Learn more about SCL Health's Heart and Vascular Care

Treating, curing, healing, and even miracles happen in a hospital. Even so, patients look forward to returning home.

Minimally invasive and robotically-assisted approaches are helping patients get what they want: less time in the hospital. In addition, these minimally invasive procedures can result in less pain, fewer complications, a streamlined recovery, and better outcomes.  

SCL Health Heart & Vascular Institute in Billings has launched a Minimally Invasive and Robotic Heart Program to provide additional care options for patients in Montana and northern Wyoming. 

Minimally invasive heart surgery

An increasing number of heart surgeries can be performed through smaller incisions. 

“That means using technology like cameras or robotic assistance to minimize tissue trauma and improve patients' recovery after surgery,” said Dr. Simon Maltais, a cardiothoracic surgeon in Billings. “These advancements are significant because, in many cases, we no longer need to go through the bone in the middle of the sternum, which is much more invasive and equates to a longer recovery time for the patient.”

Doctors at the institute can use less invasive procedures to perform heart repairs or coronary interventions, including mitral valve and aortic valve repairs or replacement. 

Goal is the highest level of care

Advancing and improving treatments and services so patients can receive their heart care in Montana is a top priority for the team.

“We know that being diagnosed with a heart condition is unsettling,” explained Dr. John H. Braxton, medical director of St. Vincent Healthcare’s heart & vascular program. “That’s why we are so passionate about expanding and growing our services for Montanans and our neighbors in Wyoming. Easing our patients’ journey and keeping their care close to home, when possible, is very important to us.” Braxton is also a cardiothoracic surgeon.

As part of improving access to complex care close to home, the team now offers advanced services such as a full-support pump to help patients during high-risk cardiac procedures.

“The bottom line is that we’re not only cutting-edge with technology but also in our patient-centered approach to delivering care,” said Maltais.