Best Heart Surgery Hospitals in New Jersey (2025 Guide)

🏥 Looking for the best hospital in New Jersey for heart surgery?

Morristown Medical Center, Hackensack University Medical Center, and RWJ University Hospital are top choices with expert surgeons, high success rates, and advanced care facilities.

Heart surgery is one of the most serious medical procedures a person can face. Whether it’s a bypass, valve repair, or a complex transplant, choosing the right hospital can make all the difference in how fast you recover—and how well the surgery goes. But with so many hospitals in New Jersey offering cardiac services, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of who really stands out.

You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a hospital truly great for heart surgery. We’ll show you how to compare hospitals, what credentials to look for, and highlight the top-rated heart hospitals in New Jersey—complete with real data and expert insights. Let’s walk through each step with clear advice and examples to help you choose with confidence.

Understanding Heart Surgery

Common Types of Heart Surgery

Heart surgery includes several procedures. Each one treats a different heart problem. Here are some of the most common:

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is done when arteries are blocked. The surgeon uses a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body to create a new path for blood to flow. This is often called bypass surgery.

Heart valve repair or replacement is done when a valve does not open or close properly. Doctors either fix the valve or replace it with a new one. This helps improve blood flow and reduce symptoms like shortness of breath or fatigue.

Arrhythmia surgery, such as the maze procedure, helps control abnormal heartbeats. It creates scar tissue in the heart to block wrong signals.

Heart transplants are rare but life-saving. They replace a damaged heart with a healthy donor heart. These surgeries are done in hospitals with special transplant units.

Minimally invasive and robotic surgeries are newer options. These use small cuts and special tools. They often mean less pain, less scarring, and faster healing.

For more on heart surgery types, check out the American Heart Association’s guide.

Why Specialized Cardiac Care Matters

Not all hospitals are equal when it comes to heart care. Specialized cardiac centers have the tools, staff, and experience needed to handle complex surgeries. They also offer better support before and after surgery.

These hospitals have dedicated cardiac ICUs, which provide 24/7 care by trained staff. They use advanced imaging tools to guide the surgery and make it safer. They also have cardiac rehab teams that help patients recover faster.

Studies show that hospitals doing more heart surgeries often have better outcomes. According to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, hospitals with high procedure volumes and proper ratings have lower death and complication rates.

Choosing a hospital that focuses on heart care gives you the best chance for a smooth, safe recovery.

Why Hospital Quality Matters in Heart Surgery

A hospital’s quality can affect everything—from the success of your surgery to how soon you go home. Here’s why it’s so important.

Success rates and survival odds are closely tied to hospital quality. High-quality centers often have higher success rates, fewer infections, and shorter hospital stays.

Accreditations show that a hospital meets national standards. Look for approvals from organizations like The Joint Commission or top scores in U.S. News & World Report. These groups check how safe, clean, and well-run hospitals are.

Experienced surgeons matter, too. Surgeons who have done many heart surgeries are more likely to spot problems early and act fast.

Good hospitals also invest in cutting-edge technology. This includes robotic tools, 3D imaging, and hybrid operating rooms. These tools can help doctors work with more precision and less risk.

When you choose a high-quality heart hospital, you’re choosing better care, better results, and a better recovery.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Heart Hospital in NJ

When looking for the best hospital in New Jersey for heart surgery, you need to look beyond just location or ads. There are key factors that can help you make a smart and safe choice.

Board-certified cardiothoracic surgeons are a must. These doctors have gone through extra training and exams. They follow the latest practices and are better prepared for complex cases. You can verify credentials through the American Board of Thoracic Surgery.

The number of surgeries a hospital performs each year also matters. Hospitals that do many heart surgeries often have more skilled teams. They have systems in place to handle any emergency that may come up.

Accreditations are another sign of trust. A top hospital should be approved by groups like The Joint Commission or have a three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. These awards show that the hospital meets strict safety and quality standards.

Always check the hospital’s national rankings. For example, the U.S. News & World Report rankings give scores based on survival rates, patient experience, and doctor expertise.

Patient reviews and testimonials also offer real insight. They reveal what the care feels like, how clean the facility is, and how helpful the staff are. Websites like Healthgrades share reviews from patients across the state.

Look for hospitals that offer full support, from surgery to recovery. That means they have cardiac rehab programs, nutrition help, and follow-up care. Hospitals that offer this kind of care help you heal faster and stay healthier long-term.

Finally, check if the hospital works with your health insurance plan. Some top hospitals may not be in your network. You can call the hospital or check with your provider to confirm.

Top 5 Best Hospitals in New Jersey for Heart Surgery

Quick Comparison Table

This table compares five of the most trusted hospitals in New Jersey for heart surgery. It includes their specialties, outcomes, and key features.

Hospital Name	Location	Specialty Procedures	Success Rate (%)	Notable Features
Morristown Medical Center	Morristown	Bypass, valve, transplant	98%	STS 3-star rating, AHA-certified
Hackensack University Medical Center	Hackensack	Valve repair, pediatric	97%	Robotic surgery, high volume
RWJ University Hospital	New Brunswick	CABG, valve surgery	96%	Cardiovascular institute, rapid recovery
St. Barnabas Medical Center	Livingston	Heart transplant, CABG	95%	Heart failure program, transplant unit
Jersey Shore University Medical Center	Neptune	Valve & bypass surgery	94%	Hybrid OR, advanced cardiac rehab

Each of these hospitals has proven success with heart surgery. They all offer expert care, modern tools, and full support from start to finish. For more on choosing the right heart hospital, visit the American College of Cardiology’s hospital directory.

