About Dr. Craig Baker,
Heart Valve Surgeon

"Dr. Baker and his team made me feel incredibly comfortable throughout the entire process. They took the time to answer all of my questions with kindness and patience, fully understanding that heart surgery is a major event in anyone’s life. They also welcomed my girlfriend’s questions, which meant a lot to both of us.

The surgery itself went smoothly and what really stood out to me was how responsive Dr. Baker was even after I returned home. He answered my follow-up questions via email promptly and thoroughly. I truly appreciate the care, professionalism, and compassion shown by Dr Baker and his team."

-- Hamilton Don Mello, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 03/06/2025

"Dr. Craig Baker MD was recommended by three other surgeons and my cardiologist before the insurance company finally approved the surgery to be performed by Dr. Craig Baker MD.

Deep in my soul I honestly believe that had any other surgeon performed the surgery I would not have made off the table alive or if by chance I did survive my recovery would had been worse. Dr. Baker is a very friendly and easy to talk to person. Dr. Baker visited me everyday I was in the hospital, there were days when he visited later in the day, probably after performing surgery.

I felt that he honestly cared how I was doing. I felt he was concerned the first couple times he visited me after the surgery, then I felt he was more at ease on the visits after the first few visits. I was in the hospital for a week and two days and he took time out of his day to visit me which was very comforting. I am no longer on oxygen and although I have my up days and tough days but overall the quality of my life has already improved tremendously.

I honestly believe having Dr. Craig Baker do your heart surgery if you need any heart surgery done would increase your chances of having a successful outcome. From the time I met Dr. Baker, I felt very comfortable being around him, I saw him for my post-op visit a couple days ago and I feel sad I probably won't see him again.

I don't make friends easily so to form that type of feeling about someone is unusual for me. I don't know how I can thank Dr. Baker enough for improving the quality of life that I have left being 70 years old now. I highly recommend Dr. Craig Baker for any heart surgery if you need any procedure done."

-- Ernest Marumoto, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Reoperation, 01/30/2025

"Dr. Baker is an absolute genius, caring, patient doctor. He answered all my questions and he was very thorough. I highly recommend him."

-- Densmore Swift, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 12/17/2024

"Dr. Baker is the best! He performed my first surgery in 2010 and it was flawless. There were no problems and I had no pain. It was a very quick recovery.

Almost 15 years later, I learned that my Bio-Prosthetic aortic valve had a torn leaflet and it needed to be replaced. Of course I returned to Dr. Baker.

The surgery was a success and I am on the road to recovery. I would HIGHLY recommend Dr. Baker for any type of cardiac surgery. He's a great doctor, great personality, and a good sense of humor. He cares about his patients and his staff (other surgeons, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and office personnel) exhibit the same care and personal touch. Thank you very much!"

-- Richard Cassidy, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 09/23/2024

"I highly recommend Dr. Baker. He performed a life saving, complex surgery and was very attentive while I took a long time to recover. I did a surgery that my local cardiac surgeon was afraid to do. He did it with confidence even though it was touch and go as I recovered.

He went the extra mile to re-do my aortic valve the day after my first surgery when the repair did not hold and it needed a replacement. He was patient with me as it took me 2 weeks in ICU as I did not want to wake up."

-- Elizabeth Ward, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 08/13/2024

"From the moment of my first consultation and continuing through the whole process of pre- and post-operative surgical intervention for minimally invasive mitral valve repair, I was extremely satisfied with Dr. Craig Baker's exceptional professional knowledge and surgical expertise.

Throughout my hospital stay, he and his whole team provided me with extremely thorough care, taking the time to carefully explain and pay close attention to every daily plan they discussed with me. With sincere gratitude, I heartily endorse Dr. Craig Baker."

-- Maura Rey, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 09/25/2023

"I had a very thorough, professional experience. I left his office with a positive attitude and understanding on my procedure and the recovery. Dr Baker introduced himself with a great smile and great personality.

He checked up on me after surgery to make sure everything was going well and always explained what was next. Best doctor that I've met.

I'm blessed to have had him as my surgeon. Thank you Dr. Baker for saving my life. True hero!"

-- Jose Pimentel, Aortic Valve, Pulmonary Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Ross Procedure, 08/09/2023

"Dr. Craig Baker saved my life.

While other medical facilities told me to come back in three months, I reached out to KECK USC. Dr. Baker reviewed my case and I was booked into the hospital for Acute blood loss, Anemia, Acute Systolic heart failure, Ataxia, Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation, etc.

