ever made. He kept his promise to my precious daughter."
-- Christy Wright, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/29/2018
"The team at Sequoia Hospital lead by Dr. Castro could not be better. Professional, competent and very caring. Great experience! "
-- Sean Dunn, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/13/2018
"Every step of this procedure, from admitting to pre-surgical prep, to post surgical recovery went extremely well -- much better than I anticipated. I was very fortunate to have Drs. Castro and Harmon as my surgeons, and to have such superior post operative care from all the nurses and the support team. Not only is Dr. Castro on top of his game as a leading surgeon, but he was also very clear and patient with his explanations of treatment options and procedures. He instilled a lot of confidence in me going into surgery. The results could not have been better or more successful."
-- Arthur Muncheryan, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/12/2018
"My procedure at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City with Dr. Luis Castro could not have gone any better! The experience level is outstanding with the best bedside manner possible from Dr. Castro and team! The results of my procedure went exceptionally well and would absolutely consider this team for any cardiothoracic surgeries."
-- Gerald Dixon, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 12/06/2018
"He was thorough with his explanations, kind, honest, and caring. He was successful with doing a repair of the valve. I am very happy with the results. "
-- Scott Lyter, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 11/15/2018
"Dr. Castro is extremely personable with a great support team in the office and the hospital takes time pre-surgery to listen to concerns and answers all questions carefully and thoroughly follow up is excellent. Everything is working just right now."
-- marta drury, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 11/13/2018
"Absolutely perfect. This was my third aortic valve replacement, complicated with an ascending aortic aneurysm. I had been previously informed that this would be more invasive and challenging than my previous open heart surgeries. Also, I was admonished that my recovery would be longer and more uncomfortable than from previous open heart surgeries.
Thanks to Dr. Castro’s skills and expertise, along with the support my cardiologist, Dr. Mary Larson, and the competent Staff at Sequoia Hospital the surgery was completely successful. In addition, my recovery was swift and complete with minimal discomfort. Without reservation, I would recommend Dr. Castro to anyone requiring heart surgery."
-- Nick Cademartori, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/02/2018
"Dr. Castro was called by my Cardiologist who recommended Dr. Castro. He called me three days later and spent almost an hour with me on the phone answering every possible question. I was in surgery ten days later with a torn leaflet from a prolapsed mitral valve. He repaired it. Surgery time was 1.5 hours. I couldn't be more satisfied with all aspects of the treatment and how I was treated in his care and the staff at Sequoia hospital. "
-- Edward Finley, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 10/25/2018
"A very happy experience! Bedside manner excellent, surgical results excellent. A very well run and clean hospital (Sequoia Hospital, Redwood City CA). Dr. Castro and this hospital are the best! "
-- Max Eggert, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/18/2018
"Dr. Castro eased my fears when he said, "Be positive. You will survive. Visualize sleeping peacefully, good thoughts, a perfect operation, and successful recovery." Those words, his positive attitude, and smiling face walked me through the surgery and recovery. "
-- Linda Todd, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 10/11/2018
"My experience with Dr. Castro was excellent prior to and after the surgery. I have the utmost confidence in him and his team. I would highly recommend him."
-- Ronald Orlando, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/21/2018
"I'm very grateful for the preparation, surgery, and follow-up that Dr. Castro gave me. My cardiologist was very pleased that my valves are working so well now. I'm very glad that I now feel so well."
-- Carolyn Buhs, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 09/13/2018
"From beginning to end, Dr. Castro, his team, and everyone involved at Sequoia Hospital was just outstanding. His calm, reassuring, positive, professional and friendly (That counts!) demeanor had my mind in the right place before heading into surgery, and certainly helped in recovery afterwards. I am 5 months post-op.... All systems go, and have no restrictions going forward."
-- Ron Mahaffee, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 09/06/2018
"I met with numerous doctors as I was being diagnosed with aortic stenosis and evaluated for a possible TAVR, and there was something lacking in all of the professionals I met.
I didn’t know what was missing until I met Dr. Luis Castro. I had checked out Sequoia Hospital and their outcomes, so I had done my due diligence. What I was not prepared for was Dr. Castro himself--he was warm, human, and funny and unlike any other medical professional I had seen over the last two years.
After our first meeting, I tried to put aside the fact that I liked him so much to focus on more “substantial” criteria for selecting a surgeon. My appointment with another surgeon I was considering led me down a rabbit hole with a lot of scare tactics along the way. I reached out to Dr. Castro a second time because I felt that he was the only honest person I had met on this journey. What I discovered in my second encounter was how confident he was in his ability to replace my aortic valve without any touch of arrogance. He was the only person I trusted, so I made my decision on the spot.
My surgery went perfectly and in record time. Dr. Castro and his team visited daily throughout my hospital stay (including weekends) and showed genuine concern throughout the process. Dr. Castro saw me for my week-out check-up as well as my one-month surgical check-in, and he even ordered a baseline echocardiogram that he evaluated for me. He went above and beyond in his care, and I only wish I could have him as my long-term doctor!"
-- Judy S, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 08/06/2018
"Extremely positive experience throughout. He let me know what to expect and why it was being done in a clear, concise and reassuring manner. Friendly, open to questions and self assured which built confidence in the procedure and recovery. He was friendly and open, and in follow up meetings built a rapport that let me be open about my concerns with the conviction he really cared and all of my concerns were treated with respect and given a detailed response.
I am still in recovery but I can feel the results of the surgery on my health and attitude."
-- kenneth sproul, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 07/01/2018
"Dr. Castro was recommended to me multiple times. Once I met him, I understood why. He answered all questions thoroughly. He showed me video images of what my heart was doing compared to what it should have been doing. He also showed the various types of replacement valves, so that I was best informed of the procedure. The surgery went well, and the incision is relatively short. During his daily rounds, Dr. Castro answered all my questions and his manner decreased any stress that I may have had. I have had no post surgical problems, and I highly recommend Dr. Castro to anyone having this procedure."
-- John Solomon, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/06/2018
"It is difficult to imagine a better choice of cardiothoracic surgeon than Dr. Luis Castro. Before surgery he was accessible and thorough in his explanations of the aortic valve replacement procedure and the recovery process and he answered any questions or concerns that I had. He has a highly experienced surgical team that has been with him for twenty years and, above all else, he demonstrates that he cares about his patients and their outcomes. My surgery was without complications and I was able to leave the hospital ahead of schedule, which I attribute to Dr. Castro's skill as a surgeon and to the high quality of care at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, California, where the surgery was performed. Dr. Castro and his surgical associate, Dr. Adam Harmon, and their very skilled and knowledgeable physician's surgical assistant, Taemin Surh, followed up with frequent post-operative in-hospital visits making any adjustments to medications or routine that were needed and providing welcome updates on my successful post-operative progress. Within 90 days of surgery, I was able to resume my full range of physical activities, with no impairment or discomfort attributable to the surgery, In sum, Dr Luis Castro is worth seeking out in order to assure a successful heart surgery outcome performed by someone who is dedicated to his patients well-being and a successful outcome.."
-- Richard Smith, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 05/30/2018
"Very easy to talk to. Did not hurry me at all during interview. Answered all my questions. My recovery was with a hich."
-- Jack Ames, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/16/2018
"Dr. Castro is a wonderful human being. His pre-surgery, bedside manners and post-surgery visits were warm & friendly but to the point. Outstanding results were achieved given the complex nature of the surgery. No compilations with 90% recovery in 3 months. Would not hesitate referring my closest friends or family members to Dr. Castro. Along with Cardiologist Dr. Sheehan they make up a great team @ Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, CA. Highly recommended. Thank God they were all on my team."
-- John durmanich, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 05/16/2018
"At 78 last year, I was diagnosed with severe mitral valve regurgitation and AFib, and I became interested in Dr. Castro at Sequoia Hospital when I learned of his expertise with MV repair and of Sequoia's affiliation with Cleveland Clinic. He contacted me by phone and by email (quite a pleasant surprise). During surgery 9 weeks ago, he and his team repaired my MV and did a Maze procedure which eliminated my AFib (a cardioversion the prior year had been unsuccessful). Dr Castro and his highly competent and pleasant surgical team were great, as were the nurses and staff at Sequoia. I am exercising and doing short uphill hikes of about an hour daily, and I am very thankful that I chose Dr Castro and Sequoia. Gordon Van Kessel "
-- Gordon Van Kessel, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 04/11/2018
"My experience with Dr. Luis Castro and his team for my aortic valve replacement surgery was positive in all regards. Dr. Castro impressed me with his knowledge, clear-cut explanation of the surgery I required, and his sensitivity and the time he took in answering the many questions my wife and I asked. I had absolute confidence in Dr. Castro and his team. The less-invasive technique he employs left a scar not quite three-inches long. The facilities at Sequoia Peninsula Hospital were top-notch and everyone from the nurses to the cleaning staff were friendly, caring, and professional. If you unfortunately need the services of a cardiac surgeon, I heartily recommend Dr. Luis Castro."
-- James Brzezinski, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/05/2018
"I can't say enough good things about Dr. Castro and his team. They explained everything to me about the procedure and made me very comfortable. He wasn't quite sure about what he was going to do before surgery. I told him fix anything that needs to be fixed. Everything turned out perfect. The maze procedure has worked well. They new they were going to replace my bicuspid aortic valve, also repair or replace my mitral valve, which they repaired. They also put a ring around another valve. I also had developed a whole in my heart because it was functioning so bad and they fixed that. They did all of these procedures in two and a half hours. I am now on the road to recovery. I expect to feel like I did years ago."
-- Simpson Risso, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 03/26/2018
"The surgeon was wonderful. He saved my life. Everything went very well. He was very fast and efficient. Everything was accomplished as discussed. The surgeon and his team were truly remarkable. They explained everything to me as things went. They answered all of my questions. I am now feeling wonderful. They reversed my congestive heart failure. All procedures went flawlessly. "
-- Simpson Risso, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 03/26/2018
"Dr. Castro is an amazing surgeon and inspiring human being. The first time I met him he sat with me and my wife, explaining everything, and showing us actual replacement valves and the material he would use to repair my aorta. In the hospital he checked on me often. He made me feel safe and calm about the experience. My incision was small, and had only one removeable suture. Five weeks post-op, we are walking an hour a day. I do still have pain from the incision, but it is controlled with Tylenol. I would recommend Dr. Castro without reservation."
-- Jose Aguilar, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 03/21/2018
"5 gold stars for Dr. Castro and his entire team at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, California. From the initial consult through the whole process, I knew I was in the good hands. Dr. Luis has an excellent reputation (and very high success rate) as a valve specialist (especially with the mitral valve being the most complex valve in the heart). Until I met Dr. Luis I was considering flying to Mt. Sinai in NY or Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. It was such a bonus to have such a thoughtful, experienced and attentive surgeon through my whole surgery experience. If I ever needed another surgery, I would definitely choose Dr. Castro!"
