Cathy Jacobson thought she was healthy. She exercised, felt fine and had no idea dangerous plaque was building inside her arteries. But after a coronary calcium scan, often called a CardioScore test, doctors discovered severe heart disease eventually led to quadruple bypass surgery. Cathy shares the emotional moment she learned she needed open heart surgery, while cardio-thoracic surgeon Dr. Greg Muehlebach, from The University of Kansas Health System, explains how coronary calcium scoring helps detect hidden heart disease before a heart attack happens. The conversation also explores elevated Lp(a), family history risks, who should consider getting screened. He explains why this quick test is becoming a powerful tool in preventative heart care. This is a real-world look at how early detection can save lives.

Anne Weishaar lived with daily chest pain for years after undergoing triple bypass heart surgery. The pain was caused by angina, a condition often linked to reduced blood flow to the heart and coronary artery disease. At times, the pain spread into her arms, shoulders and neck, forcing her to rely on nitroglycerin tablets just to get through the day. In this episode of All Things Heart, Anne shares what it was like to live with chronic angina and why she decided to take part in a clinical trial at The University of Kansas Health System. Her doctors explain what angina is, why it is not the same as a heart attack, and how a small hourglass-shaped device called a coronary sinus reducer may help improve blood flow to areas of the heart. They also discuss who may qualify for the clinical trial, how the device is implanted, possible risks and what this new approach could mean for patients still searching for relief. This is a hopeful look at innovation in heart care and a new option for people living with ongoing chest pain.

A routine physical led to a life-changing discovery for 40-year-old Per Christensen. After years of other health challenges and countless medical tests, a nurse practitioner heard a faint heart murmur that no one had noticed before. Further testing at The University of Kansas Health System revealed Per had been living with a congenital heart defect called a bicuspid aortic valve. In this episode of All Things Heart, Per shares his journey from diagnosis to open heart surgery, including the Ross procedure performed by cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Todd Crawford. Dr. Crawford explains what a bicuspid aortic valve is, how it can go undetected into adulthood, and why the Ross procedure was the right option. The conversation also covers heart murmurs, preventive care, valve replacement, cardiac rehab, recovery after heart surgery, and why keeping a routine physical can make a life-changing difference.

A college student thought he had heartburn, but it turned out to be a life-threatening aortic dissection caused by undiagnosed Marfan syndrome. In this episode of All Things Heart, The University of Kansas Health System shares the story of Nicholas Counts, who collapsed just weeks before graduating from KU and woke up in the hospital after emergency open heart surgery. Nicholas joins cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Tyler Zorn, emergency physician Dr. Brandon Ricke, and cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Gustello who helped get him air-lifted to The University of Kansas Health System for surgery to repair his aorta. The conversation covers aortic dissection symptoms, how to tell the difference between heartburn and a serious heart emergency, what happens during aortic dissection surgery, and why genetic testing can be important after a rare cardiac event. Doctors also explain how Marfan syndrome affects connective tissue and why some people may not show the typical outward signs.

It's the latest wellness buzzword—but what is inflammation really? From TikTok diets to expensive spa treatments, everyone is talking about "resetting" their body. Today, we're separating the hype from the healthcare reality.

After a stroke, heart failure, and being told hospice was his only option, Terrance Bruce's family refused to give up—seeking new care that ultimately changed everything. With the help of an LVAD and later a groundbreaking Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) heart transplant, Terrance overcame a life-threatening infection and received a second chance at life. Today, he's feeling like a new man—proof that hope and innovation can rewrite even the most uncertain outcomes.

After a stroke, heart failure, and being told hospice was his only option, Terrance Bruce's family refused to give up—seeking new care that ultimately changed everything. With the help of an LVAD and later a groundbreaking Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) heart transplant, Terrance overcame a life-threatening infection and received a second chance at life. Today, he's feeling like a new man—proof that hope and innovation can rewrite even the most uncertain outcomes.

A young mom lived with years of unexplained pain before doctors finally diagnosed pelvic congestion syndrome. The condition, caused by enlarged pelvic veins, is often overlooked in women with chronic pelvic pain. After a specialized minimally invasive procedure, she finally found relief.

Robert Frias was extremely sick- a heart transplant changed his life. He's here with his doctors to reveal what it's like to go through a transplant and discuss his quality of life on the other side.

Manuel Romo lost his twin brother, sister, and mother to a genetic condition no one knew they had. Years later, a new diagnosis and lifesaving heart surgery revealed the true cause—and gave him a future. Manuel joins specialists from The University of Kansas Health System to discuss Loeys-Dietz syndrome, monitoring hidden heart risks, and the importance of speaking up, getting checked, and listening to the people who love you.