Kansas City, KS- Gavin Schlotterback, a KU baseball player, underwent a routine scan that revealed his ascending aorta was enlarged to 7 cm, posing a severe risk. The scan, not universally offered, detected his aortic aneurysm, leading to open-heart surgery.
Drs. Tim Beaver and John Fritzlen emphasized the rarity of such findings in athletes and the importance of pre-participation exams. They discussed the adaptive changes in athletes' hearts and the critical role of sports cardiologists in ensuring safety.
Dr. Tim Beaver, Sports Cardiologist, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Beaver explains the specific scan used to detect Gavin's condition, an ultrasound of the heart, and its limited availability.
He elaborates on the increased risk of hidden heart problems in collegiate and professional athletes due to intense training.
Dr. John Fritzlen, Sports Cardiologist, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Fritzlen highlights the need for better access to sports cardiologists and the benefits of pre-participation exams.
He explains the adaptations of elite athletes' hearts based on their sports and the importance of pre-participation exams.
