Intermountain Health is utilizing advanced minimally invasive interventions and personalized care models to treat structural heart disease and vascular conditions throughout the Intermountain region. The healthcare provider offers specialized programs ranging from transcatheter valve therapies to complex aortic aneurysm repairs, focusing on improving long-term recovery and patient well-being.
Specialized Structural Heart Care
The structural heart disease program at Intermountain Health focuses on repairing structural heart defects through a combination of surgical and non-surgical methods. According to the organization, its physicians are board-certified and highly experienced in utilizing the latest technologies for treating Coronary Heart Disease.
To ensure high standards of emergency care, four of the system's hospitals have earned accreditation as Chest Pain Centers with PCI Resuscitation from the American College of Cardiology. The program provides a comprehensive range of services, including cardiac catheterization, multidisciplinary consultations, advanced imaging, and post-procedure care to support patients through their recovery.
Advancing Medical Innovation
Intermountain Health maintains a leadership role in medical innovation by participating in groundbreaking clinical trials and research. The organization's team is actively involved in studies such as the MitraClip REPAIR MR Study and the Edwards PASCAL Transcatheter Valve Repair System trial, which aim to advance treatment outcomes for complex cardiac conditions.
Beyond clinical trials, the system emphasizes patient education and support as a core component of its structural heart services. This includes providing resources on how lifestyle changes, such as managing sleep quality and stress, can influence long-term heart health.
Comprehensive Vascular Services
The vascular surgery division at Intermountain Health specializes in diagnosing and managing various blood vessel conditions using advanced surgical techniques. The system reports having the highest volume of heart surgeries in the Intermountain region, providing surgeons with unmatched experience in the field.
Treatment options within the vascular program include carotid endarterectomy, aortic aneurysm repair, and both endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). Additionally, the specialists provide dedicated treatment for peripheral artery disease to help patients return to their daily activities.
Patient-Centered Surgical Outcomes
Intermountain Health's vascular surgeons focus on minimally invasive techniques designed to move patients efficiently from treatment to recovery. Dr. Arne Olsen, a skilled vascular surgeon within the system, emphasizes a patient-centered approach through clear communication and personalized care to ensure patients feel supported throughout their treatment journey.
In addition to surgical interventions, the program's outcomes are continuously reviewed and have been reported to rank well above national averages in all categories of heart surgery. This commitment to excellence is paired with a focus on developing new minimally invasive techniques for treating various vascular conditions.
Prevention and Long-Term Health
The healthcare provider also highlights the importance of preventative measures and lifestyle management in preventing heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute in Murray, alongside the American Heart Association, provides guidance on adopting heart-healthy diets to reduce risk.
Long-term health initiatives, such as the 100-Day Heart Challenge program at Utah Valley Hospital, have been active for a decade, demonstrating that lifestyle modifications are effective tools for improving cardiovascular health. The organization also promotes regular physical activity, suggesting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to maintain overall well-being.
Future of Cardiovascular Care
Intermountain Health continues to integrate technology and specialized expertise to manage a variety of cardiovascular challenges. From utilizing wearable technology for monitoring heart health to providing life-saving interventions like total artificial hearts, the system remains focused on both acute surgical care and long-term disease prevention.
