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Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization (TMR) is a procedure to reduce chest pain (angina) with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD). When coronary arteries are diseased, narrowed or blocked blood flows slowly to the heart and decreases its ability to pump blood through the body. This strain on the heart causes chest pain.

TMR is a minimally invasive procedure that can also accompany traditional, open-heart coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) to relieve chest pain associated with CAD. A laser creates channels in the heart to improve blood flow and reduce pain. An appointment with a cardiovascular surgeon requires a referral from your cardiologist or primary care provider.

How it works:

  1. You will be placed under anesthesia and your doctor will make small chest incisions.
  2. Your doctor will use a computer-guided laser to create tiny pathways in the lower chamber of the heart.
  3. The new pathways will improve blood flow to your heart muscle.
  4. Your Heart Team will closely monitor and partner with you to create a custom plan for recovery and rehabilitation.