Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization
Transmyocardial Revascularization (TMR) is a cardiac surgical procedure in which a laser is utilized to create channels through the wall of the heart (myocardium) to improve blood flow to areas deficient in blood supply.
The procedure may be performed through a small opening in the chest without use of the heart-lung machine, or it may be done in conjunction with open heart surgery bypass grafting.
Candidates for TMR are patients with angina who are no longer effectively treated by medications. Angioplasty or surgery may have already been performed or the patient may not be appropriate for these treatment modalities.
The mechanism by which TMR relieves chest pain is not completely know. Current theories include:
- Increases blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Increases growth of new small blood vessels.
- Reduces perception of pain from angina.
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