Richard N. Gates, MD

With over 20 years of experience, Dr Gates serves as director of cardiothoracic surgery at the CHOC Heart Institute. Working in partnership with CHOC leadership, surgeons and anesthesiologists, Dr. Gates has helped create and maintain a world-class pediatric peri-operative program. He works in collaboration with UC Irvine, with whom CHOC is affiliated, to promote research and education in the program. He’s dedicated to supporting CHOC’s position as a best place to practice for physicians and staff, and a best place to receive care for patients and their families. Dedicated to clinical excellence, Dr. Gates is board certified in thoracic and cardiac surgery and congenital cardiac surgery. Prior to joining CHOC, Dr. Gates attended medical school at Yale University School of Medicine. He served his residency training in general surgery at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in New York and his residency training in cardiothoracic surgery at UCLA Medical Center. He completed his fellowship in congenital heart surgery/transplant at UCLA Medical Center. Dr. Gates speaks fluent Spanish. Dr. Gates is the Co-Medical Director of the Heart Institute.