Epworth Eastern expands cardiac services

Key facts:

• Expanded cardiac services in a new $2M hybrid theatre
• More than 6,000 cardiac procedures were performed across Epworth in 2022

Over the next decade, it is estimated the need for interventional cardiology will increase by more than a quarter in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.*

Epworth Eastern has expanded cardiac services to treat patients who have irregular heartbeats known as cardiac arrythmias.

The new Cardiac Electrophysiology (EP) service allows specialists to diagnose and treat arrythmias in the hospital’s new state-of-the-art hybrid theatre.

The $2M theatre features a state-of-the-art 3D imaging system allowing real-time visualisation and mapping of the heart during procedures. The theatre opened in 2022 as part of a $162M upgrade at Epworth Eastern.

Electrophysiologist, Associate Professor Michael Wong said the service will treat a range of cardiac conditions.

“This service will provide a full range of diagnostic and treatment options for patients with cardiac arrhythmias and other heart conditions, including ablation, device implantation, and advanced mapping techniques,” A/Prof Wong said.

"We're excited to offer patients the most advanced technology and procedures available."

Lisa Edwards, acting Executive General Manager, Epworth Eastern, said the new service is an important expansion of cardiac care.

“Over the next decade, it is estimated the need for interventional cardiology will increase by more than a quarter in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs,” Ms Edwards said.

“Providing improved cardiac services to the people of region was a key focus in the redevelopment of Epworth Eastern.”

The Cardiac EP service is open to both private and public patients and referrals can be made by GPs or specialists.

* Hardes and Associates estimates chargeable interventional cardiology admissions will grow by 27% between 2020-21 and 2031-32 in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.