Intermountain Health is utilizing advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques and pioneering medical technologies to manage complex vascular conditions and irregular heartbeat disorders across the Intermountain region. The healthcare system's specialized teams are currently employing robotic navigation for heart catheters and developing new 3-D technologies to improve treatment outcomes for patients with atrial fibrillation.
Advanced Vascular Surgical Services
The healthcare provider's vascular surgery division focuses on providing comprehensive blood vessel care through both surgical and non-surgical interventions. According to Intermountain Health, the center maintains the highest volume of heart surgeries in the region, with surgeons utilizing their experience to provide outcomes that rank well above reported national averages across all categories of heart surgery.
Specialized vascular services offered by the team include aortic aneurysm repair, carotid endarterectomy, and both endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). The surgical team also provides dedicated treatment for peripheral artery disease. To facilitate patient recovery and long-term well-being, cardiologists at the facility continue to lead developments in minimally invasive techniques specifically designed for treating various vascular conditions.
Pioneering Heart Rhythm Technology
In the field of electrophysiology, Intermountain Health has established several medical milestones within the Mountain West. The hospital system was the first in the region to offer stereotaxis, which is magnetic robotic navigation for heart catheters. Additionally, cardiac specialists at the institution performed the first implantations of both a leadless ICD and a pacemaker device in the Mountain and Mountain West regions.
To further improve precision in treating atrial fibrillation, specialists are currently developing new 3-D technology intended to provide clearer insight during procedures. The heart rhythm care team manages a wide array of treatments, including ablation therapy, the GALAXY procedure for atrial fibrillation, laser lead extraction, and the MAZE procedure. Other specialized interventions include the WATCHMAN procedure for left atrial appendage closure and the use of both traditional pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators.
Specialized Cardiac Risk Programs
Intermountain Health has implemented specific programs to address urgent cardiac risks, such as the Cardiac Arrhythmia Risk Evaluation (CARE) program. This initiative is designed for patients who require immediate medical attention due to a potential risk of serious heart rhythm disorders, providing these individuals with priority scheduling to ensure timely intervention.
Clinical expertise is provided by specialists such as Dr. Arne Olsen, a vascular surgeon focused on personalized care and clear communication during the treatment journey. In the realm of electroflight, Dr. Geoffrey Orme provides specialized care, focusing on individualized patient needs and preferences in treating irregular heartbeat conditions.
Documented Patient Outcomes
The healthcare system's work highlights several successful patient outcomes through minimally invasive procedures. For example, the 'Convergent Procedure' for atrial fibrillation was utilized to treat a patient named Howard, who was referred to experts at Lutheran Medical Center in Wheat Ridge.
Other documented successes include the use of an alternative to open-heart surgery that allowed patient Ken Criter to resume normal activities within just two weeks. The system also manages high-acuity cases involving advanced technology, such as the use of the SynCardia temporary Total Artificial Heart for patients facing end-stage heart failure.
Preventative Health and Education
Beyond acute surgical interventions, Intermountain Health provides resources regarding long-term cardiovascular health and prevention. The organization emphasizes the impact of lifestyle choices, noting that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 90% of Americans consume more sodium than recommended, which increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
Educational resources provided by the system cover a range of topics, including the relationship between sleep quality, stress, and the nervous system on long-term heart health. The organization also highlights the importance of 150 minutes of weekly physical activity in lowering heart disease risk and improving blood pressure.
Long-term Health Initiatives
For over a decade, programs such as the 100-Day Heart Challenge at Utah Valley Hospital have focused on the efficacy of lifestyle changes in improving cardiovascular health. The system continues to integrate wearable technology and modern monitoring tools into its approach to helping patients manage their heart health through informed, active lifestyles.
