Palos Heights, IL — February 19, 2026 — Elizabeth Kapovich, 83, of Hometown, IL, started the new year breathing in joy and a sigh of relief. Mere months ago, Liz, as she prefers to be called, completed cardiac rehabilitation after undergoing a successful and lifechanging transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure.

It started a few years ago when Kapovich sought care for RSV.

“I was out of breath. I was in the hospital for a while, and that kind of set me back, and that’s when they discovered it. The doctor, he said, you have a bad valve,” she said.

Her primary care physician sent Kapovich to see interventional and structural cardiologist Anshuman Das, MD, with the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. Her progressive dyspnea (shortness of breath) resulted in a diagnosis of severe aortic valve stenosis. The serious heart condition meant her aortic valve opening had become very narrow because of calcium buildup, and her blood flow was restricted. Her heart – and her body – was having to work much harder.

More than 13 percent of Americans over the age of 75 will develop aortic stenosis. It’s most commonly a result of increased calcification of the heart with aging, but it can also be a congenital abnormality.

Kapovich was experiencing worsening symptoms and was at an age where traditional open-heart surgery carries higher risk. That's why Dr. Das and the structural heart team at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital recommended she undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive approach that has dramatically changed the outlook for many individuals with severe aortic stenosis. TAVR moves valve replacement from the operating room to a cardiac catheterization lab, which can translate to a less traumatic procedure, a shorter hospital stay, and a much faster recovery compared to open heart surgery.

“For many older adults or those with significant comorbidities, TAVR offers an option that was not available merely 10 or 15 years,” Dr. Das said. “As people age, they often develop other medical conditions that can make open-heart surgery too risky. TAVR allows us to treat a serious valve problem safely while helping patients return to their lives much sooner.”

The Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute performs the highest volume of transcatheter and surgical valve procedures in Illinois, vastly growing to serve suburban patients closer to home since doctors conducted the first procedure in Illinois as part of a clinical trial in 2008 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

“At Northwestern Medicine, our aim is to deliver compassionate, modern, evidence-based medicine that is convenient and accessible for the patient,” Dr. Das said. “Liz is a perfect example of how our heart team at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital collaborates to make a meaningful impact. We like to make a connection with our patients by understanding who they are as a unique individual. This allows us to understand what their goals are with their care and how best we can help.”

For Kapovich, that included her son, Ron Koronkowski, who had a deep understanding of the procedure his mom was about to undergo.

“I’ve been involved in working on some novel cardiovascular device developments in my career, mainly in structural heart areas,” he said. “It doesn’t come close to home that often, but this sent a chill down my spine. It was like, oh my gosh, this is really going to happen. And on the flip side of that, I felt a high level of confidence that this device is going to do exactly what it’s intended to do. I was totally impressed with Northwestern Medicine’s level of care.”

During a TAVR procedure, a small tube, or catheter, goes into an artery and then into the heart. That catheter is then used to deliver a new heart valve, displacing the diseased dysfunctional valve. The new valve immediately takes over regulating blood flow. For seniors, this minimally invasive approach reduces the stress placed on the body, lowers the risk of complications, and often leads to noticeable improvement within hours.

 “Because the procedure is minimally invasive, many of our patients notice easier breathing and more energy later that same day,” said Dr. Das. “By offering this level of advanced heart valve care right here in the South Suburbs at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, we’re making it possible for patients to receive life‑changing treatment close to home, surrounded by the people who support them.”

The first day post-TAVR, Kapovich recalls she was walking farther and feeling better about breathing. She also completed cardiac rehab and was thrilled to celebrate the holidays with her family. She started 2026 with more energy and feeling grateful for the successful treatment and device.

“I wasn’t out of breath anymore,” she said joyously. “They’re so helpful at the rehab. If you need anything, they’re right there, helping you. It’s very nice to know that if you need anything at all, just ask.”

To learn more about the TAVR procedure at Northwestern Medicine, please visit

https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/heart-and-vascular/conditions-and-treatments/aortic-valve-disease.

To connect with the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute (BCVI) at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, please visit https://www.nm.org/locations/bluhm-cardiovascular-institute-at-palos-hospital.

To learn more about Northwestern Medicine, visit https://news.nm.org/.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill – For millions of women, uterine fibroids are more than a medical issue – the condition can cause heavy bleeding, chronic pain and interfere with work, relationships, and quality of life. At Northwestern Medicine, a minimally invasive procedure called transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) is helping patients find relief – without the need for major surgery.

 Cayce McConnell, 46, was exhausted from enduring heavy, painful periods each month.

“It got to the point where I needed iron infusions and was missing work at times, and it was disruptive,” McConnell said.

 The Frankfort nurse practitioner went to see her doctor, who recommended an ultrasound. McConnell was diagnosed with uterine fibroids, which wasn’t a big surprise.

 “I do have a strong family history. A lot of my aunts, almost all of them, have had uterine fibroids, and almost all of them have had a hysterectomy,” McConnell said.

 Understanding uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common type of abnormal growth in a woman’s uterus.

The estrogen-dependent tumors impact as many as 80% of people with a uterus during their reproductive years, from teens all the way through menopause.

 “Uterine fibroids affect millions of women per year. They can cause abnormal bleeding, fertility problems and pelvic pain,” said Alexander Lin, MD, OB/GYN, medical director for women’s health at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital.

Heavy menstrual periods or prolonged menstrual periods are the two most common symptoms.

“In addition to heavy or prolonged bleeding, fibroids can cause other symptoms. As fibroids grow, they can cause pressure on the bladder because they'll make the uterus enlarge and push on the bladder. Fibroids can also push on the intestines. Fibroids can also cause bloating and pain,” said Dr. Lin.

Exploring treatment options

To find relief from their uterine fibroids, several of McConnell’s aunts chose to undergo a hysterectomy, a surgical procedure to remove a woman’s uterus.

A busy mom of two teenagers, McConnell was hoping to avoid major surgery, if possible.

 To better understand her treatment options, she made an appointment to see Dr. Lin at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital.

“It was when I met Dr. Lin that he told me about a new option that targets and gets right to the root of the problem, the fibroids,” McConnell said.

Transcervical fibroid ablation

The new treatment option is called transcervical fibroid ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy the fibroids without incisions.

“Transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) uses a type of energy called RF energy, or radio frequency energy. We can think of it as a form of electrical energy, which then heats the fibroid tumors, which are proteins, and helps break them down,” Dr. Lin said.

During the outpatient procedure, Dr. Lin uses new technology that combines intrauterine ultrasound with radiofrequency to target and shrink fibroids. There are no incisions, which means there is virtually no recovery time and patients can feel relief from the symptoms in as little as three months.

“Approximately 90% of patients who have symptoms with bleeding or pain will get very good relief following the fibroid ablation treatment. Recovery is very rapid. The patients usually don't have much pain at all. Typically, the following day, they're already back to work and functioning normally,” Dr. Lin said.

Finding relief from uterine fibroids

Cayce McConnell chose to have the TFA procedure performed at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, the first facility to offer the procedure in Chicago’s south suburbs. 

“I was in and out. I was in the room for maybe an hour or two, and then in recovery for an hour and went home the same day. I actually went to work two days later, so it was great,” McConnell said.

Within a month, McConnell noticed significant relief from the period symptoms she had experienced previously. Her periods are now lighter, less painful and not disrupting her life. She is sharing her experience with friends and family members, who were unaware there is a treatment for uterine fibroids that doesn’t involve major surgery.

“Almost everyone in my family was like, ‘How did you hear about that? How did you do that and not get an incision and not have to be cut or have a hysterectomy?’ McConnell said. “I’m happy to share it with anyone, because it was great for me.”

Treating uterine fibroids at Northwestern Medicine

Northwestern Medicine offers a range of treatment options for uterine fibroids. Our minimally invasive gynecologic experts offer telehealth visits after imaging, to review the results with patients and develop a treatment plan.  

In addition to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, Northwestern Medicine offers TFA at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago and at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital in the northern suburbs.  For more information, please visit www.nm.org.

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL — JUNE 27, 2025 — Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital is proud to announce the opening of a new hybrid vascular operating room (OR), bringing leading-edge surgical technology and advanced vascular care to the south suburbs. This milestone reflects Northwestern Medicine’s ongoing commitment to providing world-class care closer to home.

The new hybrid OR features a ceiling-mounted fluoroscopic/x-ray system with integrated ultrasound, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and navigational software. This advanced imaging suite enables surgeons to perform complex vascular procedures with greater precision, reduced radiation exposure and improved surgical efficiency.

