An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a weakened, enlarged area of the aorta — the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body — as it passes through the abdomen. As an aneurysm grows, the risk of rupture increases, which can cause life‑threatening internal bleeding. An AAA may also increase the risk of blood clots.

Treatment for an AAA focuses on preventing rupture and depends on the size of the aneurysm, how quickly it’s growing, and whether symptoms are present.

Small aneurysms that are not causing symptoms may be managed with regular monitoring and imaging. Larger or fast‑growing aneurysms may require surgical repair, using either minimally invasive endovascular techniques or open surgery. Your care team will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment based on your individual health needs.

Heart rhythm problems, also called arrhythmias, occur when the electrical signals that control the heartbeat don’t work properly. The heart may beat too fast, too slow or irregularly. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common type of arrhythmia that causes a fast, irregular heartbeat.

Some arrhythmias may cause symptoms such as a fluttering or racing heartbeat, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting. Others may cause no symptoms and are discovered during a routine exam. While many arrhythmias are harmless, some can be serious and require evaluation and treatment.

Treatment depends on the type of arrhythmia, symptoms and overall heart health. Some people may only need monitoring, while others may benefit from medications or procedures to restore or control heart rhythm. Options may include catheter-based treatments such as cardiac ablation, implantable devices (pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators), and — in select cases — surgical approaches for AFib such as Maze surgery, hybrid ablation, or left atrial appendage closure to reduce stroke risk.

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a heart condition present at birth in which there is a hole in the wall (septum) between the heart’s two upper chambers (atria). This opening allows extra blood to flow from the left side of the heart to the right side, increasing blood flow to the lungs.

Small atrial septal defects may cause few or no symptoms and are sometimes discovered incidentally. Some small ASDs can close on their own during infancy or early childhood. Larger or long‑standing atrial septal defects can place strain on the heart and lungs over time and may lead to complications if left untreated.

Care for an atrial septal defect depends on the size of the opening, the amount of extra blood flow, and whether symptoms or complications are present. In some cases, monitoring is sufficient, while larger defects may require a procedure to close the opening and prevent long‑term heart or lung damage.

Carotid artery disease occurs when the carotid arteries, which deliver blood to the brain, become damaged or narrowed — most often due to a buildup of cholesterol‑containing plaque. As plaque accumulates, blood flow to the brain can be reduced or blocked, significantly increasing the risk of stroke.

Carotid artery disease often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms until a serious event occurs. For some people, the first sign of the condition is a stroke or a transient ischemic attack, sometimes called a “mini‑stroke,” which is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain.

Treatment focuses on reducing stroke risk and may include lifestyle changes, medication, and — when needed — procedures or surgery to improve blood flow to the brain.

Coronary artery disease develops when the coronary arteries, which supply blood, oxygen and nutrients to the heart, become damaged or narrowed. This is most often caused by a buildup of cholesterol‑containing plaque and inflammation within the arteries, which can restrict blood flow to the heart muscle.

As plaque builds up, narrowed arteries may reduce the amount of blood reaching the heart, leading to symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath or fatigue. In some cases, a complete blockage can occur, resulting in a heart attack.

Coronary artery disease often progresses over time and may require ongoing management. Care depends on the severity of artery narrowing, symptoms and overall heart health, and may range from medical management to procedures or surgery to restore blood flow and reduce the risk of serious complications.

Heart valve disease, also called valvular heart disease, occurs when one or more of the heart’s valves do not open or close properly. The heart has four valves — the mitral, tricuspid, pulmonary and aortic valves — that work together to keep blood flowing in the correct direction through the heart.

When a valve doesn’t function as it should, blood flow through the heart can be disrupted. Over time, this can cause the heart to work harder to pump blood to the body and may lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest discomfort, or heart rhythm problems.

Heart valve disease can range from mild to severe. Some people may be monitored over time, while others may need procedures or surgery to repair or replace the affected valve. Care depends on the type of valve involved, the severity of disease, symptoms, and how the condition is affecting heart function.

Lung and esophageal cancers are conditions in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs or esophagus. Lung cancer begins in the lungs, which supply oxygen to the body, while esophageal cancer affects the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Lung cancer is commonly classified into two main types — small cell and non small cell — based on how the cancer cells appear under a microscope. Treatment decisions depend on the cancer type, stage, and overall health, and may include surgery as part of a coordinated care plan.

A paraesophageal hernia occurs when part of the stomach, esophagus, or another organ moves up into the chest through the diaphragm. While some hernias cause few symptoms, symptomatic paraesophageal hernias can lead to chest or upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, early fullness when eating, or stomach ulcers.

When symptoms are present, paraesophageal hernias carry a higher risk of serious complications and are often evaluated for surgical repair.

