The Comprehensive Aortic Program, part of the MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center, is dedicated to the early detection, monitoring and treatment of various aortic diseases using evidence-based treatments. Conditions affecting the aorta (the largest artery in the body) are serious, but through expert diagnosis and treatment, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing medical care, patients under the care of aortic specialists can continue to enjoy normal, productive lives.
Multi-Disciplinary Approach
Aortic disease is complex, degenerative and typically progressive in nature. Other heart conditions also may be present, calling for a comprehensive approach to each patient.
Experts from multiple disciplines provide comprehensive and complementary expertise in the Comprehensive Aortic Program: cardiology, cardiac surgery, vascular and endovascular surgery, interventional radiology, and medical genetics.
Advanced imaging and nuclear medicine provide state-of-the-art diagnostic testing for accurate measurement and assessment of each individual. A specific treatment plan, designed to address all aspects of aortic, cardiac and vascular disease, and is developed for each patient based on their unique needs.
Patients and their families are key members of this team approach to treatment which includes medical therapy, lifestyle modifications, ongoing monitoring and potentially elective procedures and operations.
Benefits of a Comprehensive Aortic Program
The Comprehensive Aortic Program provides rapid and accurate diagnosis and treatment for patients with acute aortic syndrome. Acute aortic syndrome refers to a variety of life-threatening aortic issues that require immediate medical attention, including aortic dissection, aortic ulcer, intramural hematoma, and unstable thoracic aortic aneurism. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to improve patient outcomes.
Leading the Way with Clinical Trials & Research
The Comprehensive Aortic Program experts are involved with investigational use of the newest minimally invasive techniques including branch-vessel stent grafting from the aortic valve to the iliac artery bifurcation. There are multiple clinical trials and devices that can help shape the treatment of aortic disease in the future, offered right here at Long Beach Medical Center.
In addition, we are leading the way with future generation transcatheter (endovascular) aortic and mitral valve replacements and repairs. This is performed as part of an investigational trial with very promising results. Furthermore, newer generation stent grafts for various aortic pathologies are available to aortic specialists within the Comprehensive Aortic Program. These stent grafts allow treatment of patients that may not be candidates at other hospitals.