Samuel Butman, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.S.C.A.I., interventional cardiologist on the Medical Staff of Verde Valley Medical Center, recently performed a device closure of a patent foramen ovale, a small, flap-like opening in the wall between the right and left upper chambers of the heart. This is the first time this lifesaving procedure has been offered at VVMC.

In normal fetal development, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) occurs naturally before birth, and usually closes within weeks or months after a baby is born. However, in at least one of four people, this opening persists throughout life. It generally is a harmless condition with no signs or symptoms. However in some individuals, the opening may allow small blood clots to move into the left side of the heart which can lead to a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), which occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.

The device closure offered at VVMC, performed by Dr. Butman, is a nonsurgical procedure that uses a special kind of implanted device designed to close the PFO.  During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin area, and guided to the heart. A special device, called a PFO occluder, is inserted through the catheter, and placed through the opening. Once the device is situated correctly, it is left in place and the catheter is removed. In a few months, tissue grows over the device and normal blood flow is restored.

As an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Arizona, Dr. Butman is involved in a variety of cutting edge research studies. He continues to be involved in clinical trials aimed at bringing newer medications, procedures and technology to Northern Arizona. He believes the “involvement of patients and physicians in clinical research is a wonderful way to bring the latest developments and tools in medicine to our growing community.”  Dr. Butman’s office is located at Verde Valley Heart, 634-1331.