Cardiac surgery in Central Texas
When you have advanced heart failure, traditional heart therapies may no longer work. At the Institute for Cardiovascular Health, a collaboration between Ascension Seton and UT Health Austin, the clinical practice of The University of Texas at Austin, we deliver leading surgical care for heart disease and heart failure, including heart pumps and heart transplant. Ascension Seton Heart Specialty Care and Transplant Center has maintained the Heart Transplant certification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services since 1986. And, we have been certified by The Joint Commission as a Destination Therapy Ventricular Assist Device Program and a Bridge to Transplant (BTT) program. We start by listening to understand you and your health concerns. Then, we work with you and your heart doctor to create a care plan that’s right for you.
Ventricular assist device (VAD) for heart failure
A ventricular assist device helps your heart temporarily or permanently pump blood throughout your body. A VAD may be recommended by your doctor if you are recovering from surgery, awaiting a heart transplant or unable to receive a heart transplant. The three types of VAD devices are:
- Biventricular assist device (BIVAD)
- Left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
- Right ventricular assist device (RVAD)
Receiving a VAD requires an open-heart surgery that may require you to stay in the hospital. Your multispecialty care team includes cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons, nurse coordinators, advanced practice doctors, pharmacists, dietitians, social workers, and more. After your surgery, your care team works with you and your caregivers to help you have an easier transition to your home, skilled nursing facility or rehabilitation care facility.
The only heart transplant program in the Austin area
You may need a heart transplant if your heart doesn’t respond to an implanted device or medications. There are many factors that determine your acceptance as a heart transplant candidate, including, but not limited to:
- Active infections or cancer
- Age
- Mental health
- Stage of heart failure
- Use of alcohol or tobacco
If you are a candidate for a heart transplant, you will be placed on the national waitlist. Wait times can vary from a few months to years, depending on your size, blood typing, tissue typing and organ availability.
While you are waiting for your new heart, you and your care team stay connected, with follow-up visits to monitor your heart health. Talk with your doctor about any new symptoms, your medications and diet while you prepare for your transplant.
Get a second opinion from a cardiologist
Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and cardiovascular care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension Seton. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our doctors about a personalized heart care plan.
When you are facing a new diagnosis or are deciding on a surgical or therapeutic treatment plan, there’s a lot to think about. If you are looking for a second opinion for advanced heart care, our cardiologists can also connect you with the right specialists for ventricular assist devices (VADs) and heart transplant. Our heart specialists can provide a second opinion, based on our experience and as part of a national care team.
Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.