“The future of imaging in vascular surgical practice is available now,” said Gabriel Wallace, MD, vascular surgeon and director of vascular surgery for the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “The hybrid system allows surgeons to see with incredible clarity, treat with greater accuracy and do so in a way that’s safer for both patients and staff. It’s a game-changer for our community.”

The hybrid OR includes overlay image technology to streamline procedures and reduce radiation, with the potential for future upgrades to fiberoptic real-time navigation (FORS)—a non-radiating technology recently introduced at Northwestern Memorial Hospital Chicago.

The launch of the hybrid OR coincides with the arrival of vascular surgeon Nandan Nath, MD, who joined Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital earlier this year. His addition doubles the hospital’s vascular surgery capacity and expands access to both in-office and surgical vascular care.

“This new operating room and the addition of Dr. Nath allow us to serve more patients with the most advanced tools available,” said Dr. Wallace. “Dr. Nath has also established a clinic in Mokena for the Northwestern Medicine Vascular and Vein Center, allowing better access to the office for patients who live further south.”

One of those patients is Ed Langevin, a 63-year-old Orland Park resident. The retiree underwent two life-changing procedures to treat a blocked superior mesenteric artery—a condition known as mesenteric ischemia.

“I thought I was a goner,” said Langevin. “I couldn’t eat, I was losing weight fast, and no one could figure out what was wrong. Then I met Dr. Wallace.”

After being diagnosed in May 2024, Langevin underwent surgery in June 2024 and a follow-up procedure in March 2025. Today, he’s back to spending time with his grandchildren, volunteering at his church and enjoying his favorite sandwiches from Submarine City in Orland Park. Earlier this week, he joined Dr. Wallace for a behind-the-scenes look at the new OR before the space undergoes terminal cleaning and disinfection in advance of the first surgeries in early July.

“Dr. Wallace told me, ‘We can fix this,’ and he did,” said Langevin. “Now I can eat again, take walks with my wife, play with my grandkids, and just enjoy life. I feel very blessed to have access to this caliber of care so close to home. This technology is really something.”

Among the advanced procedures now available at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital is fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR), an advanced, minimally invasive procedure for treating complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). This technique uses custom-designed grafts with small openings—called fenestrations—to maintain blood flow to vital organs while repairing the weakened section of the aorta.

“FEVAR allows us to treat high-risk aneurysms and treat patients with greater precision, with significantly shorter recovery times compared to open surgery,” said Dr. Wallace. “By tailoring the graft to each patient’s anatomy, we can provide a personalized treatment to restore blood flow safely and effectively. What was once an operation with a giant incision, a week in the hospital, and 6 weeks recovery can now be done with a tiny incision and a one-night hospitalization.”

Lockport resident Chuck Schneider, an 86-year-old retired machinist and army veteran, was among the first patients to have the FEVAR surgery at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. Diagnosed years earlier with an AAA, Schneider required surgery when the aneurysm ballooned to a dangerous size. His medical team at the VA recommended he see Dr. Wallace who could repair the aneurysm minimally invasively.

“When I met Dr. Wallace, he told me he could fix the aneurysm without cutting me open and I knew he was the surgeon I wanted,” said Schneider. “I had complete confidence in him and his team. He’s honest and straightforward, so I knew I was in the best hands, and I wouldn’t have to travel far. In less than two weeks I felt great. I was surprised by how fast I recovered.”

After surgery, Schneider is back to doing the things he loves, including spending time with his wife of 60 years Joann and continuing his annual tradition of pheasant hunting with his sons. In September, he’ll travel to Germany to visit his granddaughter and meet his great grandchild for the first time.

With the opening of the hybrid OR, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital continues to elevate the standard of care in the south suburbs—ensuring that patients like Ed and Chuck do not have to travel far to receive the most advanced vascular treatments available.

About Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute
Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, celebrating its 20^th anniversary in 2025, is an innovative powerhouse in developing the latest, safest advances in cardiovascular care. Anchored in downtown Chicago, it has expanded and integrated across the Northwestern Medicine health system, bringing advanced cardiovascular services close to where patients live and work.

For more information about Northwestern Medicine’s top ranked cardiovascular care, go to nm.org/heart or call (312) NM-HEART. To learn more about Northwestern Medicine, visit https://news.nm.org/.

“Our continuous recognition would not be achieved if not for the dedication and commitment made each and every day by our physicians, nurses and staff to providing world-class compassionate care to our patients,” said Howard Chrisman, MD, president and chief executive officer, Northwestern Memorial HealthCare. “Driven by our Patients First mission, we strive to be better by any measure that has a positive impact on our delivery of care and patient outcomes.”

Below are highlights for Northwestern Medicine hospitals in the 2024-25 U.S. News Best Hospitals rankings:

• In addition to retaining its position on the Honor Roll of Best Hospitals, Northwestern Memorial Hospital will be designated No. 1 (tie) in metropolitan Chicago and Illinois. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is also nationally ranked in 11 specialties: Cancer (No. 20); Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery (No. 7); Diabetes & Endocrinology (No. 8); Ear, Nose & Throat (No. 16); Gastroenterology & GI Surgery (No. 10 tie); Geriatrics (No. 11); Neurology & Neurosurgery (No. 11); Obstetrics & Gynecology (No. 9); Orthopaedics (No. 11); Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (No. 12); and Urology (No. 12 tie). The hospital is the only Illinois hospital and one of nine hospitals in the U.S. to be recognized as “High Performing” in all 20 procedures and conditions.
• Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is tied at No. 8 in both Illinois and the Chicago metropolitan area. The hospital is nationally ranked in three specialties and designated as “High Performing” in four specialties: Geriatrics (No. 47); Neurology & Neurosurgery (No. 34 tie); Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (No. 50); Diabetes & Endocrinology; Gastroenterology & GI Surgery; Orthopaedics; and Urology. The hospital is recognized as “High Performing” in 5 procedures and conditions.
• Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital is ranked No. 7 in both Illinois and the Chicago metropolitan area. Central DuPage is designated as “High Performing” in five specialties: Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery; Geriatrics; Neurology & Neurosurgery; Orthopaedics; and Pulmonology & Lung Surgery. The hospital is recognized as “High Performing” in 13 procedures and conditions.
• Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital, Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Woodstock Hospital combined are ranked No. 13 (tie) in Illinois and ranked No. 12 in Chicago metropolitan area. The hospitals are designated as “High Performing” in two specialties: Pulmonology & Lung Surgery; and Urology. The hospitals are recognized as “High Performing” in 9 procedures and conditions.
• Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital is tied at No. 15 in Illinois and tied at No. 13 in the Chicago metropolitan area. Palos Hospital is also recognized as “High Performing” in 9 procedures and conditions.
• Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital is recognized by U.S. News and World Report with a national ranking of No. 45 (tie) for Rehabilitation.
• Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital was as “High Performing” in 4 procedures and conditions.
• Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital is recognized as “High Performing” in 1 procedure and condition.

To view the full U.S. News & World Report rankings, visit: Best Hospitals | U.S. News Hospital Rankings and Ratings (usnews.com)

Four Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital physicians have been named inaugural recipients of the St. George Foundation Distinguished Physician Awards. This is a prestigious and rare honor as only 12 other Northwestern Medicine physicians hold the title of Distinguished Physician.

Franjo Siric, MD, surgical director, Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute (BCVI) at Palos Hospital, received the Cardiac Surgery award. R. Kannan Mutharasan, MD, medical director, BCVI at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, received the Cardiology award. Drew Spencer, MD, medical director of neurosurgery at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, is the inaugural recipient in Neurosurgery. They join Timothy Kuzel, MD, medical director of the Northwestern Medicine St. George Cancer Institute, who was honored with the Oncology award last fall.

These awards recognize physicians who achieve the highest personal and professional achievements in their respective fields, as well as individuals who serve as role models for medical students, residents and attending physicians. The St. George Foundation is a private foundation dedicated to promoting the general health of the community in the southwest suburbs of Chicago.

“We believe that world-class care should be available close to where people live and that the continuum of disease prevention, early detection and expert treatment are all critical elements for the community,” said Terrence Moisan, MD, president of The St. George Foundation. “Our St. George directors proudly support these extremely talented recipients of the St. George Foundation Distinguished Physician honors.”

