Dana Burth

At 84 years old, Dana Burth went in for what he thought would be a routine cardiology visit — but it turned into something much more important. During his EKG, the Physician Assistant noticed an abnormality and stepped out to get the doctor. Although Dana felt completely fine and had no symptoms, they recommended he wear a Holter monitor for a week and then follow up with an electrophysiology (EP) specialist.

After reviewing the results, the EP explained that Dana had a second-degree heart block — a condition where the electrical signals from the heart’s upper chambers (atria) don’t consistently make it down to the lower chambers (ventricles). Even without symptoms, this can become serious, so a pacemaker was recommended.

Dana received a leadless pacemaker, a newer, minimally invasive alternative to traditional pacemakers. Unlike older devices that require wires (leads) and a surgical pocket in the chest, this pacemaker is about the size of a large multivitamin or AAA battery and is placed directly inside the heart through a catheter inserted in the groin. This approach reduces the risk of complications, leaves no visible scar or chest incision, and typically allows for a much easier recovery. The device also has an impressive battery life of about 12 to 15 years.

On the day of the procedure, Dana admits he was a bit nervous — he had never been to Oviedo Medical Center before. But his worries quickly disappeared. He found it incredibly convenient to park right out front and walk straight in. From the moment he entered, he was greeted warmly, and every member of the staff treated him with kindness and professionalism.

The procedure itself went smoothly, and his recovery was easier than he ever expected. “I didn’t feel a thing in my chest,” Dana said.

Now, with his heart rhythm safely supported, Dana is back to enjoying life — he even recently bought a brand-new fishing boat.

“I’m grateful they caught it when they did,” he shared. “The whole experience was easier than I ever imagined.”