"Dr. Brinkman took time to explain the aortic valve problem I had. He also explained how he will resolve the situation. He could repair the bicuspid aortic valve so I can keep my own tissue. Surgery worked out great and I'm ever grateful to him."
-- Arijit Chandra, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 12/05/2023
"My home is in the greater New Orleans Louisiana area, and I was searching for better surgical alternatives than given by my local cardiologist at the time of diagnosis. Using a 3rd party referral service called 2nd MD, I was linked up with Dr. William Brinkman as one of the medical leaders in the United States for my congenital heart problem.
As it turned out my aortic valve problem was found about 13 months before surgical need. Dr. Brinkman was very helpful with both evaluating the right time for surgery as well as the preferred procedure once it was time.
Once time for the procedure, Dr. Brinkman went to work making sure that I was prepared for surgery as well as the transition period after as an out-of-town patient. What set the process apart as one of the best surgical experiences one could hope for was the way Dr. Brinkman and his staff worked seamlessly with the Baylor Scott and White Heart hospital. The staff at the Heart Hospital have vast knowledge and a work together culture that is second to none. I sent my wife to the hotel to sleep every night post operation because my every need was taken care of with great detail.
I highly recommend Dr. Brinkman and the Heart Hospital in Plano for your heart needs as one of the best doctor and hospital combo’s you could possibly hope for!"
-- Scott Blackwell, Aortic Valve, Pulmonary Valve, Ross Procedure, 12/04/2023
"Dr. Brinkman performed a thoracic aortic aneurysm repair on my ascending aorta.
Our appointment beforehand was very informative; he reviewed the many tests I had had and explained my condition, risks and benefits of surgical repair, and what to expect post op. Due to requiring a higher quality resolution than what my tests provided, he requested several test be repeated but this time at Baylor and with his parameters. I thought that showed his expertise and underlined his insistence on knowing exactly what was going on inside before surgery.
He was kind, professional, knowledgeable, and focused. The surgery went perfectly and he met personally with my husband immediately afterward to explain the outcome. I had complete confidence in Dr. Brinkman throughout the entire experience."
-- Diane Mabeley, Aortic Valve, Median Sternotomy, 09/29/2023
"I had valve replacement and an ascending aorta bypass. Praise the Lord that I was referred to Dr. Brinkman! I write this recommendation one day post discharge."
-- Mark Reeder, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 09/07/2023
"We love Dr. Brinkman! His bedside manner and professionalism were excellent. Out of all of our experiences with doctors in our area (Lubbock,TX), Dr. Brinkman is by far the best. He was knowledgeable about the procedure he was going to perform as well as prepared for any complications or alternative techniques for surgery. I am healthier and alive due to his skills and excellence. I will forever be grateful to him."
-- Andrea Cortes, Aortic Valve, 09/06/2023
"Dr. William Brinkman was referred to us by cardiologist, Dr. Sameh Sayfo in BS&W Plano Legacy Heart Center.
I must admit, when I was facing the prospect of aortic valve replacement thorough an Open-Heart Surgery, I was apprehensive and frightened.
Dr. Brinkman was amazing! He took the time to explain everything and answer my questions without making me feel rushed. My valve issues were congenital, so I had never experienced proper valve/ heart function. The procedure went great and I'm feeling better than I ever have. I don't ever plan on needing heart surgery again, but if I do, I will do whatever I can to have Dr Brinkman as my surgeon.
Dr. William Brinkman was very reassuring and had such confidence in my surgery outcome, that I knew I was with the right physician. My surgery was successful, Dr. Brinkman and all the staff at Plano Heart Hospital were all phenomenal!
Dr. Brinkman visited me post-surgery to ensure that I understand exactly what had been accomplished and why. And he kept visiting me and his assistants on daily basis, I am truly blessed to have had Dr. Brinkman as my surgeon. I would gladly recommend him to anyone needing heart surgery!!
However, Dr. Brinkman and his staff as well as everyone at the hospital were amazing. They went above and beyond what I expected.
Praise the Lord that I was referred to Dr. Brinkman!
Thank you again to Dr. Brinkman and his entire team and all the nurses and staff, in particular Ms. Hicks, Michelle for her continuous kindness at the Heart Hospital of Plano. We made the best choice and could not be happier. You’re in great hands with Dr. Brinkman without a doubt."
-- Ahmed Kellesly, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/29/2023
"Dr. Brinkman was a wonderful surgeon for my particular situation. For many years I had aortic valve issues as well as an aortic aneurysm and it was finally time for the surgery.