-- gina fiorentino, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 03/08/2018
"I wanted to express my sincerest gratitude to Dr. Castro. A fantastic surgeon and a kind human being.
Not only did he perform a successful surgery, and repaired and replaced the Aortic valve that was placed by Doctor Merrick at UCSF, but he gave me the invaluable gifts of hope and health.
My spirits were lifted and for the first time in a long time, I had confidence that I could lead a long and prosperous life. Thank you for your kindness and attention. It is apparent that you go above and beyond for your patients. "
-- Jaleh N, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 02/28/2018
"An enjoyable surgeon who has a healthy life style. Demonstrated by his ability to surf and ski. And I am so much better and now able to pursue some physical activity. And I’m still alive! Thanks Dr. Castro."
-- Jay English, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/21/2018
"Dr. Luis J. Castro is a very genuine surgeon, with a caring and sensitive nature. After leaving his consultation, I felt I was provided a clear understanding of my upcoming aortic valve replacement regarding the surgical procedure, length of recovery, and what to expect post-surgery.
I think he did an outstanding job, and I thank him for moving me in a positive and healthy direction I would recommend him to anyone requiring heart surgery. Sequoia Hospital's surgeons, physicians and staff are a caring and efficient group of professionals."
-- Ignatius Passantino, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/16/2018
"Such a thoughtful, compassionate surgeon. After the initial consultation I was completely at ease with dr. Castro as my surgeon. The rest of my family approved and I knew I had made the right choice. There was very little pain during recovery time. I simply cannot recommend him enough. Check out his videos. If you or a love one are considering heart surgery you owe it to yourselves to at least contact dr. Castro’s office. I promise you, you will not be sorry."
-- Melissa Bridge, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, Bloodless Surgery, 02/14/2018
"Excellent!"
-- Phelicia Eskridge, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Bloodless Surgery, 02/14/2018
"I interviewed several highly qualified surgeons and could have elected to have my valve replacement done in my hometown of Portland, Oregon. What differentiated Dr Castro from the other surgeons was his attitude and the attitude of his team: they all care about every patient as an individual.
Dr Castro spent several hours with me and my husband; answered every question with patience and humor; and was genuinely curious about me and what I wanted and needed. I had never had any previous surgery and was initially very anxious. Dr. Castro and his team greatly reduced my anxiety. By the time I had the surgery, I was completely confident I would have an excellent outcome and quick recovery. All of which turned out to be true. Whatever inconvenience there was in having the surgery away from home (which was minimal) was completely and more than outweighed by the quality of patient centric care I received. I recommend Dr. Castro and his team without qualification!
"
-- Patricia Frobes, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 01/31/2018
"This was my second valve replacement. I had one replaced by Dr. Luis Castro in an emergency situation due to endocarditis, 11 years ago. The most recent surgery was to replace the worn out valve which apparently was torn and leaking.
I can't say enough about Luis Castro and his cardio team at Sequoia. The procedure went without a hitch. I spent 4 days in the hospital before they sent me home.
I had a pig valve and they ended up replacing it with a cow valve. I was amazed by what a difference the new valve made. "
-- Chuck Lebo, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 12/29/2017
"Great results, easier recovery than my first valve replacement 17 years ago. "
-- Russ Colgate, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 12/21/2017
"Dr Castro and his team performed open heart surgery on me on December 14, 2017 at Sequoia Hospital. The surgery was for five coronary artery bypasses and an aortic valve replacement. The surgery went very well and I was home a week later. The results have been excellent. I highly recommend Dr Castro, his surgical team, and his office staff. They treated me like family. The initial visit to his office was reassuring for me and my wife. All our questions, big and small, were answered with all the explanation and time that was needed. Also Sequoia Hospital and all the people there were wonderful and took superb care of me."
-- Donald Cahalan, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/14/2017
"Everything as well as could be expected. Can't ask for more than that.Bedside manner puts you at ease."
-- Mark Hamblin, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 12/13/2017
"Dr. Castro is fantastic! From the pre-op visit to the recovery in ICU and beyond, I had total confidence in him, and appreciated not only his manner but mostly his expertise. He performed a minimally invasive surgery, leaving only about a three-inch scar, below my v -neck T-shirt line.
He had predicted that I'd be raring to go in 3 months, and it's true. I believe in miracles now. There was some fluid collection in the pericardium a couple of months after surgery, and my excellent cardiologist in Sonora, Dr. Hemminger, was able to drain it with a needle--not more surgery. These two miracle workers saved my life, and I'll be eternally grateful!"
-- Nancy Schwarzmann, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/17/2017
"Very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. I've been in recovery for about six weeks now and feeling better. I have not experienced as much post op pain as I thought I was going to experience. I would recommend his services."
-- Rod Beck, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 11/15/2017
"I chose Dr Castro after doing research on Consumers Checkbook surgeon comparison website. I also researched hospitals on the Medicare hospital comparison website. I was impressed by the youtube video made by Dr Castro on the Sequoia Hospital website. My wife and I met with Dr Castro for a consultation before my surgery. He explained the surgery to us and made us feel very confident that the surgery would go well. Dr Castro was very easy to talk to and answered all questions we asked. He visited me in the ICU and CSU after surgery to monitor my progress. My surgery went well. I experienced very little pain after surgery and was able to get around on my own in the CSU. I highly recommend Dr Castro and the care provided at Sequoia Hospital."
-- Stanley Solbeck, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/10/2017
"The best day of 2017 for me was the day I met Dr. Castro. I was immediately touched by his careful attentive manner, experienced advice and detailed inquiry of my condition and my concerns. After I learned he had done not hundreds but thousands of similar operations, I was confident he was an ideal choice. Great bedside manner. Attentive post-operation. Thorough in every way. Interested in my recovery to date, which has been a great success. Flawless. Both he and his partner Dr. Adam Harmon are a delight to work with. Call me for any further reference. Didi at 650-329-8290. God bless Dr. Castro."
-- Didi Fisher, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 11/03/2017
"The absolute best surgeon. His caring and direct approach to my condition, along with his after care, was the best! "
-- Richard Hibbs, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/12/2017
"Every aspect was outstanding! We travelled about four hours each way,to get to see Dr. Castro, irrevocably, worth every minute.
"
-- John Allan, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/11/2017
"The surgery was flawless and the recovery has been unexpectedly easy. Dr Castro was very open, with a calm and relaxed manner. "
-- William Hammonds, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 09/14/2017
"My experience with Dr. Castro has been excellent throughout. I am a very active 67-year-old, before surgery routinely hiking 90 miles a month, and thought I'd be the last person on earth needing heart surgery. Dr. Castro spent two hours with my wife and I before the surgery discussing what he expected he would be able to do, and of course making contingency plans if the situation required a replacement rather than a repair. The surgery was more complicated than expected due to a tear found in a valve leaflet, nevertheless Dr. Castro was able to complete the repairs without replacing the mitral valve.
I found Dr. Castro's entire team extremely competent, thoughtful and attentive--good listeners, who made me feel safe and well cared for.
I am 9 weeks post surgery, and have remained in contact with Dr. Castro to resolve issues with blood pressure and an episode of atrial fibrillation. I couldn't be more pleased with the surgery, and his care."
-- Chris Thollaug, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/31/2017
"Dr Luis Castro is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon. He is interested in his patients as individuals, and takes the time to answer any and all questions. His staff is excellent also. From Elizabeth at reception, to Tina Nursing Facilitator, and everyone in between ..they are a great team. The surgery at Sequoia Hospital went perfectly.Family members, in the waiting area during the surgery, were given regular updates. I am very thankful that my cardiologist recommend Dr. Castro. "
-- robert hansen, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 08/31/2017
"After test showed that my aortic valve needed to be replaced due to severe Aortic Valve stenosis, I spent 3 months researching and interviewed 3 Doctors and eventually was directed by a former Heart Valve Patient to Adam Pick's website (Heart valve Surgery.com). From there, I found Dr. Luis Castro and after 3 conversations with him and conversations with 2 of his former patients, I decided to have Dr. Castro perform the surgery. We flew from the East Coast to California.
The surgery went excellent and it has been 9 months now. I feel great. We chose a Bovine Valve and Dr. Castro performed a mini Sternotomy and I was on Tylenol for 3 days.
I am so thankful that I found and chose Dr. Castro for my surgery , he is a fine gentleman and a nice and caring man and talented surgeon. He treated me and my family with the utmost respect and kindness. He and Dr. Harmon visited me every day while I was in the hospital. The Nurses in ICU are A+ they could not have treated me any kinder or better. Dr. Castro and these nice people have a special place in my heart. I highly recommend Dr. Castro.
Dr. Castro and Dr. Harman are excellent Surgeons and Sequoia Heart and Vascular Institute is at the top of it's class."
-- Andrew Kirby, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/31/2017
"I woud recommend Dr. Castro to anyone. My surgery experience was smooth and about as enjoyable as a surgery experience can be. Dr. Castro is obviously very competent, talented, and professionaI. would go back to Dr. Castro even if I moved out of state.
Sequoia Hospital delivers on its advertisement as a patients-first hospital. I truly felt cared for. Dr. Castro's partner surgeon, Dr. Harmon, is also top notch in my book. Both doctors spent as much time as I wanted to discuss my concerns and provided understandable explanations.
Check out this surgical team. They are the best."
-- Mark Stearman, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 08/24/2017
"When we first met with Dr. Castro he was very kind and included us into the conversation about what his diagnosis was and what he was recommending. We didn't feel rushed and were allowed to ask all the questions we felt we needed to. Most importantly, Dr. Castro made us feel that we were in the hands of a capable surgeon; Dr. Castro expressed kindness and gentleness while at the same time he exuded confidence that never seemed to cross over into arrogance. Post-op, Dr. Castro came by most days if not every day I was there, checking on my condition and making sure things were going well for me. I saw Dr. Castro for the last time at a 1 month followup appointment at his office and again he was positive, confident and encouraging to me answering all of our post-op and recovery questions and concerns.
I feel blessed to have been referred to Dr. Castro and the team of nurses and professionals at Sequoia Hospital, I felt cared for and secure going through a process that seemed daunting at best. At this writing, I'm 7 weeks post-op and healing super well, thank you Dr. Castro!"
-- Scott Morton, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/16/2017
"Excellent communicator, successful surgery, great nursing care, uneventful healing. Expectations were set well. Recommended without any hesitation."
