Outcomes 2019 - Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital BSWHHVH_646_2019 Outcomes JOOMAG MOD | Page 23

systemic embolism based on CHADS2
or CHADS2-VASc scores and are
recommended for anticoagulation therapy
• Have an appropriate rationale to seek a
non-pharmacologic alternative to oral
anticoagulation, taking into account the safety
and effectiveness of the device compared
to Warfarin
Heart Rhythm Center - Dallas
In fiscal year 2019, patients with complex heart
rhythm disorders from throughout the region
continued to seek the medical expertise and
technology offered at the Heart Rhythm Center
at Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular
Hospital – Dallas. The center’s team of specialists
on the medical staff is comprised of fellowship-
trained cardiac electrophysiologists with
intensive training in evaluating and treating heart
arrhythmias—along with experienced nurse
practitioners and nurses.
Patients benefit from accurate diagnoses and
treatment of irregular heartbeat conditions such
as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, atrial
flutter, atrial tachycardia, PACs and PVCs, and
other related arrhythmias. The team provides
physicians and patients with information
on heart arrhythmias and evidence-based
treatment options including medication therapy,
catheter-based procedures and surgery.
Specialized interventions include:
• 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
Heart rhythm disorders and research in FY19:
STOP Persistent AF clinical trial
• Are at increased risk for stroke and
Heart Rhythm Center clinicians have historically
played a pivotal role in clinical research studies
that have led to the development and approval
of many practical, advanced interventions.
For example, Baylor Scott & White Heart and
Vascular Institute has enrolled patients in a
study to monitor the safety and effectiveness
of a left atrial appendage (LAA) closure device.
In addition, the Heart Rhythm Center offers
patients access to an array of clinical research
trials examining new devices and treatment
methods for cardiac arrhythmias. Patients are
evaluated on an individual basis to determine if
they are candidates for a clinical trial.
The STOP Persistent AF trial focuses on the
safety and efficacy of a dry-balloon device
in those with recurrent, symptomatic atrial
fibrillation (AFib) that has not been controlled
by medication. Principal investigators for the
study: Peter Wells, MD, and Kevin Wheelan, MD,
cardiologists on the medical staff of Baylor Scott
& White Heart and Vascular Hospital – Dallas.
For information about the Heart Rhythm
Center, physicians may call 214.820.5306.
LAAO device is suitable for patients with
nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who:
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Patient education and support
Wired for Life is an educational class for patients
with implantable cardioverter defibrillators
(ICDs). The electrophysiology team provides
patients with guidance, encouragement and
support on the 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 vest. A workshop for patients with ICDs is
offered six times per year by clinical experts
from Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular
Hospital – Dallas. In fiscal year 2019, more than
120 patients attended this class. The class is also
open to anyone in the community who has an
ICD—regardless of where the ICD was implanted.
To learn more about Wired for Life classes,
visit BaylorHeartHospital.com/Events.