The surgery was totally explained to me and has played out exactly as expected. I could not be more complimentary regarding his explanation of the surgery and his great job and care. His bedside manner was exemplary. All of the encouraging words from anyone to whom I mentioned Dr. Brinkman's name could not have been more true. Thank you, Dr. Brinkman."
-- Allen Perry, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 08/18/2023
"I cannot explain how grateful my family and I are for having Dr. Brinkman perform my surgery. I feel great. All is well. Thanks to Dr. Brinkman and his wonderful staff."
-- James Weidert, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/09/2023
"Dr. Brinkman was amazing! He took the time to explain everything and answer my questions without making me feel rushed. My valve issues were congenital so I had never experienced proper valve/ heart function. The procedure went great and I'm feeling better than I ever have. I don't ever plan on needing heart surgery again, but if I do, I will do whatever I can to have Dr Brinkman as my surgeon."
-- C Conkle, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, David Procedure, 08/01/2023
"I must admit, when I was facing the prospect of aortic valve replacement and coronary bypass surgery, I was apprehensive and frightened.
Dr. William Brinkman was very reassuring and had such confidence in my surgery outcome, that I knew I was with the right physician. My surgery was successful, and Dr. Brinkman and all the staff at Plano Heart Hospital were all phenomenal!
If you have a heart condition, I would highly recommend Dr. Brinkman and The Plano Heart Hospital and the quality of care you receive. "
-- Ross Bausone, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/19/2023
"I am a retired Paramedic and don't hand out praise to people easily. However, Dr. Brinkman and his staff as well as everyone at the hospital were amazing. They went above and beyond what I expected.
I never had anyone who didn't spend time to explain everything that was going to occur and and what I would be going through. No one ever left my room without making sure I had everything that I needed and understood the progress of my case and what to expect next.
I have told everyone I know that if you have a major cardiac surgery that has to be performed, the hospital in Plano and the staff there make it the best place on the planet to be."
-- Don Royder, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 07/18/2023
"The Best!!"
-- Gary Hurd , Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/11/2023
"Dr. William Brinkman was referred to us by cardiologist, Dr. Kevin Theleman, in Dallas. We could not have been happier with his bedside manner and professionalism at all times.
He was so personable and detailed in regards to going through all the steps with my dad prior to scheduled surgery, he made him, my mom and his 3 of the 5 kids in Texas feel very comfortable with his professionalism at all times.
Dr. Brinkman was very thorough and has the most amazing team that worked with him and all the nurses at the Heart Hospital as well.
We could not have asked for a more professional, kind, amazing team during such a difficult time for the entire family. It was a very hard decision to make. We could not be more happy with the results and his team from start to finish. We would highly recommend Dr. Brinkman to anyone who needs any heart surgery. He is the best and we’re so thankful and grateful to him for giving us 15/20 more years with our dad.
The most professional and kind-hearted doctor and team our family has ever met. (Fyi, my dad and brother are physicians themselves. We drove from Houston to Plano to come to Dr Brinkman.)
Thank you again to Dr. Brinkman and his entire team and all the nurses and staff at the Heart Hospital of Plano. We made the best choice and could not be happier. You’re in great hands with Dr. Brinkman without a doubt.
Written by Ronit Konwar (the patient's son)"
-- Seymour Goldberg, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/30/2023
"Dr. Brinkman is AMAZING!! His patient care was beyond what I have ever experienced. He took the time to understand my case and the struggles resulting from seeing other surgeons with vastly different opinions on treatment options. He explained everything involved in terms that my wife and I could understand. He allowed us the time to review options and ask questions, allowing us to make an informed decision.
Once my procedure began, he realized that he would have to deviate from the plan, he skillfully made decisions that ensured the best possible outcome. After my procedure was completed, he fully briefed my family on what he had done and more importantly, why he completed the procedure as done.
Dr. Brinkman visited me post-surgery to ensure that I understand exactly what had been accomplished and why. I am truly blessed to have had Dr. Brinkman as my surgeon. I would gladly recommend him to anyone needing heart surgery!!"
-- Frank Murray, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 05/23/2023
"To me, Dr. Brinkman is a god sent. He performed my Aortic Valve Replacement, fixed my Ascending Aortic Aneurysm, and performed a triple bypass (Coronary Artery Bypass).
Prior to surgery, Dr. Brinkman answered all our questions, and clearly explained to me what to expect, while my surgery was long and complicated, he made the right call at the right time. Dr. Brinkman has got a team of highly talented and dedicated people everyone great bedside manner and every meeting was very informative and helpful.
