While heart disease continues to be the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States, advances in surgical treatments, which include an increasing array of innovative, minimally invasive procedures, are already making a difference in the length and quality of life for thousands of patients each year. With the development of new techniques and operations as well as the refinement of well-established surgical procedures, physicians and surgeons are able to more effectively prevent, eliminate, detect and/or manage heart disease and its related conditions.
Of significant note, several new technologies have evolved that address conditions in older patients that were previously considered inoperable or not amenable to surgical treatment. Incisions on the chest have become significantly smaller or eliminated entirely; enhancements in the treatment of valve disease have made an enormous difference, not only in repairing or replacing valves, but also in the procedure’s impact on the patient; and the same stent procedure use to stop heart attacks are used to relive pain or ulcerations caused by peripheral arterial disease (PAD). While innovation continues, there is also a need to reflect on the impact of these procedures and interventions on the whole person. Optimal patient-centered care requires a complete view of each patient’s experience as well as a focus on educating and informing the public with respect to the latest advancements in care.
I am hosting a seminar to discuss major advancements in cardiovascular surgery. Modern techniques and various approaches to common diseases will be explained. Some of the medical conditions that will be covered include coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, carotid artery disease and stroke, thoracic aortic aneurysm; abdominal aortic aneurysm (open surgery vs stent) and peripheral arterial disease (open surgery vs endovascular management). I will especially be talking about how we do valve replacement through small incisions in the chest, and introducing aortic valve replacement through NO chest incision at all and back to full and unrestricted living in just a few weeks!
I invite you to attend the upcoming From There To Now & Beyond cardiovascular seminar. We will discuss recent advancements in cardiovascular surgery and share what is just on the horizon for heart care. The free seminar is open to anyone interested in learning more about recent cardiovascular advancements and treatment options. Come join me on Thursday, February 19, 2015 in the Portneuf Medical Center’s auditorium. Doors open at 6pm with a presentation at 6:30. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is preferred; to register, call 208-239-1048. To learn more about upcoming events and seminars at Portneuf, like us on Facebook.
If you or someone you love is facing heart surgery or valvular disease and has been told they are:
- High risk
- Not a candidate for open heart surgery
- Want a minimally invasive approach