Hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR) is an alternative to traditional open-heart surgery. HCR combines the best of traditional bypass surgery and stenting, giving certain patients with complex coronary artery disease improved outcomes and a faster recovery. According to Mercy, Mercy Hospital St. Louis is the only hospital in the state to offer the innovative heart procedure.

Unlike conventional open-heart surgery, which requires a full sternotomy and weeks of recovery, cardiothoracic surgeons perform HCR using a robotically assisted, minimally invasive approach to connect the left internal mammary artery to the left anterior descending artery – the most critical vessel for heart function. Additional blockages are treated with stents by Mercy’s interventional cardiology team.

“Hybrid coronary revascularization gives select patients the best of both worlds – durable protection for the most important artery and a quicker return to everyday life,” said Dr. Parth Patel, cardiothoracic surgeon at Mercy St. Louis. “We’re proud to be the only program in Missouri offering this advanced, team-based approach.”