Physicians from University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City are among the first cardiac specialists in the world to use a new magnetic guidance system to treat heart patients.
The new technology is called stereotaxis. It's an innovative way to treat coronary artery disease and heart rhythm problems. It's available at only seven medical centers nationwide - including University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
Stereotaxis features 2,000 pound super conducting magnetic assemblies and advanced computer technology. Physicians use a joystick to navigate a magnetically tipped catheter - or tube - through the arteries. The magnets allow specialists to treat heart problems in hard-to-reach areas - all with great precision.
"Now we have the capability of being more accurate, precise and hopefully allow the procedures to go more quickly and with less risk to patients," says Brian Olshansky, M.D., UI Heart Care physician.
Allen Sikkema is thankful for this new technology. He is the first patient in Iowa treated with stereotaxis. UI Heart Care surgeons corrected an irregular heart beat that would have been difficult to treat with traditional methods.
"I had all the faith in the world in my doctor standing over there. He met us at the door when they unloaded me. All you have to do is listen to him - he gives you a lot of courage," says Sikkema.
"There's no reason to curb your enthusiasm when it comes to this technology. This offers patients new hope for treatments that would be difficult, if not impossible, in the past," says Olshansky.
Stereotaxis has applications in several other medical specialties, including advanced treatment of the brain and lungs.
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