CIS is First in Baton Rouge to Use Bluetooth Defibrillator

BATON ROUGE- Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) electrophysiologist, Dr. Robert Drennan, is the first in Baton Rouge, and second in the state, to implant the Gallant™ Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD), the first-of-its-kind with Bluetooth technology. The procedure took place on February 3 at Baton Rouge General.

An implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD, is a small, battery-powered device that monitors heart rhythm for very fast and potentially dangerous heart rhythms and sends an electrical shock to the heart muscle to restore normal heart rhythm. The Gallant™ ICD is unique, as its Bluetooth capability pairs with Abbott’s myMerlinPulse mobile smartphone app to streamline communication between doctors and patients. This remote monitoring enables physicians to identify asymptomatic episodes of cardiac arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms, leading to earlier intervention.

Once the ICD is implanted and paired to the myMerlinPulse app, it discreetly collects and shares important information about the patient’s heart with the provider. This is called remote monitoring, and it is secure.

“This Bluetooth ICD offers enhanced detection and treatment for arrhythmias and safer management of care,” explained Dr. Drennan. “This means a better quality of life for patients, peace of mind with automated daily checks, and discretion and freedom to go anywhere, anytime.”

To learn more, or to schedule an appointment at CIS, visit www.cardio.com.

About Cardiovascular Institute of the South
Founded by Dr. Craig Walker in 1983, Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) is a world-leader in preventing, detecting and treating cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease. CIS offers a comprehensive heart and vascular program with expert physicians trained in many specialties, including internal medicine, nuclear cardiology, electrophysiology, lipid management, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, valve disease and interventional cardiovascular procedures. CIS has earned international acclaim as a pioneer of research, development and education, as well as an innovator in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. With a dedicated team of more than 930 team members, CIS provides comprehensive cardiovascular care at 21 locations across Louisiana and Mississippi, with 10 telemedicine programs. CIS remains at the forefront of technology, providing the highest-quality, compassionate care. This mission has guided the institute for more than 37 years of excellence. For more information about CIS, call 1-800-425-2565 or visit www.cardio.com.