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Dr. Christine Fisher at Hays Medical Center implanted the first leadless defibrillator in Western Kansas. The Boston Scientific S-ICD (subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator) provides protection from sudden cardiac arrest while leaving the heart untouched.

“Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening heart condition, and if not treated within minutes, leads to death,” Dr. Fisher said. “An electrode is placed under the skin along the breastbone and is connected to the device that lies beneath the skin on the side of the chest.”

 This system continuously monitors the heart’s activity and delivers a shock in a life-threatening situation.

Dr. Fisher said there are great advantages to using this device. “There is no risk for blood vessel injury, very low risk for systemic infection and no risk of lead fractures,” she explained.

Many types of patients can benefit from the S-ICD, including young patients with life-threatening heart rhythm problems, patients with heart disease resulting in a weakened heart muscle, and patients with vascular access problems, such as those on dialysis.

 “This is a great option for our patients in Western Kansas,” Dr. Fisher noted. “Anytime we can provide lifesaving technology for our patients while reducing the procedural risks, the patient benefits.”

She also commented that implanting a transvenous, traditional defibrillator is already a low-risk procedure that HaysMed has offered since 1999. The new system is now an even lower risk option. In most cases, S-ICD patients go home the same day as the procedure with no lifting or arm-movement restrictions. “The patients can resume normal lives, and rest assured that they have protection from sudden cardiac death,”the cardiologist said.

 Dr. Fisher has practiced cardiology in Hays for nearly 18 years. “It is our goal at HaysMed and the Debakey Heart Institute to bring the best cardiovascular care to our patients in Western Kansas,” she said. “These are great people who deserve the best care possible.”