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Ohio Heart News
Dr. Anwsini is First in Ohio to Perform Robotic TMR Procedure
Feb 01st 2008
Dr. Answini performed the first FDA-approved robotic-assisted transmyocardial revascularization procedure in Ohio at The Christ Hospital. The procedure was performed on a 59-year-old patient with severe chronic angina, Ronald Wright, who underwent an open heart bypass surgery four years ago in Butler, PA. Unfortunately, his condition did not improve after the open heart surgery. “I still couldn’t walk a hundred feet without having to take nitroglycerin,” Ronald said. Dr. Answini determined that Ronald was a prime candidate for robotic TMR.
Robotic transmyocardial revascularization (robotic TMR) is a minimally invasive treatment for patients suffering from severe angina, chest pain resulting from coronary artery disease. This procedure utilizes both the da Vinci robot and the Cardiogenesis TMR laser. Using the da Vinci robot allows for smaller incisions and better visualization during the procedure, for improved precision of the procedure and better results. Additionally, the patient benefits from having less pain, less risk of infection, less blood loss, fewer blood transfusions, less scarring and shorter hospital stays.
The Cardiogenesis laser creates channels through the wall of the left ventricle of the heart, increasing oxygen delivered to the heart. This reduces symptoms of angina for the patient. The success rate using robotic-assisted TMR is 75 percent versus 30 percent using other treatment modalities.
“Open-heart surgery or angioplasties are not always options for patients with coronary artery disease,” said Dr. Answini. Robotic TMR may be a solution for these patients. Our goal is to give them a better quality of life.”
Ronald considers the procedure a success and is impressed with the short recovery time, the minimal appearance of the tiny incision marks, and most importantly-- his improved condition. “My recovery didn’t take nearly as long as it did after my open heart surgery,” Ronald said. He is also grateful that he no longer needs nitroglycerin mediation to make it through his daily activities.