University Hospitals of Leicester surgeon carries out UK-first surgery

“The device is a revolutionary concept, which both saves time in theatre and reduces the risk to patients during complex heart surgery.”

UHL’s Head of Service for Cardiac Surgery has carried out the first open-heart operation in the UK using a state-of-the-art implant for the treatment of aortic valve disease, and associated dilatation of the aortic root and ascending aorta.

In this open-heart surgery, the patient’s aortic root and valve are entirely replaced.

This time, a pre-assembled valve was used, which simplifies these procedures, as it replaces previous options where the surgeon would need to stitch the graft together in theatre. This saves valuable theatre time and reduces the risk of complications for the patient.

UHL’s Head of Service for Cardiac Surgery, Mr Giovanni Mariscalco, said: “We are very proud that UHL’s reputation for excellence in surgeries of this kind led us to be selected as the first UK trust to use this technology for the benefit of our patients.

“The device is a revolutionary concept, which both saves time in theatre and reduces the risk to patients during complex heart surgery.”

Tracey Rudkin, from Braunstone, was the first patient to benefit from this innovation. After one day in our intensive care unit, he was well enough to be moved to a ward at Glenfield.

Tracey said: “I’d been on medication for my heart for a couple of years, but could tell it was getting worse. A couple of weeks ago, the doctor told me it was time to have this procedure. It was a real surprise to find out that I would be a UK first.

“All the team who looked after me have been amazing. They’ve told me they can’t believe how well I’m doing, and how quickly I’m recovering. I’ve been up and about today and am really looking forward to getting home to my family.”