I highly recommend Dr. Brinkman, he not only saved my life but also gave me the quality of life that I am happy with. "
-- Kalyanaraman Rajamani, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 05/10/2023
"Dr. Brinkman was very thorough on what he was going to do at surgery. He has a phenomenal surgical team and they replaced my Aorta and Aorta Root with some complications during surgery.
As he was replacing my Aorta he said his worst nightmare came true as my Aorta was so calcified that every part of it just disintegrated in his hands. But Praise the Lord him and his team came together and had a plan and worked together to save my life. He did tell me after surgery that I was real close to Cardiac Arrest and we did surgery at the perfect time.
I highly recommend Dr. Brinkman. His bedside manner was very informative, patient and kind. His whole team were amazing as well. He saved my life."
-- Cindy Henson , Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 04/12/2023
"Dr. Brinkman was straight forward on how bad my heart was. But, he spoke to me with a steady voice of confidence that he could fix me up to live longer. My recovery has been a journey up until now with everyday improvements."
-- Victor Gamez, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Transcatheter, 04/12/2023
"Having Dr. Brinkman perform my surgery was phenomenal! He always expressed his concern for me and to ensure that my recovery was going smooth. Any questions I had, he answered. When it came to the results of every test, he explained the results to me at a level of understanding. Additionally, he gave his undivided attention to my family and addressed their questions and concerns.
Dr. Brinkman and his team truly care for their patients. My family and I always had a sense of relief speaking to him and his team. What I truly appreciate the most is that being an out-of-town patient, they still make time to follow-up with me to ensure that my recovery continues to progress. Thank you Dr. Brinkman!"
-- Maria Oliva, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, Valve Replacement, Maze Procedure, 04/07/2023
"Dr. Brinkman replaced my aortic valve which was failing. The new valve is functioning perfectly. He is a gifted surgeon and all around great guy. I highly recommend Dr. Brinkman."
-- Steve Puckett, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/06/2023
"Wow!!! Dr. Brinkman and his staff were incredible. It was great from first appointment to surgery to post appointment. Thanks Dr Brinkman for making me feel so comfortable before and after surgery."
-- Brent Hillery, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/04/2023
"Excellent."
-- Randall Zeller, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Maze Procedure, 03/22/2023
"Dr. Brinkman is more than just a surgeon. He's a surgeon that truly cares about the well-being of his patients. Knowledgeable, caring, informative, trusting, are just a few adjectives to describe Dr. Brinkman."
-- Troy Oakley, Aortic Valve, Root Replacement, 01/03/2023
"Dr. Brinkman did an aortic valve replacement for a bicuspid valve and aneurysm repair in the ascending aorta. He answered all my questions pre-op and gave me confidence in his knowledge and care.
The procedure was without problem. Post-op, Dr. Brinkman and his team provided excellent care in the hospital. The procedure was minimally-invasive and left me with a small scar. I had no pain. I highly recommend Dr. Brinkman."
-- Elizabeth Seabrook, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 08/16/2022
"Excellent outcome from my cardiac surgery. Highly recommend!"
-- Paula Marie Pippin, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, 06/21/2022
"Dr. Brinkman was super. He took time to listen to all my concerns, answer all of my questions, including those of my family. He visited me in the hospital everyday including Easter.
So far, almost a year later, everything has gone extremely well with my new valve and the surgery results in general. Thanks, Dr. Brinkman!!!"
-- Walter Schwagerman, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 04/16/2022
"Amazing. Nobody wants to have this surgery...but if you find yourself having to have it, try the amazing doctors at Baylor, Scott & White, The Heart Hospital in Plano, TX. I was lucky enough to have Dr. Ryan and Dr. Brinkman do my surgery. Everything went smoothly.
The hospital team is really amazing as well. Instant attention to your needs and they have experience, education and integrate perfectly with the doctors and each other.
It seems this smallish hospital gets more and more acclaim every year. And it deserves it. I felt lucky to have my needs taken care of here. "
-- Richard Williams, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, Maze Procedure, 10/22/2020
"Unbelievable, Dr. Brinkman was great and took great care of me the patient. But, more importantly took better care of my wife who was worried about me and my health. His staff and everyone at the Plano Heart Hospital were great. What a great experience considering the situation."
-- Ron Blank, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 05/19/2020
"Fantastic Doctor and person. I came through with flying colors."
