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For patients like Jim Parker, a Jehovah’s Witness from St. Leon, Indiana, finding a hospital willing to perform open heart surgery without blood products can be challenging. When Parker needed emergency surgery in July 2023 due to an aortic dissection, he faced this dilemma. His religious beliefs required a "bloodless" procedure, meaning no blood donations or products could be used.
Parker's condition was dire; nearly 85% of patients with an aortic dissection die immediately. After being turned away by local hospitals unable to meet his requirements, Parker found help at The Christ Hospital Health Network in Cincinnati.
Dr. Saad Hasan, a cardiothoracic surgeon at The Christ Hospital Health Network who had experience with bloodless surgeries, was on call the night of Parker's emergency. Dr. Hasan emphasized the urgency: “If Parker did not get the surgery within 48 hours, he would be dead.” The team started the operation at 2:30 in the morning and concluded around 8:00 a.m., successfully repairing Parker’s aorta without using any blood products.
The process involved cooling Parker’s body temperature significantly and temporarily stopping blood circulation to access and repair the damaged part of his aorta with artificial materials. Dr. Hasan credited the surgical team's skill for achieving this complex procedure without replacing any blood products.
Dr. Hasan noted that avoiding transfusions can reduce risks associated with immunological reactions and complications during surgery. He stated that The Christ Hospital cardiac surgery team has refined techniques to safely conduct these operations with minimal or no use of blood products.
Following his recovery, Parker expressed gratitude towards Dr. Hasan and recommended him to other Jehovah’s Witnesses seeking similar care options nearby.
The Christ Hospital Health Network is recognized for its comprehensive care facilities across various locations including Mt. Auburn and Liberty Township among others in the region.