Dr. Siric is the newly appointed surgical director of BCVI at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. In this role he will oversee the growth of cardiac surgical programs, including complex and minimally invasive procedures, and work together with Dr. Mutharasan to expand heart care to patients in the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago. 

Following his initial training and practice in his native Croatia, Dr. Siric completed advanced fellowships at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School and the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Siric joined Northwestern Medicine in November 2023 from the Christiana Care Health System in Delaware.

“We were fortunate to recruit Dr. Siric. His skillset will be of particular value given the complex cardiac pathology we see in Chicago’s south and southwest suburbs,” said Douglas R. Johnston, MD, chief, cardiac surgery at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute. “The appointment of Dr. Siric solidifies Northwestern Medicine’s position as the leader in cardiac surgery throughout the Chicagoland area.” 

Dr. Mutharasan was promoted to medical director of BCVI in the south suburbs in 2021. Under his leadership, cardiology and vascular services at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital,  Northwestern Medicine Orland Park, and Northwestern Medicine Mokena have seen significant growth.  Since the merger of Palos Health with Northwestern Medicine in Fiscal Year 2020, new outpatient visits for cardiology, cardiac surgery, vascular surgery and the heart and lung clinic have seen an average annual growth rate of 65%. Total outpatient visits are expected to reach nearly 18,000 in FY24.

“Dr. Siric and Dr. Mutharasan represent the qualities we seek in physicians throughout the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute,” said Patrick M. McCarthy, MD, executive director, Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute. “Their significant accomplishments in the field of cardiology reflect the groundbreaking heart and vascular services we offer and the excellent results we obtain for our patients.”

A graduate of the Northwestern Medicine residency program, Dr. Spencer joined the Department of Neurosurgery in 2017 and was recruited in 2021 to lead the development of cranial and spinal neurosurgical services at Palos Hospital. His dedication to patient care and ability to partner across multiple teams has advanced neurosurgery and neurosciences services.

“Dr. Spencer upholds the inherent values of Northwestern Medicine’s Department of Neurosurgery. In this short time the program has risen to new heights, and he continues to lead institutional investments to pave the way for the future of neurosurgery in the south suburbs,” said Maciej Lesniak, MD, chair, Department of Neurological Surgery at Northwestern Medicine.

Dr. Kuzel joined Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital in 2023 to lead oncology programs and the newly named Northwestern Medicine St. George Cancer Institute in Orland Park, Ill. He is overseeing the continued expansion of world-class clinical services for multispecialty cancer care while also promoting prevention, education and research. A long-term plan will create additional patient and clinical spaces in the south suburbs to provide residents the convenience of receiving the highest levels of care closer to home.

A typical resting heart rate for an adult is 60 to 100 beats per minute. Beth Jones’ heart rate would soar to 180 beats per minute and stay that high for hours, even while just sitting on the couch. The school administrator from St. Charles was suffering from atrial fibrillation. A tag-team approach by a cardiac surgeon and a cardiac electrophysiologist at the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute created scars on her heart to return it to a normal rhythm.

During atrial fibrillation (Afib) the upper chambers of the heart, the atria, are not contracting normally due to irregular signals in the conduction system. Instead, the atria quiver, decreasing the amount of blood ejected from the heart with each heartbeat.

“One of the major concerns addressed when a patient is initially diagnosed with atrial fibrillation is the five-fold increased risk of stroke, particularly debilitating strokes,” said Jessica Delaney, MD, cardiac electrophysiology at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital. “In addition, if a patient’s heart rate remains elevated, over time this can increase the risk for developing congestive heart failure.”

Many people with Afib never have symptoms. But others may experience a frightening mix of rapid, pounding heartbeat, along with dizziness, fatigue, trouble breathing and tightness in the chest.

“I was working out on a treadmill and my heart rate hit 236. I switched to another machine thinking it was broken, and it showed the same high heart rate,” said Jones. “I thought I was going to die right there at the fitness center.”

Jones was treated with medications, often the first line of defense in Afib. However, drugs are not a cure and some patients, like Jones, need additional treatment. Jones first underwent a catheter ablation at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital.

During treatment, a small, flexible tube is inserted through veins in the groin, and directed to the area of the heart generating the abnormal signals. The tissue can be burned using radiofrequency or frozen with cryoablation.

“For some patients, ablation on the inside wall of the heart is not enough to control the atrial fibrillation and further ablation is needed on the outer side,” said Dr. Delaney. “The most common reasons for this are thickened heart muscle, anatomy limiting completeness of the inside ablation, or a prolonged duration of atrial fibrillation prior to the ablation.”

To fully disrupt the pathways, Jones needed the expertise of both a cardiac electrophysiologist and a cardiac surgeon.  The team at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is collaborating on a “one-two punch” to eliminate her atrial fibrillation.

In November, Jones underwent a total thoracoscopic modified maze (TT-maze) procedure at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. Unlike the classic maze, which is an open-heart procedure, the TT-maze is done minimally invasively through small incisions.

“We deflate one lung at a time to access the heart through three incisions on each side,” said Andrei Churyla, MD, cardiac surgeon, Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital. “Using radiofrequency instruments, we create a special maze pattern on the surface of the heart to disrupt the irregular flow of electricity.”

The left atrial appendage, a pocket-like section in the left atrium, is also closed to reduce a common source of blood clot formation that increases stroke risk. A few months after the TT-maze, Dr. Delaney performed a catheter ablation inside the heart to complete the connection with the surface scars.

“With the minimally invasive approach, we don’t make a big incision in the chest, we avoid a heart lung machine, and patients can return to their lives much sooner,” said Dr. Churyla.

Jones says she could feel the difference immediately.

“The Afib was really depressing. I felt like I was working out for 15 hours a day. I was constantly exhausted and afraid because my father had a stroke and passed away in his 60s,” said Jones. “Dr. Delaney and Dr. Churlya gave me my life back. I’m exercising, traveling and back at work.”

Andrew DeLuca woke up with back pain a day after moving an air conditioner unit. Within hours he was close to death. The 82-year-old from Tinley Park didn’t realize he had a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a condition with a survival rate of only 15%. His family rushed him to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, where a surgical team was prepared for this complex emergency.

The abdominal aorta, which is about the size of a garden hose, carries blood away from the heart to lower parts of the body. The vessel can weaken and bulge, and if left untreated, the aneurysm can burst.

According to the American Heart Association’s 2023 statistics, there were 150,000 global deaths attributable to aortic aneurysms in 2020, a 26% increase from 2010.

“Blood was pouring from Mr. DeLuca’s aorta into the free space inside the belly. He was dying in front of us,” said Gabriel Wallace, MD, board certified vascular surgeon and director of vascular surgery at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital. “He needed immediate surgery.”

Dr. Wallace had developed a streamlined protocol for this type of emergency. When an aortic rupture is diagnosed, Dr. Wallace sends a text to the operating room team, and they have all the necessary equipment for minimally invasive treatment already in a bag for quick deployment.

“Rapid treatment is the difference between life and death. 85% percent of people with an aortic rupture will die with 50% not even making it to the hospital,” said Dr. Wallace.

Without opening Mr. DeLuca’s chest, Dr. Wallace stopped the bleeding and repaired the aorta using a minimally invasive technique called endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). During the procedure, a small flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin up to the aorta using x-ray guidance. Often, the patient does not even require general anesthesia.

After an occlusion balloon in inserted to stop the bleeding from the inside, Dr. Wallace inserts a stent graft, a tube made of thin metal mesh covered with a thin polyester fabric. When the stent graft reaches the aorta, it is opened and fastened into place to reline and repair the aorta wall, stop the internal bleeding, and restore blood flow.

“It all came on so suddenly. We just thought it was back pain. We had no idea it was related to his heart,” said Carol DeLuca, Andrew’s wife. “Andrew is doing well and with daily exercise he has continued to improve his health and regain his quality of life. He is looking forward to golfing once the weather warms up.”

Men are more likely than women to have an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, family history and age. Men 55 to 75 years old who have ever smoked should get an ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms.

"If we know about an aneurysm before it ruptures, we can often treat it and have the patient go home the next day,” said Dr. Wallace. “There are usually no symptoms until it may be too late, so that is why screening is so important.”

Northwestern Medicine recently developed an AAA self-referral program for patients who have seen a Northwestern Medicine primary care physician within 3 years. Patients who meet the screening criteria can self-schedule through their MyNM account. If patients are outside the criteria, they should discuss screening with their primary care physician. 