I was frightened, but never felt so safe in the hands of this man, the surgeon, Dr. Craig Baker. From the moment I stepped into the hospital, up to the surgery prep, during and after I was treated with love and compassion. Every single person I came in contact with, from doctors to those picking up the trash and mopping the floors, I was cared for with respect, professionalism and most of all love.

Thank you Dr. Baker and all of you for saving my life and making me feel loved and giving me the chance at a new life ahead of me. Thank all of you from the bottom and top of my heart!"

-- Candice Bond, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/28/2023

"I could not have asked for a better surgeon than Dr. Baker."

-- Annette Kasabian, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/09/2022

"Dr. Craig Baker and his team are amazing. I went there scared after seeing three surgeons. Dr. Baker explained everything to me and calmed me down. I trusted him immediately. We then scheduled the surgery. Dr. Baker is professional and friendly. I highly recommend him. "

-- Mohamed Emara, Aortic Valve, 07/14/2022

"Dr. Baker answered all my pre-op questions in a clear and concise manner. He is very professional and put me at ease prior to the surgery. He visited me frequently during my recovery in the hospital and offered clear advice for my rehab. I can recommend him highly as a heart surgeon.

Additionally, the nursing staff at Keck USC was extremely professional, caring, and attentive. "

-- Jeff Quintana, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/13/2020

"Thank you Dr. Craig Baker for your excellent work during Heart Valve Surgery. Dr. Baker was comforting and has a calm demeanor which ensured my surgery was a success.

I like that he took his time to answer all my questions. I have experienced minimal pain during the first two weeks post surgery. Before surgery, I had no energy to do much. After surgery, I feel normal again. I would highly recommend Dr. Craig Baker for your valve replacement or valve repair surgeon."

-- Sandra Rodriguez, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/10/2020

"Dr. Craig Baker, along with his physician's assistant, Bob Sachs, and the USC staff did an outstanding job on my aortic aneurysms surgery. My initial surgery, done in Las Vegas for an ascending aortic aneurysm, rejected the stent. I was told by my physician that he placed the wrong stent.

I had an open wound with a major infection that was not resolved for 14 months. The original surgeon performed 9 surgeries attempting to remove the infection but was not able to.

After almost a year and a half of antibiotics, home health visits and my wife cleaning the same wound twice a day, nothing worked to heal me. I was actually getting worse.

Dr. Eric Woods referred me to Dr. Baker who saved my life. I am forever grateful for him and the staff at USC that was involved in getting me back on track.

I have lived in a nightmare for too long and now I am on the road to recovery... Finally!

Dr. Baker is a true gentleman and very professional."

-- Kenneth Hall, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Root Replacement, 05/05/2020

"One of the best mitral valve surgeons around. I consider myself fortunate to have had Dr. Baker as my surgeon. The surgery went much better than I thought it would. The week stay at the hospital was the most difficult part (lack of sleep, interruptions, etc.) Once I got home I was well into the recovery phase. Now six months later I have no problems. Thank you to Dr. Baker and Dr. Grey for providing me with excellent care."

-- David Hutchcraft, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 10/09/2019

"Dr. Craig Baker repaired my dad's mitral valve. After surgery, Dr. Baker came out to talk to my brother and me. He said that he was able to patch my dad's valve so that he didn't need to replace the valve. By patching the valve, there would be less chance of infection.

Dr. Baker and his entire team were great. He is the only heart doctor that I would trust. Dr. Baker and his team saved my dad and there's no one like Dr. Baker and the USC team. Thank you for going above-and-beyond for my dad!!!"

-- Daniel Ayala, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 09/06/2019

"From my first office visit, right through my release from hospital, after surgery, Dr Baker was always patient, listened, and had answers to all my questions. The way his office is run, told me a lot about the Dr., and gave me great confidence. It is a true team! Every call I made to the office, for any question, was handled. It felt like everyone in the office knew my name, and my case. I am one month post-op, and doing very well. I am more than happy, that I was sent to Dr. Baker! A good man, with great skills. Thank-You Dr. Baker!"

-- Robert Adler, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/08/2019

"I could not have been in better hands. Dr. Baker is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon and along with his team of doctors gave me the best of care. They always answered my questions, and made me feel at ease and addressed my concerns as I started the healing process. I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Baker and the Keck USC Medical Center.

