This allows the surgeons to temporarily stop the flow of blood through the heart and lungs during surgery. The machine works like a heart and lungs, allowing oxygen to circulate, although the heart does not beat. The TMLR procedure is sometimes done in conjunction with bypass surgery. Investigational studies have shown that channels cut by lasers during TMLR have remained open and that these channels also protect the heart muscle. Laser angioplasty is performed in conjunction with balloon angioplasty.
Some patients are at high risk or ineligible for coronary bypass surgery or balloon angioplasty.
A patient who has only had TMLR performed can still undergo bypass surgery in the future. Patients can expect to remain hospitalized for an average of five days following TMLR surgery. These visits are important since they determine the results of the investigative procedure as well as help in treating other patients. Patients are expected to participate in all follow-ups. As TMLR is still considered an investigational procedure, some insurance companies agree to cover all areas, some only cover specific portions, while others provide no coverage at all.