Omaha man receives pioneering heart valve surgery
By Melissa Fry
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OMAHA, Nebraska (KETV) — Mike Albritton from Omaha underwent a pioneering heart valve replacement surgery using new laser-cut technology, offering him a renewed chance at an active life.
Albritton’s health had been declining rapidly after suffering two heart attacks in 2018.
“Terrible. It just felt like I couldn’t do what I used to be able to do,” Albritton said.
He described one of his heart attacks as a “widowmaker heart attack, which they corrected with a couple of stents.”
Last year, Albritton required a new heart valve, and Dr. Ali Khiabani performed a “sutureless” procedure at CHI Bergan Mercy.
“It became available the day of the surgery,” Dr. Khiabani said, noting that Albritton’s surgery was the first in the country to use this new technology.
The procedure involved a new “laser-cut” sutureless valve, which uses bovine tissue for improved durability and blood flow.
“The leaflets of the valve that are made from bovine tissue were cut with laser,” Dr. Khiabani said. He explained that “more precision gives us potentially better outcomes in terms of leaflet coadaptation, less valvular degeneration and better gradient across the valve.”
This innovative approach offers better longevity and may delay future operations, allowing Albritton more time to enjoy activities like biking, walking his dogs, and shopping with his wife.
“I’m real happy with the results, and I look forward to a new lease on life,” Albritton said.
His improved health is especially significant for his daughter, Bailey Albritton, who looks forward to her father walking her down the aisle at her upcoming wedding.
“He’s so special, so important for so many people, and I’m lucky to have him,” she said.
If Albritton requires another heart valve replacement in the future, doctors can perform the procedure intravenously, which involves minimal downtime.
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