Kansas City, KS – Born with a complex heart defect, Brooke Newsom spent nearly four decades navigating serious heart challenges. But when her condition worsened, traditional treatments weren't enough. On All Things Heart, how doctors at The University of Kansas Health System used innovative technology involving a wireless electrode the size of a grain of rice to help this mother of two regain her energy and improve her heart function.
Morning Rounds: Dr. Dana Hawkinson- Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control, The University of Kansas Health System
He discussed the continued rise in measles cases across the United States, with more than 4,000 reported in 2026.
He noted that nearly all cases involve people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
He urged families to stay current on the safe and effective MMR vaccine, their seasonal flu shot and updated COVID-19 vaccine.
Brooke Newsom - Patient
Brooke was born with dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA), a complex congenital heart defect, and underwent open-heart surgery as a child.
She developed mild heart failure following the birth of her first son. By 2023, worsening symptoms included fluid retention, difficulty breathing while lying down, chest pressure and severe fatigue.
She began medication in January 2025, underwent an ablation in March 2026, received an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in April and underwent WiSE-CRT treatment in June.
Dr. Amit Noheria - Electrophysiologist, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Noheria explains how premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and abnormal heart rhythms can affect heart function.
He explains WiSE-CRT is a tiny wireless electrode implanted inside the heart and ultrasound energy from a separate device beneath the skin to deliver pacing signals.
He discusses the importance of electrical timing, including the QRS complex, and how adjusting device settings can improve the coordination of heart contractions.
He explains why this technology may offer an option for certain patients who cannot receive conventional cardiac resynchronization therapy.
Dr. J.D. Serfas - Cardiologist and Adult Congenital Heart Defect Clinic Director, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Serfas explains d-TGA and the lifelong challenges associated with living with complex congenital heart disease.
He discusses why Brooke's unusual heart anatomy made conventional cardiac treatments more challenging.
He explains how WiSE-CRT differs from traditional cardiac resynchronization therapy and why it was considered for Brooke.