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a small opening between the heart’s upper chambers (atria) that remains open after birth. Before birth, this opening is normal and allows blood to bypass the lungs. In most people, it closes naturally during infancy. When it does not close, it is called a patent foramen ovale.

Most people with a PFO do not have symptoms and do not require treatment. The condition is often discovered incidentally during heart imaging performed for other reasons. In certain situations, such as when a PFO is associated with an unexplained stroke or low blood oxygen levels, further evaluation may be needed.

A pleural effusion is a buildup of excess fluid between the layers of the pleura, the thin membranes that line the lungs and chest cavity. This fluid can interfere with normal breathing and may cause shortness of breath or chest discomfort.

Pleural effusions can result from a variety of conditions, including heart failure, infection, blood clots in the lungs, cancer, kidney disease, or after heart surgery. Care focuses on addressing the underlying cause and relieving symptoms when breathing is affected.

A pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing part or all of the lung to collapse. It may happen due to injury, medical procedures, underlying lung disease, or sometimes without a clear cause.

Symptoms often include sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. Treatment depends on the size of the collapse and the person’s overall health, with the goal of allowing the lung to re expand and preventing recurrence.

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly develop in the legs. They occur when valves inside the veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to flow backward and pool instead of moving efficiently back to the heart. Standing or walking for long periods can increase pressure in the leg veins and contribute to this condition.

While some varicose veins cause only mild or cosmetic concerns, many people experience symptoms such as leg aching, swelling, heaviness, or fatigue that worsen with prolonged standing. In more advanced cases, varicose veins may be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency, a progressive condition that can lead to skin changes, poor wound healing, or venous ulcers if left untreated.

Because varicose veins can worsen over time, especially when symptoms are present, evaluation by a health care provider is important to determine the severity of disease and guide appropriate care.

Angioplasty and stent placement are minimally invasive procedures used to improve blood flow to the heart when coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked by plaque. These treatments may be recommended when lifestyle changes and medications are not enough to manage symptoms or when blood flow needs to be restored quickly.

During angioplasty, a small balloon is used to open the narrowed artery. A stent — a small wire mesh tube — is often placed to help keep the artery open and reduce the risk of it narrowing again. For many people, angioplasty and stenting can relieve symptoms such as chest pain and help reduce the risk of a heart attack.

Artery revascularization, also known as transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR), is a minimally invasive treatment option for carotid artery disease that helps reduce stroke risk. TCAR combines surgical access to the carotid artery with stent placement to stabilize plaque and improve blood flow to the brain.

This approach may be recommended for people with significant carotid artery blockage who are at higher risk for complications from open surgery, such as older adults or those with certain anatomical or medical considerations. As with all carotid artery disease treatments, TCAR is part of a broader care plan that includes managing risk factors through lifestyle changes and medication to support long‑term vascular health.

An atrial septal defect is a heart condition present at birth in which there is a hole in the wall (septum) between the heart’s two upper chambers. This opening allows extra blood to flow from the left side of the heart to the right, increasing blood flow to the lungs.

Small atrial septal defects may cause few or no symptoms and are sometimes discovered incidentally. Some small ASDs can close on their own during infancy or early childhood. Larger or long standing atrial septal defects can place strain on the heart and lungs and may lead to complications if left untreated.

Cardiac ablation is a targeted treatment for abnormal heart rhythms that focuses on disrupting the faulty electrical signals causing an arrhythmia. Using catheter based or surgical techniques, small areas of heart tissue are modified to help restore a more regular heartbeat.

Cardiac ablation may be recommended when medications are not effective or well tolerated, or when a specific rhythm problem is likely to respond well to this approach. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and other rhythm disturbances.

Carotid endarterectomy is the most common surgical treatment for severe carotid artery disease. It is used to reduce the risk of stroke by removing plaque buildup that is narrowing or blocking the carotid artery and limiting blood flow to the brain.

This procedure may be recommended when blockage is severe or when a person has already experienced a transient ischemic attack or stroke. During surgery, the affected artery is opened, plaque is removed, and the artery is repaired to restore healthy blood flow. Ongoing lifestyle changes and medication remain important after surgery to help prevent future plaque buildup and reduce stroke risk.

Catheter based repair is a minimally invasive treatment option used to close certain types of atrial septal defects, most commonly secundum ASDs. This approach may be recommended when the opening is an appropriate size and location and there are no other complex heart defects present.

During catheter based repair, a thin, flexible tube is guided through a blood vessel — usually from the groin — to the heart. A closure device is then positioned to seal the opening between the upper chambers. Over time, heart tissue grows around the device, creating a permanent repair. This option typically avoids open heart surgery and may offer shorter recovery times for appropriate patients.

Coronary artery bypass surgery is used to treat more advanced or complex coronary artery disease, particularly when multiple arteries are blocked or when blockages cannot be effectively treated with angioplasty or stents. The goal of bypass surgery is to redirect blood around blocked arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle and reducing the risk of serious complications.