AAA screening criteria:

• Men >50 with 1st degree relative with AAA and personal smoking history
• Men >55 with 1st degree relative with AAA, non-smoker
• Men >65 with smoking history
• Women 65-75 with first degree relative with AAA or smoking history

Medicare Part B covers a one-time AAA ultrasound if you are at risk for AAA and receive a referral from your provider. Medicare considers you at risk for AAA if you have a family history of AAA or, you are a man aged 65-75 and have smoked 100 or more cigarettes in your lifetime.

Cardiac MRI is now available at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. The versatile tool is used to diagnose many cardiac conditions and is the best test available to understand in full detail the structure of the heart.

Northwestern Medicine’s imaging systems are fully integrated across the health system’s campuses. This allows radiologists practicing at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital to easily collaborate electronically with colleagues across the health network, including downtown at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

“World-class researchers in cardiac MRI at Northwestern Medicine work hard every day to advance the field so that patients can benefit from more accurate diagnosis, which leads to better treatments,” said R. Kannan Mutharasan, MD, medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital.

Dr. Mutharasan and Bradley Allen, MD, MS, chief of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Imaging at Northwestern Medicine, answer some common questions about cardiac MRI.

Why would a cardiologist order a cardiac MRI?

Cardiac MRI can test for multiple indications including evaluation of heart failure, potential cardiac masses, valve disease, a blood clot in the heart, or acute cardiac injury such as myocarditis. It can also be used as part of an arrythmia work-up or treatment planning prior to ablations.

What information can a cardiac MRI reveal that other testing may not?

“Cardiac MRI is considered the gold-standard for evaluation of heart size and function. In addition, MRI is excellent at tissue characterization and can provide information about scar or inflammation to the heart muscle,” said Dr. Allen.

More advanced types of MRI like stress perfusion can help determine if there is reduced blood flow to the heart, while a special type of MRI called phase contrast imaging can visualize and measure blood flow and velocity. This information can diagnose various conditions like heart attack, myocarditis, or heart valve disease; while also helping to estimate risk and potential success of various treatment strategies.

“Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic condition that affects up to 1 in 500 individuals, is a good example of a condition that a cardiac MRI may pick up, but a more routine cardiac test like an echocardiogram may miss,” said Dr. Mutharasan. “Understanding whether someone has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is important because not only does it affect the individual patient, but it may impact the health of family members who may have the condition but not realize it.”

How does the test work? How long does it take?

MRI generates images using a very strong magnetic field. Patients lie flat and are placed in the center of the MRI scanner which looks like a round tube. A special piece of equipment called a coil is placed on their chest.

“The MRI machine makes many loud sounds and vibrations which is the machine producing small magnetic field changes within the patients. The coil on the chest functions like an antenna which receives the magnetic signals coming from the patient,” said Dr. Allen.

These signals are sent to a computer where they are used to build an image of the part of the body being scanned. The images are then reviewed by a cardiac imaging expert. Most cardiac MRIs require intravenous injection of gadolinium contrast agent. The test takes 60-90 minutes to complete.

Are there any risks?

Because the MRI machine uses very strong magnets, patients cannot bring anything metal into the scanner. All patients will be screened for metal implants or other metal objects that could be unsafe in the scanner. Patients with ICD or pacemakers usually can undergo MRI but require special settings to be used on their device. There is no ionizing radiation associated with MRI so pregnant women can undergo MRI safely but cannot receive gadolinium. Patients with poor kidney function may not be eligible to receive gadolinium.

What is new in the world of cardiac MRI?

“Cardiac MRI is a very exciting research space. Some work is focused on how to make the imaging faster so the studies can be completed in 30 minutes or less,” said Dr. Allen. “Additional work has focused on how our ability to characterize changes in the heart tissue can help better define patient diagnoses and risk in diseases like cardiac amyloidosis and in patients with heart transplant.”

Evaluating cardiac blood flow is another area of expertise at Northwestern Medicine using a tool called 4D flow MRI. Machine learning and artificial intelligence is starting to significantly impact cardiac MRI in a whole range of applications including imaging the patient, performing analysis and quantification, and generating reports.

When should I ask my doctor about cardiac MRI?

The role of Cardiac MRI should be discussed with your cardiologist and is especially indicated if the underlying cardiac disease or extent of disease is not clear after evaluation with other diagnostic tools such as echocardiography.

To make a cardiology appointment at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, please call 708-923-4200 or visit heart.nm.org.

Anchored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is a destination for those requiring highly specialized heart and vascular care. In 2023-24, U.S. News & World Report named the Northwestern Memorial Hospital cardiology, heart & vascular surgery program a top ten program in the nation (No. 7) and the highest ranked program in Illinois for 16 consecutive years.

Residents in and around Mokena now have easier access to nationally ranked Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute physicians. New cardiology services are now available at Northwestern Medicine Mokena, located at 21202 South Owens Road.

General cardiologists Lisa Pudusseri, DO, and Maitrayee S. Vadali, MD, are now seeing patients in the outpatient heart clinic, located in Suite 101. Dr. Pudusseri’s practice focus areas include aortic valve disease, coronary artery disease and cardiac oncology. Dr. Vadali’s practice focus areas include echocardiography, lipid disorders, valvular heart disease, coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation.

Additional diagnostic heart testing is now available in Suite 101. Tests include cardiac holter and event monitors to record the heart’s electrical activity over a period of days; echocardiogram to assess the heart’s function; and stress echocardiogram to test the heart’s reactions during periods of both rest and exercise.

“Travel can sometimes be a barrier to treatment. Providing specialized care and diagnostic testing for patients closer to where they live and work will not only be more convenient, but it may also help patients keep their heart health top of mind,” said R. Kannan Mutharasan, MD, medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital.

Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute services are also available in the southwest suburbs at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Orland Park.

Anchored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is a destination for those requiring highly specialized heart and vascular care. In 2023-24, U.S. News & World Report named the Northwestern Memorial Hospital cardiology, heart & vascular surgery program a top ten program in the nation (No. 7) and the highest ranked program in Illinois for 16 consecutive years.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. -  Former chef and restaurant owner Daniel Greco could no longer work due to his severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  The Oak Lawn resident was so out of breath that even taking a shower was difficult. Following a procedure at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, Greco is back to cooking at home and looking forward to an improved quality of life.

Greco was the first patient at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital to undergo an innovative minimally invasive procedure to help patients with severe emphysema breathe easier. The Zephyr ® Endobronchial Valve System improves lung function, exercise capacity and quality of life without major surgery.

Patients with COPD may experience hyperinflated lungs. Diseased air sacs don’t work properly, and air becomes trapped causing the lungs to overinflate. Breathing becomes so overwhelming that many patients struggle with simple tasks like talking or walking short distances.

During the Zephyr procedure, an interventional pulmonologist places, on average, four tiny valves in the airways to block off diseased parts of the lungs. Trapped air escapes through the valves reducing the volume. The healthier lobes can then expand more fully and work more efficiently.

The one-time procedure is done during a bronchoscopy that requires no cutting or incisions. A thin tube containing a light, camera and small tools are inserted into the lungs through the nose or mouth.

“Studies have found patients treated with Zephyr valves can breathe easier, be more active, and enjoy a significantly improved quality of life,” said Sara Greenhill, MD, director of interventional pulmonology at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “We are excited to now offer this option to patients in the south suburbs who are struggling with day-to-day activities because of their COPD.”

Greco has been cooking professionally since he was 12 years old. First at his dad’s Evergreen Park restaurant and later owning a restaurant in Willow Springs and working at several establishments in the south suburbs. For a man who enjoyed making every meal a special event for his patrons, being stuck at home has been frustrating.

“I was at my wits’ end. I really miss work and cooking is my therapy,” said Greco.  “I’m doing much better and I’m eager to exercise to improve my quality of life, especially so I can spend more time with my grandchildren.”

Greco says he has struggled with his COPD for several years and was discouraged until he began seeing a new pulmonologist Patricia Mikes, MD, at Northwestern Medicine.

“I’m so grateful for Dr. Mikes and the care she took to really explore what other options there were for me,” said Greco.  “She referred me to Dr. Greenhill and her amazing patient navigator Jennie Knight who have treated me like family.”

Northwestern Medicine is among a select group of pulmonary programs in Chicagoland to offer the Zephyr System. It is currently available at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. 

“Before Zephyr, the only options for these patients were highly invasive treatments such as lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation,” said Benjamin J. Seides, MD, director of Interventional Pulmonology at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. “It is amazing to see how quickly patients improve and get back to activities they have long missed. It is truly a life-changing procedure.”