-- David Ring, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 08/10/2017
"My experience was stellar. Not only did Dr. Castro and his team successfully repair my mitral valve, but I felt like a member of their family by the time I left the hospital a week after the surgery. Additionally, the nursing staff of Sequoia Hospital, both in the ICU and the Cardiac Surveillance Unit, is quite impressive. Based on my knowledge of their astounding success rate and on my personal experience having them do my mitral valve repair surgery I most highly recommend the Sequoia Vascular and Cardiac Institute to anyone needing heart valve surgery. I feel blessed to have found them. "
-- Karen Weiseth, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 07/12/2017
"Dr. Castro is an excellent doctor, he provided me with all the information before surgery, monitored me daily after surgery and followed up to make sure I wasn't having any issues. He removed the upper right lobe of my lung to remove a tumor, replaced my aortic valve and repaired my aortic artery - he saved me from having to have an additional surgery for my lung. I have problems with my kidneys and they made an extra effort to protect them and the rest of my organs. His team is excellent and Sequoia Hospital is excellent!"
-- Barry Sullivan, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 07/06/2017
"Dr. Luis Castro is first-class. His bedside manner was very positive and encouraging, while the results of the two surgical procedures were both successful. I have no reservations in recommending Dr Castro for valve replacement & other cardiac procedures.
David L. George, Ph.D."
-- David George, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/28/2017
"Dr. Castro is absolutely AMAZING - the best! He has tremendous bedside manner, always completely answering any and all questions before the surgery. He and his team were amazing on how quickly and expertly did my surgery. Stanford said the surgery would take 8-10 hours and require a 10-12 inch incision, requiring about 4 hours on heart bypass machine. Dr. Castro did it in about four hours, a 3" incision and 62 minutes on the bypass machine! After the surgery he visited everyday and post operative care was fabulous. I only needed serious pain medications for about 3 days, after that it was only Tylenol for about a month. I HIGHLY recommend Dr. Castro and his team!!!
Andrew"
-- Andrew Rand, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, 06/21/2017
"EXTREMELY EFFICIENT AND EXPERTLY DONE WOULD RECOMMEND TO ANYONE"
-- RAYMOND TESTA, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/19/2017
"Dr. Castro was phenomenal. This was my second aortic valve replacement in 4 years and my recovery with this procedure was much easier than the prior. Dr. Castro's involvement in my care before, during and after surgery was amazing - as if I were his own family member. "
-- Richard Keas, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 06/16/2017
"Dr. Castro is a skillful surgeon, a caring and conscientious doctor, and a delightful human being. I highly recommend him for any person who requires heart surgery."
-- David Gartshore, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/08/2017
"Fantastic, Dr. Castro is a warm and generous person. Easy to talk too. The surgical result has been fantastic and I now have my life restored, thanks to him."
-- James Wagner, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/08/2017
"Dr. Castro has now done two aortic valve replacements for me and I highly recommend him for cardiac surgery. He has a warm and welcoming manner and takes the time, both before and after surgery, to listen to patient concerns. Results have been excellent for each of my surgeries. The first, in 2004, was a porcine valve to replace my "original equipment" bicuspid valve; the second was to replace the porcine valve which had served me well for 13+ years. I was able to return to work and otherwise normal physical activity soon after my surgeries as well as to resume bicycling and backpacking within a few weeks. Dr. Castro and his team--Dr. Adam Harmon and P.A. Taemin Suhr--as well as nursing staff in the Cardiac Surgery Unit at Sequoia Hospital took excellent care of me during my recent stay. My confidence in Dr. Castro's ability and extensive surgical experience made the choice to travel 4 hours from home for my procedures an easy one. Heart surgery is a daunting experience for the patient and the patient's family but the empathy, concern and self-confidence evident in Dr. Castro's manner will put you at ease."
-- George DiMundo, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/01/2017
"Couldn't ask for a better experience. Doctor Castro and his staff were excellent. The hospital and staff were exceptional. I am doing well and feel good"
-- David Wall, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/18/2017
"Dr. Castro went over the whole procedure with me and my wife, his team assisted us on every step the day before the surgery and Sequoia Hospital team over see my recovery with the best cares, able to received my discharge four days after the procedure. Now with less than two months from my surgery, I'm back to work out every morning. Thank you Dr. Castro and Sequoia Hosipital. "
-- william wong, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/27/2017
"Dr. Castro and Dr. Harmon were amazing. They obviously know what they are doing and have incredible bedside manners to go along with being world class surgeons. Their staff is great. The nursing staff at Sequoia was A+. The ICU nurses were out of the world. Competence and compassion on steroids. I cannot imagine a better experience with medical staff and facilities with such an important surgery. My life is much better and my family and I are forever thankful."
-- Pyare Begerhotta, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 01/12/2017
"Dr Castro made an experience that could have been terrifying into a calm, professional, educational personal event. It has been just over 6 months, and I just went ocean kayaking for the first time. I am ready for my new life. Thank you Dr Castro."
-- Billy Houck, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 12/30/2016
"My son, Steven, knew I was having a very hard time breathing which we discovered was caused by a failing mitral valve which had been replaced 12 years ago. So it appeared that I would have to have it replaced again; I am 88 years old and did not want to have open heart surgery again. Because of that, I had been looking into the idea of having a transcatheter replacement of the mitral valve at UC Davis and had many tests done to see if I was a candidate. However, because this is still in the experimental stages, I was unsure it would be successful so Steve decided to research additional heart surgeons on the internet and discovered Dr. Luis Castro, lead heart surgeon at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, CA.
He made an appointment for me to see Dr. Castro in early December. When we met with Dr. Castro, he reviewed the tests that UC Davis had done and told us that not only the mitral valve was failing but the aortic valve (which had also been replaced 12 years ago) was also not working properly. The biggest surprise to me was that he also showed me that my tricuspid valve was damaged because of the other two failing valves. Dr. Castro reviewed all of my options and said that he was sure that he could repair or replace all three valves in a short surgery and felt my heart was strong enough to go through the procedure. He said he could tell I was a fighter and that a lesser woman would likely be in hospice based on the amount of trouble I was having just trying to breathe; oxygen was just not getting to my blood stream due to the blocked valves.
His kindness and confidence was very reassuring and just over a week later I was admitted into Sequoia Hospital for surgery on December 19. The surgery went well, I had 2 valves replaced and the third one repaired in a relatively short 2.5 hour surgery. Afterwards I woke up in the ICU with a wonderful staff of people taking care of me and my very supportive family nearby. I think my recovery went well and I moved to another floor of the hospital where more dedicated and wonderful nurses took great care of me. After leaving the hospital I moved to a rehab facility closer to my home in Marin, for more therapy and then headed home on Jan 13; less than 4 weeks from my surgery. I have ben home a month and a half and am doing very well, driving again and enjoying my life again. My own cardiologist, Dr. Ann Kao is following my progress and has prescribed ongoing therapy to assure a complete recovery. I feel good and positive about my recovery; I can breathe again! That is the main thing!
Thank you Dr. Castro and the heart team at Sequoia Hospital!"
-- Evelyn Gallagher, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 12/19/2016
"Dr. Luis Castro, Chief Cardiothoracic Surgeon along with Dr. Adam Harmon of The Sequoia Heart ❤️ Institute at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City performed a mitral valve repair on me in November 2016.
I have to say the experience was beyond what I thought it would be... Prior to surgery, Dr. Castro gave me great comfort and guidance with thorough explanations about my mitral valve repair surgery. I was a bit nervous about the mini sternotomy, however Dr. Castro assured me that my incision would be small and it's appearance would be minimal in size. I am three months out of surgery and I can barely see the incision That is the truth!! And, I am very proud to wear my "badge of courage" because it looks that good.
Dr. Castro insisted I call him by his first name Luis ! He is a very personal individual with a "human touch" and I feel 100% better after surgery. My heart is beating with joy... ❤️
Dr. Castro and Dr Harmon paid me a daily visit while hospitalized to check on my well being and that in itself made me stronger with each day. They truly care about their patients ! Post surgery rehabilitation within the hospital was excellent with both physical therapist and respiratory professionals coming by my room daily to give me the tools I needed for recovery.
The new cardiac unit built in 2014 is beautiful to say the least. I had a very clean and private room with a view and the nursing staff is top notch 5 star all the way. They are truly professional and I can say I had an extremely positive experience and surgery at Sequoia Hospital.
I chose Dr Luis Castro as my surgeon and Sequoia Heart Institute for my heart valve surgery and it is the best decision I've ever made ... And I mean that from the bottom of my heart ❤️ "
-- Andrea Reed, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 11/03/2016
"I had complex open heart surgery, from Doctors Luis J. Castro and Adam L. Harmon, in November 2016. I had a double bypass of my LAD (70% stenosis) and RCA (100% stenosis); a repair of a hole in the septum (wall) between my right and left atriums (ASD); a mitral valve repair to correct severe mitral regurgitation caused by a prolapsed mitral valve, with a ruptured anterior leaflet chordae; and an evaluation of my tricuspid valve for possible repair of tricuspid regurgitation. Dr. Castro did not think my tricuspid valve needed to be repaired, which was a relief to hear, because dual repair of the tricuspid and mitral valves sometimes results in the requirement of a pacemaker and subsequent pacemaker lead tricuspid valve damage, for some patients, requiring later tricuspid valve repair surgery.
I am 69 years old and experienced a stroke and heart attack in 2010. I received 6 stents in 2010, all of which were still patent (open). I had no other medical problems or illnesses. However, my heart was beginning to enlarge, from severe mitral regurgitation, and I didn’t want to die or become disabled from my coronary artery disease or heart failure, if I didn’t have my heart problems fixed. I had become short of breath, while walking around the house.
I was concerned that my age and medical history might increase the surgical risk of morbidity and mortality. I spent approximately one year researching my medical problems and the best surgeons and hospitals that could provide me with the greatest chance of a successful repair of my heart, with the lowest risk of morbidity and mortality. After careful research of the most experienced and reputable heart surgeons and hospitals in America, I narrowed my choice down to heart surgeons in Chicago, New York City, Cleveland, and Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, California.
I chose Doctors Castro and Harmon, at Sequoia Hospital, in Redwood City, California, for the following reasons:
- One of the most experienced heart valve surgeons in America, with one of the highest successful heart valve repair rates.
- Doctors Castro and Harmon have successfully worked together, when necessary, for approximately 20 plus years. When necessary for more extensive heart surgeries, it’s nice to have 2 able heart surgeons working on you simultaneously. It saves time.
- They are much faster than the average heart surgeons, which lessens the risk of brain cell damage, from longer aortic cross clamp and cardio-pulmonary bypass time.
- One of lowest heart surgery mortality and morbidity rates in the nation, particularly for complex surgeries and second surgeries involving older patients with previous heart attacks and surgeries.
- Sequoia is not a teaching hospital with inexperienced heart surgery residents in training.
- Sequoia Hospital is a heart reference center where they perform more successful mitral valve repairs, per year, than average, and have been ranked one of the nation’s leading providers of cardiovascular care for more than three decades.
