McLaren Flint, part of the statewide McLaren Health Care based in Grand Blanc, has expanded its cardiovascular capabilities and became one of the first hospitals in the country to successfully implant a next-generation cardioverter-defibrillator for patients with dangerously fast or abnormal heart rhythms.
McLaren Flint electrophysiologist Dr. Madar Abed implanted the Aurora Extravascular Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (EV-ICD) for patients whose conditions affecting their heart’s electrical impulses puts them at increased risk for sudden cardiac arrest, an often-life-threatening attack.
“We strive to deliver high-quality patient care, and this technology is another step forward in providing our patients with the latest clinical advancements to manage their cardiac condition,” says Abed. “The Aurora EV-ICD system allows us to offer patients the benefits of traditional ICDs while reducing certain risks associated with placing leads in the heart or veins.”
An implantable cardio-defibrillator is a small, battery-powered device placed in the chest. It continuously monitors the heartbeat and, should it detect an abnormality, can deliver electric shocks through lead wires to return the heart to its normal rhythm.
Traditional ICD leads are inserted into the blood vessel and advanced into the heart for effective placement. The new FDA-approved Aurora EV-ICD leads are placed under the breastbone and remain outside the heart and blood vessels while still being able to deliver the lifesaving defibrillation electrical shock to return the heart to regular rhythm.
“The motivation of our investments in the latest medical technologies are to continuously enhance our care and service offerings and share their benefits to our patients,” says Chris Candela, president and CEO of McLaren Flint. “This expansion of our cardiovascular program, through the addition of the EV-ICD, has allowed us to remain a trusted provider in the region and further advance the confidence our surrounding communities have in knowing that an exceptional level of care is available close to home.”
The updated approach and device lowers patients’ risks for certain complications and enhances their overall experience while living with the condition, according to McLaren Flint.
“McLaren Flint has routinely introduced the latest technology and care procedures to the region, and we are pleased to continue that practice with the Aurora EV-ICD,” says Dr. Varsha Moudgal, chief medical officer at McLaren Flint.
“The minimally invasive nature of the procedure and its updated, innovative approach increases the patient population who can benefit from this lifesaving technology and fight back against the potentially devastating effects of heart disease.”
The minimally invasive implantation procedure is meant to help avoid any open-heart surgery, taking just over an hour and requiring two small incisions. Most patients can return home the same day.
For more information on cardiovascular care at McLaren Flint and to meet the clinical team, visit here.