-- Frank Minden, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/24/2020
"Great doctor. Completely satisfied."
-- John Martin, Aortic Valve, Pulmonary Valve, 12/31/2019
"Dr. Brinkman is a "God Sent" doctor, explained the procedure to me and my family to alleviate any anxiety that we might be experiencing. Also put me at ease before, during, and after the procedure. He is an A+++ Surgeon."
-- Olugbenga Fasusi, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Valve Replacement, Root Replacement, 12/20/2019
"Very patient oriented. He listened to my concerns & answered all questions (as well as my wife's). He is head of the heart valve surgery team at Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital in Plano. He is highly regarded amongst fellow physicians in other counties away from Dallas as well. I highly recommend him & his team. I had no cardiac issues after my procedure."
-- Mark Mobley, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 12/17/2019
"Brinkman did a great job. I had minimal pain afterwards. Now, I feel much better than I did before the surgery."
-- Randy Neal, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 08/21/2019
"Dr. Brinkman saved my life. After a CT Heart Scan that showed my ascending aorta was the size of a coke can, Dr. Brinkman made the repair. I can't say enough great things about this surgeon......... He is a very SPECIAL, gifted surgeon and I highly recommend him.
The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano is also a special place. Their nurses that are THE BEST.
I feel 100% and have a new lease on life!"
-- Robert Torti, Aortic Valve, Root Replacement, 01/23/2018
"Everybody I've read anything from or talked to says the same thing, Dr. Brinkman is special, and pretty fantastic. This is an opinion which I, pun intended, whole-heartedly share! He is patient, empathetic, approachable, kind and excellent in his field by all accounts. I would recommend him to my family, if necessary, and would hope to be lucky enough to have him on my side should I ever need any future cardiac surgery. I had an aortic valve replacement and a surgical maze procedure done. It took about four hours and my recovery path seems to be right on target. I found all aspects of my treatment at The Heart Hospital, Plano, TX to be outstanding."
-- Paul Nixon, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Maze Procedure, 11/14/2017
"What a great Doctor and real person. Had no problems with Dr Brinkman. Good bedside manner. Attentive to each one of his patients. Im so HAPPY with Dr. Brinkman, I wanna give him a HUG!!"
-- Donna Abraham, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 07/18/2017
"Dr. Brinkman was easy to talk to and answered all my questions. He checked on me the very next day and spoke with my family. I am eight weeks out and recovering very well. Initially I was concerned my shortness of breath was caused by COPD, Dr. Brinkman ordered a PFT and determined my lungs were not in bad shape, which gave me the option for an AVR (bovine tissue valve)
Thanks to Dr. Brinkman and his wonderful stall, I have a new lease on life!"
-- Gary Wiggins, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 06/27/2017
"Dr Brinkman appears to be determined, confident, patience and persistent to get optimal results after my surgery. He visited me at my bedside to evaluate my healing progress. My surgery results was very impressive. I experienced minimal discomfort at night after my surgery and the result was satisfactory."
-- Cyril Doherty, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/26/2017
"I am 51 years old and my bicuspid aortic valve replacement surgery was supposed to last 4-6 hours. I also had to have an aneurysm that needed to be repaired. Dr. Brinkman was done in 3 hours. I went in on Feb 2. and was home on Feb 7. I feel great!. I would recommend Dr. Brinkman to anyone that needs a heart valve replacement. He answers all of your questions and concerns and has a great sense of humor. "
-- Rodney Cooper, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 02/02/2017
"I highly recommend Dr. Brinkman. I had my surgery 2 1/2 months ago and my recovery could not be going better. I have been following Dr. Brinkman's instructions in taking it slow, and in doing cardio rehab. I am truly amazed at how little pain I had during all of my recovery.
Pre and Post Surgery, Dr. Brinkman and his staff were always available to answer any questions, and to put my family at ease with my treatment plan. I am now transitioning back to my cardiologist for ongoing checkups, but Dr. Brinkman stated that his office will always be a resource that I can call on as I have questions, or if there are other needs.
Dr. Brinkman performed my surgery at the Baylor Scott and White Heart Hospital in Plano Tx, and I can not say enough about the staff and the wonderful care that they provided as well. Dr. Brinkman and the Heart Hospital are now both highly recommended by me, and I am so thankful that they were both recommended to me by my cardiologist.
Thank you Dr. Brinkman for all of the years that are still ahead."
