Infirmary Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute performs the greater Gulf Coast Region's first Thoracic Branch Endoprosthesis

Infirmary Health’s Heart & Vascular Institute (HVI) performed a branched Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR) utilizing the GORE TAG Thoracic Branch Endoprosthesis (TBE). This is the first procedure of its kind along the greater Gulf Coast Region, from Jacksonville to New Orleans. The procedure was performed by Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Surgical Associates physicians Cullen McCarthy, MD, vascular surgeon, and Kareem Bedeir, MD, cardio-thoracic surgeon, and the cath lab team at Mobile Infirmary.

“As your FIRST CHOICE for healthcare in the Gulf Coast region, Infirmary Health’s Heart & Vascular institute continues to prioritize our patients’ heart and vascular health,” says William Johnson, MD, medical director of the HVI. “The goal of the HVI is provide our communities with the latest and most advanced treatment methods possible.”

The TBE treatment method offers patients with a descending thoracic aorta, that includes the left subclavian artery, a simplified, minimally invasive approach that minimizes risk and shortens recovery time. This branched stent graft, when implanted, allows blood to flow from the left subclavian artery and the rest of the aorta while preventing blood from flowing to the affected area. Prior to the development of the GORE TAG TBE, a first-of-its kind device, the primary intervention for patients with a descending thoracic aorta that includes the left subclavian artery involved surgery to bypass the subclavian artery.

The risk factors for developing thoracic aortic disease include family history, smoking, high blood pressure and heart disease. Patients might also experience symptoms as pain, ranging from mild to severe, in the chest, back, shoulders, neck or abdomen. If you are experiencing symptoms or might be at risk for thoracic aortic disease, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. Find a physician near you at infirmaryhealth.org.

Infirmary Health's Heart & Vascular Institute comprises physicians and specialists across cardiology, cardiovascular, vascular and thoracic services. This award-winning team provides some of the most comprehensive, state-of-the-art heart care across the Gulf Coast Region.