- Sequoia Hospital is comparatively small; clean; efficient; caring; competent; and unbureaucratic. The other hospitals I considered were so large, bureaucratic, and impersonal, that I was never able to speak with the surgeon. This was a major concern when there was a real, albeit small, risk that I could die during my surgery. Doctors Castro and Harmon always made time to answer my questions and concerns, whether by phone, email, or in person.
I was impressed with the flowchart-like efficiency of Sequoia Hospital’s cardiovascular care department and their dedicated, hard working, caring employees. Unlike large university medical centers, Sequoia Hospital gives personal care to its patients and every patient has a private room where his or her spouse may stay with the patient. Everything is conveniently located and in close proximity. Cardiologists, heart surgeons, and labs, are all in one building next to the hospital. You will be able to speak to Doctors Castro and Harmon personally. They are nice people and caring, dedicated doctors. Lastly, contrary to what you may have seen or thought, the surgery doesn’t really hurt very much. Though I had a mini-sternotomy, I never had to use any pain killers stronger than Tylenol, after hospital discharge.
Twelve weeks after my surgery, I feel substantially recovered. I now run 2 to 3 miles a day on my treadmill and have more stamina than any time before my surgery from Doctors Castro and Harmon.
I am very satisfied with Doctor Castro’s and Doctor Harmon’s surgical skills, judgment, and care. The quality of their work exceeded my expectations, based on the information I gained from their internet videos."
-- Ronald Yamamoto, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 11/02/2016
"I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Castro and his teams. They were very knowledgeable, informative, pleasant and comforting. I would recommend him for any procedure needed. Dr. Castro was very thorough when ever he came to see me in my room! "
-- Stephen Herdll, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/22/2016
"Dr. Castro put us at ease immediately at my first appointment. He went over the ECHO and we discussed options for my valve repair. He put information into understandable language and answered questions for what seemed like hours. He was respectful, knowledgeable, and we never felt rushed in his office. Making the decision that he would be my surgeon was easy.
His staff were phenomenal in the pre-op period. They answered questions, helped me with setting up my further testing and medical leave, and set up a room at Sequoia House for my family. The actual pre-op day was easy and planned well. I met my Nurse Navigator for the heart surgery as well as Dr. Castro's PA, Taeman Suhr who was just the greatest! I got all the pre-op testing and info and again, it was unrushed and well scheduled.
My surgery went as planned and Dr. Castro talked to my friends and family post-op. My experience in the hospital was better than I ever expected. The staff were phenomenal, experienced, professional, and very caring.
Dr. Castro has been available to me post-op for questions.
He has helped me with recommendations for Cardiology sub specialty care, and I truly value his insight and trust his judgement.
Besides his wonderful manner, his program at Sequoia has published their data for number and type of procedures, pump/bypass time, as well as procedure related mortality and their results are far better than average.
I am 19 weeks post-op, my valve is working perfectly, I am in better shape that I was pre-op, and I have no pain or ill effects.
Dr. Castro is a rock star and the program he has built at Sequoia with Dignity Health is the best! A million stars for all of them!!"
-- Ellen Leng, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 09/28/2016
"Very professional. Surgery performed in a small hospital with a very experienced surgical team. Dr. Castro had performed about 5,000 similar surgeries prior to mine. My results are exactly as Dr. Castro promised, with no complications. I do not take any heart medicine and have normal sinus rhythm. Am able to do all physical activities I wish with no limitations-except for the normal limitations of a 67 year old! I feel extremely fortunate that I was able to have Dr. Castro perform my surgery. I would say he saved my life- for which I am so grateful."
-- Hank Masterson, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 09/09/2016
"All I need to say is that I was completely, truly, and surely blessed by my experience at Sequoia Hospital / Dignity Health in Redwood City, CA. I was born with a Bicuspid aortuc valve and was truly scared. I had a Cardiac cath at MGH in Marin county and the Chief Nurse told me about Dr Luis Castro and Dr. Adam Harmon at Sequoia Health. She took me under her wing as her husband was a patient of Dr Castro's and she set me right up for surgery the next day. I transferred down there and Dr Castro and Dr Harmon were there to meet me. Their bedside manner was beyond reproach and they made me feel great. I instantly knew I was in the right place and had no fear anymore. These Dr's are the Best and they make you feel like you will be up and running soon. I was in surgery the next morning at 6.30am and what a magnificent job they did. I was walking the following day and pain was almost non-existent. The staff in ICU was and is the finest anywhere and they treat you with Dignity, respect, and just pure concern and love. The nursing staff, I beleive, were sent from heaven and honestly, when i was transferred to Cardiac specialties unit, I did not want to leave...WHAT????? This is a true story and I am proof. Every single person at Sequoia Hospital was the absolute best at what they do and all of them truly care about your well being. Dr Luis Castro, Dr. Adam Harmon, I owe you a million thank you's. This was a major surgery and you made it so very pleasant and uplifting with your skill, caring, and attention to all details. There is no other place I would reccomend for Heart surgery than Sequoia Hospital / Dignity Health as I know they have the best surgeon's, the best ICU, CSU, and admin staff that is currently available. I went in with 18% ejection fraction and now am enjoying 40% and it has only been 5 weeks since surgery. I feel great and am walking 8 miles per day. I told Dr. Harmon that it only hurts when I laugh, but he is so funny, I was laughing every time he came in to the room. Thank you to everyone at Sequoia Hospital. You are the best and that is a fact...Jon Carroll"
-- Jon Carroll, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/23/2016
"I had an excellent surgical experience with Dr. Luis Castro and his team at Sequoia Hospital. Due to endocarditis, I had a severely damaged mitral valve. Dr. Castro, with his expertise and skill, was able to repair my valve. I feel so fortunate that he was my surgeon! The entire team was outstanding. Also, the care I received at Sequoia Hospital was first rate. I couldn't have been happier with the results!
I'm from Southern California, and initially consulted with surgeons closer to home. However, after consulting with Dr. Castro, his demeanor and spirit made me feel very confident--not to mention his unbeatable credentials! I knew right away that he was the surgeon for me.
I also want to add that pre and post surgery, Dr. Castro was always accessible to any questions or concerns that I had. That means a lot when going through open heart surgery.
I had an excellent surgical experience with Dr. Luis Castro and his team at Sequoia Hospital. It couldn't have been better!"
-- Nancy Aguayo, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 08/19/2016
"Dr. Luis Castro, Dr. Adam Harmon, and their team (Melissa, Elizabeth, Tina, and Taemin) at Sequoia Hospital did an outstanding job with my surgery.
During our first meeting, Dr. Castro explained all planned surgical procedures in details and answered all questions. His positive demeanor and confidence put my wife and me at ease. Dr. Castro is very approachable and easy to talk to, which makes the stressful experience of a heart surgery easier to go through.
Both pre and post-surgery Dr. Castro made himself accessible to any questions or concerns. Dr. Harmon and/or Dr. Castro visited me daily after the surgery and they stayed on top of things the whole time. They work very close with nurses and hospital staff and the whole team is truly amazing.
I don’t think my surgical experience with Dr. Castro and his team could have been any better and I’m forever grateful to him for giving me a new lease of life. I would whole-heartedly recommend Dr. Castro to anyone facing a heart surgery."
-- Paul Sydell, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 08/04/2016
"As close to perfect as one can get. Dr. Castro is absolutely superb both as a surgeon and aa a caring and friendly person. I have already recommended him to a friend who is having the same procedure with him."
-- Don Yates, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/03/2016
"In August summer of 2016 I found out my husband Michael Rabe, had to have an Aortic valve replacement. My husband was born with Aortic Stenosis and had his first valve repair at ten years old. The repair lasted until adulthood but at 39, he had to have Aortic Valve Replacement surgery. The surgery was done at a teaching hospital and had major complications. He was supposed to have a human valve but due to complications a Bovine Tissue Valve was placed instead. The first incision was made by an intern doctor and his Aorta was nicked causing him to bleed quickly. He flat lined for seven minutes during the time it took to hook him up to the heart lung machine. He woke up in intensive care and was there for one week. The experience was very traumatic and recovery long and difficult. So, knowing of his past experience I was terrified for him to go under the knife yet again for a major surgery. After a lot of research and prayer we were placed into the hands of a Sequoia Hospital Cardiatric surgeon. Dr. Castro, Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery along with Dr. Harmon, Cardiothoracic Surgeon diagnosed Mike with Aortic Valve Stenosis, Ascending Aneurysm; Incisional Hernia. (He also had a hernia that needed to be fixed from his last surgery.) With much discussion, we decided to go with a mechanical valve replacement. Both Surgeons agreed it was a high-risk surgery but were confident that his experience would be completely different from his last traumatic surgery. Mike and I would like to share our story regarding this experience working with Castro’s team.
The days leading up to his surgery were very scary for Mike and emotional for both of us. Dr. Castro's staff were like angels walking us through the process. Melissa Sandez, the office receptionist was absolutely a Godsend to us. She called us throughout the day and step by step informed us with every detail we needed to know for surgery day. Mike had a lot of pre-op tests and she personally came down from her office and met us to check in. She was so sensitive and genuinely cared about our feelings and concerns we had. She set us up for a consultation with Dr. Castro. The very first meeting with him he listened very closely to Mike's story and walked us through our options. Dr. Castro met again with us and went over step by step what would happen during the surgery. It was not hard to talk to him and he was not impersonal, even though he is a highly-accomplished doctor. He possesses a humble demeanor and does not have a larger than life ego despite all the skilled surgeries he performs. We had met with other highly skilled surgeons but Mike felt comfortable right away with Dr. Castro communicating his needs. Dr. Castro was so sensitive with Mike and related to him on a guy to guy level. Mike could really talk to him and explain what his worries were without feeling anxiety. Dr. Harmon also took the time to introduce himself to Mike and assured him that he was in good hands. Dr. Harmon has a great sense of humor that eases everyone but also is very careful and meticulous regarding care for his patients. He was there every step of the way from the beginning until the end.
During the surgery, everything went well and Tina Collins was our nurse navigator. She would let us know how the surgery was going and checked in with us several times. She exuded a confidence and strength that reassured us things were running smoothly. I had her contact information close and called her often during the days to follow as well. She always answered or got back to me right away. I probably interrupted her lunch sometimes but she still answered. Her compassion for her job definitely shined through. Mike was really worried about the breathing tube and Dr. Castro personally was there in ICU to take it out. Tina made sure to let me know as well because I was worried about that being traumatic.
During Mike's stay in the hospital the nurses were great. We especially remember nurse Marcy who made us smile and treated us with respect and sensitivity. Mike has never experienced such love and genuine care. She greeted us by saying, “We have been expecting you and have heard all about you. You are someone special!” She made us feel like old friends and she never felt like a stranger. Dr. Castro and Dr. Harmon made rounds to visit us throughout the week. They all took pictures with our two little girls and told Mike jokes even though Mike could not laugh at them. Dr. Taemin Surh, PA came by each day to check on Mike as well. He had a way of encouraging Mike to walk each day, do his breathing exercises and helped him gain confidence. The medical team was strong and really pulled Mike through the difficult times. We really appreciated all they did for us and it made this stressful time go as smoothly as could.
