ATLANTA (January 2017) – Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has named E. Dean McKenzie, MD, as Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery for the Children’s Sibley Heart Center. In his new role, effective Jan. 9, 2017, Dr. McKenzie will oversee the Children’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Program and joins current Chief of the Children’s Sibley Heart Center, William Mahle, MD, as Co-Chief of Children’s Cardiac Services.
Dr. McKenzie previously served as Associate Surgeon at Texas Children’s Hospital and Professor of Surgery in the Division of Congenital Heart Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He has considerable experience and has developed innovative surgical techniques for many congenital heart conditions, including coarctation of the aorta.
“Dr. McKenzie is an expert in pediatric cardiothoracic surgery and we are honored that he has chosen our program,” said Dr. Mahle. “His recruitment is emblematic of Children’s commitment to building the premier pediatric cardiac program in the country.”
Dr. McKenzie received his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in 1991. Following a surgical internship at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, he completed his residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine, specializing in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery in 1998.
"Surgical outcomes for children and adults with congenital heart disease are dependent on many factors," said Dr. McKenzie, who plans to build upon the accomplishments of the Children’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Program since its inception more than 40 years ago. "Our aim is to achieve the best possible surgical outcomes for the youngest and most complex patients by creating better consistency within the system in which they receive care."
In 2016, the Children’s cardiothoracic surgery team performed 1,013 surgical procedures. Ranked one of the country’s top pediatric cardiac programs by U.S. News & World Report, the Children’s Sibley Heart Center is recognized for innovative treatments and leading‐edge research.