Medical testing revealed that Letang had a PFO since birth, which may have contributed to his stroke, leading to him being prescribed blood thinners and missing 10 weeks of play in the 2013-14 season.

He experienced a second stroke in November 2022, but returned to play within two weeks due to the milder nature of the stroke and his previous experience with the condition.

Head coach Mike Sullivan referred to Letang's absence from practice as a medical appointment.

This season, Letang recorded nine goals and 21 assists in 74 games, marking his lowest point total since the 2009-10 season.

Letang's absence is a significant loss for the Penguins as they conclude a disappointing season.

Kris Letang, defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins, underwent successful heart surgery on April 16, 2025, to repair a patent foramen ovale (PFO), a small hole in the heart.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Conrad Smith at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, with an expected recovery time of four to six weeks.

The Penguins announced that Letang is expected to fully recover in 4-6 weeks, during which he will miss the team's final game against the Washington Capitals.

Despite his health challenges, Letang has remained a key player for the Penguins, averaging 23:32 of ice time over 74 games in the 2024-25 season.

At 37 years old, Letang averaged a team-high 23:32 minutes of ice time per game and is signed through the 2027-28 season.

The Penguins, with a record of 33-36-12, will miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the third consecutive season after qualifying for 16 straight years.

Letang has a history of health issues, including strokes in 2014 and 2022, related to the same heart condition earlier in his career.