“If it was a few years ago, I might not be here” - celebrating 30 years of the Cardiac Surgery Service | Latest news

In 2024, Phil was treated at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) Cardiac Surgery Service for a leaking heart valve. As the centre turns 30 years old, Phil reflects on the positive impact the ‘amazing’ team had on his life and how different it could have been without them. 
 
NUH Cardiac Surgery Service opened in September 1995, with the Trent Cardiac Centre building opening 11 years later.  
 
Phil Parr (59) from Nottingham has had several surgeries at the Trent Cardiac Centre and said: “If it was a few years ago, I might not be here. The advances in technology and surgery are just amazing, and the centre is an incredible place!  

 

“I had a few complications and needed further surgery, but everything was well explained, and the staff were so knowledgeable. I can’t thank the staff enough for the care they provided me. They were absolutely amazing and couldn’t do enough to help.” 
 
Every year the service treats more than 500 patients performing elective, urgent and emergency operations. In the past 30 years more than 170,00 patients have been treated, with 40% of surgeries being urgent and 60% being elective. 
 
The most performed surgery is a coronary artery bypass graft, followed by aortic value replacement. The service also offers mitral valve repairs, complex aortic surgery procedures and minimal invasive valve repairs and replacements. 
 
Carl Walster (56) is also from Nottingham and received treatment at the Trent Cardiac Centre in 2023, after a rupture in his aorta.  
 
Reflecting on his treatment, he said: “The consultant, doctors, nurses and all the other staff who were involved in my operation and my aftercare at Trent Cardiac Centre were absolutely fantastic, I don't think I would have gotten any better care anywhere else.” 

John Campbell, Chief Perfusionist at NUH, said: “This significant milestone for the service has been a great opportunity to reflect on the amazing care provided over the years.   
 
“Over the past 30 years, the service has completed over 17,000 cardiac surgical procedures. I am very proud to be part of this team and look forward to what the service will achieve in the next 30 years." 
 
Tom Turner (88) from Nottingham suffered from rheumatic fever as a child which caused heart problems later in his life. He said: “I had open heart surgery in 1993 and have had several pacemakers fitted and have ongoing check-ups at the Trent Cardiac Centre. 

“The treatment I have received has always been excellent. I am a committee member of several patient participation groups and am part of the Nottingham Cardiac Support Group. I try to give back wherever possible, a small way to express my gratitude for those who have cared for me over the years.” 

The Nottingham Cardiac Support Group was founded in 1991 by hospital staff and patients and has been supporting people living with heart conditions and raising funds for the hospital ever since. 

Roland Malkin, Patient Support Group Chair, said: “We’re proud to have been part of the Trent Cardiac Centre’s journey from the start. The centre has saved lives, and our role is to help people rebuild them. Often, it’s the simple things - someone who understands what you’ve been through, or a few reassuring words that make all the difference. 
 
“The group has helped generations of patients not only survive heart problems but also live well after them.” 
 
To find out more about the group, visit the Cardiac Support Group website or email development@heartsupport.co.uk.