Heart Care @ FPH: "I will never go anywhere else."

Having a lung removed due to cancer was only the start of a tough year for 47-year-old Gerald Lytle.

"A CT scan revealed that my abdominal aorta was completely blocked and causing severe pain in both legs."

The symptoms were originally thought to be the result of back issues.

"Here I am, just starting to fully recover from having a lung removed, and I'm being told I now need a major surgical bypass procedure to restore blood flow to my legs," says Gerald.

Fortunately, Dr. Paul Jones, interventional cardiologist at Franciscan Physicians Hospital, suggested otherwise.

"Gerald was at a high risk for amputation of both legs. Due to his weak heart and poor pulmonary status, it's unlikely that he would have survived a traditional surgery to repair his blocked aorta."

Both Gerald and Dr. Jones knew that time was of the essence. "Dr. Jones saw me even at a time when other obligations existed. Right when I walked in the room, I could tell Dr. Jones knew exactly what he was doing and that I would pull through this."

Dr. Jones states, "I was fortunate enough to completely repair his blockage and restore blood circulation to both legs without any open surgery or general anesthesia. He was discharged home from the hospital after two days."

Gerald now feels well in both body and mind. "I'm feeling like a champ, the pain is gone, and it's all because of Dr. Jones' expertise. I will never go anywhere else."

To learn more about our comprehensive vascular services, visit FranciscanPhysicians.org