In response to growing patient volume, the Catholic Health Heart Center at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo has expanded its interventional cardiology services with the opening of a fourth cardiac catheterization (cath) lab. The $4.3 million project will further enhance services offered by the Heart Center and accommodate the center’s growing interventional cardiology program, which has experienced a 32% increase over the last six years.

Located adjacent to the hospital’s existing cath labs, the new lab features a state-of-the-art digital X-ray system that offers precise, real-time imaging for physicians to perform minimally-invasive cardiac procedures, including coronary angioplasty, device implants, and other advanced care to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease.

“The diagnostic and interventional procedures we perform involve the opening of blocked coronary arteries, which helps save lives by limiting the damage to the heart muscle and improving a patient’s quality of life,” said Salvatore Calandra, MD, Director of Interventional Cardiology at the Heart Center. “Having the latest imaging technology and safety features found in this new lab helps us continue to deliver first-rate care to our patients.”

In 2016, Mercy Hospital was one of 223 hospitals nationwide that was presented the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Action Registry- Platinum Performance Achievement Award for heart attack care. In addition, the hospital was rated among the top 10% in the nation and received a 5-star quality rating for coronary interventional procedures by HealthGrades®, an independent, national healthcare research organization.

“As a tertiary referral center serving the Western New York region, Mercy Hospital continues to respond to the needs of our community,” said C.J. Urlaub, President and CEO of Mercy Hospital. “This investment in an additional cath lab equipped with the most advanced technology available demonstrates our commitment to provide the highest quality patient care.”