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Community Health Network Decreasing Stroke Risk with Innovative Technology

For release on June 06, 2024

Community Heart and Vascular Hospital first in state to use TruSteer access system

Indianapolis (June 6, 2024) – Community Health Network continues to advance treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common cause of stroke, by using cutting-edge technology newly-approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).

Community cardiologists have seen great success with the WATCHMAN™ device since 2016. It’s an implant that forms a barrier in the part of the heart to keep blood clots from escaping and causing a stroke. The WATCHMAN™ provides a safe alternative for AFib patients intolerant to blood thinners and allowing them to reduce stroke risk without long-term medication reliance.

Recent advancements in technology are making the WATCHMAN™ an option for more patients.

This spring, Community Heart and Vascular Hospital (CHVH) became the first hospital in the state to use the FDA newly-approved WATCHMAN™ TruSteer access system to implant the device in patients.

The system has bi-directional steering which allows surgeons a greater range of motion to reach the widest range of anatomies, optimizing WATCHMAN™ positioning. This innovation that increases access allows use of the device for more AFib patients.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) predict the number of Americans diagnosed with AFib will reach more than 12 million people by the year 2030. The average person with AFib is five times more likely to have a stroke than someone with a regular heartbeat.

WATCHMAN TruSteer system for afib treatment
Image courtesy: Boston Scientific

Community Health Network is committed to delivering the latest advancements in cardiovascular care to enhance health and well-being in our communities.

About Community Health Network
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Community Health Network has been deeply committed to the communities it serves since opening its first hospital, Community Hospital East, in 1956. Community Health Network puts patients first while offering a full continuum of healthcare services, world-class innovations and a new focus on population health management. Exceptional care, simply delivered, is what sets Community Health Network apart and what makes it a leading not-for-profit healthcare destination in central Indiana. For more information about Community Health Network, please visit eCommunity.com.

Bobbie Brooks, Communications Manager
Bobbie Brooks
Communications Manager