Kaweah Health Achieves Milestone with First Barostim Procedures

VISALIA, Calif. – On Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, Kaweah Health successfully performed its first two Barostim procedures, a minimally invasive treatment option designed to improve the lives of patients living with heart failure. This milestone marks a significant advancement in heart care for the South Valley community.

The procedure involves implanting a small device inside the chest, which sends gentle electrical signals to the carotid artery in the neck. These signals help the brain better control blood pressure, heart rate, and fluid levels. It especially helps patients with hearts that struggle to pump blood effectively.

“Barostim is designed to be an alternative option for patients whom medications alone do not adequately alleviate symptoms and those who are not eligible for cardiac resynchronization therapy via a pacemaker,” said Kaweah Health vascular surgeon, Dr. LaMar Mack, who performed both procedures.

Kaweah Health’s team of heart and vascular experts, including Dr. Mack, cardiologists, and support staff, collaborated to bring this advanced therapy to the region. The procedure allows patients to benefit from improved heart function, fewer symptoms, and an overall better quality of life.

By offering the Barostim procedure, Kaweah Health reinforces its commitment to providing the latest medical advancements to the South Valley.

For more information on heart and vascular services, visit KaweahHealth.org/Heart or call (559) 624-6520.

About Kaweah Health
Kaweah Health, a publicly owned healthcare organization established in 1961, is the largest hospital in Tulare County, with services including a Level III trauma center, rural health clinics, urgent care centers, a rehabilitation hospital, cancer center, long-term care facilities, and other specialty services. With more than 5,000 employees and a medical staff of about 670 professionals, Kaweah Health’s mission is to provide excellent and compassionate healthcare to the community, with a vision to be a world-class healthcare choice for life. For more information, visit KaweahHealth.org or follow Kaweah Health on Facebook, Instagram, or X.

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