The nursing staff is second to none and helped me through the recovery process and helped me gain my independence so I was confident going forward upon my discharge. "

-- Bonnie Diener, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 08/01/2019

"Dr. Craig Baker and his team are true professionals. Prior to the surgery, all the details and the risks were explained in a manner I could understand. By understanding the procedure I never once felt worried about the outcome. I had my heart valve repaired quickly and relatively painlessly, stayed only four days in the hospital. If you are in the Los Angeles Area, I highly recommend Dr. Craig Baker!"

-- Daniel Chang, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 07/17/2019

"Great bedside manner as well as being a skilled surgeon."

-- Elaine Pratt, Mitral Valve, 04/18/2019

"Dr. Craig Baker is one of the best surgeons I ever met. Did an exceptional job. Strongly recommended. "

-- Lyudmila Jeragyan, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, 04/17/2019

"I was scared and hesitant for my heart surgery for over two years, which cause me to delay my surgery. When I met Dr. Craig J Baker, MD, he made me feel more comfortable about going through with the surgery."

-- Tuyetkhanh Dinh, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 03/25/2019

"Dr. Baker is among the best surgeons in the world, but to me his number one in the world. He has treated me like family very caring, kind, takes time to explain everything until you understand, he also provides follow up as long as you need, you can always contact him and he always responds. Ashley and Early that work with Dr. Baker in clinic are the most lovable girls I have ever met. There is so much I can say about Dr. Baker I'm so grateful and I thank god he was my surgeon. Keck Hospital has provided me with exceptional support and service the nurses are the best! Always very caring and attentive to me thank you all!"

-- Jessica Canto, Aortic Valve, Pulmonary Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Ross Procedure, 01/23/2019

"As a cardiologist at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, with an original aortic valve replacement 37 years ago, and a known aortic root aneurysm, I was caught off guard when I developed breathing problems far from home in Los Angeles.

Evaluation showed my aneurysm had expanded greatly in a short period to 9 cm. Consultation with my premier cardiac surgeons at Hopkins and the Massachusetts General Hospital, all pointed to Dr. Baker at USC Keck, the Chief of Cardiac Surgery, and Dr Vaughn Starnes, the Chief of Surgery at USC.

Reputed to be among the best aortic and cardiac surgeons in the US, my wife (a Professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins) got in touch with Dr Baker immediately at night from the imaging facility at another hospital. Literally within 5 minutes, Dr Baker responded and arranged transfer. Drs Baker, Dr Starnes and team performed an aortic root graft and replacement of an old mechanical valve with a tissue valve.

The procedure was complex, with a 4-day ICU stay. Dr. Baker monitored everything conscientiously, stayed in touch with my East coast docs, was always kind and pleasant. I recovered beautifully. The care was stellar, and the facility was pristine. Nursing care was superior. Dr. Baker's skills, communication, and responsiveness is top of the line.

While there, several emergency aortic dissections were admitted. It is pretty clear that this is a center of excellence with Dr. Baker at the helm. "

-- Lewis Becker, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 01/16/2019

"I had an outstanding experience with Dr. Baker and his staff. He completed a surgical repair of my ASD three weeks ago. Bedside manner, explanation of technical concepts and follow-up were all excellent. He was thorough, professional and worked in close contact with my cardiologist. I highly recommend Dr. Baker and the medical team at Keck USC. "

-- Dennis Slavin, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 01/15/2019

"Dr. Baker is an extraordinary surgeon. Now that I'm more than three weeks past surgery, I realize how miraculous it is that I'm still alive. Dr. Baker answered all my questions--along with his assistant Bob Sachs who is equally knowledgeable--and he expressed genuine concern about my progress post-surgery. Dr. Baker is the best heart surgeon."

-- Layne Staral, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 10/11/2018

"Dr. Baker was very attentive and made sure I didn't have any questions before my surgery. He came and saw me both before and after my surgery. Very pleasant bedside manner. My surgery was a success and was told that my valve should last me the rest of my life."

-- Ida Kawasaki, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 07/16/2018

"Dr. Baker went above and beyond to ensure good care, provide through information to the family on his procedures and progress. With this surgery being so complicated we are thankful and grateful for his knowledge and expertise. We would highly recommend him to anyone that needed a heart specialist."

-- Larry Glover, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/12/2018

"Dr. Craig Baker was the best surgeon I could have had. He had me feeling very positive since the first day. I was very sick but he never gave up on me. I made him work extra hard since my surgery was more complicated than what him and his team expected. I am beyond blessed to have fell in this surgeon’s hands. His dedication, the person he is, and his work defines the great man he is. This was a life changing experience for me. Having surgery, having to return back to the OR in less than 24 hours, being on Ecmo for some days , I would not trust anyone else with my life the way I trust Dr. Baker. USC Keck of Medicine gave me a care beyond what I expected! I’m so happy I fell in the right hands of a great team and a great hospital."

