Center for Complex Arrhythmias
In fiscal year 2016, patients with complex heart rhythm disorders from throughout the region continued to seek the medical expertise and technology offered at the Center for Complex Arrhythmias( CCA) at Baylor Jack and Jane Hamilton Heart and Vascular Hospital, a part of Baylor Heart and Vascular Services at Dallas.
A nationally recognized team of health care professionals supported by advanced equipment and resources evaluate, treat and care for patients with heart rhythm disorders. The team consists of trained cardiac electrophysiologists – cardiologists with intensive training in evaluating and treating heart arrhythmias on the medical staff at Baylor Hamilton Heart and Vascular Hospital – along with experienced nurse practitioners and nurses. Patients benefit from accurate diagnoses and treatment of irregular heart beat conditions such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, atrial flutter, and atrial tachycardia, PACs and PVCs and other related arrhythmias.
The CCA is a trusted resource for patients, providing information on heart arrhythmias and evidence-based treatment options including medication therapy, catheter-based procedures and surgery. Specialized interventions support the CCA’ s dedication to innovation, including:
• 3D mapping for complex arrhythmia ablation
• Transcatheter ablation therapy, radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation
• Cardiac resynchronization therapy
• Left atrial appendage closure
• Pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillator( ICD) device implantation
• Laser-assisted lead extraction
In addition to CCA’ s commitment to innovation and outstanding outcomes for patients, the Center has played a pivotal role in clinical research – studies that have led to the development and approval of many practical, innovative interventions. For example, Baylor Hamilton Heart and Vascular Hospital has continued to evaluate patients in a study to monitor the safety and effectiveness of the WATCHMAN ® Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device. Based on outstanding results, the device received FDA approval for general use with patients at high risk of developing blood clots in the left atrial appendage. The device prevents clots from traveling to the brain and triggering a stroke. This new intervention offers a feasible alternative to patients taking blood thinners on a long-term basis.
Through the CCA, patients have access to clinical research trials examining new devices and treatment methods for cardiac arrhythmias and are evaluated to determine if they are candidates for a clinical trial.
With a focus on patient-centered care, referring physicians remain a vital part of the treatment team. Members of the CCA healthcare team stay in close and frequent communication with referring physicians about treatment plans for their patients.
WIRED FOR LIFE
Wired For Life is an educational class for patients on Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators( ICDs). The Electrophysiology team provides patients with guidance, encouragement and support on use of their ICDs. Patients suffering from cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure or who have experienced sudden cardiac arrest know that the ICD can be a life-saver. Six times a year, a workshop designed for these patients is offered by clinical experts. In fiscal year 2016, more than 160 patients attended this class and efforts are underway to increase turnout at both Dallas and Fort Worth campuses.
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