Vithas Xanit International Hospital celebrates 20 years of advanced cardiovascular surgery and its first open-heart procedure

Vithas Xanit International Hospital marks two decades since its opening and the performance of its first open-heart surgery, a milestone that laid the foundation for a healthcare project that has become a regional reference in cardiac and vascular surgery in southern Spain.

Over the past 20 years, thousands of patients from Málaga, Granada, Almería, the Costa del Sol, the Campo de Gibraltar, Ceuta and Melilla have gained access to complex cardiovascular treatments without the need to travel to major healthcare centres in larger cities.

This anniversary highlights the work of a highly specialised team and the key role of professionals such as Dr. Pedro Aranda, cardiovascular surgeon and Head of Aortic and Vascular Cardiac Surgery at Vithas Xanit International Hospital. His contribution has been essential in the development and consolidation of this unit. In addition to his hospital activity, Dr. Aranda also provides specialised care through his own cardiovascular centre, reinforcing his position as a leading expert in cardiovascular surgery and patient-focused care.

A commemorative event open to professionals and the public

To celebrate this 20th anniversary, Vithas Xanit International Hospital has organised a commemorative event that will take place on April 23rd, open to both healthcare professionals and the general public. The event, free of charge, will begin at 5:00 PM and will review the evolution of cardiovascular surgery over the past two decades, present the latest medical advances and share clinical experiences.

You can view and register for the event through the full programme here.

Pedro Aranda and leading national and international experts

The programme will bring together renowned national and international specialists. Among them, Dr. Pedro Aranda, organiser of the event, will deliver the lecture “Lessons from two decades of private cardiac surgery”, addressing the evolution of the specialty, current challenges and key milestones achieved over the years.

He will be joined by Dr. Juanjo Gómez Doblas, Head of Cardiology at the hospital, who will present the latest advances in cardiology. In addition, Dr. Juan Luis Valverde, Head of Anaesthesia, will discuss anaesthetic safety in cardiac surgery, while Dr. José Joaquín Muñoz, interventional radiologist at Vithas Xanit, will present the most advanced techniques for the treatment of complex aneurysms.

The event will also feature Dr. Frank Van Praet, a European reference in robotic and keyhole cardiac surgery, and Dr. Robin Heijmen, an expert in valve repair and thoracoabdominal aneurysms. The session will conclude with a tribute to Dr. Manuel Concha.

20 years of innovation, technology and patient-centred care

According to Dr. Pedro Aranda, these two decades represent continuous progress in technology, clinical excellence and the consolidation of a highly specialised multidisciplinary team. Since 2005, thousands of patients across southern Spain have benefited from complex procedures delivered close to home, with consistent results and high standards of safety.

Cardiovascular surgery is one of the most demanding fields in medicine, requiring precise coordination between surgeons, anaesthesiologists, specialised nursing staff, perfusionists and intensive care units. This level of integration has been one of the key factors in maintaining strong clinical outcomes over time.

This approach is complemented by a patient-centred philosophy, combining advanced technology with personalised and compassionate care. The close-knit structure of the team allows for continuous support for both patients and their families, ensuring clear communication throughout the entire surgical process.

A regional reference in cardiac and vascular surgery

Over the years, Vithas Xanit International Hospital has established itself as a leading centre for cardiac and vascular surgery in southern Spain, offering a wide range of advanced procedures including complex aortic surgery, open and endovascular vascular surgery, valve repair, transcatheter procedures and minimally invasive techniques.

The experience of Dr. Pedro Aranda and his team continues to position the hospital at the forefront of advanced cardiovascular care, combining medical excellence, innovation and a strong commitment to patient wellbeing.

About Vithas Cardiovascular Institute

The Vithas Cardiovascular Institute stands at the forefront of heart care, integrating a comprehensive approach with cutting-edge technology. Its commitment spans prevention, diagnosis and treatment, providing a multidisciplinary and personalised service designed to meet every patient’s needs.

To attend the event, prior registration is required via email: comunicacion.andalucia@vithas.es.

About Vithas

Vithas Group operates 22 hospitals and 40 medical centres across 14 provinces in Spain. With more than 14,500 professionals, it is one of the leading healthcare providers in the country. The group also includes the Vithas Foundation, Vithas Diagnostic Network and the PlazaSalud+ purchasing platform.

Backed by the Goodgrower group, Vithas bases its corporate strategy on accredited healthcare quality, patient experience, research, innovation and social and environmental responsibility.