February is American Heart Month: Here are some innovative ways AdventHealth doctors are saving lives

The AdventHealth Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute (HLVI) is leading the way in heart care with innovative treatments that are improving lives. Caring for over 72,000 cardiovascular patients last year, AdventHealth is transforming the future of heart health – helping more people live longer, healthier lives. From being the first in Central Florida to offer a new procedure that’s saving lives with advanced technology to procedures that help patients stay active, here’s how our latest innovations are making a difference for patients.

First in Central Florida to offer a groundbreaking AFib treatment

AdventHealth HLVI is the first in Central Florida to offer Pulse Field Ablation (PFA) for atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common heart arrhythmia. This minimally invasive procedure uses electrical pulses to target abnormal heart tissue while sparing surrounding areas. Patients like Kroy Crofoot have seen incredible results, returning to daily activities with more energy and faster recoveries.

“The procedure was quick, and the recovery was fast. I went in at 9 a.m., went home by 4 p.m. and was walking by the end of the day.”

Kroy Crofoot

“PFA is a targeted treatment that’s a safer, more efficient approach than traditional methods like radiofrequency ablation that uses heat. Heat can inadvertently damage surrounding tissues,” said Dr. Naushad Shaik, electrophysiologist at AdventHealth. Over 12 million Americans expected to have AFib by 2030.

Read full story: Florida Medical Association

Read full story: Central Florida Health News

Innovative heart procedure maintains patient’s active lifestyle

AdventHealth Orlando has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its 2024-2025 Best Hospitals rankings as high-performing in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) along with being named the No. 1 hospital in metro Orlando for 14 consecutive years – an achievement no other health system has reached. The Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure is still a relatively new innovation and is minimally invasive - and gave former competitive skier Gregg Lee his life back.

“Ten days after the TAVR procedure I was back on the water (skiing).”

Gregg Lee

TAVR eliminates the need for open-heart surgery for certain types of conditions, offering faster recovery and lasting results.

“We place an artificial valve in his native valve and create a normal functioning aortic valve,” said Dr. Kevin Accola, a cardiothoracic surgeon and medical director at the AdventHealth HLVI who performed Lee’s procedure. AdventHealth is committed to helping patients return to what they love - stronger than ever.

Watch story: WFTV News Orlando

Recognizing subtle heart attack signs

When Reena Caprario dismissed her back pain as acid reflux, she waited seven days to go to the doctor after her pain escalated. She didn’t realize she was having a heart attack.

“I feel so lucky, I thank God every day. I want to watch my family grow.”

Reena Caprario

Thanks to the quick intervention of AdventHealth cardiologists, Dr. Brian Dublin and Dr. Linus Wodi, she received lifesaving care with a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a minimally invasive procedure to restore blood flow.

Caprario’s recovery included cardiac rehab at AdventHealth, where she learned to strengthen her heart through exercise and eating a heart healthy diet. Don’t ignore the warning signs, she urges.

Read full story: CBS National News

Watch story: WFTV News Orlando

According to U.S. News & World Report in its 2024-2025 Best Hospitals rankings, AdventHealth Orlando ranks in the top 10% of hospitals with the best cardiology, heart & vascular surgery programs. With world-class physicians, the AdventHealth HLVI continues to provide patients with innovative treatments close to home. To find a doctor or take an online heart risk assessment, click here.