Second Chance at Life Thanks to Heart Surgery

Media Resources

Jill Chadwick

News Director

Office: (913) 588-5013

Cell: (913) 223-3974

Email

jchadwick@kumc.edu

Kansas City, Kan- Luke Harbur, who faced a life-threatening aortic aneurysm at age 29, underwent a seven-hour surgery where his heart was stopped for four hours.

Dr. Todd Crawford, who had the same surgery at a similar age, led the team. Luke's aortic root was only held together by a single cell, necessitating urgent surgery.

Post-surgery, he required a pacemaker due to heart block.

 Luke's quick recovery and positive attitude are attributed to his therapy and meditation background.

 

Luke and Kim Harbur, patient and mother

  • Luke learns that his aortic root was so thin it was held together by a single cell, making the surgery more urgent.
  • Luke expresses amazement at his quick recovery post-surgery, attributing it to his body's miraculous adaptability.
  • Kim recounts Luke's past medical history, including a liver transplant at five months old and his subsequent healthy life until his early 20s.

 

Dr. Todd Crawford, Cardio-Thoracic Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System

  • Dr. Crawford describes the surgical procedure, including the use of cardiopulmonary bypass and cardioplegia.
  • The surgery involved stopping Luke's heart for four hours.
  • Dr. Crawford explains the pacemaker's lifespan and the possibility of future interventions.

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