-- Doug Armitage, Aortic Valve, Root Replacement, 01/30/2017
"I was at ease with him the moment I met him. Trust was established almost immediately. My research regarding Dr Brinkman stated he was the best in my area. His bedside manner expressed kindness and very interested in the recovery. He saved my life. I love this doctor."
-- Mary Lou Adams, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 08/17/2016
"Everything went well. I will be here to celebrate my 80th Birthday in a couple of weeks due to Dr. Brinkman and his team skill and caring support. I am a survivor! Thanks to the Valve Clinic Team I just had my 2 year checkup with flying colors. "
-- Francis Daniels, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Mini Sternotomy, 08/03/2016
"Dr. Brinkman did a fantastic job on my aortic repair, and I am so thankful for his excellent care!"
-- Karen Bessel, Aortic Valve, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, David Procedure, 04/14/2015
"If having surgery can be described as wonderful - then I am the one to express just that.
Dr. Brinkman is experienced, professional, and completely trustworthy. His caring "bedside" manner - both in his office, as well as at your actual bedside, is most comforting when facing a procedure that is difficult and delicate. Dr. Brinkman's staff is equally professional and willing to be helpful in any given situation. Whenever I had questions, I was provided answers that I could understand. If I needed a hand to hold to ease my fears, Dr. Brinkman's team was there for me. My surgical procedure was successful. I have had no problems recovering.
If I ever have another procedure that requires the need of an Aortic Specialist, I would not hesitate to call Dr. Brinkman. I can refer him without any reservation or hesitancy. I consider myself fortunate to have had a doctor, who had my life in his hands, be Dr. Brinkman."
-- Sally Walls, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/18/2015
"Dr. Brinkman was fantastic! Great bedside manners, easy to talk to and I felt his "human" side! I could tell he cared about me and he made me feel 100% confident that I was going to come through this surgery with flying colors and I did thanks to him! I made me feel at ease and there was just this confidence that I had in him! I would recommend him to anyone……he made me 100% again!"
-- Bernard Schraegle, Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Valve Repair, Median Sternotomy, 12/17/2014
"I always felt confident in Dr. Brinkman. He came highly recommended by two of my cardiologists. His personal manner is comfortable and easy-going.
I had some health issues that made my healing a higher risk, but I came through it all beautifully and I feel that I am healing well!"
-- Jacquelyn Schafer, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 04/08/2014
"After being turned down by two local surgeons, one of them recommended Dr. Brinkman. I encountered the most professional friendly staff I have ever encountered. The procedure lasted 6.5 hours and included replacement of the aortic valve, repair of the aortic aneurysm and 4 bypasses.
I was out of the hospital in 5 days and released to return to work in 30 days with no restrictions. My employer required an additional Echocardiogram. When the technician pulled it up on the screen, she said, "Wow!" When I asked what was wrong she stated, "Nothing. That is a beautiful valve". When I told her who it was, she said "He sure knows what he is doing. Everything is in place like it should be". To Dr. Wiliam L. Brinkman, YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
-- Timothy Montgomery, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 02/13/2014
"Excellent!!! The entire experience has been very positive -- from the beginning through the recovery. I am very glad of the decisions I made regarding my surgeon."
-- Gary Gray, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 12/17/2013
"I can't say enough good things regarding my experience with Dr. Brinkman and his office staff. He made me fell like he cared and was very knowledgeable on the procedure. His office staff was always very pleasant and made me fell like I was in good hands. I highly recommend him."
-- Virginia McRae, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/30/2013
"Dr Brinkman was in the hospital during my angiogram. He looked at the pictures and developed a plan for double bypass, aortic valve replacement including root and ascending aorta before I left the hospital from this procedure.
When the operation took place, he also fixed a few other things to stop my atrial fibrillation. He checked on me after surgery twice a day. I was in over Thanksgiving and he was always available. He is a quiet guy but you just know he is awesome. His nurse practitioners who also visit at least once a day are also very knowledgeable and great at explaining all aspects of the surgery and recovery including what all the medications do. "
-- Allen Helms, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, Root Replacement, 11/25/2013
"Dr William Brinkman is very good and well experienced surgeon. He was very friendly with me and he listened very carefully to my questions. I did not notice any single problem with him. Dr. Brinkman is so nice. Thank you very much to him for save my life."
-- jagpal Bhatia, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/22/2013
"Dr Brinkman is very professional. His description and opinion on my procedure was frank and detailed. He kept my family informed of my condition during the surgery. Dr Brinkman is friendly and encouraging. The valve replacement was successful and I am recovering nicely."
