Ascension Saint Agnes performs its first coronary atherectomy, expanding advanced heart care

Ascension Saint Agnes has successfully performed its first coronary atherectomy, expanding access to advanced treatment for patients with complex coronary artery disease and marking a significant milestone in its cardiovascular program's growth.

The addition of the coronary atherectomy allows physicians at Ascension Saint Agnes to treat patients with heavily calcified coronary arteries who previously may have needed to travel elsewhere for this advanced procedure. Expanding these capabilities means more patients can receive specialized heart care close to home.

"The successful completion of this complex procedure represents another step forward in expanding access to advanced interventional cardiology services closer to home," said Dr. Matthew Voss, cardiologist at Ascension Saint Agnes. "It demonstrates our commitment to delivering innovative, evidence-based care."

For one 90-year-old patient, Dale S., the new technology became available just when he needed it most. As he prepared for an upcoming surgery, he required a heart procedure but faced traveling to another hospital for treatment. Instead, he received care at Ascension Saint Agnes from the cardiologist he has trusted for more than a decade.

"I've been seeing Dr. Voss for 15 years," said Dale S. "Going to Ascension Saint Agnes is very familiar to me. It is a great heart hospital."

Following the successful procedure, he is focused on his recovery and looking toward the future.

"God willing, I plan to live to at least 95," he said.

"Through the visionary support of our donors, the Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital Foundation secured the funding for the essential interventional equipment needed to perform the atherectomy," said Aaron Piccirilli, Vice President, Philanthropy, Ascension Saint Agnes. "The Foundation is proud that this philanthropic investment enabled our cardiology team to reach an important milestone, expanding access to procedures that directly improve quality of life for our patients."

Ascension Saint Agnes has earned national recognition for the quality of its cardiovascular care, including being named a 2026-2027 U.S. News & World Report High Performing Hospital for Heart Failure and receiving the 2026 American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines® Coronary Artery Disease achievement awards for STEMI Receiving (Bronze) and NSTEMI (Silver), recognizing its commitment to evidence-based cardiovascular care.

Cardiovascular specialists deliver expert heart care through a comprehensive suite of advanced diagnostic and treatment services. Learn more about preventive heart care at Ascension Saint Agnes.