David Rose, MD, MBBS, PhD

I am a Consultant Cardiac Surgeon with a specialist focus on minimally invasive mitral and aortic valve surgery, coronary artery bypass grafting—particularly total arterial revascularisation—and aortic surgery. My practice is centred on delivering durable, high-quality outcomes while reducing the impact of surgery through less invasive approaches where appropriate.

I trained in cardiac surgery at the University of Rome La Sapienza, graduating with honours and completing both advanced surgical training and a PhD in cardio-thoracic pathophysiology and imaging. During this time, I developed a strong interest in minimally invasive valve surgery and undertook dedicated fellowship training to refine these techniques. I have been a Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Blackpool Victoria Hospital since 2017, where I also serve as Clinical Lead and Head of Department.

My approach is to provide clear, honest, and individualised advice. I believe patients should fully understand their condition, the available treatment options, and the long-term implications of each decision. Wherever appropriate, I support multidisciplinary discussion and second opinions to ensure that every patient receives the most balanced and evidence-based recommendation.

I speak English and Italian fluently.

Outside of surgery, I enjoy sport, skiing, and travelling, and I value time with my family as a father of two.

I support the MyCareQuestions movement because informed patients make better decisions and experience better outcomes. In cardiac surgery, choices are often complex and involve balancing risks, timing, and long-term implications. Encouraging patients to ask the right questions helps them understand not only what is being recommended, but why.

I believe that a consultation should be a two-way conversation, where patients feel confident to explore alternatives, seek clarity, and, when appropriate, request a second opinion or multidisciplinary review. This level of transparency builds trust and leads to more personalised and thoughtful care.

Movements like MyCareQuestions help shift the culture from passive acceptance to active participation, which ultimately improves both the quality of decisions and the patient experience.

A good consultation is clear, structured, and centred on the individual patient. My aim is that you leave with a full understanding of your condition, the reasons for treatment (or observation), and the options available—including their risks, benefits, and long-term implications. I will explain not only what I recommend, but why, and how this fits with your overall health and priorities.

We will discuss timing of intervention, expected recovery, and realistic outcomes. Where appropriate, I encourage multidisciplinary team discussion and second opinions, particularly for complex decisions, so that you can feel confident that all perspectives have been considered.

Equally important, a good consultation allows space for your questions and concerns. The goal is that you feel informed, reassured, and able to make a decision that is right for you, supported by clear advice and transparent communication.