Electrophysiology
First successful implant of a dual-chamber leadless pacemaker
Salem Hospital made history as the first community hospital in Massachusetts to successfully implant a dual-chamber leadless pacemaker system. This procedure offers a minimally invasive solution for patients with abnormal or slow heart rhythms. Nathan Van Houzen, MD, cardiac electrophysist, and the cardiac catheterization lab team, successfully performed the procedure on a 57-year-old patient. Unlike traditional pacemakers, this wire-free device is implanted directly in the heart, reducing infection risk and speeding up recovery time. "The leadless system allows patients to enjoy all the benefits of a pacemaker without the restrictions of a traditional device". says Dr. Van Houzen.
Salem Hospital provides the latest diagnostic and treatment options to manage irregular heart rhythm conditions, also known as arrhythmias. A full spectrum of arrhythmia care is offered, including head up tilt-table testing, comprehensive electrophysiology studies, cardiac ablations, and device implants including defibrillators and pacemakers.
Meet our physicians
Pacemaker/Defibrillator team
Our Pacemaker/ICD clinic team, comprised of electrophysiologists and registered nurses, is the most comprehensive one of its kind on the North Shore. They evaluate and treat rapid and slow heart rates, palpitations (skipped or extra beats), lightheaded spells and blackout spells. They place and manage electronic pacemakers for slow heart rhythms and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) pacemakers, also place and manage electronic implantable defibrillators. When necessary, they provide a full range of invasive electrophysiology testing and treatments, including ablation therapy, which can permanently cure some rapid rhythms.
Cardiac electrophysiology treatments and procedures
- Cardiac Ablation
- Antiarrhythmic medication therapy
- Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) or also known as Bi-ventricular pacemaker implant and or ICD placement
- Cardioversion
- Defibrillator or Pacemaker Surgery*
- Electrophysiology Study (EPS)
- Head-up-tilt-table testing
- Implantable loop recorders
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) placement
- Non-invasive Programmed Stimulation
- Single and dual chamber permanent pacemaker implants
*If you are scheduled to have a defibrillator implant, please read what to expect during a defibrillator or pacemaker implant.
Support after you go home
Remote monitoring of implant devices
When you are ready to return home, two types of remote monitoring options are available: wireless home monitoring and trans-telephonic monitoring. Our devices offer heart failure diagnostics, which allow us to prevent a heart failure episode.
ICD support group
The Pacemaker/ICD clinic provides a comfortable atmosphere and opportunity for those with an implanted defibrillator to meet others with an ICD. Patients and their significant others are invited to attend. For more information or to register, please call 978.354.4507