We are committed to providing the best possible service to our patients here at Covenant Heart Institute. As part of that commitment we have begun to perform procedures and exams that were once referred to the medical centers in Dallas and Houston.

                One procedure, which is a big step in improving the care of our patients, is the closure of Atrial Septal Defects between the two atria of the heart using a device that is deployed via a catheter inserted through the Femoral Vein in the groin. The procedure is performed under Fluoroscopy and deployed under the guidance of Transesophageal Echocardiography. The advantage for the patient is that, what once was done by open heart surgery can now be done with less invasive method and the patient is usually discharged the following day. There is a decrease in chances of infection and shorter recuperation time for the patient.

                Another procedure, which aids the Electrophysiology physicians with guidance during electrophysiology studies, is a new procedure using an AcuNav diagnostic ultrasound catheter. This allows the physician to visualize the internal anatomy of the heart to guide them in the placement of pacemaker lead wires and ablation studies. This leads to decreased time of procedure and allows for physician to ensure proper placement of leads within the heart.

                Finally, the Peripheral Vascular lab performs Transcranial Doppler serial recording in patients with cerebral hemorrhage and intracranial vasospasms. This allows physicians to ensure patients are receiving appropriate care in their management of patients following cerebral hemorrhage.

                We remain the lead in West Texas in the closure of Atrial Septal Defect using closure devices and in the use of the AcuNav catheter. We seek out these new and innovative procedures as a commitment to providing the best possible care to our patients. We will continue to seek out new procedures and services and bring those here to Covenant Heart Institute for our patients.