Lastly, we want to thank Dr. Castro for recommending Dr. Tom Hinohara who continues to care for Mike post operation. Mike could not have been in better hands with this medical team. Before his surgery and probably every time I saw the team, I would say, “This guy has been through a lot so please take care of him!” Not only did they take care of him but they over exceeded our expectations so much. I really feel that God sent us to Dr. Castro and the caring team at Sequoia Hospital. Something in my heart told me to make that call to his office that day and I’m so glad I did. Mike was in good hands and continues to receive good care. His recovery has been a constant adjustment to the mechanical valve, and being on Coumadin for the rest of his life will be challenging, but this experience has allowed him his life! For that we are forever grateful. The Rabe Family"
-- Michael Rabe, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/01/2016
"Dr. Castro is a very experienced, knowledgeable surgeon. He has no problem connecting with other doctors if there are other medical issues involved. A very caring and confident surgeon, who is also very likeable and responsive to questions and concerns. I had every confidence in him. He would definitely be my choice again, if I outlive my new valve. And If wearing a bikini is important, he makes the smallest incision, but that scar is a reminder of a new lease on life. Cheers, to a new life experience."
-- Marilyn Canon, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 07/25/2016
"All very positive and am impressed with the skill of Dr. Castro and the Sequoia team."
-- Bastiaan Saarloos, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 07/20/2016
"I am a 52 year old female that exercised regularly and was in good health other than a birth defect with my Aortic Valve. I had an amazing experience! (not that I want to do it again) from my first consultation with Dr. Castro until the end of treatment I was very happy with my surgeon and his team. I always felt like Dr. Castro took time to answer all my questions and never felt rushed by him or staff. He was always accessible to me by phone if something came up. I had discomfort, but not the pain or scar that I was expecting. I kept saying " I sure don't feel like I just had open heart surgery". My incision is only about 3-4 inches long and in only 6 weeks is disappearing quickly. I was out of the hospital in 4 days and walking the neighbor hood after the first week. I would recommend Dr. Castro to anyone that is needing this procedure. "
-- Jill Wood, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/07/2016
"Dr. Castro is great! On our first visit he spent over an hour with my wife and me, describing the procedure he would like to do if possible. After surgery, he spent time with my family explaining the surgery as it occurred. On our follow-up visit he was willing to answer any questions i had and still spent plenty of time with us. My experience with doctors has been they spend a minimum amount of time with there patients. I am thankful we went to Dr. Luis Castro for my surgery. It has been almost 20 weeks since my surgery and I am doing fine."
-- Robert Harper, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 05/22/2016
"Dr. Castro was recommended to me by Dr. Carlson of Fremont, CA to have my aorta valve replaced. The first one was done about 6 years ago and became defective. Once the appointment was made my husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Castro, it was a go. We found him very friendly and caring about what was to happen for the surgery. The surgery was done on 4/14/16 with pre-op on the 13th. Everything went well on the surgery date and afterward Dr. Castro met with my husband to tell him everything went well and he said she would live until she was 113 years old.
The complete surgery team were wonderful and made me feel at ease throughout the procedure and the special care they give you in the CCU was excellent.
There was a glitch after surgery. The very next day I experienced no feeling on my left side. Dr. Castro and Dr. Harmon immediately sent me to have a CT scan. It proved that I did not have a stroke and something broke off during surgery. Within a day or two my feeling started to return and totally returned by the time I left the hospital. Due to the complication I was kept in the CCU until 4/19. Each day it was a great feeling of comfort to see the smiling face of Dr. Castro and his loving care. After being sent up to the Cardiac Unit he continued along with Dr. Harmon to see me each day until they dismissed me on 4/25/16. At that time I elected to go to Fremont Health Care for physical therapy.
They provided excellent therapy for physical and respiratory and I progressed very well. Do to the heartbeat they elected to have a pace maker put in for safety reasons on 4/23/16.
The total experience was one not to fear under Dr. Luis Castro's care. I would strongly recommend Dr. Castro to anyone facing this type of surgery. A truly caring and loving man to all his patients.
The Sequoia Hospital provided a room for my husband while I was there. A truly wonderful place to be when the staff does all they can to make their loved ones feel at home."
-- Thelma Jane Miller, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/14/2016
"We traveled from El Paso, Texas to the Bay Area to have this surgery with Dr Castro. My daughter did some research and found Dr. Luis Castro. We had a phone consultation with him and from there we knew that he would be the perfect surgeon for my condition. One day prior to surgery, we had a pre-op visit with him in his office, where much detail was given regarding my aortic valve replacement and CABG with LIMA to the LAD. The surgery went very well and we were discharged on day 5 post-op and traveled home back to Texas on day 7 post-op.
I cannot express my gratitude for Dr Castro's great ability not only as a surgeon, but as a genuine human being that really cares for his patients. All his staff, including Dr Harmon, his PA, and Elizabeth are also amazing. And last, the care at Sequioa Hospital also deserve an A+. It has been a month since my surgery and I feel great, more energized and have started cardiac rehabilitation. My cardiologist here in town was amazed when he saw me 10 days post-op at this office. He says he had never seen such a great incision and he complimented me as to how good I looked. And although I dont plan on having heart surgery any time soon, I would not hesitate to return with Dr Castro in the future. "
-- Mario Quesadilla, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/13/2016
"Pre and post, the surgeon was the best! During the surgery, I was not awake. The outcome exceeded my expectations. I was out of the hospital in four days and walking four miles a day within a week."
-- Willard Nutting, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 04/13/2016
"I was impressed with Dr. Castro because he is very personable and very attentive to my situation. He answered all my questions and offered information that put me at ease. And, I was comfortable and confident of his surgical capabilities and skills.
He replaced my aortic valve and also took the initiative to repair an aortic root aneurysm. My recovery was routine at the hospital as well as at home. I was walking over one mile daily after four weeks and I will be back at playing regular golf in four months.
I believe Dr. Castro is one of the best heart surgeons in the country and has performed thousands cardiac surgeries The surgery well and much better than I expected. I had no issues or complications and my outcome was great. Dr. Castro's staff and the nurses were very capable and professional. The Sequoia Hospital Heart Center is new, bright, cheery, very clean and well maintained.
If you need heart surgery, there are none better than Dr. Castro and Sequoia Hospital. "
-- Jerry Hromyko, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 04/07/2016
"I had a thoracic aorta aneurysm which was growing to the danger point, and so I received a graft replacement. Dr Castro also did a Maze procedure due to an arrhythmia condition, and ligated the left atrial appendage. Excellent communication, and the surgical results seem to be perfect so far! Ps I answered ‘aortic valve’ above (no check possible for ‘other’) but it was ok. I would certainly trust Dr Castro and his team with valve repair too."
-- C. Briggs, Aortic Valve, Root Replacement, Maze Procedure, 04/05/2016
"This was my second bypass surgery, the first with the Sequoia Hospital and this team of doctors. From the first meeting with Dr. Castro & Dr. Harmon, they put me at ease. Their bedside manner was excellent! They were very informative and answered all the family's questions. My results were phenomenal, my recovery was much quicker than the first time around; and I truly feel it was because of this excellent medical team. I would recommend them to anyone having heart surgery."
-- Janice Rogers, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/03/2016
"I whole-heartedly recommend Dr. Luis Castro to anyone who needs to undergo heart surgery. Dr. Castro is competent, caring, and genuine. It's been just over 3 months since my open-heart surgery, which involved aortic valve replacement as well as replacement of a section of the aorta due to aneurysm. I have started my weekend hikes already, and the shortness of breath is all gone!"
-- Javad Khakbaz, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/30/2016
"Dr. Castro is, in my opinion, an excellent surgeon who also took time to alleviate my worries about my procedure before surgery. His surgical procedure allowed me a short recovery time and his caring manner was a comfort to me through the whole procedure. A true professional and a nice person."
-- Ken Kuchta, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 03/25/2016
"Dr. Castro is an outstanding surgeon. In meeting with Dr. Castro, in advance of surgery, he explained in an easy to understand manner the entire process of why I need an Aortic Valve replacement, how the surgery would be performed, post surgery support and needs and answered all my questions. His personal and professional style provided me with a high level of confidence with the surgery, His post surgery visits in the hospital were very comforting in reviewing the results of the surgery, which were a total success. His style is refreshing, uplifting and left me feeling great about everything, I highly recommend Dr Castro as the surgeon of choice regarding heart surgery, an outstanding surgeon and person."
-- Joseph Pietro, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 03/24/2016
"I experienced the best surgical results. Perfect!"
-- Rodger Simonian, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 02/08/2016
"Dr. Castro provided me with a surgical experience that can only be described as awesome. The pre-op meeting with him was explanatory and comforting (for my husband as well as for me). His entire team, including his associate Dr. Harmon, inspired confidence and provided necessary information before and after surgery. The Cardiac Unit at Sequoia Hospital is a new and a state-of-the-art facility with a friendly and efficient support staff. Dr. Castro is a delightful gentleman and I am very grateful to him and his entire staff for giving me a new lease on life! "
-- Dana Weir, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 01/14/2016
"This was my third major surgery in my 91 years and by far the easiest. My motto has been to find the best surgeon and hospital and then follow their instructions. Dr. Castro is an excellent surgeon and staff manager. Always ready to answer questions and give good advice. When I told him at a post op meeting that I had no pain at any time he said that was not unusual for someone my age. Thanks! The attention and comfortable support of the hospital staff was outstanding and led to what turned out to be a most rapid recovery backed up by 10 days at a skilled nursing facility near home after 8 days at Sequoia Hospital. I'm all set now with Dr. Castro's 20 year guarantee."
-- Bruce Oliver, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 01/14/2016
"I had my first AVR in 09/2011, I was born with a bicusbid aortic valve that required replacement at age 53, I went with a Medtronic Mosaic Porcine valve that my body subsequently clotted 4.2 years later, hence, my second AVR in 4.2 years was 01/06/16. I went with a Bovine valve this time, and they have me on Warfarin for six months even though it is not a mechanical valve.
Dr. Castro, Medical Director, Cardiac Surgery at Sequoia Hospital Redwood City Ca., Who insist you call him by his first name Luis, is an outstanding surgeon with the demeanor of your "Best Friend", excellent bedside manor, very approachable and easy to talk to. Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City Ca. is highly renowned for their excellent outcome history with AVR and many other cardiothoracic surgeries.
Having been through this twice at Sequoia Hospital in 4.2 years, I can confidently say that Dr. Castro, his team and Sequoia Hospital are truly a medical "Dream Team".
If I ever have to revisit this process again, it will only be with Dr. Castro and the Sequoia team.....I thank God for all of them."
