Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital recently opened its expanded cardiac catheterization lab, performing the first patient procedure in the unit on Nov. 7.

 

The new cath lab has doubled in size and incorporates the latest and most sophisticated technology. This includes a biplane interventional imaging system, which uses two rotating digital X-ray cameras to provide the most detailed, three-dimensional blood vessel and soft tissue images available – while drastically reducing patient exposure; all configurable to the performing physician’s preferences.

 

The cardiac cath lab’s newest feature is its expanded electrophysiology capabilities to test and treat the heart’s electrical activity.

 

Cath labs are used for a wide range of cardiac procedures, including coronary angiography, angioplasty, percutaneous coronary intervention, and specialized treatment for dangerous pulmonary emboli, or blood clots that rob the lungs of circulation. In addition, cardiologists use the lab for performance of endovascular thrombectomies, removing deadly coronary obstructions.

 

“The expansion of our cath lab is a major step forward in the growth of our cardiovascular care at Houston Methodist Clear Lake,” said CEO Dan Newman. “The additional space enables us to respond quickly to patient needs for cardiac studies and interventional procedures, and our advanced technology gives our physicians the in-lab imaging and diagnostic capabilities needed for today’s complex treatments.”

 

Houston Methodist Clear Lake hosted an open house for the cath lab on Thursday, Dec. 5 for employees, area physicians and emergency medical personnel. All guests received a tour of the new lab, met the cath lab team and enjoyed light bites and refreshments.