Dr. Dean Spencer brings advanced cardiothoracic expertise to Providence St. Peter Hospital
Providence St. Peter Hospital is pleased to welcome Dr. Dean Spencer, a fellowship-trained cardiothoracic surgeon whose practice focuses on the surgical treatment of coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease and aorta conditions.
A Pacific Northwest native, Dr. Spencer returns to the region after completing more than a decade of medical education and specialty training in Southern California. Drawn back by family and a desire to serve the community where he grew up, he joins the cardiothoracic surgery program with a commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence based cardiac care close to home.
Specialized expertise in adult cardiac surgery
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) comprises the majority of Dr. Spencer's practice, with bypass surgery accounting for approximately 75% of his operative volume. He also performs valve aortic pathology. His approach combines technical precision with a strong focus on multidisciplinary collaboration.
"Heart surgery is the ultimate team sport," says Dr. Spencer. "Success depends on the coordination of surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, nurses, advanced practice providers and rehabilitation teams all working together for the patient."
A commitment to evidence-based care
Dr. Spencer has a particular interest in quality improvement and the use of national outcomes data to improve patient safety. He highlights the impact of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) National Database in advancing best practices and reducing operative risk across cardiac surgery programs nationwide.
"Cardiac surgery has become significantly safer over the last decade," he says. "The ability to track outcomes and continually refine care pathways has dramatically improved patient outcomes."
This commitment extends through every phase of care, from preoperative evaluation and risk stratification to postoperative recovery and coordinated follow-up.
One area that particulary motivates Dr. Spencer is seeing patients recover quickly following major cardiac surgery. Modern enhanced recovery protocols allow many patients to be extubated within hours of surgery, mobilized early and discharged home sooner than was possible in previous generations of cardiac care.
Why refer to Dr. Spencer?
Referring providers can expect a collaborative partner who prioritizes communication, timely evaluation and patient education.
Dr. Spencer takes a consultative approach, ensuring patients fully understand their diagnosis, treatment options and expected recovery while keeping referring physicians informed throughout the process.
Primary referral indications include:
- Multivessel coronary artery disease requiring surgical revascularization
- Severe or symptomatic valvular heart disease
- Ascending aortic aneurysms and other aortic pathology
- Patients requiring evaluation for complex cardiac surgical intervention
- Individuals seeking a comprehensive surgical assessment after cardiac imaging or catherization findings
Colleagues also appreciate Dr. Spencer's emphasis on taking time with patients, addressing concerns thoroughly and helping individuals make informed decisions about their care.
Serving the South Sound
For Dr. Spencer, returning to the South Sound is both a professional and personal milestone.
"Being able to bring the training and experience I've gained back to this community is incredibly meaningful," he says. "Patients here deserve access to highly specialized cardiac care close to home."
As Providence St. Peter continues to expand cardiovascular services, Dr. Spencer's expertise further strengthens the region's ability to provide advanced cardiac surgical care for patients throughout Southwest Washington.