The Heart and Vascular Institute of Eastern Kentucky at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) reached a significant milestone on Wednesday, March 5th as it performed its 100th Hybrid AF™
Therapy procedure. PMC is proud to be one of only three hospitals in Kentucky—and among a select few nationwide—offering this advanced treatment.
Hybrid AF™ Therapy is an advanced treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat in the upper chambers of the heart. This innovative two-step procedure targets the inside and outside of the heart’s walls, offering a more comprehensive approach than traditional heart ablation procedures, which typically focus only on the inner walls.
“Reaching our 100th AtriCure Hybrid AF™ procedure is a testament to our commitment to providing optimal advanced, life-changing treatments for patients with atrial fibrillation at PMC,” said Dr. Dermot Halpin, PMC Cardiothoracic Surgeon. “This procedure allows us to offer a comprehensive, minimally invasive solution that improves outcomes and enhances quality of life for our patients. I am pleased with the cardiothoracic team’s partnership with the electrophysiology team, as we work together to benefit our patients.”
Since incorporating this cutting-edge therapy in 2023, PMC has been at the forefront of offering patients an effective, minimally invasive solution for atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition that affects millions worldwide. The Hybrid AF™ Therapy combines catheter ablation and surgical intervention to provide patients with the best possible outcomes for long-term heart health. The success of the 100th procedure reflects not only the skill of the PMC heart care team but also the growing recognition of the hospital’s ability to deliver complex, specialized care right here in Eastern Kentucky.
“We are proud to offer the AtriCure Hybrid AF™ procedure at Pikeville Medical Center and to have reached this significant milestone of completing our 100th procedure,” said PMC Heart and Vascular Institute Medical Director and Electrophysiologist Dr. Chase Reynolds. “This innovative treatment provides new hope for patients with persistent atrial fibrillation, combining the expertise of electrophysiology and cardiothoracic surgery to deliver life-changing results. At PMC, we are blessed to have all our cardiovascular services under one roof. It makes collaborations such as these very successful.”
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) affects one in four adults over 40 and significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, dementia, and mortality. The irregular heartbeat associated with AFib can lead to blood clots that cause strokes and impair the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, resulting in heart failure. Additionally, reduced blood flow to the brain from AFib is linked to cognitive decline. Given its longterm impacts, early detection and treatment are crucial to reducing the risks associated with this condition.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this historic milestone with the PMC community. Reaching 100 Hybrid AF™ Therapy procedures is a testament to their commitment to advancing patient care and embracing innovative treatment options. It’s an honor to partner with a team dedicated to making a lasting impact in the field of cardiac care.” Tom Myers of AtriCure said.