-- Dennis Orsag, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 01/06/2016
"Dr. Luis Castro is awesome! Very gentle bedside manner and explains everything very clearly. Truly very caring. I feel like a brand new person, better than I've felt in years! Post op follow-up is awesome too!"
-- Deborah Saenz, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/02/2015
"I recommend going to the Sequoia Hospital website and view Dr. Castro's videos. I believe they are also on you-tube. I watched his videos and liked him immediately. When I met him in person I was pleased that he matched the expectations I had made about him. Great communication skills, excellent bedside manner, and an excellent experienced heart valve surgeon. That is not me saying that, but it is what everyone at the hospital told me that when they found out who my surgeon was... I do have to agree."
-- Bruce Gallmeyer, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 11/30/2015
"Thank God I found Dr Castro. I traveled from Pennsylvania to San Francisco because I felt comfortable with him. He is the best surgeon and sweetest man. He is always available, His team was great, nurses and hospital all played a part of my outcome and healing! He has been available for me throughout my recovery...I would recommend him to anyone that needs heart surgery! "
-- Jean Knappik, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 11/25/2015
"I found Dr. Luis Castro to be totally professional and a good friend. I highly recommend him."
-- Al Zaninovich, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/27/2015
"The best across the board! Dr. Castro will take the time to give you honest and complete answers."
-- Lee Mortimer, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 10/07/2015
"Dr. Castro did a great job on my heart valves repair. He is also a very caring person, and compared with some other doctors I saw at the Mayo clinic in Arizona, and a surgeon in Stanford, Dr Castro is by far the best. I recommend anyone who needs a reliable and knowledgeable heart surgeon, to seek him out, you can trust him."
-- Langston chinn, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 10/06/2015
"Better treatment than I could ever imagine. Dr Castro always promotes his team at Sequoia Hospital and it shows in the care I received. I was and am still full of confidence in his care. My treatment was an emergency, so I did not have a lot of time to research my doctor and hospital but my cardiologist in San Luis Obispo spoke of both the hospital and Dr Castro in glowing terms. Since my surgery, Dr Castro has stayed closely in touch with me about my recovery. His partner in surgery, Dr Adam Harmon, was also excellent."
-- Maurice Heagren, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 09/16/2015
"One of best hospital experiences of my life. Dr. Castro was very thorough before and after the procedure. He made daily visits during my recovery time in the hospital. He reviewed everything with me on my follow up visit. I was released from the hospital in 4 days, walking day after surgery, and experience almost no pain throughout (pain level 1-3).
I would highly recommend Dr. Castro with no exceptions!"
-- Gregory Clarke, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/16/2015
"From the first visit, Dr. Castro made me feel very comfortable and at ease while explaining entire procedure Dr. Castro and his staff were attentive, friendly, and professional. I had no complications from the surgery and recovery has been very good.
I feel fortunate to have had Dr. Luis Castro as my surgeon."
-- James Piccetti, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/03/2015
"Dr. Luis Castro and his team are amazing!!! From the very first time I watched his YouTube video "Heart Valve surgery: Minimally invasive mitral valve repair" to the first time we met, I knew that Dr. Castro was someone I could trust. This was made more clear after interviewing him and asking him his own questions put forth in the video and my personal questions that I had written down from my research on the topic of Mitral Valve Regurgitation and Proxysmal Afib and the Maze III procedure.
Dr. Castro answered and demonstrated when necessary every question. We also discussed the possibility of a new valve should a repair not be possible. After Dr. Castro's explanations and demonstrations of each valve, I felt very confident in my decision of the Porcine Valve should the need arise. My husband has had three traumatic brain injuries and can sometimes become lost in too much information coming at him too fast, Dr. Castro seemed to sense that my husband needed more time to process what was being said, and so he patiently walked and re-walked us through any part of the conversation that needed repeating. We were so impressed by Dr. Castro that we knew that no one else would be right for the surgery. His knowledge, his experience, his manners, and above all his reasons for being a one hospital surgeon gave us a well-founded sense of peace and assurance that I could place my life in his hands.
It has been five weeks since my surgery and I could not be more pleased with the results or the care that I received and my husband received at Sequoia Hospital and from Dr. Luis Castro."
-- Charlie Orsburn, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 09/02/2015
"Great talented surgeon and a great guy as well. Really cares and is very acessible. I hope I never need him again but I wouldn't think of anyone else touching my heart."
-- Herb Potter, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/05/2015
"I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Castro and his team. Sunshine and rainbows - outstanding and fantastic!!
Dr. Castro is (in my lay opinion) an extremely skilled, talented surgeon and a wonderful, caring human being. He absolutely put me at ease in advance of the surgery, came by at least daily after surgery and was always available for a consult, question etc. two anecdotes:
1. I was going to get a flu shot a number of weeks after my surgery on a Sunday and realized i should probably check and make sure it was ok to do. I texted dr. castro at 1PM (on a sunday) and he texted back within 5 minutes. the pharmacist and their assistant were amazed that a high-powered surgeon would be that responsive
2. reading my post op report i learned that it took them 35 minutes to do the work on my heart (replace the aortic valve). sometimes i can't even write an email in 35 minutes and Dr. Castro and team did a full valve replacement and restarted my heart in that amount of time!!! And as i learned, the faster you are in and out of surgery, minimizing time under anesthesia and time on bypass, the better off you are.
thank you Dr. Castro!"
-- David Selby, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/16/2015
"Excellent team. Excellent Hospital and staff. 5+ stars all around. My incision was only 5". Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, California. Wish I could submit a picture of my incision.... Amazing!"
-- James Fitzpatrick, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/10/2015
"As a very active 50-something year old (surfer, running, swimming, etc.) I found myself increasingly fatigued even during the day at work and began going home and sleeping for 1-2 hours before dinner.
After being diagnosed with a leaky aortic valve and told by the cardiologist that we should "watch and wait" I found Dr. Castro on Adam Pick's web site and saw him to get a second opinion. He saw me and my wife one week later, and, after reviewing my case history and symptoms of fatigue and enlarged left ventricle, he said, "Why wait? you are symptomatic. If you were my brother I would recommend that you replace your valve this year." Once I knew why I was so tired, I scheduled my surgery immediately. I happen to have spent a lot of time observing open heart surgeries due to my career in the medical industry (Cardiac ultrasound) and I investigated Dr. Castro's surgical outcome statistics: Luis Castro's surgical team has some of the best outcomes statistics on the planet for open heart surgery in general and valve repair specifically. So between his track-record and his knowledgeable and loving patient interactions I knew that I was in good hands and never had a single anxious moment in the weeks or even the final minutes before my surgery. Dr. Castro even gave me his cell phone number so that I could reach him at any time with questions, as he does for all his patients.
The surgery was perfect and I was out of the hospital by day five. Dr. Castro and all of his surgical team came and saw me at least twice during that week. Sequoia Hospital post-surgical care is special because they assigned the same nurses (day and night shifts) to watch me during my time there.
I texted Dr. Castro on my one year anniversary and said, "Thank you for doing such a great job with my surgery. You made the extraordinary routine." And he did: he performed a mini-sternotomy to access my AV, which made my recovery quicker I believe.
Luis and I have since become friends with Luis and he and I surf together. He is a caring and giving doctor and person: he regularly has volunteered to see patients one day per week in the "free clinic" in San Francisco. I have also attended surgery with him and watched how he works. He works quickly in order to minimize time "on pump" so that in the rare case some complication arises he has more time. He works with great confidence and leadership. He and I have talked since about his unwillingness to compromise during surgery to leave a patient with an average result if he can improve the patient's prospects with a second effort during surgery. I was even more impressed with his skill after watching him operate on complex cases than before my own surgery.
I recommend Dr. Castro without hesitation.
I hope that he is still performing surgery 20 years from now if I need a second valve."
-- Tom Fitzmorris, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/13/2015
"I am a central california Dentist who had open heart surgery by Dr. Castro two weeks ago. I have been home for a week and am doing fine. The anxiety of going into this kind of surgery is natural but some thing took place during our pre surgical conference that totally put me at ease. Dr. Castro asked me who my former cardiologist was [before my present one], when I told him he very casually said that he had done open heart surgery on this person a few years ago. That told me volumes. My former cardiologist [who knew them all] choose Dr. Castro for his own surgery. What better recommendation could there be.
The surgery, while complicated, came off without a problem. I am pain free and recovering rapidly. Thank you Dr.Castro and Team."
-- Frank Benneyan, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 02/27/2015
"I highly praise and recommend Dr. Castro as an absolutely excellent surgeon and very fine person. He was extremely attentive to me from prior to my entering the hospital and throughout my stay; then I had several meetings with him and his associate, Dr. Harmon, following my release from the Sequoia Hospital.
This was the most serious experience I've ever had, but I felt very confident and comfortable with Dr. Castro. I give him the highest recommendation possible to anyone facing cardiac-surgery; and if I ever require such a procedure again, I would want Dr. Castro as the surgeon."
-- Charles Senteney, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Bloodless Surgery, 02/24/2015
"Dr. Castro was fantastic! He got a surgical team together, on MY schedule, the day after Christmas so I'd be home by New Year's (& so my insurance paid 100%). I saw Dr. Adam Harmon (asst surg) more often because of the holidays: he sat on my bed & we chatted several times. He managed my very difficult to manage pain, doing everything he could & kept me in ICU an extra day so I'd be more comfortable. He got after the nursing staff in the step down unit when they decided to minimize my pain meds vs following HIS orders. He genuinely cared about me & never made me feel I was being difficult. Adam & Luis make a great team: my floppy mitral valve was repaired for good with a mini sternotomy & I was only inpatient 5 days. Can't say enough about the ICU nurses either--caring, compassionate & professional. "
-- Jennifer Miller, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 12/26/2014
"Dr. Castro is open, friendly, clear, thorough, warm, professional, and confidence-inspiring. He also was recommended as the best heart surgeon in the Bay Area by two other cardiologists who have no other relationship with him. The team Dr. Castro has assembled is also excellent, including Dr. Harmon, the anesthesiologist, and the Physician's Assistant. I felt the explanations before the surgery and the multiple visits after surgery (in the hospital) were helpful and caring. Given that I required an aortic heart valve replacement, I am very pleased with the pre- and post-treatment I received from Dr. Castro and his team."
-- John Wallace, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/30/2014
"Dr. Castro is the best and most caring doctor I have ever had the pleasure to meet. He worked with my wife and I to patiently explain my condition of "Severe Mitral Regurgitation". He carefully reviewed the echo-cardiograms with me and even drew pictures when I didn't understand an issue related to my Mitral Valve. I was asymptomatic and Dr. Castro answered all of the questions my wife and I had during the 9 months leading to my surgery, even when he knew I was still trying to decide on a heart surgeon to perform my surgery.
