Naples FL – April 8, 2025 The NCH Rooney Heart Institute has successfully performed its first thoracic branch endoprosthesis procedure, marking another major advancement in cardiac and vascular care at Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH). The procedure was performed by Alvaro Zamora, MD and Santiago Chahwan, MD, leading vascular specialists at NCH, using the innovative FDA approved GORE® TAG® Thoracic Branch Endoprosthesis (TBE). The GORE® TAG® TBE is a groundbreaking technology designed for minimally invasive repair of complex aortic conditions, such as aneurysms, dissections and trauma. This state-of-the-art device preserves blood flow to the left subclavian artery (LSA), eliminating the need for separate revascularization surgical procedures. The LSA is a major artery that supplies blood to the left arm and parts of the brain. “This is yet another example of NCH bringing the latest, the best cardiovascular outcomes to our community,” said Robert Cubeddu, MD, president of the NCH Rooney Heart Institute. “By offering the thoracic branch endoprosthesis procedure, we continue to provide cutting-edge cardiovascular care, ensuring that patients in Southwest Florida have access to the best cardiac outcomes without having to leave the region.” The thoracic branch endoprosthesis represents a significant step forward in aortic repair, offering higher blood flow rates, lower stroke risks and a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery. With this first successful case, NCH joins leading medical centers nationwide in offering this next-generation treatment option. For more information about advanced cardiovascular treatments at the NCH Rooney Heart Institute, visit www.nchmd.org.
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