According to the American Lung Association, more than 12.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, but millions more may have the disease without even knowing it. There are few treatment options for most patients with emphysema and there is no cure.

Last spring, 70-year-old Starr Ooms required several hospitalizations for shortness of breath. She thought it might be panic attacks, but when she learned it was congestive heart failure that caused even more anxiety. Her father and grandfather had died from the same condition.

The Oak Forest, Ill. resident is breathing easier now thanks to a remote monitoring system that allows her health care team at the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute to keep an eye on her vital statistics every day.

Ooms was among the first patients at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital to undergo a procedure to implant a CardioMEMS^TM device. The implant allows remote monitoring of pulmonary artery pressures without any batteries or wires. Elevation of pulmonary artery pressure can be an early indicator of worsening heart failure.

“Traditionally, we have relied on factors such as patient weight, blood pressures, physical exam findings and symptoms to detect worsening heart failure. Unfortunately, relying on these markers leaves little time to respond before hospitalization is necessary and are often delayed in presentation,” said Majed Afana, MD, interventional cardiologist at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “The CardioMEMS can detect early changes that can often be treated through simple adjustments of medications without requiring the patient to come in for a visit and may help prevent recurrent hospitalizations.”

The paperclip-sized device is implanted in the pulmonary artery during a minimally invasive procedure. Through a pinpoint incision in the groin, a catheter carrying the CardioMEMS sensor is guided through the blood vessels and up to the pulmonary artery. Most people go home the same day as the procedure.

Following the procedure, the patient receives a special pillow that sends readings from the CardioMEMS sensor. The patient must lie down on the pillow for just a few seconds each day. The sensor sends the readings to a team of physicians and advanced practice nurses to review.

“Before my diagnosis I found myself gasping for breath. It gives me peace of mind to know my numbers,” said Ooms.  “I know what to do if my number escalates and I have a team watching over me. I haven’t required a hospitalization since undergoing the procedure.”

In patients with congestive heart failure, the heart does not pump blood as well as it should. When this occurs, fluid can back up into the lungs and other parts of the body. This can cause symptoms such as swelling and shortness of breath.

Through remote monitoring, the clinical team can detect changes up to 30 days before the patient would experience symptoms and take proactive action to protect the patient’s health and prevent hospitalization.  

“Heart failure is a debilitating disease requiring comprehensive management, including carefully chosen medications. If left unchecked, heart failure can lead to the failure of other vital organs,” said R. Kannan Mutharasan, MD , medical director of Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital.  “With CardioMEMS monitoring, we can reduce heart failure readmissions and improve the quality of life of our heart failure patients.”

Previously, local patients had to travel to Northwestern Memorial Hospital or Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital for the procedure. CardioMEMS is also available at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital, Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital, Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital, Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital.

More than five million Americans are living with heart failure. The Center for Heart Failure is one of six niche centers within the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, a nationally recognized healthcare destination for those requiring highly specialized care.

To learn more about cardiovascular services at Northwestern Medicine, visit nm.org/heart.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. -  Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital has achieved Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification by The Joint Commission, the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in healthcare. Offered in collaboration with the American Stroke Association, The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® signifies that Palos Hospital has met rigorous standards, clinical practice guidelines and performance measures.

“Community members in the south suburbs can have confidence if they or a loved one suffer a stroke, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital has a highly trained team and advanced tools in place for rapid treatment,” said Jeff Good, president, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital.

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts.

“Every second counts when treating a stroke. When the brain is lacking oxygen, every minute can account for millions of brain cells dying,” said Fan Z. Caprio, MD, medical director, Advanced Primary Stroke Center at Northwestern Medical Palos Hospital. “Early intervention can make the difference between life and death or severe disability.”

Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital also received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines^® - Stroke Silver Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensure stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines. The recognition included the AHA Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll, which aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date care when hospitalized due to stroke.

Since joining Northwestern Medicine in 2021, Palos Hospital has made a significant investment in advancing stroke services for the local community. The stroke team includes neurologists, neurosurgeons, neurocritical care specialists, ER and ICU staff and other specialists. The acute care team is supported by telehealth technologies and available 24/7. Patients are cared for in a designated stroke unit by an exceptional, multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and therapists.

“Observing collaborative relationships grow between various departments while keeping the stroke patient and their family at the center of their work has been an amazing experience,” said Deb Lawrence, APRN, ACNS-BC, CDCES, stroke program coordinator, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital.

Neurosurgeons Drew A. Spencer, MD;  William Metcalf-Doetsch, MD; and Roxanna Garcia, MD, joined Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital to expand acute neurosurgical care and develop a neurointensive care unit with Edward Manno, MD, director of regional neurology.

“A major component of earning these national designations is the creation of a loyal, cohesive clinical team across the continuum of care,” said Ellie Kruk, MHA, NE-BC, vice president and chief nursing executive at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “Our staff has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to a higher standard of clinical care.”

About Get With The Guidelines

Get With The Guidelines^® is the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s hospital-based quality improvement program that provides hospitals with the latest research-based guidelines. Developed with the goal of saving lives and hastening recovery, Get With The Guidelines has touched the lives of more than 12 million patients since 2001. For more information, visit heart.org.

About The Joint Commission

The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve healthcare for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating healthcare organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. An independent, nonprofit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in healthcare.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. -  Getting discharged from a hospital can be stressful on a patient and their family.

Patients who have been medically cleared to leave the hospital are moved to the Discharge Lounge within the hospital as they wait for their ride home. The care area offers private rooms, comfortable recliners, TVs, snacks and direct access to the front drive of the hospital. Families can pull up to the Discharge Lounge door with no circling in the parking lot to find a space.

The Discharge Lounge has reduced the average 4-hour discharge process to under an hour at Palos Hospital. It is a significant improvement as any delay discharging an inpatient causes a ripple effect that leads to additional back-ups in the Emergency Department.

“Throughput in a hospital is key to the patient experience. Improving the transition of patients ready to go home allows the acutely ill patients being treated in the Emergency Department to move into an open bed much sooner,” said Thomas J. Moran, MD, vice president and chief medical officer, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “Since the Discharge Lounge was put in place, we have had minimal holds in the Emergency Department.”

Palos Hospital has seen a 49% reduction in patients leaving the emergency department without being seen since launching the Discharge Lounge; and patient satisfaction scores in both the inpatient and emergency department have improved.

“When it is time to go home, patients are eager to be on their way and families enjoy not having to park and then walk back up to the patient floors,” said Rebecca Murphy, DNP, vice president of operations, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “Our physicians typically round in the mornings to clear patients. The lounge is a great solution for patients whose families or transport may not be able to get them right away.”

The Discharge Lounge, located just off the front entrance of Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, is open Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is located within the Center for Short Stay Care and is staffed by nurses and patient care technicians. Assisted devices are available as needed.

The lounge opened in December of 2022. It was an idea that came out of urgent need. Dr. Moran, Rebecca Murphy and Chief Nursing Executive Ellie Kruk were looking at an emergency department holding 40 admitted patients, a full hospital and nowhere to move. The decision was made to open the discharge lounge on the fly. An area was identified, teams where activated, and patients started to move.

“It took everyone being on board to make it happen and it worked,” said Ellie Kruk, BSN, vice president and chief nursing executive, Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “Since that day, the lounge has become a permanent fixture at Palos Hospital.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Jessica Halal, RN, checks in on Henry DeBose Sr., of Harvey, Ill., as he waits comfortably for his ride home in the Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital Discharge Lounge.

Heafey is one of 1,100 volunteers Northwestern Medicine is honoring during National Volunteer Week, April 16 through 22. Ranging in age from 16 to 93, volunteers touch the lives of patients, families, visitors and staff. A friendly smile, a helping hand and a warm heart can make a real difference in the experience people have in a hospital when they are visiting or receiving care.

“Jack is an all-around unique, interesting, intelligent man. A  veteran, photographer and a teacher, he is also  a comedian when visiting us in the volunteer office,” said Donna Nadelhoffer, manager of Volunteer Services at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “His life stories are endless, and he always brings his upbeat and positive attitude when volunteering.”

Heafey, of Palos Heights, Illlinois, retired in 1997 after 31 years teaching English and journalism at Leyden Township High School. He felt restless and first began volunteering at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. A gallbladder surgery at Palos Hospital piqued his interest in helping others during what is often a very stressful time.