I went to see 4 heart surgeons and 3 Cardiologists and after careful review I selected Dr. Castro and Sequoia hospital. The surgery was extremely successful and after 1 day in ICU I was up and walking. Dr. Castro and the staff at Sequoia hospital are extremely professional and very caring. Everyone from the people working to clean, shave, feed and nurse me back to health were extremely attentive and I continue to receive follow up calls at home.
I would highly recommend Dr. Castro and Sequoia hospital for anyone that may need heart valve surgery. He is not only a fantastic surgeon but a very caring person as are his staff at Sequoia hospital."
-- Pat Sarceda, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 10/14/2014
"Not only is Dr. Luis Castro an incredibly skilled surgeon, he also explained the procedures for replacing my aortic valve and repairing my ascending aortic aneurysm in a way that settled my anxiety and gave me confidence about what was ahead.
He performed this miracle through a 4 1/4 inch incision at the sternum that has resulted in an almost pain-free recovery since leaving the hospital. I haven't taken anything for pain since the third day after discharge.
I have been home for 3 weeks and take several walks every day: the longest is 2.8 miles which takes 48 minutes and the shortest is 20 minutes. (This is a little longer than recommended in the material sent home with me.) The only pain I am having occurs when I cough or sneeze. Thank goodness for the chest pillow and the chest harness given to me!
Dr. Castro's bedside manner and that of the team of care providers who work with him was the most caring and responsive you can imagine. He emphasized to me that the quality and compassion of care after surgery are as important as the surgery itself in giving the patient the best experience possible. It was evident with each and every person who nursed me toward recovery that his commitment to excellence was a culture that everyone involved with cardiac care buys into at Sequoia Hospital!
It felt like I was his only patient in a private hospital catering just to me! He stopped by every day before and after surgery: even on the day that he was called in to deal with an emergency early in the day and didn't finish with the surgery until late in the day. He stopped by to see how I was doing at 11:30 p.m. before leaving for home that night. In addition to that, he made it possible for me to get in touch with him if I had any questions before or after surgery.
While there are no guarantees regarding the outcome of heart procedures, I can guarantee that the likelihood of a great outcome is the highest if Dr. Castro and Dr. Harmon are your surgeons. They did an amazing job of making the surgery and subsequent recovery an almost painless experience. Everything went exactly as Dr. Castro said it would and I am among the 99 plus % who are delighted to be here to share my experience!"
-- Mike Ramsey, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 10/14/2014
"Dr. Castro saved my life. My heart was in such bad shape that I couldn’t take more than a few steps without gasping for breath. I desperately needed an aortic valve replacement.
I found out that Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City is one of the top hospitals in the US for cardiac care, with Dr. Castro heads and shoulders above most cardiac surgeons for the number of heart valves replaced per year with positive outcomes.
Despite his busy schedule, Dr. Castro took the time to explain the procedure in detail and answered all my questions. On September 30, 2014, he replaced my aortic heart valve, and today I am a new man. I would recommend this incredible doctor, and his team of highly skilled professionals, to anyone in need of cardiac care.
"
-- Ronald Sommer, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 09/30/2014
"I had aortic valve replacement in September of 2014 performed by Dr. Castro. I have had an outstanding experience which I would like to share as it may help others like me.
I was very scared of surgery which was unfortunately unavoidable. As a result, I did a lot of searching, reading and even watching the surgery on YouTube. I spoke to several doctors and surgeons as well.
The key is to find who the best surgeons for this type of surgery is, and Dr. Castro is there in the top 5-10 in the world - or at least among ones I could find or have access too. The hospital where he and his team operate, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, specializes in heart surgery and is rated in top 10 or 15. (Stanford is not even in this group).
To me Dr. Castro is the best surgeon in the world! How do I justify that?
(a) He is very fast. The amount of time you spend on heart/lung machine, while your heart is stopped is very important. (the more time you spent – the more likely you will get out brain damaged). For most surgeons the time your heart is not beating is close to 1hr or more. Dr. Castro did mine in 29 minutes (his average is 30min). I heard the fastest he did is 17 minutes.
(b) Second important point is the team. Dr. Castro has been 15 years at Sequoia and he and his team can read each other’s mind. To be that fast, one needs a good team, and Dr. Castro has that. He is very much liked by his team, his nurses and hospital staff. They love him and this is very important too.
(c) Dr. Castro’s mortality rate in the last 3 years is ZERO. He would not undertake any new procedure unless it has zero mortality rate. He cares about that. Thus, you can be sure that he does not want to ruin his record, so you will be fine. However, the week I was released he operated on 89 year old lady changing both valve: aortic and mitral. This is confidence!
(d) He is very calm and (I heard never loses his temper under pressure). This is very important if things go wrong.
(e) He is not overworked or over-committed, by his choice. He operates Tuesdays and Thursdays, so he is fresh and rested for your surgery. The rest of the days he is seeing patients in the hospital and he and his team were at my bedside every day I was there.
(f) His two anesthesiologists (Dr. Bradly and Dr. Paris) are the two angels. They were extremely important to me as I was not going to go into this surgery, neither willingly (nor alive). They will talk to you, calm you down and suddenly – you wake up - and it is all over!
(g) The care after surgery works very well in Sequoia. I slept most of the time and every time I woke up, I felt stronger. The nurses would take good care of you and I would recommend that you do not have visitors – they may tire you (that may apply even to your wife or husband). You do not need them as you will be totally taken care off by the excellent staff of nurses.
(h) The incision Dr. Castro made is quite small – about 4” and the scar is not very visible. To me this is unimportant, but if you are a lady and care for it – he does a great job with that too.
Finally, Dr. Castro is very approachable, down to earth and very charming. Once you meet him, your heart will tell you: “stop, do not look any further – I want this guy!” He will call you back personally, answer your email and I suspect, if you ask him to give you a ride home from the hospital – he will do it. But please do not! Many people need him critically, so be respectful of his time.
My recovery was fantastic. I heard from Dr. Castro that some people went to meetings 3 weeks after the surgery. The normal recovery time is 6 weeks.
I went to work in 1 week! (not that I did much, but I made the point) However the day after I worked 3 hrs, second week part time, third week overtime and in the fourth week I even picked up another consulting job. (my work is desk / computer job, so not very hard). However, I hope I did beat every record in recovery time!
It has been 5 weeks since my surgery and I feel very strong, walking without getting tired and I have energy like never before. "
-- Vojin G Oklobdzija, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/17/2014
"We expected excellence (my wife was the patient), Dr. Castro and his colleagues delivered it.
We chose to fly in from out of state, based on (a) the world-class morbidity and mortality statistics of this program, (b) the mini-sternotomy option, and (c) the remarkably open and welcoming approach of Dr. Castro and his staff.
Early on Dr. Castro readily accepted our request for a FaceTime interview, answered all of our questions and welcomed follow up contact. His office arranged the angiogram for the day prior to surgery, and arranged housing for us in the Sequoia House. He has remained accessible weeks after the surgery.
As expected (from the level of excellence reflected in the statistics) the entire program was on top of its game. Cardiology, Anesthesia, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy all delivered top level service.
We were not surprised when immediately after surgery Consumers Reports listed this program as one of only 15 in the country to achieve CR's highest ranking."
-- Ronald Bliss, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 07/02/2014
"I had an aortic valve replacement at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City. I highly recommend doctor Castro and his team. I wanted to have a less invasive procedure if possible, and they are very skilled in the mini-sternotomy. Not all cardiologists and cardiac surgeons are easy to talk to, but Doctor Castro definitely is. Doctor Castro was available for questions before surgery.
He and his team visited at least once a day while I was in the hospital. Although we are from out of town, he has continued to follow up with me and has offered to consult with my local cardiologist.
The nursing staff was also excellent. The facility was a bit dated, but a brand new hospital is set to open very soon, so that will no longer be true.
I am three weeks post surgery and doing very well. "
-- Barbara Hoth, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 07/02/2014
"Dr. Luis Castro performed a repair for my Mitral Valve with Barlow's syndrome using a mini-sternotomy approach this past June, 2014. My surgery was a success due to the skill and care of Dr. Castro.
He is truly an amazing surgeon and I was most fortunate to have been under the care of Dr. Castro and his surgical team!
Dr. Castro, in addition to being a skilled surgeon, is professional, kind, and a truly genuine person. He was very thorough with my care as well as my follow-up care and always listened to all of my concerns.
My experiences with Sequoia Hospital's Cardiac Surveillance Unit, doctors, and nurses, were exceptional. I felt genuinely cared for by the staff. I cannot say enough positive comments about my experience with Dr. Castro, his surgical team and Sequoia Hospital. I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Castro, his surgical team, and Sequoia Hospital to my family and/or friends."
-- Patricia K., Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/14/2014
"My experience with Dr. Castro was, at all stages of my valve repair surgery, outstanding. Prior to surgery, Dr. Castro went above and beyond the call of duty to be available to respond to any and all questions during my fact gathering phase, and he presented the information I requested through clear and supportive communication.
The surgery itself was very successful, thanks to Dr. Castro's approach and to the team that he assembled, and my recovery has been smooth, rapid, and free of complications since my surgery a month and a half ago. Dr. Castro continues to be available for any follow up questions and concerns that I may have, which is a further extension of his caring, patient-centered approach to consultations and treatment.
After conducting extensive research into treatment and caregiver options prior to surgery, I am certain that I made the right choice in selecting Dr. Castro to perform this critical valve repair operation."
-- Paul K., Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 06/03/2014
"Dr. Castro did an excellent job on this AVR and my previous AVR 11 years ago! He made my wife and I very comfortable with my decision on a tissue valve and the surgery!"
-- David Baga, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/20/2014
"In March of 2014, it was time to get my bicuspid arotic valve replaced. My wife is a cath lab nurse and has access to the diffferent heart valves reps and after many conversations and research it was narrowed to two surgeons. Dr. Castro was the second consult I had and we were immediately sold that Dr. Castro would fix my heart.
Dr. Castro took the time to explain the surgery and the options that were available to replace my valve. Dr. Castro erased all the fear I had about having this surgery and I felt like God just provided me a Guardian Angel to prolong my life.
Dr. Castro has an experienced staff that makes you feel like a celebrity and gives you their undivided attention to make sure your stay at the hosptial is first rate. We were so thankful that we found Dr. Castro and he is the only surgeon that I would recommend."
-- David Augustus, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 05/20/2014
"Could not praise Dr. Castro more highly. Very personable in office and hospital, thorough explanation of situation and procedure. Excellent surgical results."
-- Daniel Swisher, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/08/2014
"Dr. Castro will make you feel like you've known him for a long time. He's very honest about the seriousness of of open heart surgery but his experience and his teams experience is unsurpassed. He talks to you, not at you and he has a wonderful sense of humor. More times than not he will call me if I email him with a question; yes, a phone call. Dr Castro removed my ascending aortic aneurysm and was able to preserve my aortic valve rather then replace it."
