Tennova Turkey Creek Celebrates Milestone with Tennova Heart Cardiovascular Research
9/7/2021
KNOXVILLE, TN — Tennova Turkey Creek Medical Center was the first site in East Tennessee to successfully perform a cutting-edge treatment for patients with atrial fibrillation, Tennova Healthcare officials announced Monday.
Dr. Malcolm Foster and his team implanted the Amulet Left Atrial Appendage Occluder. The device is an alternative to taking lifelong blood thinners for people with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem.
Following the procedure Dr. Foster remarked, “We are thrilled to offer the therapy to a broader group of patients as part of the CATALYST trial. Stroke prevention is a top priority for our Tennova Heart team."
Millions of Americans are affected by atrial fibrillation, which is an abnormal heart rhythm characterized by a rapid and irregular heartbeat. Individuals with atrial fibrillation have a greater risk of stroke than those with normal heart rhythms.
The Amulet device closes off an area of the heart called the left atrial appendage, keeping dangerous blood clots from entering the bloodstream and potentially causing a stroke. By sealing the area, the risk of stroke may be decreased, and patients are able to minimize blood thinner medications.
Amulet data presented on August 30, 2021, at the European Society of Cardiology demonstrated remarkable success with superior results. Importantly, Amulet patients are treated with antiplatelet medications (aspirin and clopidogrel) after device implantation, rather than more potent anticoagulants.
Dr. Foster stated, "We have outstanding results implanting left atrial appendage occluders in high bleeding risk patients. The study will hopefully demonstrate safety and effectiveness for standard risk patients.”
“This is another example of our commitment to bringing quality healthcare to Knoxville and Farragut,” states Tony Benton, CEO Tennova Healthcare. “We are proud of the work our research center is doing as they are making miracles happen for our community by improving the quality of life for many who may not have had options previously.”
The clinical trial was conducted by Tennova Cardiovascular Research, directed by Dr. Foster. The research team has completed more than 140 clinical trials, bringing innovations to the treatment of heart and vascular disease. For more information on Tennova Cardiovascular Research go to TennovaMedicalGroup.com or call the clinical coordinator at (865) 218-7535.
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