Stereotaxis, a developer of robotic technologies for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, says HCA Midwest Health – the largest healthcare system in the Kansas City region – has launched a new robotic arrhythmia care program based at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
Installation of the Stereotaxis Robotic Magnetic Navigation System was recently completed, and the first patients have been successfully treated using the technology at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
Stereotaxis’ partnership with HCA Midwest Health brings new, leading-edge treatment options for patients who have a cardiac arrhythmia.
The addition of RMN is a key component of the cardiology program at OPRMC and HCA Midwest Health, allowing for patient-focused clinical and technological leadership as well as enabling the providers and clinical team to better address a range of complex arrhythmias that otherwise might not have been treatable.
RMN uses robotics and magnetic fields to navigate a cardiac catheter directly from the tip. The technology consists of two robotically controlled magnets placed next to the operating table.
During the procedure, a physician uses a computer interface to adjust the magnetic field around the patient and precisely direct and steer this cardiac ablation catheter in the heart.
Dr Dhanunjaya Lakkireddy, medical director, Kansas City Heart Rhythm Institute at HCA Midwest Health and a partner of Midwest Heart and Vascular Specialists, has been at the forefront of this technological innovation.
Dr Lakkireddy was instrumental in authoring the meta-analysis published in the Journal of Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology (September 2017). The study emphasized the clinical value of robotics for the treatment of arrhythmias.
Dr Lakkireddy says: “The new cardiac arrhythmia labs at OPRMC were recently opened and are currently treating patients.
“They represent the latest advances in the field of electrophysiology including robotic technology that enables improved outcomes and unparalleled safety for patients during cardiac ablation procedures.
“Robotics also allows OPRMC electrophysiologists to better address a range of complex arrhythmias that otherwise might not have been treated, providing hope to many patients who otherwise would have had no options for cardiac arrhythmia.
“We have observed the clinical value of robotic cardiac ablation and are excited to be providing patients convenient access to this technology.”
David Fischel, chairman and CEO of Stereotaxis, says: “As a world-renowned leader in electrophysiology research and patient care, Dr Lakkireddy recognizes the significant patient, provider, and physician benefits of RMN.
Stereotaxis technology affords OPRMC increased capabilities and a new and novel way to treat patients with cardiac arrhythmias.
“We look forward to supporting the Kansas City Heart Rhythm Institute and HCA Midwest Health as they improve patient care, advance clinical science, and grow a highly successful robotic arrhythmia care practice in Kansas City.”
