TMR - Transmyocardial Revascularization
TMR is an option for patients with severe angina pectoris unable to benefit from other treatments. It is shown to relieve pain and to improve activity level. The surgeon uses a computerized carbon dioxide laser to open between 20-35 one-millimeter wide channels in the left ventricle. The outer areas of the channels close but remain open inside the heart. These small channels restore blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle. This is thought to encourage the growth of small blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis.