Community Health Connection: Structural Heart Care
We spoke with cardiologist, Christopher Rogers, DO, about common questions patients have about heart care and what makes Bronson’s program unique.
Video Transcript
We are prepared to provide 24-hour care for any cardiac emergency that may arise, whether it's rhythm-related conditions, heart attacks or heart failure caused by a valve issue. We're here to provide expedited, high-quality care.
We have electrophysiologists, who are rhythm specialists, performing ablation procedures to treat problematic heart rhythms for people. They also implant defibrillators for patients at risk of sudden cardiac death. In addition, our cardiologists perform pacemaker implantations. Many people are also familiar with having a heart attack and going to the cath lab for balloon and stent procedures.
We provide all of that care, along with a range of advanced techniques to open blocked vessels. That's what most people traditionally think of when it comes to cardiac care.
Structural heart care focuses more on valvular disease and conditions within the chambers of the heart. Today, we can treat issues that develop over time or even conditions present at birth that may not have been previously recognized.
The benefit of structural procedures is that they are often more minimally invasive than a traditional surgical procedure. When surgery is the best option, we always funnel patients in that direction because it’s the most appropriate care. But for those who are good candidates for structural procedures, these treatments can resolve problems in a less invasive way.
We have years and years and years of experience and strong relationships among our providers. We offer the services most patients need, all within this institution. For me, providing cardiology care has been a truly rewarding experience. It’s been a beautiful thing.
Get connected at bronsonhealth.com.
Your Questions Answered: Structural Heart Care at Bronson
Heart disease is one of the top health concerns for adults. Having access to expert care can make a big difference in your health and recovery. Below are answers to common questions about Bronson’s heart, vascular and thoracic program and what it means for you and your family.
What types of structural heart disease services and treatments can patients access at Bronson?
At Bronson, you can access a full range of structural heart services for conditions that affect heart valves and other parts of your heart’s structure.
This includes advanced, minimally invasive treatments such as:
One of the biggest benefits is access to advanced care close to home. In southwest Michigan, you can get highly specialized heart treatment without having to travel to a larger city.
How does Bronson stand out from other hospitals when it comes to heart care?
Bronson’s structural heart program combines advanced treatment options, specialized expertise and 24/7 emergency readiness.
When a heart emergency happens, every minute matters. Bronson Methodist Hospital is a Level I Trauma Center with 24-hour in-house surgical coverage and immediate access to specialty care when you need it most.
What is a structural heart program?
A structural heart program focuses on treating conditions that affect the heart’s valves, walls and chambers.
These conditions may include:
- Aortic stenosis
- Other valve disorders
- Certain congenital heart conditions
At Bronson, you benefit from a team-based approach. Cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, imaging specialists and nurses work together to create the best customized treatment plan.
Using advanced imaging and minimally invasive procedures like TAVR, the team can diagnose heart problems more accurately and treat them in a way that often leads to faster recovery and better outcomes.
How are the key advantages of Bronson's structural heart program?
Bronson’s structural heart program is designed to give you expert, personalized care from diagnosis through recovery.
Key advantages include:
- Advanced imaging to help identify heart problems with precision
- A multidisciplinary team of heart specialists working together
- Personalized treatment plans based on condition and needs
- Access to minimally invasive procedures that may reduce pain, lower risk and shorten recovery time
You’ll receive ongoing support and follow-up care to help manage symptoms and protect long-term heart health.
This is especially important for conditions like aortic stenosis, which can greatly affect a person’s energy, breathing and overall quality of life.
What advanced treatments are offered at Bronson?
Bronson uses advanced technology and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. Procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and the Watchman device to lower stroke risk may help some patients avoid open-heart surgery and recover faster.
Our specialists also work closely with Bronson’s cancer team to provide advanced surgery for lung and esophageal cancers. This coordinated approach allows patients to receive complete care within one health system.
When should you consider seeing a cardiologist?
You should make visit if symptoms point to a heart problem, including:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- An irregular or racing heartbeat
It’s also important to seek care early if you have certain risk factors, even if symptoms seem mild. This includes:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- A family history of heart disease
- A history of stroke
- Known valve disease or heart rhythm problems
Early evaluation can help catch problems sooner and may lead to more treatment options, including less invasive care.
What is the most important message viewers should know about Bronson’s structural heart program?
The most important message is simple: advanced, life-saving heart care is available close to home.
Bronson’s structural heart program offers access to innovative treatments, experienced specialists and nationally recognized care — all without the added stress of traveling far from home.
Our goal is to help you live longer, healthier lives with expert care that supports you every step of the way.
Talk to your doctor about any heart health concerns you may have, and visit bronsonhealth.com/heart to learn more about Bronson’s heart and vascular program, available treatments and care locations throughout southwest Michigan.
