HCM Center of excellence in Houston, TX?

[guille1]

I live in Houston and have after much research, I found the Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates. They do have a HCM interest group there and I am seing Drs. Nagueh and Valderrabano. They recommended a ICD and I would like another opinion.

Is there a HCMA center of excellence anywhere in Houston's Medical Center or anywhere in Houston? The closest one I found on our website was at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, but I am unable to access their website. Is it still in existence? If so, any recommendations for a cardiologist with knowledge and expertise of this condition?

Thank you very much

[Reenie]

I think the best bet would be for you to call the HCMA office and ask them if they have any centers of excellence near you in their files. They have a comprehensive list and should be able to help you get to a great facility.

What criteria did your current doctors use when recommending the ICD?

[guille1]

My holter monitor showed episode of ventricular tachycardia. He said that alone was sufficient to justify the ICD.

[gfox42]

I don't think many other docs would argue very strongly with that opinion, but of course you should see someone else if you're really not comfortable with it. Have you called the office yet?

Gordon

[Reenie]

I agree with Gordon, most doctors will agree with the recommendation to get an ICD based on that criteria alone. Some of the criteia are a little more subjective, but a history of ventricular tachycardia is significant.