-- Brenda Herrera, Aortic Valve, Ross Procedure, 05/09/2018

"1) I went into the Surgery room around 7am that Monday morning. I was totally knocked out. The whole operation took 4-5 hours while I was sleeping.

2) By about 1pm I was in my dream that my two winnie dogs in my bed were at my feet keep rubbing both of my feet. Then I heard the voices of my wife and my sons & knew I just went through the operation of Mitral Valve repair.

3) I felt some discomfort on my chest, knowing that it was open. I slept well that day, asking for pain pills in the evening, when I felt thirsty and was given small ice pieces to chew on. I was not allowed to drink fluid yet.

4) I stayed in ICU till noon the next day when I was moved into a private room. Dr Baker came see me and I thank him. That night I sit up (with help) & was able to email ALL my friends that I did the operation & recovering.

5) For the next 4 days my heart was monitored with the help of pacemaker, it was jumping back to normal. On Saturday I was allowed to go home.

6) For the next 3 weeks I walked a mile very day. I eat well and gained a few pounds. I feel better every day than the previous day. I have no pain.

7) The stitches were removed on the 4th week and I was told I can drive again after 4 weeks. I am back to normal and Life is good.

Thanks Dr Baker!"

-- Vincent Lee, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 05/07/2018

"My living angel here on earth. Dr. Craig Baker Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the Keck Hospital of USC. I knew immediately after our first meeting I was in good hands when he smiled and told me yes I can fix your problem Greg. My wife and I could both tell he honestly took a sincere interest in me as an individual.

After surgery Dr. Baker came to see me often and also has an incredible staff of doctors and nurses working with him. His bedside manner is also top notch. I just can't say enough good about Dr. Baker and the staff at the Keck Hospital. He saved my life and I will forever be in debt with a debt I can never repay. I thank God every time I take a deep breath that he put men like Dr. Baker here on earth that have a passion for saving lives. You see this heart in my chest doesn't just beat for me. It also beats for my 16 year old son and my wonderful wife who took care of me.

Dr. Baker is my living angel here on earth. I just know he has wings underneath that white jacket of his."

-- Gregory Fontes, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 04/19/2018

"To say that Dr. Baker is just an excellent surgeon is a huge understatement. When I first met Dr. Baker before my procedure he impressed me with his cordial and relaxed demeanor. Our question and answer session was unrushed and he attempted to answer all of my questions in terms that I could understand. Going in to the operation I already felt confident that I had a surgeon that was completely competent and that the outcome would be positive.

And that is where I make my second huge understatement. Dr. Baker managed to completely repair my mitral valve despite the fact that there was more damage than he expected. I went from having a valve that was losing approximately 30% and greater blood flow to not even having a slight heart murmur. My heart is essentially brand new and I most likely will never need another operation. I now have a full life expectancy and already am feeling like myself only three weeks after the procedure (open heart surgery).

Dr. Baker's commitment to cardiac surgery and the wellness of his patients is already legendary. Now I know it first hand. I am forever indebted to him for essentially saving my life and allowing me to experience my daughters becoming adults. I would be remiss if I didn't credit Dr. Fernando Roth (my cardiologist) for his sage advice in recommending Dr. Baker and for providing the most incredible care. Dr. Roth is another brilliant man who pursues his career with the kind of passion that we would hope other physicians would aspire to."

-- Larry Koonse, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 08/13/2015

"Extraordinary. Dr. Baker and his team are cordial, professional, and remarkably skilled. The Keck Hospital could teach Disneyland about customer service.

For open heart surgery, it was a great experience. My valve repair went smoothly, and I was able to start back at work about 10 days later. Yesterday, two weeks after the surgery, I walked 6.5 miles. I am extremely pleased with Dr. Baker, his team, the hospital, and certainly with the results."

-- Michael Phillips, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 07/28/2014

"Dr. Baker is knowledgeable, super experienced, confident, comforting, discussed procedure and answered numerous questions including difference between biological and mechanical valves, patient expectations, previous and post arrhythmia and Metoprolol. Nine years after surgery, I'm still doing great."