Detailed Reviews of Each Hospital

Morristown Medical Center

This hospital is often rated as the #1 heart hospital in New Jersey. It handles thousands of heart surgeries each year and is known for high survival rates. It also has one of the top heart transplant programs in the region.

Morristown is backed by a three-star rating from the STS and is certified by the American Heart Association. It offers advanced options like minimally invasive surgery and robotic-assisted bypass.

Hackensack University Medical Center

Hackensack stands out for its wide range of heart services, including pediatric heart surgery, which is rare in New Jersey. It uses cutting-edge tools and has a top-rated robotic heart surgery program.

The hospital’s heart center is part of Hackensack Meridian Health, one of the largest and most trusted networks in the state. Its staff includes high-volume surgeons, which means more experience and better results.

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital

RWJ is home to the RWJ Cardiovascular Institute, known for its focus on both surgery and post-op recovery. It handles a high number of CABG and valve procedures each year.

This hospital is also part of the RWJBarnabas Health system, offering strong follow-up care and cardiac rehab. It has a modern heart unit and access to the latest surgical tools.

St. Barnabas Medical Center

St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston is a trusted name for advanced heart care. It offers both coronary bypass and heart transplant surgeries. The hospital is well-known for its strong heart failure program, which supports patients before and after surgery.

This center has a full team of cardiologists, surgeons, and transplant specialists. Their close teamwork helps patients get full care from diagnosis to recovery. Patients needing complex procedures, like transplants, benefit from this approach.

The hospital is part of the RWJBarnabas Health network, giving it access to the latest treatments and tools. Their heart and vascular services meet high national standards. With strong post-op support and rehab services, patients recover faster and more safely.

Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune is a top choice for minimally invasive and hybrid heart surgeries. Its hybrid operating rooms combine imaging tools and surgical equipment in one space. This allows doctors to perform complex work with more precision.

The center is known for excellent care in valve repair and coronary bypass surgery. It also offers strong cardiac rehab programs, helping patients regain strength after surgery. Their step-by-step recovery plans help reduce the chance of return hospital visits.

Jersey Shore is part of Hackensack Meridian Health, giving patients access to top heart experts and new technology. Their team includes heart surgeons, nurses, and physical therapists who work together for the best results.

Patients who want modern tools and gentle techniques often choose Jersey Shore for its less-invasive methods and fast healing times.

Patient Stories & Testimonials (Optional)

Real experiences can give peace of mind when choosing a heart hospital. Many patients in New Jersey have shared their stories about facing surgery and recovering with the help of top hospitals.

One man from Morristown had a triple bypass at Morristown Medical Center. He said the care team explained each step, answered all his questions, and helped him recover faster than expected. He called the care “life-saving.”

A parent in Hackensack shared how her child had pediatric heart surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center. She praised the staff for their kindness and attention to detail. Her child was up and walking within days, thanks to careful planning and expert care.

Many patients at RWJ University Hospital have talked about their positive experiences in rehab. One woman said the cardiac rehab program gave her the strength to return to work just weeks after valve surgery.

These stories show how the right hospital can make a tough time easier. The mix of skill, technology, and compassion can help you or your loved one get back to life with confidence.

FAQs About Heart Surgery in New Jersey

How do I know if a hospital is good for heart surgery?

Look for certifications, surgeon experience, patient reviews, and success rates. A hospital should be accredited by trusted groups like The Joint Commission. Also, check if the hospital is ranked by U.S. News & World Report. A high number of successful surgeries is another good sign.

Does insurance cover heart surgery in NJ?

Most health insurance plans cover heart surgery, but you should check with both your insurance provider and the hospital. Be sure to ask about in-network coverage, co-pays, and any out-of-pocket costs. Hospitals often have staff who can help you understand your benefits.

What is the recovery time for heart surgery?

Recovery time varies by procedure. For a coronary bypass, it may take 6 to 12 weeks. Less invasive surgeries often have quicker recovery. Most hospitals offer cardiac rehab, which helps you gain strength and avoid complications. The recovery team will guide you every step of the way.

Can I get a second opinion before surgery?

Yes, and it’s a good idea. Top hospitals in New Jersey like Morristown Medical Center and Hackensack University Medical Center offer second opinion services. It helps you feel more confident in your decision. Bring your medical records, test results, and list of questions when you go.

Are New Jersey heart hospitals nationally recognized?

Yes. Several hospitals in New Jersey are ranked among the best in the U.S. for heart surgery, including those mentioned in this article. They follow national guidelines, use advanced tools, and report excellent outcomes.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Heart Surgery in NJ

Choosing the best hospital for heart surgery is a big step—but it doesn’t have to be hard. Focus on hospitals with high ratings, skilled surgeons, and full cardiac care programs. Places like Morristown Medical Center, Hackensack University Medical Center, and RWJ University Hospital lead the way in New Jersey with expert care and high success rates.

Don’t forget to check for accreditation, patient feedback, and insurance compatibility. And if you’re unsure, getting a second opinion can give you peace of mind.

Your heart deserves the best care. With the right hospital, you’ll have the tools, support, and guidance you need to heal and thrive.