Innovative Heart Technology Revolutionizes Veteran Care at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Houston, TX — January 20, 2026 — The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) has set a new standard in cardiac care for Veterans by pioneering the use of an innovative heart technology. This groundbreaking advancement involves the implantation of the OmniaSecure defibrillation lead, the industry’s smallest device of its kind, which promises to transform the management of severe heart conditions among Veterans.
A Pioneering Procedure
This week, MEDVAMC’s Cardiology Team became the first within the Department of Veterans Affairs—and one of the earliest in the nation—to successfully implant the OmniaSecure defibrillation lead. The device, remarkably slim and durable, resembles the thickness of a pencil lead but delivers advanced cardiac therapy combining defibrillation capabilities with physiological pacing.
Rolandrus Butler, an Air Force Veteran from Houston, was the first patient to benefit from this state-of-the-art procedure at MEDVAMC. The compact design of the OmniaSecure lead is tailored specifically to meet the needs of Veterans facing critical heart conditions, aiming not only to alleviate symptoms but ultimately to save lives.
Cutting-Edge Benefits for Veterans
Dr. Hamid Afshar, a cardiac electrophysiologist at MEDVAMC and a leading figure in this initiative, highlighted the unique advantages of the new technology. “This exciting new device provides lifesaving shocks as well as paces the heart,” he stated. “Its compact size reduces the risk of vascular complications and valve interactions, providing a safer and more efficient treatment option. We’re thrilled to offer this advanced solution to our Veterans.”
Mr. Butler’s post-procedure experience underscores the potential impact of the technology. Discharged the same day, he reported immediate improvements, saying, “I started feeling better right away—I’m already coughing less and have more energy. I’m very grateful to the docs at VA for being able to get this new device. I can’t wait to see how I feel at my two-week follow-up appointment!”
Addressing Critical Cardiac Risks
The OmniaSecure defibrillation lead is designed to support Veterans who are at heightened risk of life-threatening heart conditions such as ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and cardiac arrest. By connecting with implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators, the lead continuously monitors heart rhythms. If dangerous arrhythmias are detected, it prompts the defibrillator to deliver corrective shocks to restore normal rhythm, serving as an onboard paramedic directly within the heart.
Dr. Afshar explained, “The lead senses the heartbeat and sends signals to the defibrillator to correct or interrupt dangerously fast rhythms—it’s like having a paramedic embedded right in the heart of our Veterans.”
Dr. Glenn Levine, chief of cardiology at MEDVAMC, reaffirmed the center’s dedication to employing the latest medical technologies, stating, “We are incredibly proud of the cutting-edge care we provide, and it’s our honor to serve those who have served our country.”
Expanding Access and Encouraging Enrollment
The successful procedure at MEDVAMC not only marks progress in clinical treatments but also reinforces the Department of Veterans Affairs’ commitment to enhancing health outcomes through innovation. Veterans who believe they may benefit from VA health care but have not yet applied are encouraged to get started on securing the comprehensive benefits they have earned.
If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran who may be interested in learning more about VA health care options or innovations in cardiac treatment, visit VA.gov or contact your local VA medical center.
For additional information or assistance, Veterans can also reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then press 1, or text 838255 for confidential support.
Reported by Maureen Dyman, Communications Director, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – VA News
