UI Heart and Vascular Center unveils new state-of-the-art cardiac cath labs

University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center is increasing patient access to its cardiac catheterization (cath) services by adding two new procedure labs as well as updating existing ones. The new cath labs are outfitted with the most advanced technology in the state.

Cath labs are where doctors perform minimally invasive tests and procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease. A wide range of cardiovascular subspecialties at UI Heart and Vascular Center use cath labs, including interventional cardiology, the structural heart program, cardiac electrophysiology, adult cardiac surgery, and vascular surgery.

UI Heart and Vascular Center completes close to 4,600 cardiac catheterization procedures each year and approximately 45,000 clinic visits across all subspecialties.

“We manage the most complex cardiovascular patients in the state and our services are in high demand,” says Phillip Horwitz, MD, executive director of UI Heart and Vascular Center. “We’ve taken a number of steps in recent years to improve patient access, and our new cath labs are critical to our ability to promptly diagnose and treat patients’ conditions using the most advanced technology.”

The new technology provides a safer environment for patients by reducing radiation exposure and decreasing the amount of IV contrast dye used in the blood vessels.

“Our team is very excited about how the new cath labs will improve the patient experience and allow us to continue to provide high-quality outcomes,” says Leslie Johnston, RN, MSN, cath lab nurse manager. “We are fortunate to be able to provide expanded access to this high level of care in our community and in the state.”