-- John Hyatt, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 11/12/2013
"Dr. Brinkman spent an additional 5 hours in surgery to repair the valve rather than implant a mechanical valve. My family and I are grateful for his kindness and consideration. He has a central focus on his patient whether at the hospital or at his office. The hospital staff hold him in high regard for his abilities and his kindness. You could not ask for a better surgeon. I am thankful my cardiologist recommended Dr. Brinkman for my procedures."
-- Christopher Rollins, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, 09/30/2013
"Dr. Brinkman was fabulous! He answered all of my questions pre and post surgery. Dr. Brinkman also repaired an aortic aneurysm. The operation was a complete success. I am expected to make a complete, unrestricted recovery, and return to a normal life.
Dr. Brinkman is kind and caring. After surgery, he stayed with me in the hospital until he was sure that all of my questions were answered, and I was comfortable with the recovery plan."
-- Dennis O'Day, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 09/30/2013
"Dr. Brinkman repaired my aortic aneurysm and gave me a new aortic On-X mechanical valve on September 24, 2013 (4 days after my 30th Birthday). I was naturally very nervous about having open heart surgery and had hundreds of questions. Dr. Brinkman was so patient and literally spent hours answering my questions at the appointments before my surgery. He was very considerate to try to meet my needs. Being a younger woman, I was very concerned about how the scar would look. So, he assured me that he would keep the incision as low as possible, which he did. He also had a plastic surgeon close the skin back up to help minimize the scaring. Dr. Brinkman genuinely cares about his patients and is probably the most patient Doctor I have met. I am so thankful for my second chance at life that Dr. Brinkman and modern medicine provided me so that I can live a full life with my husband and 3 year old son. Thank you Dr. Brinkman for saving my life! "
-- Rachel Wright, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, Median Sternotomy, 09/24/2013
"I first met Dr. Brinkman over 4 years ago after discovering I had an aortic root aneurysm. Some of my physician friends referred to the repair as “complex” thoracic surgery, and I was very concerned with both the selection of my surgeon and the facility that would perform the surgery.
After numerous meetings with doctors in three different facilities, I chose Dr. Brinkman for the following reasons:
- His credentials for Aortic valve repair and replacement of the aorta were impeccable and this was backed up by references from physicians that I know personally.
- Dr. Brinkman took the time to review all of my questions and was very realistic and up front with the risks and options available to me.
- Dr. Brinkman coordinated closely with my cardiologist and radiologist every six months to come up with a single consensus view of when surgery was appropriate. He did not push for the surgery prematurely and in the end, he followed my case for 4 years as the aneurism grew worse before recommending surgery.
- His level of confidence and overall optimism is contagious and helps with any patient facing something this serious.
- He is old enough to have experience and young enough to have the stamina for a lengthy fight to save a patient.
The procedure went very well and his entire team was a pleasure to work with; Dr. Brinkman’s follow up with myself and my family has been excellent.
I would not consider a surgeon or facility that did not handle this type of condition at least once a week and was fortunate to have a world class facility like Baylor Heart Hospital in Plano so close to home. The value of a local facility was demonstrated several weeks following my discharge when I had a minor complication and needed to return to the ER.
By the time I arrived, the staff was fully aware of my condition and had access to all of my medical records and was in direct contact with my physicians. This cannot be discounted if considering travel to a distant location for a complex procedure where you will be completing your recovery back home.
To anyone facing this type of repair all I can say is please don’t wait until it is too late to get it fixed. It is hard to submit to something like this when you have no external symptoms but at some point you have to take the risk of surgery over waiting until it was too late. Dr. Brinkman can be trusted to help determine when the time is right and to do the procedure with great skill and care.
It has been just over 5 months post-surgery for me now and I have fully recovered. I am writing this referral letter from an airplane where I loaded my own luggage in the overhead compartment. The cloud that descended on me and my family with the realization I had this serious condition has now lifted and I am keeping up with my work/travel requirements again as if it was nothing more than a distant memory. Thank you Dr. Brinkman!"
-- Jeffrey Gullo, Aortic Valve, Valve Repair, Root Replacement, 07/16/2013
"This doctor is amazing. His bedside manner was so great and sweet. Dr. Brinkman has such compassion. He cares about his surgery. He cares about what your going to look like when he is done and he makes sure he does everything right. And, he is very handsome too. I would and have recommended this surgeon to everyone I meet. I feel I would have done them an injustice if I didn't recommend the best man for the job at hand. "
-- Rebecca Dutcher, Aortic Valve, Valve Replacement, 03/07/2013
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