“Volunteering at a hospital is a lesson in humility and a chance to learn about life and yourself,” said Heafey. “You’ve got to love yourself to take care of others. It feels good to do a service.”

In his early years of volunteering, Heafey was a transporter bringing patients where they needed to go for testing, procedures, appointments and back to their rooms. While he recalls many joyful moments, one memory sticks with him.

“A patient had received some bad news, and she asked if I could just sit and talk,” said Heafey. “You can’t change the inevitable, so instead of thinking about what was to come, I asked her to look backwards, and we reflected on all the good she accomplished in life. It helped and I felt good about that.”

Many years ago, Heafey started the ROMEO (retired old men eating out) club of fellow volunteers. They’d head to Hackney’s after a shift and rib one another for hours. Since then, many of that group have passed on or are unable to volunteer anymore. He misses the old crew but is excited every week to come back to Palos Hospital to meet new people.

“The hospital is full of well educated, very bright people. Volunteering offers a wonderful opportunity to talk with nice people, stay physically active and get a free cup of coffee,” Heafey adds with a laugh.

Due to a sore back, Heafey no longer transports patients. Now, twice a week he works in Sterile Supply Processing where he delivers supplies and equipment to units throughout the hospital. He notes that it is a job that could probably be done with a robot, but then who would tell the staff jokes? 

To learn more about volunteering at Northwestern Medicine visit Volunteer | Northwestern Medicine.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. – Feb. 1, 2023 – Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women in the United States, causing more deaths than all forms of cancer combined. Among females 20 years and older, nearly 45% are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association. Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital cardiologists urge women to pay attention to symptoms and risk factors of heart disease.

“Women and men experience very different symptoms when they have coronary artery disease. In fact, it is a more difficult diagnosis to make in women,” said Kristina Quinn Degesys, MD, a cardiologist at the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital. “Chest pain is still the most common symptom, as it is in men. However, women are more likely to have different symptoms, such as arm and jaw pain. This is why women often have delayed diagnoses of acute coronary syndrome.”

Women often have more subtle symptoms. For example, women often describe chest pain as a pressure, tightness or achiness in the center of the chest. Because chest pain experienced by women is often less severe than what is described by men, women should take it seriously even when chest pain seems mild.

Other symptoms of heart attack include:

• Pain or discomfort lasting longer than 20 minutes in other areas of the upper body, including the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
• Shortness of breath, even without chest pain
• Breaking out in a cold sweat or feeling faint or woozy
• Fast heartbeat (palpitations)
• Unusual tiredness
• Trouble sleeping
• Problems breathing
• Indigestion, loss of appetite or nausea
• Anxiety

Not everyone experiencing a heart attack will have all the warning signs. The most important thing is to recognize symptoms as a possible heart attack. Getting help early can prevent lasting heart damage.

“In general, women are often caregivers for children, spouses and parents. So quite often, women do not prioritize their health. Almost half of all Americans have at least one risk factor for heart disease: high blood pressure, high cholesterol or smoking. It's important to regularly monitor your numbers,” said Lisa Pudusseri, DO, a cardiologist at the Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital. “If something does not feel right with your body, please don't delay seeking medical care. It also means following a heart healthy diet, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight.” 

In addition, Dr. Degesys adds that it is important to pick the right test for diagnosis of coronary artery disease in women. Women have a higher risk of a false positive exercise stress test without imaging.

“The addition of imaging with stress testing is helpful for women. Coronary CT angiography is an important test to consider in women who are at risk for coronary artery disease,” said Dr. Degesys. “Because of this, it's a good idea for women who have risk factors for coronary artery disease such as family history, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes to visit a cardiologist to discuss evaluation and prevention strategies.”

Women and men with parents or siblings with heart disease are more likely to develop heart disease themselves. A significant family history is present when a father or brother develops heart disease before the age of 55 or a mother or sister develops heart disease before the age of 65. No one can control his or her family history. Therefore, it is very important for individuals with a family history of heart disease to control any other risk factors to stay healthy.

February is American Heart Month, a time when the nation spotlights heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans. The first Friday of American Heart Month, Feb. 5, is also National Wear Red Day as part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women initiative.

To learn more about cardiology services at Northwestern Medicine, visit nm.org/heart.

Orland Park, Ill. – The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a quality program administered by the American College of Surgeons (ACS), has granted accredited status to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital and the Northwestern Medicine Breast Health Program in Orland Park. To achieve NAPBC accreditation, a breast center demonstrates compliance with the NAPBC standards addressing leadership, clinical services, research, community outreach, professional education, and quality improvement for patients. Breast centers seeking NAPBC accreditation undergo a site visit every three years.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by the NAPBC with this accreditation,” said Miraj Shah-Khan, MD, medical director of the breast cancer program at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “At Palos Hospital, we strive to provide patients with exceptional comprehensive breast cancer care from the moment they walk through the door.”

As a NAPBC-accredited center, Palos Hospital and the Breast Health Program are committed to maintaining levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive, patient-centered care for patients with breast disease. Patients can be confident their breast care team includes health care professionals from a variety of disciplines who are committed to working together to provide the highest quality care available through their entire course of treatment.

The NAPBC provides the structure and resources to develop and operate a high-quality breast center and accredited program. Patients receiving care through the Palos Hospital and the Breast Health Program have access to:

• Comprehensive breast cancer screening, including three-dimensional (3D) mammography, breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and automated breast ultrasound (ABUS)
• A multidisciplinary team of breast cancer experts who provide a full range of state-of-the-art services and leading-edge treatments
• Access to clinical trials, patient navigation support, supportive oncology services, genetic counseling, and novel treatment options  
• High-risk breast clinic, providing comprehensive risk assessment and surveillance strategies for patients at elevated breast cancer risk

About the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers

The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers represents a consortium of national, professional organizations dedicated to the quality of care of patients with diseases of the breast. Its board membership includes professionals from more than 20 national organizations that represent the full spectrum of breast care.  For more information, visit https://www.facs.org/quality-programs/napbc.

To learn more about Northwestern Medicine, visit nm.org.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. - Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital will now be home to the new Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute Outpatient Cardiology Clinic. Opening to patients on December 14, the clinic will feature 16 exam rooms — with two designed as “Clinic of the Future” models — one consult room, and dedicated clinician workspaces. An expanded cardiac diagnostics area, scheduled to open in early 2023, will offer heart failure and echocardiography rooms for cardiac testing procedures.

“The new outpatient clinic is the latest example of Northwestern Medicine’s commitment to provide outstanding clinical care close to where people live and work,” said R. Kannan Mutharasan, MD, medical director of Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Palos Hospital. “The opportunity for our clinicians to work together in a modern environment enhances collaboration and is more convenient for patients who may need to see more than one specialist or require frequent testing.”

The clinic is located in suite 1520 on the first floor of Palos Hospital at 12251 South 80th Avenue in Palos Heights. It will provide dedicated clinical space for 12 physicians and six advanced practice nurses, including general cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, cardiac electrophysiologists, heart failure specialists and cardiac surgeons. General cardiology will also continue to be available at Northwestern Medicine Orland Park, located at 15300 West Avenue, Suite 23, Orland Park.

Since launching at Palos Hospital in October 2021, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute has introduced new cardiology services in the region, including CardioMEMS™, a device to monitor patients with heart failure, and the Shockwave system to treat calcified coronary arteries. Northwestern Medicine Cardiac Surgeon Andrei Churyla, MD, recently joined Palos Hospital to offer more advanced cardiac surgeries, such as total thoracoscopic maze for atrial fibrillation.

“Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is dedicated to improving heart care by pioneering advanced treatments, performing groundbreaking clinical research, and incorporating innovative technology and artificial intelligence into clinical practice,” said Patrick M. McCarthy, MD, executive director of Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute and vice president of Clinical Integration for Northwestern Medical Group. “We are excited to expand this vision to the south suburbs with talented cardiologists and surgeons who are seeing patients at the new clinic at Palos Hospital.”

Two exam rooms are outfitted with large wall-mounted screens that face the clinician and patient for interactive visuals. Additional advancements planned in the coming months include ambient listening devices (with patient consent) that will test the ability to create clinician-facing documentation for the visit, generate orders and display patient-facing instructions. The concept may also test integration with patient wearables, such as a heart rate or blood pressure monitors.

“The ‘Clinic of the Future’ is about more than just the technology,” said Dr. Mutharasan. “It’s about connecting the patient and the clinician to humanize health care."

