MD Insider provides a unique inside look into medical conditions and treatments to uncover ground-breaking advances that are truly transforming healthcare. The series features insight from acclaimed cardiologist, Dean Kereiakes, MD, breaking down exciting innovations and treatments available right here in the Tristate.
Dr. Kereiakes: At The Christ Hospital Health Network, we're leading the region and the nation in cardiothoracic surgical innovations. I’ve invited three of our expert surgeons to provide insights into what sets The Christ Hospital Cardiothoracic Surgery program apart, Dr. Geoff Answini, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Dr. J. Michael Smith, Castellini Family Endowed Chair in Cardiac Surgery and medical director of our mitral valve surgery program and Dr. Robert D. Dowling, the Chris and Trey Heekin Endowed Chair for Cardiac Transplantation and Surgical Director of our Heart Transplant Program.
Dr. Smith: Our cardiac surgical program was recently rated among the "best of the best" in North America by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. We have pioneered minimally invasive treatments including minimal access aortic valve repair and replacement, robotic mitral valve repair and the Ross procedure for aortic valve replacement. We have the highest volumes and best outcomes for these procedures in the tri-state region.
Dr. Dowling: For patients with heart failure, we perform more left ventricular assist devices or LVAD’s than all of the other hospitals in the region combined and we are helping to develop the next generation of LVAD’s and total artificial hearts. In fact, we are collaborating with Texas Heart Institute in Houston and will be participating in a clinical trial of a novel total artificial heart. Finally, our Heart Transplant Program performed 22 transplants in the first 13 months with EXCELLENT clinical outcomes. We are a national destination for these therapies.
Dr. Answini: Our world-class team is expanding, attracting outstanding physicians and developing new therapies. Our patients are our highest priority, and we help each and every one of them navigate through surgery to wellness. At The Christ Hospital Health Network, we're saving lives with compassionate care, superior expertise, innovation, and technology. When it comes to your heart, we're here for you.
If you need a second opinion for heart care call 513-206-1270 or visit TheChristHospital.com/second-opinion.