Hollywood Hitman’s AFib Innovation Story: The Convergent Procedure

James Tuohy was a character actor in Hollywood and New York for decades. Known best for playing ‘hitman’ roles, Mr. Tuohy endured countless stunts and action sequences, all requiring maximum strength and resilience. However, nothing prepared him for the fight he’d have against atrial fibrillation (AFib). This is the story of how innovative AFib technology, along with advanced procedures and professional care, brought back Hollywood hitman James Tuohy’s quality of life–and career.

Mr. Tuohy had shortness of breath, fainting spells, rapid heartbeat and was worried that he’d have a stroke. Highly regarded Eisenhower Health cardiologists recommended that he speak with Daniel Logsdon, MD, a Board Certified Thoracic Surgeon with the Eisenhower Cardiothoracic Surgery Specialty Clinic, about whether he might be a candidate for the convergent procedure. He was and they proceeded—this is their story.

The convergent procedure is a collaborative effort between a cardiothoracic surgeon and an electrophysiologist that treats patients with longstanding, persistent AFib issues. This procedure is minimally invasive without requiring a cardiopulmonary bypass. As a result, the procedure requires a shorter hospital stay, with minimal discomfort and faster recovery.

Does this procedure make a difference for AFib candidates? James Tuohy thinks so: “Since the procedure, I’m back in the gym, doing 30 minutes of cardio, lifting weights, and I feel the best I’ve felt in the last 30 years. And, I’m back on the screen… doing hits again as that hitman that I always want to be.”

In this video, you’ll hear from Mr. Tuohy and get Dr. Logsdon’s point of view. A lot of information is packed in this short video, including:

• The patient’s and surgeon’s perspective
• Radiofrequency ablation explanation
• Convergent procedure benefits
• When the convergent procedure is indicated
• Future potential for convergent procedure patients

Innovations in cardiology are occurring rapidly, including technological advancements, new procedures and advanced surgical skills. The convergent procedure can be a game-changer for patients with advanced atrial fibrillation problems.

Learn more about the full spectrum of leading-edge technology and comprehensive cardiovascular services available at Eisenhower Cardiovascular Institute – recognized as a leader in cardiovascular care in the region.