How does TransMyocardial Laser Revascularization (TMLR) work and who can benefit from it?
Some patients with angina pectoris have small and/or diffusely diseased vessels that are not well-suited for angioplasty or surgery. TMLR can benefit these patients, either alone as so-called sole therapy or as an adjunct to conventional bypass surgery. This procedure was introduced to the Heart Institute in 2002 by Dr. Kelley, who had extensive experience with this treatment modality at Albany Medical Center. TMLR stimulates the growth of new vessels in the heart muscle and has been shown to be safe and effective. In many cases, TMLR helps patients with debilitating chest pain that is not treatable in any other way. Promising research is currently underway combining TMLR with growth factor stimulation of new blood vessels. The surgeons at the Mohawk Valley Heart Institute are following this research closely and will be well positioned to offer this treatment as soon as it is approved.