-- Jim Ciamarro, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 08/13/2013
"In my opinion, Dr. Castro is the best cardiac surgeon on the planet. The combination of Dr. Castro and Sequoia Hospital is a team that can't be beat. After the surgery I didn't have even one complication. I actually was released from the hospital a day early, it went that good. I don't care where I'm living in the world if I need another heart related procedure I will seek out Dr. Castro.
I'm riding my dirt bike, jogging and riding my mountain with no issues whatsoever. I feel 20 again. Thanks Dr. Castro. "
-- charles weems, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/11/2013
"A superb Surgeon in every sense of the word! The preparation, the actual surgery, and post-op conduct was exceptional. Doctor Castro is an extremely bright and gifted surgeon with a genuinely humanitarian personality. In my view, a "Star" in the United States!"
-- kent dorwin, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/15/2013
"This was the second cardiac surgery for me. Dr. Luis Castro is arguably the best valve surgeon in the United States. Compared to the first time, this was almost a non-event. Time spent with me, skill level, bedside manner... All outstanding!"
-- mickey king, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/22/2013
"Dr. Castro was incredible!"
-- Brian Newkirk, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 03/01/2013
"I can't imagine finding a better surgeon. I would give Dr. Castro an A+ in clinical skills, professionalism, caring, compassion, education & bedside manner."
-- Linda Gaudet, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 11/28/2012
"Dr. Luis Castro and his outstanding team at Sequoia Hospital skillfully repaired my Mitral Valve Prolapse with severe regurgitation in July 2012. Eight months prior to my surgery, Dr. Castro generously met with me for an hour to describe the surgery and patiently responded to my long list of questions with honest and thorough explanations. Within 10 minutes of meeting Dr. Castro, I was confident that he was an extremely skilled and professional surgeon who I could trust with my life without reservation. His confident manner, wonderful bedside manner and fantastic sense of humor helped calm my anxieties and kick start my recovery. Throughout the process Dr. Castro was very personable, credible and empathetic to all of my concerns. I highly recommend Dr. Luis Castro and his exceptional team without hesitation. "
-- Aaron Blum, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 07/19/2012
"Extremely skilled and professional with a great sense of humor to counter my jocular defenses against anxiety (I'm a 70-year old psychologist practicing for 45+ years). I awoke in the ICU to see Dr. Luis Castro standing over me, so I asked him to turn around. A bit perplexed but smiling, he did as I bade. "I don't see wings or a tail," I said, "So, I must still be alive." "I'm afraid so," he smiled. Now, if I have a pork chop, I feel like a cannibal (porcine valve). I recommend him without even the slightest hesitation or qualification."
-- Dr. Joseph Busey, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 07/18/2012
"Dr. Luis Castro, my surgeon, was wonderful, informative, straight forward and very positive. My family loved him, as well, as is staff. Awesome!!"
-- Betty Vieira, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/25/2012
"My surgeon was wonderful. Doctor Castro was friendly and informative before the surgery and explained both procedures to me and my husband. He was genuinely concerned about my welfare. I am so glad that my cardiologist in Sonora, California recommended him."
-- Joanne Layne, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 06/14/2012
"My experience with Dr. Castro can only be described with one word: love. My family and I have nothing but love for Dr. Castro in our hearts. He saved my life and the surgery performed by Dr. Castro and Dr. Harmon has allowed me to resume a normal life, explore kayaking and rafting, and be blessed with getting to know two grandchildren that have been born in the last year.
Dr. Castro is wonderful before, during, and after the surgery. Anyone needing heart valve surgery should consider Dr. Castro as their surgeon!"
-- Dean Bernacchi, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 06/12/2012
"Dr. Castro is one of the best surgeons. He has an excellent team at Sequoia Hospital - very warm, confident and caring."
-- Constance Codding, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 06/09/2012
"Dr. Castro has a wonderful bedside manner and incredible surgical skills. He and his team replaced the mitral valve and reconstructed the left atrium due to a very rare tumor."
-- Tracy Collins, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/15/2012
"Dr. Luis Castro is so caring, so nice and so dedicated to your well being. Thank God for doctore like him."
-- Gary Norris, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/26/2012
"Fantastic surgeon, great outcome! Dr. Castro performed my surgery quickly, and without complications, resulting in an easy recovery that exceeded my expectations. His kindness, clear communication and expertise are top notch."
-- Jan Tepper, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 04/19/2012
"Dr. Castro, my heart surgeon, inspired complete confidence that he was most knowledgeable and experienced and expected no complications whatsoever. I never felt any anxiety before the operation and he was caring and friendly after and left me reassured that all was well."
-- Gladys Francis, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/14/2012
"Excellent. I highly recommend Dr Castro."
-- DiMitri Hage, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/28/2012
"I had 3 plugged arteries replaced and a valve repaired. I would recommend Dr. Luis Castro very highly. Dr. Castro and the Sequoia Hospital staff gave me "EXCELLENT" care before, during and after surgery. I owe these people my life. "
-- Kenneth Campbell, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 02/23/2012
"I was blessed to have been recommended to Dr. Luis Castro and his staff. I'm thankful for their knowledge and advanced skill in valve repair and valve replacement. I was born with a genetic bicuspid valve disorder. Dr. Castro and his team have allowed me to enjoy my family and continue along with my carrier and activities, free of Coumadin, when I had been told other options were not available to me. "
-- Christopher Watkins, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 02/23/2012
"I was very pleased with the results. I thought Dr. Luis Castro's bedside manner was excellent, as well as his pre-surgery information."
-- Marilyn Bolei, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/09/2012
"Dr. Castro was brilliant in his repair of my mitral valve. Where others wanted to replace the valve, he was able to repair it. Given that I was in my mid-fifies, this has saved me repeat open heart surgery(s) and a lifetime of anti-coag drugs.
When I first met Dr. Castro, he came to the waiting lobby to greet me. I have never had a physician come personally to the lobby. He was kind and took the time needed to explain options to my husband and me. He is genuine in his care for the patient.
I have had no post surgical problems related to the valve and it's been a few years now. I can do rigorous cardio work-outs, and live a normal life.
I would recommend Dr. Castro without any hesitation. "
-- Leslie Rose, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 02/06/2012
"My surgical result has been very satisfactory. Dr. Castro and his team were great."
-- Dorayne Likely, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 01/24/2012
"Dr. Castro and his entire team are splendid in all regards."
-- Dean Forbes, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 01/09/2012
"Complete trust and faith is not easy to come by, within 10 minutes of meeting Dr. Luis Castro he had mine. From his patience in answering all our questions, to making a hard decision feel 100% right, and putting me at ease-a short 36 hours later I walked into surgery (mitral valve repair/annuloplasty/right thoracotomy) prepared and confident. When considering a heart surgeon ask all the questions-number of surgeries, outcomes, etc. Dr. Castro answered it all with a reassuring voice, kind smile, and you know you are in the best highly skilled hands. I never felt like a statistic or just another patient in his care. If I was to need surgery again, there would be no doubt I would only want Dr. Castro leaving his fingerprints on my heart."
-- Shelly Gould, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 10/14/2011
"Dr. Luis Castro is amazing. He did my surgery with his team and now, a week out, I'm still feeling no pain. I have not even been uncomfortable.
But as wonderful as his magic hands is his ability to communicate. He does so readily and enthusiastically. Thanks to Luis, I'm on my way to a quick, full recovery."
-- Alfred Kildow, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 09/29/2011
"My case required immediate valve replacement surgery. Dr. Luis Castro went out of his way to ensure that I was transported to the best location possible and scheduled right away. His confident and calm manner provided me with a high level of comfort in a situation where I did not have a lot of energy or time to digest all of the details. He has always responded to my questions with honest and thorough explanations. If you want the best outcome along with a cardiac surgeon who possesses a great bedside manner, the choice is Dr. Luis Castro. I highly recommend him.
"
-- Patrick C., Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 10/01/2010
"Mitral valve prolapse was preventing me from pursuing my passion for hiking. A cardiac surgeon in my home city referred me to Dr. Luis Castro because he felt that Dr. Castro’s expertise at mitral valve repair using a mini-incision technique would get me back on the trails faster than if the surgery were done locally with a standard sternotomy. Dr. Castro quickly recognized that quality of life was my paramount goal. Dr. Castro is personable and caring, and I believe that the systematic procedures followed by his surgical team virtually eliminate risk of infection. I was thrilled that he accepted me as a patient. After discharge from the hospital, I followed Dr. Castro’s instructions to the letter. I am extremely impatient when it comes to being sidelined by illness, and thought the first four weeks of recovery were agonizingly slow. Both my cardiologist and primary care physician disagreed with me, saying they were delighted by the surgical results and my progress. They were right, because I was back hiking in the Sierra Nevada only eight weeks after surgery."
-- Ken Klug, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Mini Sternotomy, 08/23/2010
"I highly recommend Dr. Luis Castro and his team at Sequoia Hospital. In March of 2010, Dr. Castro and staff successfully repaired my Mitral Valve Prolapse (severe regurgitation causing an enlarged left atrium) condition. At the end of 2 months of my recovery, I was close to 100%. Dr. Castro and staff kept me informed every step of the way. Dr. Castro is very personable, credible and empathetic to all of my issues and concerns. He followed up with me as I was conducting my due diligence prior to the surgery and continued checking in with me months following the surgery. As a professional service provider myself (attorney), I strive to provide the same care and service that Dr. Castro has provided to me as his patient."
-- Brian R, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 03/10/2010
"Perfect, under the circumstances. All our doctors were professional, direct and we will be forever grateful for their dedication and knowledge for the miracle they gave us. The A-Team was led by Dr. Luis Castro."
-- Jo Ann Bunton, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 10/16/2009
"My experience was very positive. As a 65 year old patient, I should have been nervous but Dr. Luis Castro made me feel very much at ease about of the procedure. The operation and recovery could not have gone better. I am back to running 20 miles a week at the same speed as I did well before the operation."
-- Vallangiman Srinivasan, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 10/09/2009
"I recommend Dr. Luis Castro without reservation.
"
-- Martin Harband, Aortic Valve, Median Sternotomy, 05/11/2009
"Superbly knowledgeable and superb bedside manner. I went from totally nervous to completely confident within a half hour of our first meeting. Fast recovery with a small scar (with glued rather than stitched edges -- barely noticeable under a medium-hairy chest). Couldn't of been more impressed by Dr. Luis Castro or happier with the result. I got a Medtronic Porcine valve, so I'll need to have a new one in 10 to 20 years; I'll be going back to Dr. Castro, and I can't give a better recommendation than that. Facilities and staff at Sequoia Hospital were TERRIFIC. I felt like I was in excellent hands from my arrival to my departure 4 days later. "
-- Eddie Williams, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 11/08/2008
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