Joseph J. Ricotta, M.D.
Special Expertise: Vascular Surgery
Undergraduate: Yale University
Medical School: Jefferson Medical College
Internship: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine—General Surgery
Residency: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine—General Surgery (Chief Resident), Oxford University School of Medicine, Oxford—General and Vascular Surgery
Fellowship: Mayo Clinic College of Medicine—Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation—Advanced Endovascular Surgery
It’s been another groundbreaking year of firsts for Joseph J. Ricotta, M.D., M.S., DFSVS, FACS and Prime Vascular Institute in Delray Beach. Recognized for the 13th year in a row as a 2025 Castle Connolly National Top Doctor, Dr. Ricotta is among the top 5% of physicians who have consistently earned this distinction for more than a decade.
Earlier this year, he performed his 425th TCAR (transcarotid artery revascularization) — a minimally invasive procedure that reverses blood flow away from the brain while clearing carotid artery blockages to help prevent stroke. “We’re recognized nationally for our extensive experience and excellent outcomes,” he says.
Dr. Ricotta and his team are known for being on the leading edge of vascular innovation. This year, he is the first physician in the world to utilize the Spur® Peripheral Retrievable Stent System on multiple vessels to treat below-the-knee arterial disease. He also participated in the U.S. clinical trial that led to FDA approval of Reflow Medical’s De Novo application for the device.
In another global milestone, Dr. Ricotta and his team became the first in the world to use the Celt ACD PLUS System in a procedure. “The Celt ACD PLUS is another surgical option for patients, ensuring that they have the best chance of a good outcome,” he says.
He also launched Florida’s first AI-powered Viz™ Vascular Suite program at Delray Medical Center, drawing patients from across the U.S. for advanced, minimally invasive care.
As the first in Florida to use the Nectero EAST® System, Dr. Ricotta offers a novel approach to stabilize aortic aneurysms and potentially avoid major surgery. Dr. Ricotta also specializes in preventing leg amputations. Through his diligent practice, Dr. Ricotta’s overall amputation rate has decreased to less than 1% as of 2023. “Amputation and survival rates are correlated,” he says. “Once you have a limb amputated, your mortality rate goes up. By saving a limb, we save a life and preserve the quality of life.”
Dr. Ricotta serves as National Director for Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy for Tenet Healthcare, Chair of Vascular Surgery at Delray Medical Center, Founder and Program Director of the FAU Vascular Surgery Fellowship, and Professor of Surgery at FAU’s Schmidt College of Medicine. He has authored over 300 scientific publications and delivered 500+ lectures worldwide.
Location: 16215 S. Jog Road, Ste. 100, Delray Beach, 561-303-0013, primevascular.com
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