The new technology can enhance the overall patient experience and create a more coordinated plan of care, such as creating a seamless check-in, automating some nursing tasks, and improving the availability and accuracy of information.

Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is an innovative powerhouse in developing the latest safest advances in cardiovascular care. Anchored in downtown Chicago, it has expanded and integrated into nine Northwestern Medicine hospitals. Consistently recognized as one of the top cardiology and cardiac surgery programs in the country, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Northwestern Memorial Hospital is ranked the No. 8 Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery Program in the country by U.S. News & World Report, 2022 – 2023, in the annual “America’s Best Hospitals” rankings.

For more information visit heart.nm.org.

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. - If a spot on the lung is detected via imaging, patients want to know as quickly as possible if it is serious and what the next steps are. Many patients currently require multiple biopsies prior to a lung cancer diagnosis, which can add more time and anxiety to a patient’s journey to care. Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital is now offering robotic-assisted bronchoscopy to enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis of lung cancer.

With the robotic tools, Interventional Pulmonologist Sara Greenhill, MD, can quickly and safely access and biopsy difficult-to-reach nodules in the peripheral lung, where more than 70% of cancer lung nodules are located. Previously, these areas of the lung would only be accessible via more invasive methods.

“The ultrathin tools and ability to maneuver the catheter around tight turns allows us to aim at small targets deep in the lung with precision and stability,” said Dr. Greenhill. “We can determine if the nodule is cancerous and obtain staging information during the same procedure to accelerate time to treatment.”

Prior to the procedure, Dr. Greenhill uses 3D imaging and specialized software to create a path to the area of concern in the lung. During the bronchoscopy, a controller is used to navigate the 3.5 mm catheter to the target. The catheter can articulate 180 degrees in any direction. In addition to computer-guided navigation, a camera probe provides real-time vision.

Once the nodule is reached, the catheter is locked, and sensors hold it in place as the lungs fill and deflate with each breath. Tissue samples are removed for biopsy. The tools also allow the interventional pulmonologist to mark the nodule with a fluorescent dye to help surgeons remove as little lung tissue as possible during minimally invasive robotic surgery.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, in part because it has no symptoms in its early stages. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (CT) in adults between 50 and 80 years old who have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history, and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

CT scanning has been proven to save lives by detecting cancer earlier when it is more treatable and survivable. However, CT screening also picks up incidental nodules that are of unclear significance. These findings can cause anxiety in many patients.

“Our goal is to diagnose cancer at an earlier stage when it can be more successfully treated,” said Dr. Greenhill. “With the new robotic tools, we can give our patients answers sooner and begin a treatment plan."

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is also available at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago and Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Ill.

For more information about pulmonology and thoracic surgery at Northwestern Medicine visit Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute.

The new cancer center offers hematology and medical oncology care, laboratory services, nutritional counseling and social work. A full-service infusion suite and specialty pharmacy provide onsite chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and supportive care. In the future, the center will also offer surgical oncology, gynecologic oncology, genetic counselors and other subspecialties. Plans are also in place to bring new cancer therapies to the south suburbs through clinical trials before these treatments become more widely available.

The Orland Park site is staffed by members and affiliates of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, ranked No. 9 in the country for Cancer by U.S. News & World Report in its 2022-2023 “America's Best Hospitals” rankings. Virtual and in-person tumor boards give Northwestern Medicine Palos physicians access to the clinical expertise of the entire Northwestern system to collaborate on complex cases and determine the best-possible treatment plan.

“We are creating a center of excellence where patients receive comprehensive cancer care in one facility to improve patient experience, care coordination and quality,” said Christopher George, MD, medical director of Northwestern Medicine’s oncology program in the south and west suburbs. “Our vision is to bring innovative, leading-edge, novel therapies from the Lurie Cancer Center to patients in the southern suburbs.”

The clinic features eight exam rooms, 13 infusion bays, a flex room, a pharmacy for compounding drugs and a laboratory for onsite diagnostic services. The physical space is easy to navigate and designed with pleasing colors and textures to provide a comfortable, calming environment.

Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center Orland Park will feature three medical oncologists. Sudhir Sekhon, MD, is joining Northwestern Medicine from Advocate Health Care in Aurora, bringing more than 15 years of experience in hematology and medical oncology to his new role. Dr. Sekhon trained at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. Yaseen Alkaddoumi, MD, has practiced in the Chicago region for five years, and completed residencies at Loyola University Medical Center and the University of Illinois at Chicago Hospital. Yazan Numan, MD, assistant professor of Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, completed his fellowship in hematology and oncology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

These oncologists will partner with other physicians who are making an impact on cancer care in the south suburbs, such as Imad Qayyum, MD, colorectal surgery; Samer R. Rajjoub, MD, an endocrine surgeon who focuses on thyroid cancer; and breast surgical oncologist Miraj G. Shah-Khan, MD, medical director of the Breast Cancer and Breast Health Program at Palos Hospital.

Dr. Shah-Khan completed her fellowship in breast surgical oncology at the Mayo Clinic and joined Northwestern Medicine through the 2021 Palos Health integration. She brings over 10 years of experience in academic medicine to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital.  Dr. Shah-Khan is the chairperson of the Northwestern Medicine Palos Multidisciplinary Breast conference and the Breast Cancer Leadership committee and has taken on leadership of Northwestern Medicine Breast Cancer Collaborative, a system wide effort to improve quality and outcomes in breast cancer care across the Northwestern Medicine network. She sees patients at the Women’s Center at Northwestern Medicine Orland Park and has been leading efforts to develop a robust multidisciplinary, accredited breast program for the Orland Park community.

“It’s exciting that it is a system priority to build this space into a destination cancer center equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment modalities, access to specialty care and clinical trials. This infrastructure, along with the expertise provided by specialists, offers everything a patient would need during their treatment,” said Dr. Shah-Khan.

Dr. Rajjoub is chairperson of the Cancer Committee at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, vice chairperson of the Tumor Board and the Cancer Liaison Physician.

“The opening of the Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center in Orland Park is a dream come true for the south suburbs,” said Dr. Rajjoub. “Patients in our community stand to benefit tremendously from direct access to the breadth of Northwestern Medicine’s resources, including advanced diagnostic testing, the latest treatment strategies, and new cancer therapies while remaining close to home.”

Radiation oncology services will remain at the Tinley Park location. Medical Director Haider Ali Shirazi, MD, is a radiation oncologist, chairperson of the Palos Cancer Program Tumor Board and vice chair of the Cancer Committee at Palos Hospital. Having trained at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr. Shirazi is excited to have rejoined an integrated academic health system in fall 2021.

“With access to Northwestern Medicine’s depth of resources, treatments, clinical trials and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, we can better collaborate to bring world-class care to the southwest suburbs,” said Dr. Shirazi. “Many oncology subspecialties that we haven’t seen previously in our community will now be represented.”

Patients can schedule an appointment at the Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center Orland Park by calling 708.226.2318 (TTY: 711).

CHICAGO – Northwestern Memorial Hospital retained its position as the No. 1 hospital in Illinois and Chicago and is again recognized among the top hospitals in the country ranking No. 9 on the prestigious “America’s Best Hospitals” Honor Roll by U.S. News & World Report in its 2022-2023 "America's Best Hospitals" rankings.

In addition to Northwestern Memorial’s No. 1 ranking, several Northwestern Medicine hospitals were recognized as Best Hospitals in Chicago Metro and Illinois, including:

• Northwestern Medicine McHenry, Huntley, Woodstock Hospitals ranked No. 9 in Chicago Metro and No. 9 in Illinois.
• Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital tied with both ranked as No. 12 in Chicago Metro and No. 12 in Illinois
• Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital ranked No. 14 in Chicago and No. 14 in Illinois
• Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital is ranked No. 18 in Chicago Metro and No. 20 in Illinois

“This recognition is a direct reflection of our Patients First mission and our relentless quest to improve, innovate and deliver world class outcomes to the patients we are privileged to serve,” said Dean M. Harrison, chief executive officer, Northwestern Memorial HealthCare. “These rankings amplify the expertise, dedication and compassion of more than 33,000 physicians, nurses and staff who come together to provide exceptional care, train future generations of clinicians, advance medicine through cutting edge research all in the pursuit of health for individuals and the communities they call home.”

