At Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center (MDHVC), we believe that multidisciplinary approaches to treatment play a vital role in the achievement of superior outcomes. The Aortic Clinic combines state-of-the-art clinical care, advanced imaging, and surgical excellence to provide centralized assessment and treatment options for complex aortic diseases.
Our goal is to provide a focused and well-organized patient experience that provides a thorough evaluation with clear communication regarding severity of aortic disease and recommended treatment. Depending on the severity of disease and the needs of the patient, one or more of the following treatment options are available and are tailored to the specific condition.
Medical Management
Medical management is an essential part of treating aortic disease and may be beneficial for prevention slowing the progression of aortic disease. Medical treatment includes strict adherence to blood pressure management, select medications and close monitoring of the aortic disease process.
Minimally Invasive
Depending on the severity of aortic disease, patients and/or physicians may choose to treat aneurysms using minimally invasive techniques as opposed to an open surgical procedure. The MDHVC cardiovascular surgeons at Methodist are expertly trained in minimally invasive procedures. Minimally invasive procedures include endovascular stent grafting or endovascular aneurysm repair often called EVAR for the abdomen or TEVAR for the thoracic area. We also offer minimally invasive and percutaneous approaches to treat the aortic valve, ascending aorta and aortic arch.
Open Surgical
Surgery is the definitive therapy and gold standard for abdominal aortic aneurysms, thoroco-abdominal aortic aneurysms, and ascending or descending aortic arch dissections/aneurysm. Surgeons at MDHVC developed many of the techniques currently used worldwide and are experts in advanced and complex surgical management of aortic pathology.
Innovative Aortic Therapies
MDHVC has advanced technology within the operating rooms and hybrid suites in an effort to support aortic therapies. Current innovative therapies for the aorta include percutaneous aortic valve repair and branched endovacular stent grafting.
Prior to Consultation
All prior diagnostic studies will be requested and reviewed. When needed, additional diagnostic imaging will be performed. At the end of the evaluation, all appropriate therapeutic options will be presented to the patient and/or referring physician. If needed, the patient will also meet with a cardiovascular surgeon to further discuss the options for aortic treatment and/or intervention.
For more information about the Aortic Clinic, please contact us at 713-DEBAKEY (332-2539).
