Heart care innovations: Q&A with our cardiologists

Cardiovascular care is advancing at a remarkable pace, offering new hope to patients with complex conditions. At the Endeavor Health Cardiovascular Institute, our cardiologists are at the forefront of these breakthroughs.

Our structural heart disease program is among the best in the country, where our physicians are not only practicing the most contemporary medicine but are also doing research to develop the treatment of the future.

In this Q&A, Endeavor Health cardiologists Devin Mehta, MD and Arman Qamar, MD answer some key questions about heart treatment.

What are some of the latest heart innovations at Endeavor Health?

1. Transcatheter approaches to valve disease allow our interventional cardiologists to safely treat the most complex forms of valve disease, like aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation, with minimally invasive approaches. These approaches reduce recovery time while delivering excellent treatment options without the need for a major heart operation. Innovations in the engineering of mechanical circulatory support like left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and advancements in heart transplantation are providing lifesaving solutions for those who have not responded to traditional therapies.
2. At Endeavor Health, we are using a novel tool called shockwave lithotripsy with which we can easily tackle complex blockages in the heart artery, achieving a perfect deployment of the stent. In the past, many patients with major blockages in the heart arteries with extensive amount of calcification would have to undergo open heart surgery or high-risk procedures to open the blockages.
3. Polygenic risk score (PRS) tests. We are among the very few centers in the world to use saliva DNA information translated into a polygenic risk score to predict patients’ risk for heart attacks. The test uses a drop of saliva to analyze millions of genetic variants to predict risk of heart attack and several other conditions.
4. Perhaps the most exciting progress has been in emerging heart failure medications. Weak hearts that once struggled can regain normal function within months for many patients. At Endeavor Health, we focus on the “four pillars” of heart failure therapy to support this recovery.
5. When coronary artery disease is a cause of ongoing issues — leading to symptoms like chest pain or weakening of the heart muscle — our interventional cardiology team employs advanced techniques to restore blood flow and improve heart function.
6. We’re excited about the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiology. AI is enhancing how we diagnose conditions, assess future risk of disease, and create personalized care plans. It has the potential to revolutionize patient care behind the scenes and make it more efficient. While technology is a powerful tool, nothing will ever replace the essential relationship between a cardiologist and their patient. AI will complement this partnership, improving the care experience for both doctors and patients.

What is the heart team’s approach to patient care?

The key to success in cardiovascular care is combining the latest treatment options with a personalized plan that addresses the unique needs of each patient.

At Endeavor Health, advanced imaging tools like cardiac MRI, cardiac CT and echocardiograms allow us to gain a detailed understanding of the heart’s structure and function. This enables us to tailor treatments and closely monitor progress, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

We target the specific issues contributing to heart failure, such as weak heart muscle function, leaking valves, or stiff, calcified valves. By optimizing heart function and improving blood flow, we help alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling and fatigue, while enhancing overall quality of life.

Are there new clinical trials you’re interested in?

Our team at Endeavor Health is proud to be part of the SEISMIC-HF clinical trial which explores the use of wearable sensors to monitor heart and lung pressures in real time. This technology allows cardiologists to adjust treatment plans remotely, enabling patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes without interrupting daily life.

We are also currently testing new blood thinners that prevent a recurrent heart attack, novel medications that prevent or delay the progression of aortic stenosis, and anti-inflammatory medications to prevent heart diseases.

Our participation in clinical trials that have led to FDA approval of cutting-edge LVAD devices highlights our commitment to innovation and the deep expertise of our team.

What does Endeavor Health offer that is unique for Chicago-area patients?

While everything we offer across the Endeavor Health Cardiovascular Institute is state-of-the-art and among the best in the country, we are particularly proud of our national leadership in personalized medicine and our work in coronary and structural heart disease interventions.

Endeavor Health offers patients access to trusted cardiologists and specialists close to home, whether they live in the suburbs or the city. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality cardiovascular care, informed by the latest technologies and research. We participate in clinical trials and foster innovations that shape the future of personalized medicine.

Most importantly, we are more than just your doctors — we are your neighbors. As members of the communities we serve, we take great pride in building a high-quality cardiovascular program that our patients and their families can rely on.

Our biggest strength is the relationship we have built with our local communities; every patient is treated like a member of our family.