Northwestern Memorial is nationally ranked in 10 out of 15 specialties ranked by U.S. News. Of the 10 nationally ranked specialties, six clinical programs at Northwestern Memorial are ranked among the top 10 in the country:

• Northwestern Memorial is ranked No. 7 in the country for Gastroenterology & GI Surgery. “The recognition of our program as one of the nation’s best reflects our commitment to innovation and precision medicine in Gastroenterology,” said John E. Pandolfino, MD, chief of the gastroenterology and hepatology at Northwestern Memorial. “Patients with complex diseases trust the expertise of our physicians and team members, and we are proud to provide them life-changing and lifesaving care. We continue to research new ways to provide leading-edge, personalized care for patients in Chicagoland and beyond.”
  
  “This is an exceptional honor for our gastrointestinal surgery team, made more meaningful by the close relationships we have with colleagues in other specialties at the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Center,” said Scott A. Strong, MD, chief of the gastrointestinal surgery at Northwestern Memorial. “Our integrated patient-centered care model combines advanced research and innovation as we strive to improve patient outcomes, develop new devices, and establish leading quality-assurance protocols.”
   
• Northwestern Memorial is ranked No. 8 in the country for Cardiology & Heart Surgery. “At Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, we strive to improve heart care by pioneering advanced treatments, performing groundbreaking clinical research, and incorporating innovative technology and artificial intelligence into clinical practice. We are humbled that the best and the brightest aspire to join our outstanding team,” said Patrick M. McCarthy, MD, chief of cardiac surgery at Northwestern Memorial and executive director of Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute. “Since day one, the goal of the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute has been to bring world-class cardiovascular care to Chicago. We have achieved this and more. We are rapidly growing across northern Illinois as we bring advanced care and this exceptional team close to where our patients live and work. Patients now seek cardiovascular care from across the US, and around the world. The greatest honor is knowing that countless lives have been saved and improved by this relentless pursuit of our Patients First mission.”
  
  “We are grateful for nearly a decade of top tier ranking as one of the very best Cardiology and Heart Surgery Programs in the country. This top tier recognition from U.S. News & World Report doesn’t happen without exceptional team work, breakthrough research, outstanding patient care and a dedication to training the next generation of extraordinary cardiovascular physicians and care providers” said Clyde W. Yancy, MD, MSc, chief of cardiology at Northwestern Memorial and associate director of the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute. “Our mission to provide world-class care to all patients remains steadfast and fuels our success. No accomplishment or accolade eclipses the satisfaction of relieving the burden of disease and restoring health in our patients. That is our everyday celebration. I am especially enthused that as we continue our quest for excellence, we do so with an eye on equity and an unyielding commitment to bring excellent and empathetic cardiovascular care to more patients around Chicagoland. We are driven to discover solutions improving heart health in our varied communities, our state, and our nation.”
   
• Northwestern Memorial is ranked No. 8 in the country for Geriatrics. “I’m extremely proud of our strong all-female faculty team of geriatricians who deservedly garner national recognition year-over-year for our innovative and robust research program, top notch medical training and outstanding clinical care for senior patients,” said Lee A. Lindquist, MD, MPH, MBA, chief of geriatrics at Northwestern Memorial. “To be named a top hospital in the country for geriatrics is a testament to the strong teamwork, expertise, compassion and drive that makes our division unique. Our physicians, nurses, social workers and staff are passionate and dedicated to improving the health and quality of life for our older adults who we are privileged to care for every day.
   
• Northwestern Memorial is ranked No. 9 in the country for Cancer. “At Lurie Cancer Center, we are driven by our mission to translate scientific discovery into the highest level of care for our patients, while also seeking to innovate and find the treatments of the future through a world-class clinical research program,” said Leonidas Platanias, MD, PhD, director of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “This continued recognition as a top cancer program is a testament to our extraordinary team of physicians, nurses and staff who combine talent and expertise with compassion and dedication to bring the very best in cancer care to Chicago.”
   
• Northwestern Memorial is ranked No. 10 in the country for Diabetes & Endocrinology. “We are honored to be recognized as one of the nation’s leading programs for Diabetes and Endocrinology,” said Joseph T. Bass, MD, PhD, chief of the endocrinology, metabolism and molecular medicine at Northwestern Memorial. “Our multidisciplinary team keeps patients at the center of our research as we continue to seek innovative ways to support individuals with endocrine diseases and obesity. This recognition is the result of close collaboration between our physicians, certified diabetes educators, nurse practitioners, psychologists and other colleagues.”
   
• Northwestern Memorial is ranked No. 10 in the country for Neurology & Neurosurgery. “We’re honored for this recognition as one of the top neurosurgery programs in the country, especially during another year of unprecedented difficulty and uncertainty. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our department continued to provide outstanding clinical care and collaborative research, solving big problems in new ways,” said Maciej S. Lesniak, MD, chair of neurological surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “This ranking reflects the reputation of our physicians and highlights our ability to advance the science and care of neurological patients. We’re grateful to our colleagues and patients for their unwavering trust and support.”
  
  “We are honored to again rank in the top 10 U.S. programs for neurology. Our skilled clinicians and innovative scientists continue to raise the bar for treating patients with diverse and complex neurological conditions,” said Dimitri Krainc, MD, PhD, chair of neurology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “As we move into these later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, our physician-scientists continue to expand the knowledge of its neurological impact and are especially dedicated to understanding and treating long-haul symptoms."

In addition to its top 10 programs, Northwestern Memorial was also nationally ranked in the following specialties: Urology (No. 12); Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (No. 13); Orthopaedics (No. 15); and Obstetrics & Gynecology (No. 18). Northwestern Memorial was also recognized as High Performing in Rheumatology, as well as High Performing in 19 procedures and conditions rated by U.S. News.

Northwestern Medicine hospitals were also recognized for the following:

• Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is ranked No. 28 for Pulmonology & Lung Surgery and No. 49 for Neurology & Neurosurgery; the hospital is also recognized as High Performing in Cancer, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Orthopaedics, and Urology as well as High Performing in five Procedures and Conditions.
   
• Northwestern Medicine McHenry, Huntley, Woodstock Hospitals are recognized as High Performing in Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Neurology & Neurosurgery, Orthopaedics, Pulmonology & Lung Surgery and Urology, as well as High Performing in 10 Procedures and Conditions.
   
• Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital is recognized as High Performing in Orthopaedics and High Performing in seven Procedures and Conditions.
   
• Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital is recognized as High Performing in 15 Procedures and Conditions.
   
• Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital is recognized as High Performing in 11 Procedures and Conditions.
   
• Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital is recognized as High Performing in five Procedures and Conditions.

To learn more about Northwestern Medicine, visit www.nm.org/about-us.

ORLAND PARK, Ill. - A new Northwestern Medicine multi-specialty clinic is enhancing access to high-quality subspecialty care in the south suburbs. The 5,523-square-foot clinic, located in Suite 210, Northwestern Medicine Orland Park, 15300 West Avenue, is now offering neurology services. Esophageal and hepatology subspecialties will be added this summer.

“One of the biggest benefits of this multi-specialty clinic is the seamless integration into the rest of the Northwestern Medicine system,” says Neuro-oncologist and Neurology Regional Ambulatory Director Rimas V. Lukas, MD. “With the well-established framework at Orland Park, our team is thrilled to focus on further developing need-based specialties and identifying what additional services are most valuable to this patient population.”

As part of the broader Northwestern Medicine expansion and clinical integration strategy, the new clinic will provide access to Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s top-ranked neurology program, including fellowship-trained specialists in epilepsy, movement disorders, headache, sleep health, multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular and more. Neurologists in Orland Park will collaborate closely with the Neurosurgery team at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, which is also expanding.

Stephan U. Schuele, MD, head of the Epilepsy Division at Northwestern Medicine, says the clinic will provide an easier entrance to subspecialty services for people in south suburban communities. "The patients I see with chronic epilepsy often cannot drive, and patients with seizures typically want care more quickly," says Dr. Schuele. "This clinic will allow us to provide a more accessible epilepsy program in the south suburbs, whereby these patients can now be seen by Northwestern Medicine specialists who provide world-class care."

Continued Growth at Northwestern Medicine Orland Park

To complement existing and general gastroenterology offerings in the south suburbs, esophageal and hepatology subspecialties will be available at the new clinic in the coming months.

“Data supports that overall survival in patients with end-stage liver disease, for example, is directly related to proximity to care," says General Hepatologist and Transplant Hepatologist Justin R. Boike, MD. "By bringing esophageal and hepatology subspecialty care closer to this population of patients, we can help to eliminate one of the biggest logistical challenges to receiving care that can improve patient outcomes.