1. Is the database and iPhone App really free for patients and caregivers?

Yes. The online database is free for all patients and caregivers. And, the new iPhone App for the Heart Valve Surgeon Database is free as well.

2. How many surgeons are listed in the database?

Since beta launching the database earlier this year, our surgeon records have increased dramatically. Today, the database maintains over 485 surgeon profiles from 25 countries around the world.

3. Who provides the patient feedback about heart surgeons?

The information provided in the Heart Valve Surgeon Database is provided by patients (or their caregivers) that have already had heart valve repair and heart valve replacement surgery. Please note, all surgeon information is moderated and verified prior to public access.

4. How can I add my surgeon profile?

We encourage all former patients and caregivers to add their surgeon profiles to the database. Using our special, online form, it takes less than 5 minutes to submit your surgeon experience. To add your surgeon, please click here.

5. Can I really contact a surgeon through the database?

Yes. If the surgeon you wish to speak with has a "Contact Surgeon" icon by their name, your email request will be delivered immediately to the surgeon's office.

6. What is an Interactive Listing?

You will notice that some surgeons have an "Interactive Listing" while other surgeons have "Standard Listings". Interactive Listings are provided to surgeons who sponsor this website and contribute to our charitable efforts.

To identify a surgeon with an Interactive Listing, their profile will have two special icons in their search results - Contact Surgeon Now and Learn About Surgeon.

Interactive listings enable patients to (i) contact surgeons directly through the database and (ii) view dedicated profile pages that contain extra information about that surgeon - including professional background, specialties, contact information and multimedia (pictures and video). For example, here is the Interactive Listing for Dr. Paul Stelzer.

Other surgeons with Interactive Listings include Dr. Paul Massimiano, Dr. David Adams, Dr. Alan Stewart and many more.

If you are a heart valve surgeon and have interest in an Interactive Listing, please contact Adam Pick at adam@heart-valve-surgery.com.

7. Which charities does the Heart Valve Surgeon Database work with?

Our first sponsor will be the Gift of Life, a special organization that addresses the medical needs of children who suffer from congenital heart defects. The program is largely run through the efforts of Rotary Clubs throughout the world.

8. Who operates the Heart Valve Surgeon Database?

The Heart Valve Surgeon Database is operated by Adam Pick, a double heart valve surgery patient and author of The Patient's Guide To Heart Valve Surgery.

9. Who should I contact with questions about the Heart Valve Surgeon Database?

Contact information for the Heart Valve Surgeon Database is available here.

10. How can I access the Heart Valve Surgeon Database?

You can access the database at www.HeartValveSurgeons.com or you can click on several links available at Adam's Heart Valve Surgery Blog.