Cardiac Surgery, Interventional Cardiology Team Up
When a cardiac surgeon and an interventional cardiologist for the first time presented about their work together on percutaneous valve repair, the message was clear: BWH’s Cardiac Division fosters a free flow of physicians and technology between the catheterization suite and the OR.
“Our two disciplines have been getting closer over the past several decades,” said Andy Eisenhauer, MD, interventional cardiologist, who presented with cardiac surgeon Mike Davidson, MD, at last November’s Cath Conference at Saints Memorial Hospital. “We realize we need each other to develop ideas and techniques that will ultimately allow us to take care of patients better.”
Davidson, who in June completed a fellowship that included training in both interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery, agreed. “New procedures like percutaneous valve repair really require two different skill sets,” he said. “You need knowledge of valve repair and anatomy in general, as well as knowledge of catheterization techniques.”
Eisenhauer and Davidson plan to present to the BWH community and during grand rounds at other institutions. “Our message is that we’re not in competition, and we base decisions on what is best for the patient,” Eisenhauer said.
Both Eisenhauer and Davidson agree that percutaneous valve repair will not supplant surgery. For every one patient who has the procedure, about 30 are considered.
“I think that this is a technique that might allow us to delay the need for surgery for years or even decades,” Eisenhauer said.
Davidson added, “By working together as a team, we really offer the best possible care to our patients as well as cutting edge technology.”