Advanced Cardiac Care: Closing the Gap in the Gulf South

On this episode of Beyond Extraordinary, host Dr. Toni Flowers, Chief Opportunity and Social Responsibility Officer at LCMC Health, sits down with Dr. Jamil Borgi, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Dr. Sasa Vukelic, Vice Chief of Cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine and Director of Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology at East Jefferson General Hospital. Together, they explore the vision and momentum behind building a world-class advanced heart failure and transplant program in the Gulf South.Drawing on their shared experience working together in New York, the physicians discuss how trust, teamwork, and a multidisciplinary approach are transforming care for some of the sickest cardiac patients—many of whom previously had to leave Louisiana for treatment. The conversation dives into cutting-edge therapies including cardiogenic shock management, ventricular assist devices, heart recovery strategies, and heart transplantation, as well as the program’s focus on high-risk and complex cases other centers may turn away.They also highlight the growing regional impact of the program, expanded access to advanced cardiac surgery, and what families facing end-stage heart failure should know about the comprehensive care now available close to home. Looking ahead, the episode offers insight into the future of advanced heart and lung care at LCMC Health—and the lasting legacy being built for New Orleans and the entire Gulf South.