A New Chapter in Heart Care: Utah Doctors Lead the Way

A team of heart specialists at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray has made history with a new, less invasive heart procedure that could change how doctors treat life-threatening aortic conditions.

The operation involved placing a small stent graft inside the ascending aorta — the main vessel that carries blood from the heart — without opening the chest. For many patients who can’t safely undergo open-heart surgery, this breakthrough could be a lifesaving alternative.

The innovative technique is part of a national research study known as the ARISE II clinical trial, which is testing the safety and effectiveness of a new device built specifically for the upper part of the aorta. Intermountain Health is the only medical center in Utah participating in the trial.

The procedure was led by Dr. John Doty and Dr. Evan Brownie, whose combined expertise in cardiothoracic and vascular surgery helped make the complex operation possible. The patient, according to Intermountain Health, is recovering well.

Dr. Doty called the achievement “a major step forward for Utah’s medical community,” noting that the approach could help older or high-risk patients who aren’t candidates for traditional surgery.

The new treatment involves using a catheter to guide the stent graft through the bloodstream, sealing off the weakened section of the aorta and restoring proper blood flow. It’s designed to reduce recovery times and avoid the risks associated with open-heart surgery.

“This is about giving patients more options and better outcomes,” said Dr. Brownie. “It’s exciting to see this level of innovation happening right here in Utah.”

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