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Surgeons at The Christ Hospital Health Network have become the second team in the United States to successfully implant the Nexus Duo aortic arch stent graft. This procedure was performed on a patient with a history of aortic dissection and aneurysm formation. The surgical team was led by Dr. Geoffrey Answini, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Dr. Mark Harding, a vascular surgeon.
The Nexus Duo Aortic Arch Stent is designed as a minimally invasive option for treating aortic arch dissections or aneurysms, particularly in patients who are considered high-risk for traditional surgery. Aortic arch disease can lead to serious health issues such as reduced blood flow or vessel rupture due to dilated or torn arteries. Common symptoms include pain, fatigue, high blood pressure, and breathing difficulties.
In the United States, over 120,000 individuals suffer from thoracic aortic arch disease annually; however, only about 25% receive diagnosis or treatment. Traditional open surgical repair carries significant risks including high mortality and morbidity rates. The new minimally invasive procedure aims to reduce these risks while improving recovery times.
Dr. Geoffrey Answini remarked on the complexity of surgical repairs in this area: “Surgical aortic arch repair is often one of the most technically challenging areas to repair.” He added that "The Nexus Duo Aortic Arch Stent gives heart patients another option when it comes to repairing their aortic arch." He expressed optimism about its future use: "We believe this stent will be used more commonly in the future and we are pleased that The Christ Hospital is one of the first in the country to be able to offer an alternative minimally invasive solution to patients who will benefit most by avoiding open surgical repair of their aortic arch."
The Christ Hospital Health Network comprises an acute care hospital located in Mt. Auburn, another hospital location in Liberty Township, five ambulatory outpatient centers, and numerous medical offices across the region. With over 135 years of service and more than 1,300 physicians alongside 7,200 team members, their mission focuses on improving community health through exceptional outcomes delivered affordably. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as Cincinnati's top hospital and listed among Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals in 2024.
For further information about The Christ Hospital Health Network's heart team or details regarding studies on this procedure and photos of the Nexus Duo Aortic Arch Stent, additional resources are available online.
