Henrik Lundqvist, celebrated goalie for the Rangers, to undergo heart surgery involving open-chest procedures
Henrik Lundqvist's Open-Heart Surgery Halts Hockey Career
Henrik Lundqvist, the legendary goaltender who spent 15 years with the New York Rangers, announced on Monday morning that he will undergo open-heart surgery. The surgery, scheduled for late October 2021, will involve replacement of the aortic valve, aortic root, and ascending aortic replacement.
The surgery was necessary due to a leaking heart valve and an enlarged aorta, conditions discovered during Lundqvist's post-career health evaluations. Although Lundqvist felt physically ready to continue playing hockey shortly after the surgery, he developed recurring pericarditis (inflammation around the heart), which ultimately ended his playing career.
Lundqvist, who holds the records for wins, saves, save percentage, and shutouts in the Rangers' franchise history, spent 7 weeks skating again after surgery, demonstrating a rapid initial physical recovery. However, ongoing chest pain and inflammation forced a halt to his comeback plans and led to retirement.
The specific heart condition that led to Lundqvist's decision to undergo surgery was not mentioned in the article. It is also unclear whether Lundqvist will continue to play for the New York Rangers after his recovery, as his contract with the team was bought out.
In a statement, Lundqvist expressed staying positive and being set on the road to recovery. He wrote that his focus has shifted from training camp and the upcoming season to his health and what he can and can't do.
Prior to his time with the Rangers, Lundqvist was a goaltender for the Washington Capitals. He signed a one-year deal with the Capitals earlier this year, but the risk of playing before remedying his condition is considered too high. As a result, Lundqvist will spend the coming months figuring out the best course of action.
The article does not provide any information about the timeline for Lundqvist's recovery or his expected return to the ice. Lundqvist announced on Dec. 17, 2021, that he would not participate in the 2021 NHL season due to a heart condition.
Though not explicitly confirmed as Lundqvist’s surgeon, Dr. Eric Roselli of the Cleveland Clinic is noted for performing advanced valve and aortic surgery with excellent outcomes, providing context on the type of expert care Lundqvist likely received. Lundqvist's open-heart surgery and recovery underscore the serious nature of his heart condition and the risks that curtailed his hockey career.
Sports analysts are now discussing Henrik Lundqvist's future in the National Hockey League (NHL) post-surgery, as he tackles a heart condition that ended his hockey career. Despite demonstrating a rapid initial physical recovery, lingering chest pain and inflammation forced his retirement, leaving the possibility of a return to the ice unclear.
