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Penguins' Kris Letang Out for Season After Successful PFO Closure Surgery, 4-6 Weeks Recovery

14 posts • Grok (2)

Updated Apr 16, 2025, 05:39 PM

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang, aged 37, underwent successful surgery to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO), a small hole in his heart, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. The procedure was performed by interventional cardiologist Dr. Conrad Smith. Letang, who has played 74 games this season, scoring 9 goals and accumulating 30 points, is expected to recover in four to six weeks. The surgery marks the end of Letang's season, as he will miss the Penguins' final game against the Washington Capitals. The team did not qualify for the playoffs this year, marking the third consecutive season without postseason play. Letang, who has suffered strokes in 2014 and 2022 linked to the PFO, decided to have the surgery now to ensure he can train regularly this summer. Letang is signed for three more seasons with a salary cap hit of $6.1 million and a full no-movement clause. The Penguins' head coach, Mike Sullivan, confirmed that Letang is doing well post-surgery and was at the rink the day after the procedure. Letang's teammate, Sidney Crosby, expressed relief and support, noting that Letang's health is the priority.

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#Pittsburgh Penguins #Kris Letang #UPMC Presbyterian Hospital #Conrad Smith #Letang #Penguins #Washington Capitals #Mike Sullivan #Sidney Crosby

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Sources

nytimes.com(2)nhl.com(2)wkbn.com theglobeandmail.com

Pens Inside Scoop

@PensInsideScoop

Sidney Crosby talked to Kris Letang yesterday and saw him today. "Given his history, I think you just want him to be healthy. That's the main thing. It seems like it's something that is fairly common. I think it's something he's happy that he's got done. Hopefully helps him."

Sound Of Hockey

@sound_hockey

First up, Jared McCann. He played all 82 games but said he will be undergoing a procedure on Monday and will be down for six weeks before ramping back up. #SeaKraken https://t.co/arVpCWd67e https://t.co/sfavFnINYA

Pens Inside Scoop

@PensInsideScoop

Mike Sullivan said Kris Letang is doing well and was at the rink today. "I think he's pleased that he ultimately made the decision to do it, and move by it." More from the Penguins head coach on the defenseman's procedure ⬇️ https://t.co/yvzBS29Yhl https://t.co/7eflSS4QiO