Michael Martin, age 70, has lived in Kenosha since 2020. During his short time residing here, he has immensely enjoyed what this historic, harborside community has to offer- especially in terms of medical care. During this brief time, Michael broke his foot, needed his gallbladder removed, required routine medical care, and was diagnosed with heart valve disease. Michael said, “This is not why I moved here, but being close to world-class medical care has proven to be of the utmost importance in my life. Kenosha should be proud of the medical facilities and doctors here. I moved to the right community that ended up saving my life!”
“I was short of breath just walking across the street to my mailbox,” said Michael. “I thought something might be wrong with my lungs. I asked my primary care doctor, Dr. Shepler, about my condition. He referred me right away to Dr. Rosenberg, an Interventional Cardiologist. Dr. Rosenberg performed a cardiac catheterization procedure to diagnose my situation. He discovered that my heart valve was regurgitating and recommended a valve replacement. I then consulted with Dr. Laga, a Cardiothoracic Surgeon, who immediately scheduled my valve replacement surgery. This impressive professional communication and timely referral process ultimately saved my life.”
Michael was diagnosed with severe aortic valvular stenosis (heart valve disease), which is a progressive disease that will worsen over time. “If a patient is experiencing aortic stenosis symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations, waiting is the worst thing to do,” said Dr. Stephen Laga. “Treatment of aortic stenosis depends on how severe the condition is and may include a repair or replacement of the heart valve. Without treatment, severe aortic stenosis can lead to life-threatening complications. We scheduled a sutureless valve procedure for Michael right away. The sutureless option is very important because it reduces clamp and pump time and speeds recovery.”
Michael said, “The procedure I had was unique, and Dr. Laga is the only surgeon in this area offering this option. I was so happy to not have to travel to receive this advanced care. My wife, Sandy, was able to conveniently visit me, and the care I received right here in Kenosha was personable and professional. I felt incredibly well taken care of here at Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital.”
Dr. Laga said, “Michael did exceedingly well, and there were no complications. I was able to perform the sutureless valve procedure in under an hour, and Michael was discharged to go home within five days.”
“It’s remarkable to think about,” said Michael. “In less than an hour, Dr. Laga saved my life. I had my heart valve replaced, and I walked out of the hospital five days later! I cannot express my gratitude and admiration enough for Dr. Laga and the whole team at Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital for taking such tremendous care of me.”
“I quickly learned that there are lots of options with heart valve replacements,” said Michael. “While a decision needed to be made rapidly, I never felt rushed by Dr. Laga. He thoroughly explained everything to me and my wife and answered all our questions. He described the different types of valves, including organic and mechanical, and the procedural details. He listened to my concerns and made special accommodations to ensure I would not receive a blood transfusion. Dr. Laga left nothing to chance, and I felt comfortable and secure in the decision we were making together.”
Dr. Laga said, “Michael had true informed consent about the different kinds of valves, operational procedures, his prognosis, and the pros and cons of each option. Communication and transparency with my patients are important to me. I am not just performing a procedure on a patient; I view my work as an educational and collaborative process through which I can help people live longer, healthier lives with their loved ones.”
Michael said, “Dr. Laga continues to provide me with the best care. My follow-up appointments are extremely proficient. He keeps tabs on my progress, and I hold him in high regard.”
Like many other patients, Michael participates in cardiac rehabilitation at the Froedtert Kenosha Clinic. Michael said, “I go to cardiac rehab three times a week for ninety-minute sessions. I do some light weights, but I am on a heavy lifting restriction. My wife is an integral part of my care team, and having all my appointments close to home has kept it simple and less stressful for her. I am getting the care I need to manage my blood pressure, and the team helps with managing my medications and progress. Andrew Sirois, Physician Assistant, is phenomenal, and his attention to my care is fantastic. I am still amazed that I walked out of the hospital five days after heart surgery, and I am so happy with the progress of my recovery.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Cardiology, contact 262-653-5483.
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