A milestone in cardiac care at the MUHC

Patient care at the McGill University Health Centre has reached new heights with the successful completion of the first endomyocardial biopsy performed directly in the cardiology clinic. 

Traditionally carried out in the catheterization laboratory, this procedure is most commonly used to monitor for rejection in heart transplant recipients. Bringing it into a clinic setting represents an important step forward in improving accessibility, efficiency, and the overall patient experience. 

“The MUHC heart transplant program continues to lead the way, consistently going above and beyond to provide exceptional care,” said Dr. Mark Liszkowski, Medical Director of the Heart Transplant and Heart Failure Program. “This achievement would not have been possible without the highly experienced, skilled, and dedicated nursing team, whose expertise and commitment were central to its success.” 

The project highlights the strong leadership and collaboration of the medical and nursing teams. It reflects the ongoing commitment to delivering the highest standard of care, with a constant focus on patient safety and quality. 

“The team continues to advance care pathways for patients with advanced cardiac failure while expanding access to transplantation and ventricular support,” adds Dr. Liszkowski. Cardiologist Dr. Haya Aziz plays a key role in complementary efforts, developing innovative approaches to heart failure management, focusing on inherited cardiomyopathies and the integration of advanced cardiovascular imaging into patient care. 

Congratulations to everyone involved in making this project a success! 

Some of the team members who helped make this milestone possible include:

Nurse clinicians: Josiane Boisselle, Nancy Brochu, Claire Florent, Dalia Zylc, Laurie Fong, and Lesley Forand

Nurse managers: Annick Bédard and Marc-Antoine Ladouceur