Tiny Device, Big Impact

The Cardiology Team at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) is making waves with a remarkable new technology that’s as thin as the lead in a pencil but has the potential to make a huge difference in the lives of Veterans. 

This week, MEDVAMC proudly became the first in the VA and one of the first hospitals in the country to successfully complete a procedure using the innovative OmniaSecure defibrillation lead, marking a landmark achievement in the field of electrophysiology.

In a groundbreaking procedure, doctors implanted the industry’s smallest defibrillation lead into Rolandrus Butler, an Air Force Veteran from Houston. This cutting-edge device combines defibrillation and physiological pacing and is designed specifically for Veterans facing significant heart challenges. Its streamlined design not only aims to improve symptoms but also to save lives.

“This exciting new device provides lifesaving shocks as well as paces the heart,” said Dr. Hamir Afshar, a cardiac electrophysiologist and key member of the Houston VA Medical Center’s Cardiology Team. “It will significantly enhance quality of life for our Veterans, and its compact size has been found to minimize the risk of vascular complications and valve interactions. We’re thrilled to offer this innovative solution to our Veteran patients.”

Just this week, Butler had the procedure at the Houston VA to have the device installed and was able to return home the same day. He expressed his appreciation for the care he received, noting, “I started feeling better right away—I’m coughing less and have more energy. I’m very grateful to the docs at the VA for this new device and can’t wait to see how I feel at my two-week follow-up appointment!”

Afshar explained that the new device can help Veterans who are at risk for life-threatening cardiac issues, and Veterans who have previously experienced life-threatening ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, or cardiac arrest. 

“The defibrillator leads connect to implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators to prevent sudden cardiac death,” Afshar said.  “The lead senses the heartbeat and sends signals to the defibrillator to correct or interrupt dangerously fast rhythms—it’s like having a paramedic embedded right in the heart of our Veterans.”

Dr. Glenn Levine, chief of cardiology at the Houston VA, emphasized the commitment of their team to utilize the latest tools and techniques in caring for Veterans. “We are incredibly proud of the cutting-edge care we provide, and it’s our honor to serve those who have served our country.”