Broward Health North Recognizes Its Cardiac Team for Their Dedication in Becoming an Interventional Cardiac Catheterization La

Broward Health North (BHN) recognizes its cardiac team for their dedication in establishing and developing the interventional cardiac catheterization lab.

 

In September 2011, BHN went from being a cardiac diagnostic lab to an interventional cardiac catheterization lab, a process that involved applying to the state, following state guidelines, hiring the appropriate staff and aligning physicians with the new services. The proper equipment was also ordered, including stent supplies, an intravascular ultrasound and much more.

 

“We are very proud of where this department has come in three years,” said Dan Lowther, regional manager of cardiology, radiology and respiratory therapy. “This service makes it possible for EMS to transport those patients experiencing chest pain to BHN, allowing for a faster diagnosis and treatment, preventing additional heart muscle damage.”

 

The addition of interventional cardiology means that local residents suffering heart attacks can now be transported by ambulance directly to BHN.  Prior to the availability of interventional cardiology at BHN, patients being transported by EMS would have to bypass BHN and travel a greater distance to another hospital.

 

In the first few months, the team was performing about 12 ST segment elevation myocardial infarctions (STEMI) a month. They have now grown to do an average 50 to 55 procedures a month.

 

Other procedures performed by the team include elective Percutaneous Coronary Interventions (PCI), pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) implants.

 

“Our cardiac catherization lab has seen tremendous growth, which shows that we are better able to serve our community and provide them with a high level of care and a five-star experience,” said Pauline Grant, CEO of BHN.