Year One by the Numbers: Early Impact of Advanced Heart Care at East Jefferson General Hospital

In its first year, the Tulane Heart Failure and Transplant Program at East Jefferson General Hospital has already delivered advanced, life-saving care for patients with complex heart conditions across the region.

Since launching in late 2024, the program has reached several early milestones, reflecting both the need for advanced cardiac services and the strength of a multidisciplinary care team. In its first year, the program completed 11 heart transplants, supported 26 patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), performed 52 ECMO runs to provide critical heart and lung support, and utilized 50 Impella 5.5 devices to help hearts rest and recover during severe cardiac illness.

These therapies are typically reserved for patients with advanced heart failure or life-threatening cardiac conditions, when medications alone are no longer enough. Together, they represent a comprehensive approach to stabilizing patients, supporting recovery, and, in some cases, bridging individuals to transplant or longer-term treatment options.

Led by physicians including Sasa Vukelic, MD, PhD, and Jamil Borgi, MD, the program brings together cardiologists, transplant surgeons, nurses, perfusionists, and specialized support teams working collaboratively when every moment matters.

As the program continues to grow, these first-year results highlight its early momentum and the expanding availability of advanced heart care through Tulane Medicine and LCMC Health, delivered close to home for patients and families who need it most.