The cardiac surgery team performs traditional on pump coronary bypass, off pump coronary bypass, minimally invasive coronary bypass, and minimally invasive vein harvest, selecting the approach based on a person’s specific heart condition and overall health. While bypass surgery does not cure the underlying disease, it can significantly ease symptoms, improve heart function, and help lower the risk of heart related events for appropriate patients.

Endovascular repair is a minimally invasive surgical option commonly used to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms. During this procedure, surgeons guide a thin, flexible tube through an artery in the leg to place a supportive graft inside the aorta at the site of the aneurysm. The graft reinforces the weakened area of the artery, helping reduce the risk of rupture.

Endovascular repair often results in shorter recovery time; less discomfort and fewer complications compared to open surgery. However, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Your care team will evaluate factors such as the size and location of the aneurysm and your overall health to determine whether this option is right for you. After endovascular repair, regular imaging is used to monitor the graft over time.

Endovenous laser ablation therapy is a minimally invasive treatment used to close varicose veins and improve blood flow in the legs. Heat from a laser is applied inside the vein, causing it to close so blood can be rerouted through nearby healthy veins.

This approach is often used when symptoms persist despite self care measures. Most people experience minimal discomfort, and recovery is typically quick, with a short period of activity modification following treatment.

Treatment for heart valve disease depends on how severe the condition is, whether symptoms are present, and how the valve problem is affecting heart function. When possible, heart valve repair is often recommended because it preserves the person’s own valve and may help maintain normal heart function. Repair techniques may be used to improve how the valve opens and closes, restore proper blood flow, and reduce strain on the heart.

If a valve cannot be repaired, heart valve replacement may be necessary. In valve replacement, the damaged valve is removed and replaced with either a mechanical valve or a biological (tissue) valve. The choice of valve depends on factors such as age, overall health, and long term treatment considerations. Repair or replacement may also be performed at the same time as surgery for another heart condition to help prevent future complications.

Hybrid ablation is an advanced treatment for persistent or difficult to treat atrial fibrillation that combines minimally invasive surgical ablation with catheter based ablation. By treating the heart’s electrical pathways from both the outside and inside, hybrid ablation takes a comprehensive approach to rhythm control.

This option may be considered for people with long standing atrial fibrillation, recurrent arrhythmias after prior treatments, or heart changes that make other therapies less effective.

Implantable devices are used to manage heart rhythms that are too slow, too fast or life threatening. These devices continuously monitor the heart and respond automatically when an abnormal rhythm is detected.

• Pacemakers help regulate slow or irregular heartbeats by sending electrical signals to maintain an appropriate heart rate.
• Implantable cardioverter defibrillators are designed for people at risk of dangerous fast heart rhythms and can deliver therapy to restore a normal rhythm when needed.

Your care team will determine whether an implantable device is appropriate based on your heart rhythm condition and overall health

Left atrial appendage closure is a stroke‑prevention procedure for people with atrial fibrillation. In AFib, blood can collect in a small pouch of the heart called the left atrial appendage, increasing the risk of clot formation.

This procedure seals off the appendage to help prevent blood clots from forming and traveling to the brain. It may be an option for people who are unable to take long‑term blood‑thinning medications or who are at increased risk of stroke.

The Maze procedure is a surgical treatment for an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation (AFib). A surgeon creates a pattern of scar tissue in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) using heat, cold energy or a scalpel. Because scar tissue doesn’t carry electrical signals, the “maze” pattern can block faulty signals that cause AFib and help restore a more regular rhythm.

The procedure is preferred for people who have AFib and need another heart surgery (such as heart valve surgery). It may also be considered when AFib doesn’t improve with medicines or other treatments. The Maze can be performed through open surgery, minimally invasive approaches, catheter-based methods, or as part of a hybrid (mini-maze) approach depending on a patient’s needs.

Open abdominal surgery is a traditional surgical approach used to repair abdominal aortic aneurysms that may not be suitable for minimally invasive treatment. During this procedure, surgeons remove the damaged section of the aorta and replace it with a graft that is sewn into place.

Open surgery is typically recommended based on the aneurysm’s size, location and growth rate, as well as a patient’s overall health. Recovery generally takes longer than with endovascular repair, but this approach remains a durable and effective option for treating certain abdominal aortic aneurysms. Your care team will discuss the benefits and considerations of this approach as part of your personalized treatment plan.

Open heart surgery is used to repair larger or more complex atrial septal defects (ASD), or types of ASDs, that cannot be closed with a catheter based approach, such as primum, sinus venosus, or coronary sinus defects. Surgery may also be recommended if other heart conditions are present and need to be addressed at the same time.

