BALTIMORE — Dale S., a 90-year-old resident, is gearing up to return to the golf course, engage in games with his grandchildren, and dance the polka following a pioneering heart procedure performed at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital.
This significant event marks a notable achievement for the hospital as Dale became the first patient to undergo a coronary atherectomy, an advanced treatment designed to eliminate hardened calcium from obstructed arteries.
“It’s meaningful for me to try something new,” he remarked. “I suppose everyone sees me as the test subject, trying out everything.”
First heart procedure performed at Ascension Saint Agnes on a 90-year-old patient
90-year-old patient contributes to a cardiac milestone at Ascension Saint Agnes
This procedure signifies a new chapter in Dale’s long-standing struggle with heart conditions.
“I was never keen on visiting the doctor,” Dale explained. “Everyone would insist, ‘Dale, you have to see a doctor.’ I would argue, ‘No, I don’t want to go.’ Then I experienced a heart attack and realized I had no other option.”
Dale had a heart attack in 2004, which led to quadruple bypass surgery shortly thereafter. In 2012, he underwent another surgery, this time a triple bypass.
Now, at 90 years of age, this Army veteran actively engages with his extensive family, which includes 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. However, to maintain his active lifestyle, Dale requires knee surgery, necessitating an evaluation of his heart condition first.
Dale S.
During this assessment, a significant issue was uncovered.
“We detected a blockage in his main artery that was approximately 90%,” shared Dr. Matthew Voss, Director of the Cardiac Cath Lab at Ascension Saint Agnes.
Given Dale’s age and complex medical history, a third open-heart bypass operation was deemed inadvisable.
“He was left with limited options, so I believed this approach offered a tremendous opportunity for us to assist him, and Saint Agnes was ideally suited for the procedure,” Dr. Voss explained.
In the past, patients would have been referred to another hospital for this treatment. However, Dr. Voss succeeded in implementing this technology at Saint Agnes, thus enabling more individuals to access advanced cardiac care closer to their homes.
Kristi Harper
The innovative procedure employs specialized technology, utilizing a small instrument that breaks apart and removes hardened plaque from the arteries, thereby restoring blood flow to the heart.
“We successfully prepared him for the procedure and addressed the problem very effectively,” stated Dr. Voss.
This accomplishment holds particular significance for Dale, given his family history with heart issues.
“My father had a heart attack; he lived to 73,” Dale reflected. “I had a brother who experienced a heart attack at 49, but he lived until 85. Heart problems run in our family.”
Now, Dale is paving the way for future patients who might benefit from this same innovative treatment.
Hospital administrators emphasize that the success of this procedure underscores their dedication to enhancing advanced cardiac care options.
“Moving forward, I am certain we will introduce more technological advancements to Saint Agnes,” Dr. Voss said. “It fills me with pride to be here, helping patients in this manner.”
As for Dale, he is now focused on looking ahead, cherishing time with family, and returning to the activities that keep his spirit youthful.
