July 11, 2007
St. John's Offers New Treatment For Potentially Deadly Aneurysms
Joplin, MO, – St. John’s Regional Medical Center announces that it now offers the GORE TAG Thoracic Endoprosthesis, recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment option for repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs). When left untreated, a thoracic aortic aneurysm can rupture, causing death within minutes. If detected in time, the aneurysm can be treated with the GORE TAG Thoracic Endoprosthesis by way of endovascular repair, a minimally invasive procedure.
The GORE TAG Thoracic Endoprosthesis is the first and only endovascular device approved by the FDA for treating TAAs. Prior to approval of the GORE TAG Device, repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms was limited to traditional open surgical repair, a procedure many patients with complex pre-existing conditions could not endure. Patients able to withstand the traditional open surgical procedure are faced with risks during the operation, potential infection and long recovery times. In clinical trials comparing the GORE TAG Device to open surgical repair, GORE TAG Device patients experienced fewer complications, significantly less procedural blood loss, shortened hospital stay and a return to normal activity that was twice as fast as traditional open surgical repairs.
“St. John’s is pleased to offer the GORE TAG Thoracic Endoprosthesis as a minimally invasive treatment option for our patients with a thoracic aortic aneurysm,” said Dr. Joseph Graham, Cardiovascular Surgeon at St. John’s. “This technology represents a safer alternative to open surgery. Many patients can look forward to improved treatment outcomes, and a shorter hospital stay,” Dr. Graham added.
Regular screenings for people who are at risk of having a thoracic aortic aneurysm are the key to identifying and treating the condition early. People who have high blood pressure, diabetes, family history or who smoke may be at risk of having this condition. St. John’s offers screenings and encourages those at risk to get checked regularly.
For more information about St. John’s and the GORE TAG Thoracic Endoprosthesis or to set up an interview with Dr. Joseph Graham, Cardiovascular Surgeon who treats thoracic aortic aneurysm, please contact David Morris or Miranda Lewis at 417.625.2260