Press Release
Ellis Performs Capital Region Cardiac First
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Ellis first in Capital Region to implant newly approved defibrillator for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Ellis Medicine has become the first health system in New York's Capital Region to offer a newly approved implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD, designed to help protect patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Cardiac Electrophysiologist Dr. Aaron Vigdor of Cardiology Associates of Schenectady and the Ellis cardiovascular team successfully performed the Capital Region's first Aurora Extravascular-ICD implant procedures, providing patients with access to an advanced treatment option for potentially life-threatening heart rhythm disorders.
Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have long been a cornerstone of treatment for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest due to dangerously fast heart rhythms, known as ventricular arrhythmias. These devices continuously monitor the heart and can deliver life-saving therapy when these dangerous rhythms are detected. The Aurora EV-ICD represents a new approach. Unlike traditional ICDs, the Aurora EV-ICD from Medtronic is designed with a lead placed beneath the breastbone rather than inside the heart and blood vessels, while still providing the full complement of defibrillation and anti-tachycardia pacing therapies.
For some patients, this technology offers important potential advantages because it avoids placing hardware inside the heart and blood vessels. By remaining outside the vascular system, the Aurora EV-ICD may help reduce certain long-term complications associated with traditional leads. These complications include infection risks and lead-related issues—such as lead breakdown—that can develop over time.
"Every patient is different, and the best technology is the technology that allows us to match the right treatment to the right patient," Dr. Vigdor said. "The Aurora EV-ICD expands the options available to our electrophysiology team and gives us another way to protect patients who are at risk for sudden cardiac arrest from these life-threatening arrhythmias."
The milestone reflects Ellis Medicine's ongoing commitment to expanding access to advanced and innovative cardiovascular care for patients in Schenectady and the surrounding communities, and builds on a longstanding collaboration with Cardiology Associates of Schenectady.
"Bringing a new technology like this to our community requires extensive physician training, planning, and teamwork," said Dr. Vigdor, who completed a fellowship in cardiac electrophysiology at the University of Pennsylvania. "I am incredibly proud of our entire cardiovascular team. Successfully completing the first two procedures, which are the first in the Capital Region, is a testament to the dedication of our physicians, nurses, technologists, and support staff, all of whom share a commitment to delivering the highest level of care to our patients."
For Ellis Medicine, the launch of the Aurora EV-ICD program represents another milestone in the continued growth of its cardiovascular services and its investment in bringing advanced, evidence-based treatments to patients in Schenectady and throughout the Capital Region.
"This achievement reflects exactly the kind of healthcare investment Ellis Medicine is committed to making in our community," said Chris Jordan, Ellis Medicine's Chief Operating Officer. "Patients shouldn't have to travel long distances to access advanced heart care. Our goal is to bring innovative, evidence-based treatments to the communities we serve so patients can receive exceptional care close to home, surrounded by their families and support systems."
Ellis Medicine | Newsroom
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