WakeMed Offers New Device for Treating Aortic Aneurysm

WakeMed Heart & Vascular among first to use new minimally invasive device treatment

RALEIGH, N.C. (November 4, 2024) – For many patients with complex aortic aneurysm, open surgery has historically been the only FDA-approved option for treatment. Fortunately, a new implantable device was recently approved for use in patients with certain types of complex aortic aneurysms.

The WakeMed vascular surgery team is among the first in North Carolina to be trained and approved to use the new GORE® EXCLUDER® Thoracoabdominal Branch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE) – which gives patients a new, minimally-invasive option that offers a lower risk of complications, faster recovery time and a shorter hospital stay.

This device is the first ‘off-the-shelf’ option of its kind – replacing the need for modified or custom devices that can delay treatment due to manufacturing time. The TAMBE device is placed using an endovascular technique in which the physician guides the device through arteries in the groin and arm using small incisions. The device allows the surgeon to seal off the aneurysm, allowing blood to flow directly through the endoprosthesis.

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, vascular surgeon Christopher McQuinn, MD, performed WakeMed Heart & Vascular’ s first case using the GORE EXCLUDER TAMBE device. “WakeMed is proud to be on the leading edge of treating complex vascular disease by offering innovative treatment options such as the GORE TAMBE,” explains Dr. McQuinn. “Being chosen by GORE to offer this new technology is a testament to the quality and reputation of our program. We’re bringing advanced treatments to our community, allowing patients to get the highest level of care they need close to home.”

For more information about WakeMed Heart & Vascular services, visit www.wakemed.org/hearts.

About WakeMed Health & Hospitals

Serving the community since 1961, WakeMed is a not-for-profit health care system founded and based in Raleigh, N.C. WakeMed exists to improve the health and well-being of our community by providing outstanding and compassionate care to all. WakeMed’s 1,003-bed system comprises a network of facilities throughout the Triangle area, including three full-service hospitals, eight emergency departments, a dedicated Children’s Hospital and Rehabilitation Hospital, two exceptional Trauma Centers—a Level I Trauma Center in Raleigh and a Level III Trauma Center in Cary, and more than 165 physician and physical therapy practice offices. WakeMed’s mission-driven team includes nearly 12,000 employees, 1,200 volunteers and 1,300 affiliated physicians, along with the more than 800 physicians and advanced practice providers with WakeMed Physician Practices—all representing the best minds and the biggest hearts and the finest quality in health care and community health. For more information, visit www.wakemed.org or follow WakeMed on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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For Additional Information:
Kristin Kelly
WakeMed Health & Hospitals
919-350-5921
krkelly@wakemed.org