Innovation meets compassion to provide exceptional cardiac care at the DeBakey Heart Institute at HaysMed. As a leader in advanced and vascular care, we are continually investing in groundbreaking procedures, state-of-the-art facilities, and top-tier professionals to ensure patients receive world-class cardiac care close to home.
This commitment is especially significant during American Heart Month (February), a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and the importance of early detection and prevention. With heart disease being the leading cause of death in the U.S. for men and women, it’s important to know the signs of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, strokes and more. It’s also important to know where to go to receive lifesaving cardiac care – whether routine or emergency/interventional. At HaysMed, we are proud to be the leader in cutting-edge cardiac care across western Kansas.
Milestones & Matters of the Heart
HaysMed recently achieved a milestone as the first medical center in Kansas to complete a Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty with Bypass (PTAB), commonly known as “The Detour” procedure. This innovative intervention targets peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that narrows or blocks arteries in the limbs, causing pain and risking limb loss. The minimally invasive procedure creates a new pathway for blood flow, bypassing blockages and restoring circulation. Patients typically experience reduced recovery times, fewer complications, and improved quality of life.
In another groundbreaking achievement, our DeBakey Heart Institute team recently performed the region’s first EV-ICD procedure. This device, implanted outside the heart, offers a less invasive solution for managing life-threatening arrhythmia and reduces risk of vascular complications and infections when compared to a traditional ICD procedure. Dr. Raja Gopaldas, a cardiothoracic surgeon, and Dr. Jacob Morgan, an electrophysiologist, worked alongside HaysMed’s highly skilled Cath Lab team and cardiac anesthesiologists in a multidisciplinary collaboration.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: New Hybrid OR
HaysMed is setting a new standard in cardiac care with the construction of its hybrid operating room, blending the capabilities of a cardiac catheterization lab and a traditional operating room to address conditions that were previously only treatable with open-heart surgery. The hybrid operating room is a significant investment toward ensuring HaysMed continues offering innovative tools and procedures. This advanced facility will enable our team to offer cutting-edge treatment options, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes and ensuring access to the latest medical technologies. This achievement is made possible by generous financial support from local donors dedicated to advancing local healthcare.
New Additions to the Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Team
To address the growing demand for local cardiac services, we have welcomed two new cardiothoracic surgeons, an interventional cardiologist and an electrophysiologist to our cardiothoracic and cardiology teams. As our capabilities grow and expand, it’s important to understand the specialized roles these experts play in heart care.
Cardiologists diagnose and treat conditions like heart attacks, heart failure, and high blood pressure, often using medications or minimally invasive procedures like stent placement to restore proper blood flow. Cardiothoracic surgeons focus on surgical interventions, repairing blocked arteries, and damaged heart valves
Meanwhile, electrophysiologists (EPs) specialize in heart rhythm disorders, using treatments like pacemaker implants and ablation procedures to correct irregular heartbeats. The addition of these specialists has made procedures such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive technique that has transformed heart valve surgery, a possibility locally for high-risk patients.
Exceptional Support & Care Management
The ChartSpan care management program is available to eligible Medicare patients in the DeBakey Heart Institute, providing round-the-clock access to medical professionals, prescription cost savings, personalized health strategies and more. The program ensures patients receive the necessary support they need to maintain their health and avoid emergency room visits.
Should You See a Cardiologist?
February is the perfect time to focus on your heart health and be aware of signs and symptoms that may need attention. The American Heart Association has identified symptoms that often signal underlying heart issues requiring medical attention. Understanding your warning signs could make a life-saving difference—here’s what to watch for:
- Chest pain: Pressure, tightness, or pain, especially radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.
- Shortness of breath during activities, lying down, or suddenly.
- Palpitations: rapid, irregular, or fluttering heartbeat.
- Dizziness or fainting, especially when accompanied by chest pain or other symptoms.
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen.
- Fatigue that is unexplained or interferes with daily activities.
- High blood pressure
- Family history of heart disease.
- Chronic conditions like cholesterol or diabetes.
- Follow-up after a heart attack or stroke.
For severe or sudden symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Preventive care is the cornerstone of heart health, and HaysMed is well-equipped as the leading destination for cardiac care in our region. Regular check-ups and screenings can identify risks early, preventing severe complications. Don’t wait to prioritize your heart health. Schedule an appointment or screening with your HaysMed physician today.