-- Bret King, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 01/06/2014

"I cannot thank Dr. Baker enough. The moment I met Dr. Baker I knew I was in great hands of a caring and compassionate surgeon. Dr. Baker and his staff made me and my husband feel like we were part of a family. Dr. Baker was never in a hurry when we met with him and was very patient and answered all our questions and concerns. I highly recommend Dr. Baker is the best surgeon in the US and we will always contact him if we are in need of a surgeon."

-- Leslie Holtzclaw, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, 10/24/2013

"I wanted a "world-class" surgeon and was referred by my cardiologist to Dr. Craig Baker, Chief of Cardiac Surgery at the Keck Hospital of USC. Dr. Craig was the ultimate professional - a knowledgable, award-winning expert with a extraordinary bedside manner who demonstrated he really cared for his patients. Thank you, Dr. Baker and your team for saving my life and giving me many more years of happiness with my family and friends. I am forever grateful."

-- Joyce Proano, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 09/24/2013

"This wonderful doctor saved my life and kept working on me even after I passed away during surgery. He didn't quit on me. Dr. Craig baker is amazing and has the endurance for the difficult surgeries like mine which took in excess of 5 hours. Make sure you secure Dr. Baker for your procedure. I'm forever grateful!!!"

-- Christopher Reyes, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/29/2012

"I highly recommend this Dr. Baker for anyone needing valve surgery. He was able to perform a repair when others said it was not possible. He explained everything thoroughly to us and kept my family updated during different steps of the surgery. Doctor Baker has a great bedside manner and I am extremely happy with the results."

-- Deborah Ko, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 08/16/2012

"I had the valve-sparing David procedure to fix an aortic aneurysm located next to the heart. Dr. Craig Baker replaced part of my aorta with a graft, reconstructed the aortic root, and was able to save my aortic valve. I recovered very quickly and I am completely back to normal (including hiking in the San Gabriel Mountains). I had a very good experience with Dr. Baker and, more generally, with the personnel at the USC Keck Hospital. Dr. Baker is quite personable, and he explained very well the issues and risks of the procedure. He apparently did a pretty good job too. "

-- Francis Bonahon, Aortic Valve, Root Replacement, David Procedure, 05/30/2012

"Dr. Craig Baker came highly recommended to us by family and friends who work in the medical community(one friend is married to a heart transplant surgeon)We asked for "the best" in this field and that is who we got with Dr. Baker. He is highly skilled, the broad scope of his knowledge is amazing and excellence could be his "motto". We knew we were in extremely qualified hands after the first visit.The surgery was a complete success and we are very grateful to have had such a skilled, reputable and dedicated Dr. Thank you Dr. Baker..You are the best!!!"

-- Leo Gaynor, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/29/2012

"My name is Christopher Sean Reyes and I was a patient of Dr. Craig Baker, M.D. who performed Mitral valve replacement and bypass surgery on me. The bottom line, Dr. Baker, M.D. saved my life. My surgery was very complicated due to the severe damage to my heart because of the failed valve. My heart enlarged to the point it barely fit in my chest. I had passed away during this procedure as I was told. My surgery went on for close to 9 hours. Right after the surgery, he came out to speak with my wife and my family and they explained that Dr. Baker looked like he just ran a marathon because he was soaked with sweat everywhere. At that point my survival was not certain, they kept me under for an additional day before slowly waking me up. Dr. Baker appears to be a very well physically fit doctor. So I often wonder, what if I had a surgeon that didn't quite have the endurance that Dr. Baker had to work on my for over 8 hours? Would I have survived? With certainty, I know I wouldn't have survived. I'm so blessed and fortunate to have had a surgeon like Dr. Craig Baker as my doctor who didn't give up on me and kept working on me to do his best for me to survive. Interestingly enough, there was another surgeon that was originally scheduled to work on me, but at the last minute, Dr. Baker was assigned to do my procedure. I believe this happened for a reason. In addition, he is also a very friendly person who explains things well to make sure you understand. If he is available, you would be doing yourself a huge favor trying to get him to perform your surgery. THANK YOU AGAIN DR. BAKER !!!!!!!"

-- Christopher Reyes, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/29/2011

"I can't thank Dr. Craig Baker enough for saving my life! Dr. Baker and his staff were very good to me. Every one in his staff, including the great nurses and ICU people were top notch. Dr. Baker's attitude and professionalism helped me make life decisions that I had a hard time making. He laid all of my options out in a clear manner that helped me make logical conclusions. I felt that he was very caring about my health and well being. Thanks to Dr. Baker I am moving forward in my life today."

-- Dave Cutchall, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, 02/29/2008