Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center

St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center has a dedicated treatment center for patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Our specialized team includes experts in cardiology, heart failure, interventional cardiology, electro surgery and cardiothoracic surgery. 

The designated HCM team specializes in interventional treatments for people with complex forms of HCM. We work closely with HCM patients to develop targeted treatment plans that may include medication to control symptoms or surgical procedures if necessary to improve your quality of life.

What is HCM?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a complex type of heart disease that affects the heart muscle. It causes thickening of the heart muscle (especially the ventricles, or lower heart chambers), left ventricular stiffness, mitral valve changes and cellular changes.

HCM is often an inherited condition. It can also be caused by high blood pressure or aging. In some cases, the cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is unknown.

Symptoms and Risks Associated with HCM

Many people with HCM live a normal life and do not experience symptoms or health related problems. In others, symptoms of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may include:

• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Chest pain
• Lightheadedness or Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling in the legs, feet or neck

Some people with HCM may develop serious heart conditions that shorten life or decrease the person’s quality of life, including:

• Sudden cardiac arrest
• Heart failure
• Sudden cardiac death

Although rare, HCM is also the most common cause of sudden cardiac death in young people and professional athletes under the age of 30.

Initial Appointment and Assessment

Your initial appointment will include a review of your symptoms, a physical exam, and a thorough cardiac assessment. Diagnostic may tests include:

• Echocardiogram
• Electrocardiogram
• Exercise Stress Echo Test
• Blood Tests
• Chest X-Ray
• Cardiac Catheterization
• CAT Scan
• MRI

After a complete medical work-up and review, the multidisciplinary HCM team will create a customized treatment plan to address the specific needs of each patient.

HCM Treatments 

Treatment is aimed at minimizing or preventing symptoms and reducing the risk of complications such as heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Treatments may include life style changes and medications like beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers to relax the heart muscles and pump blood more effectively. If necessary, the following surgical procedures may be performed:

• Septal Myectomy
• Ethanol Ablation
• SESAME Procedure (Septal Scoring Along the Midline Endocardium)
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

The HCM team will decide which treatment option is best for you based on your individual assessment.

To schedule an appointment at the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center, call 516-414-3000.