PIKEVILLE, Ky. – Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dermot P. Halpin, M.D., FACS M.D. has successfully performed phase one of the region’s first minimally invasive MAZE procedure for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). The second phase of the procedure is scheduled to be completed by PMC Electrophysiologist Chase Reynolds, M.D.
“This hybrid procedure is for patients who have an irregular heart beat that is not well controlled on medications,” said Dr. Halpin. “To my knowledge, we are the first hospital in Kentucky, east of Louisville, to perform this procedure.”
“By taking a collaborative approach between cardiothoracic surgery and electrophysiology, we can improve outcomes in those patients who have failed more traditional AFib management,” said Dr. Reynolds.
AFib is recognized as a dangerous condition that doubles the risk of death. AFib increases the risk of stroke five to seven times compared to a person without atrial fibrillation and may cause congestive heart failure and uncomfortable symptoms related to a rapid heart rate. Advances in ablation offers the possibility of a cure in many patients.
Dr. Halpin said, “We use a form of energy called radio-frequency on the posterior wall of the left atrium. It is very useful for patients with persistent or refractory AFib. They tend to get great relief with the hybrid approach.”
The procedure brings a more rapid recovery with a shorter hospital stay and it brings a survival advantage to the patient. In general, there are less complications, less noticeable scars, lower risk of infection, less blood loss and a faster return to work.
Dr. Reynolds said, “PMC Electrophysiologist Michael Antimisiaris, M.D. and I are excited to have Dr. Halpin, an incredibly talented surgeon, working alongside us to advance the care of patients with AFib. This is just another way that PMC is bringing the most advanced health care options available to Eastern Kentucky.”
“It is no coincidence that only weeks ago PMC announced the regions first minimally invasive CABG procedure and today we announce the regions first MAZE procedure,” said PMC President and CEO Walter E. May. “At PMC we pride ourselves on the fact that patients do not have to travel out of the area for cutting-edge procedures performed by highly trained physicians.”
For additional information about the minimally invasive MAZE or other procedures available at PMC, call (606) 218-2202 or visit www.pikevillehospital.org.
