Edgewood, KY — October 2025 — St. Elizabeth Healthcare is proud to announce that its Cardiac Surgery Program has earned the prestigious 3-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) for isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and isolated mitral valve replacement and repair (MVRR) surgeries.

This dual recognition places St. Elizabeth in the top tier of cardiothoracic surgery programs in the United States and Canada. The STS 3-star rating reflects superior performance in risk-adjusted outcomes, surgical quality and patient safety over a three-year period. Fewer than 10% of participating programs to achieve this distinction in both categories.

“These ratings validate the precision, collaboration and dedication that define our surgical program,” said Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang. “Our patients trust us with their lives, and we take that responsibility seriously – with every procedure, every day.”

The STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database is one of the most comprehensive clinical registries in healthcare, encompassing more than 95% of adult cardiac surgeries performed in the U.S. The star rating system is based on rigorous statistical analysis and risk-adjusted outcomes, meaning it accounts for how sick patients are before surgery. This levels the playing field and highlights true surgical excellence.

About the STS 3-Star Rating and Public Reporting

  • The STS star rating is calculated using a combination of quality measures for specific procedures performed by an STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database participant. Results are based on a participant’s unique group of patients (case mix) and the number of surgical procedures in each category.
  • Star ratings are participant-specific and are not intended for direct comparison to other participants, especially if they treat markedly different kinds of patients.
  • Only groups and/or hospitals that meet established data completeness thresholds during the reporting period receive scores and star ratings and are publicly reported.
  • Elizabeth Healthcare voluntarily participates in STS public reporting, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and quality improvement. Ratings are available at STS Public Reporting.

For more information about cardiac surgery at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, visit stelizabeth.com/heartsurgery.

About St. Elizabeth Healthcare 

St. Elizabeth Healthcare operates six facilities and more than 172 primary care and specialty office locations throughout the Northern Kentucky, Southeastern Indiana and Greater Cincinnati region. Sponsored by the Diocese of Covington, St. Elizabeth is a mission-based organization committed to improving the health of the communities it serves, providing more than $100 million in uncompensated care and benefit to the community each year. For more information, visit www.stelizabeth.com.

About STS
Founded in 1964, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons is a not-for-profit organization representing more than 7,800 cardiothoracic surgeons, researchers, and allied healthcare professionals worldwide who are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for surgeries of the heart, lung, and esophagus, as well as other surgical procedures within the chest. The Society’s mission is to enhance the ability of cardiothoracic surgeons to provide the highest quality patient care through education, research, and advocacy.