Chesapeake Regional Performs 100th Open-Heart Surgery

CHESAPEAKE, Va. – Recently, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare performed its 100th open-heart surgery. The successful emergency surgery was performed by James W. Klena, MD, along with Chesapeake Regional’s open heart surgical team. For the 17-month-old program, this achievement is a testament to the community's need and the dedication of the leadership and clinical teams.

“Performing our 100th open-heart surgery is more than just a number — it represents lives saved, families kept whole, and hope restored,” said Amber Egyud, DNP, RN, NE-BC, FAONL. “This milestone is a reflection of our team’s passion, dedication, and the trust our community places in Chesapeake Regional Healthcare.”

Chesapeake Regional’s first open-heart surgery took place on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. Through a Certificate of Public Need (COPN) request, Chesapeake Regional was approved to introduce open-heart surgery at the hospital in 2023, five years after the hospital’s initial request.

Chesapeake Regional Medical Center continues to expand its heart care program. Construction on a new state-of-the-art Electrophysiology Lab is underway, with completion slated for late November. The lab will expand the ability to perform necessary electrophysiology studies to determine the cause of heart arrhythmias and implant devices, as needed. In addition, the renovations will include dedicated Cardioversion bays and new cardiovascular holding beds.

James W. Klena, MD, a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, is proud of the team, its responsiveness, and highly skilled patient care. “The OR heart team has evolved into an expert medical focus capable of all aspects of cardiac surgery, fulfilling the vision of a comprehensive heart program at Chesapeake Regional. First envisioned by leadership, a strong foundation has been built upon which the community can place its trust.”

Ashesh N. Buch, MB, ChB, MD, FRCP, Medical Director for the Interventional Cardiology program, expressed, “There was seamless coordination between the cardiac catheterization laboratory and the cardiothoracic surgical team, ensuring a positive outcome for the patient. I am honored to be a part of this team.”

Recently named a Best Hospital 2025-2026 by U.S. News & World Report, Chesapeake Regional ranked No. 3 in Hampton Roads and No. 12 (out of 90+) in the state. Chesapeake Regional was also rated as High Performing in 10 Procedures/Conditions, including Heart Attack, Heart Failure and Stroke.

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