Hedwiges Maduro will be able to resume his playing career after a leading cardiologist assured him that a heart defect is not a serious threat.
Sevilla midfielder will play on despite heart problem
Sevilla midfielder Hedwiges Maduro will be able to resume his playing career after a leading cardiologist assured him that a heart defect would not cause a serious threat to his life.
The Netherlands international joined the Spanish club two months ago after four years at Valencia, but there were fears his professional career could be over when the rare congenital condition was discovered three weeks back.
However, after visiting the Centre for Coronary Artery Anomalies at the Texas Health Institute for a series of tests, it has been determined the 27-year-old can continue to play at the highest level.
"Hedwiges Maduro was diagnosed three weeks ago with a congenital anomaly in the coronary arteries," reads a statement on Sevilla's
official website.
"These anomalies are rare and some of its variants are linked to sudden deaths, so it was vital to establish the type of anomaly and its risk profile for competitive sport.
"For this it was decided to consult with Dr Paolo Angelini, director of the Centre for Coronary Artery Anomalies at the Texas Health Institute, as he is the leading world expert in this type of pathology.
"The player was subjected to various tests in Houston in order to pinpoint the exact characteristics of the anomaly.
No vital risk
"Dr Angelini's conclusion is that it is not a variant that poses a vital risk and that it has responded adequately to stress tests carried out. Therefore, the experts considered there was no need for surgery and no reason to stop professional activity.
"However, as a security measure, a device has been implanted which has the task of monitoring his heart rate during the next few months to maintain a comprehensive monitoring.
"The player will return to work in the next few days, although he cannot train with the group for two weeks, a period set aside to allow him to recover completely from one of the tests carried out."
