More details emerge on Kris Letang’s much-needed heart surgery

Earlier on Wednesday, ahead of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ last game of the season, the team announced that defenseman Kris Letang underwent heart surgery.

“Letang had successful closure of a patent foramen ovale (PFO; small hole in the heart). The procedure was performed at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital by interventional cardiologist Dr. Conrad Smith.

“The expected recovery time is four to six weeks.”

After the morning skate, head coach Mike Sullivan provided more information on Letang’s procedure and why it was necessary for the veteran blue liner to go under the knife.

“I think he’s pleased that he ultimately made the decision to do it, and move by it.”

Letang came to visit his teammates at the rink of Wednesday and looked good according to them.

“I think he wants to play until he’s 50,” said captain Sidney Crosby.

Coach Sullivan also explained how the procedure was something in the works for a while and that it wasn’t reactionary. He confirmed the hole Letang had surgery to close was the same one that’s been well-documented with his strokes. He mentioned that Letang is a bit banged up physically, anyway, and they decided it was an opportune time to get the procedure done.

Thankfully, and Penguins’ fans will love hearing this, Sullivan said there is no concern about Letang’s health or his career going forward.

In 74 games this season, Letang put up nine goals and 30 assists.

Throughout his NHL career, the veteran blue liner has suffered two strokes. He won the Masterton Trophy in 2023 after returning from his second stroke just 12 days after the event during the 2022-23 season. A veteran of 1,161 career games, all with Pittsburgh, Letang has 175 goals and 772 points.

We wish Letang the best recovery.