During surgery, surgeons access the heart through the chest and use a patch to close the opening between the upper chambers. In some cases, the repair can be performed using minimally invasive or robot assisted techniques, which use smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. Surgical repair helps restore normal blood flow through the heart and reduces the risk of long term complications affecting the heart or lungs.

Closure of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is considered only in select cases, such as when a PFO is believed to be linked to an unexplained stroke or low blood oxygen levels. Decisions about closure are made carefully and typically involve collaboration between heart and neurological specialists.

• Catheter‑based closure uses a minimally invasive approach to place a closure device through a blood vessel to seal the opening.
• Surgical closure may be performed using stitches and is most often considered if heart surgery is already being done for another reason.

Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes surface varicose veins through very small incisions. Once the affected veins are removed, blood flow naturally redirects to surrounding healthy veins.

Scarring is usually minimal, and many people are able to return to normal activities, including work, within a day or two. Phlebectomy is often used to relieve symptoms and improve comfort when varicose veins are prominent or painful.

Robotic thoracic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical approach used to treat certain lung and thoracic conditions, including some lung cancers and complex thoracic disorders. Instead of a large chest incision, surgeons operate through several small incisions using a robotic system that provides enhanced precision and visualization.

This approach allows surgeons greater flexibility and control while reducing trauma to surrounding tissue. For many patients, robotic surgery may result in less pain, less blood loss, smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. Whether robotic surgery is appropriate depends on the condition being treated and individual patient factors.

For some people with heart valve disease, transcatheter procedures offer a less invasive alternative to open‑heart surgery. These procedures allow doctors to treat valve problems using a catheter guided through a blood vessel, most often from the leg.

• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR or TAVI) is used to treat aortic valve stenosis by replacing a narrowed valve that does not open properly.
• Transcatheter edge‑to‑edge repair (TEER) is used to treat mitral valve regurgitation by helping a leaky valve close more completely and restore normal blood flow.

Transcatheter options may be considered for people who are at higher risk for surgical complications or who are not candidates for traditional valve surgery. These approaches can relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce strain on the heart when used in appropriate patients.

For your first appointment, bring your current prescription information or medical records from non-Mayo Clinic Health System facilities. Complete a medical records release form to authorize the transfer of health records from another healthcare facility to us. Visit our Medical Record Forms page for this form and other forms in multiple languages.

The appointment length depends on the patient's specific medical situation or concern. We recommend calling Cardiac Surgery in Eau Claire to inquire about the appointment length for your health needs.

Virtual visits are offered in cardiac surgery. These visits may be scheduled through the patient portal, the Mayo Clinic App or by calling Cardiac Surgery in Eau Claire.

Before surgery, you’ll meet with your surgeon and care team to review your condition, test results and treatment options. Together, you’ll discuss whether surgery is right for you, what the procedure involves, and the potential benefits and risks. Your care team will answer your questions and help you feel informed and prepared before moving forward.

Your care team includes cardiac surgeons, physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, dietitians and other specialists. You are also an important member of the team. Everyone works together to support you through surgery, recovery and follow‑up care.

Yes. Family and loved ones are typically able to visit once you are settled in the intensive care unit or progressive care unit. Your care team will keep them informed and let them know when visits are appropriate.

Before leaving the hospital, your care team will help you plan for recovery at home and discuss what level of support you may need. You’ll receive guidance on gradually returning to normal activities and instructions to support healing and recovery. Follow‑up appointments are important so your care providers can check your progress.

You should plan to see your primary care provider within seven days after leaving the hospital. You may also be asked to follow up with your cardiologist one to three months after surgery. Your surgeons may share details of your surgery with your primary care provider to support coordinated care.

Call 9‑1‑1 or go to the emergency room if you have chest pain that is not related to incision pain.

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:

• Worsening shortness of breath.
• Fast or irregular heart rate.
• Dizziness.
• Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles.
• Rapid weight gain.

Also contact your provider for any of the following:

• Night sweats with fever. Night sweats without a fever are common for about two weeks after surgery. They are not a problem.
• Problems sleeping.
• Signs of infection that include:
  • Temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or greater.
  • Chills.
  • Increased swelling, tenderness or redness at an incision or chest tube site.
  • Increased pain or pain not relieved by pain medications.
  • A bad-smelling odor or new or increased drainage coming from an incision or chest tube site.

If you have questions about this information, your heart surgery, or your recovery, contact your surgeon or other health care team member.

Our Patient Account Services representatives can assist you with any issues related to billing and insurance. We also offer financial assistance if you are unable to pay for care due to financial hardship.

Yes. Call the appointment number for Cardiac Surgery in Eau Claire.

Always call 911 in case of an emergency. For after-hours help with other issues, get virtual care 24/7 through the Primary Care On Demand app or review our convenient care options.