LHSC Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Michael Chu is pictured with patient Angela
January 21, 2026
London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) is first in the world to use two new devices to complete two complex cardiac procedures within a single surgery. Taking place in August 2024, LHSC Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Michael Chu and team performed both a protected Ross operation, where the patient’s own pulmonary valve is transplanted to replace their diseased aortic valve, and an advanced surgical technique called a hybrid arch frozen elephant trunk procedure, which enables a very extensive aortic replacement in a much less invasive way. By combining the procedures, the team was able to rebuild most of the patient’s aorta within their chest during a single procedure, while also using two new specialized devices.
While both established procedures are challenging in isolation, performing them together is an unprecedented feat. It was made possible through surgical expertise married with innovation and the use of advanced innovative technologies from Artivion, Inc – the CryoValve Synergraft pulmonary homograft and the E-vita Open Neo hybrid stent graft system.
First patient, Angela was dealing with the impacts of a challenging and life-threatening connective tissue disorder and had been receiving care for cardiac related issues for years, including multiple previous emergency operations. She was facing progressive aortic dissection, which is a growing tear in the inner layer of a weak area of your aorta – the main artery that brings oxygen-rich blood to your body, as well as valve degeneration.
“The complexity of her case required an extraordinary level of planning, precision, and surgical team expertise,” says Dr. Chu. “This combined approach to surgery allowed us to completely repair her dissection, while also providing durable, life-enhancing valve function at the same time. This is ultimately a lifesaving, long-term solution that restores her life expectancy and significantly reduces the need for future re-interventions.”
The innovative dual procedure surgery offers new hope to patients with complex aortic disease and connective tissue disorders, like Riolo.
“I can plan for the future now, which is something I couldn’t let myself do a year ago,” says Angela. “There’s no longer that cloud of worry over my head. I have more energy, I’m not relying on my asthma medications as much, and I feel more relaxed knowing it’s done.”
This world first cements LHSC’s position as a leader in integrating a patient-centred approach with innovation in the field of cardiac care. LHSC continues to advance the practice of cardiac surgery, providing personalized, cutting-edge solutions for even the most complex cases.
Dr. Chu adds, “This new approach not only improves survival and quality of life, but it also offers a valuable alternative to more invasive procedures; one that can optimize long-term outcomes for those who otherwise may have few options.”