
Robert J. Russo MD PhD, FACC
Adult Congenital Heart Disease, Echocardiography, Cardiothoracic Imaging
Dedicated to Individualized Cardiovascular Clinical Care and World-Class Investigator-Initiated Clinical Research for Improved Patient Outcomes
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9850 Genesee AveSte 350La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone+1 858-886-7595
Fax+1 858-558-8268
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Summary
- Dr. Russo's practice of invasive cardiology encompasses all areas of cardiovascular disease, with special interest and expertise in coronary artery disease, valvular and athletic heart disease, rhythm disorders, heart failure, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), cardiac MRI, and the safety of pacemakers and defibrillators (ICD) in the MRI environment. He also holds Level 3 certification in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (SCMR), is board certified in Cardiovascular Disease, and is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology.
His philosophy of clinical care places the highest priority on patient education and individualized care. Taking the time to ensure that every patient understands their disease process and how lifestyle modifications can alter the course of cardiovascular disease is the primary goal of his practice, while incorporating the latest research and national treatment guidelines.
Dr. Russo enjoys a national and international reputation for expertise in intravascular imaging, cardiac MRI, and MRI for patients with implanted cardiac devices.
He is passionately committed to education and clinical research. He was a Fellow and Board Member of the Hewitt Medical Research Foundation, is an Adjunct Professor in Molecular and Experimental Medicine at The Scripps Research Institute, and a former Skaggs Scholar for Translational Medicine. His academic record includes more than 30 publications, 75 abstracts, and 200 invited academic lectures.
Education & Training
Scripps Clinic/Scripps Green HospitalFellowship, Cardiovascular Disease, 1989 - 1992
Scripps Clinic/Scripps Green HospitalResidency, Internal Medicine, 1986 - 1989
University of California, Irvine, School of MedicineClass of 1986
Certifications & Licensure
CA State Medical License 1988 - 2027
Awards, Honors, & Recognition
- Super Doctor SuperDoctors.com
- Fellow (FACC) American College of Cardiology
Clinical Trials
Publications & Presentations
PubMed
- 4 citationsHRS call-to-action: Improved MRI access for patients with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices.Robert J Russo, Lindsey Gakenheimer-Smith, Ulrika M Birgersdotter-Green, Janet K Han, Andrew D Krahn
Heart Rhythm. 2025-09-01 - 1 citationsRemoving Obstacles to Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Patients With a Pacemaker or a Defibrillator.Robert J. Russo
JAMA Cardiology. 2021-02-17 - 3 citationsImplications of Medicare Coverage for Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Capped or Epicardial Leads.Daniel B. Kramer, Bernard Lo, Robert J. Russo
JAMA Cardiology. 2018-12-01
Journal Articles
- Removing Obstacles to Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Patients with a Pacemaker or a DefibrillatorRobert Russo, MD, JAMA Cardiology
Press Mentions
- Risks of MRI in Patients with a Pacemaker or DefibrillatorJune 22nd, 2017
MRIs Can Be Safe for People with Heart Devices …February 23rd, 2017
Many Pacemaker Recipients Can Safely Get Non-Chest MRIsFebruary 22nd, 2017
Research History
- Director, La Jolla Cardiovascular Research Institute2015 - 2015
- Director Intravacular Imaging and Cardiac MRI Research Programs at Scripps ClinicPhysician-initiated single and multi-center research studies designed to improve patient care and clinical outcomes1994 - 2014
Professional Memberships
- Member
- Member
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