MLH and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) performed Tennessee’s first-ever “Jaw in a Day” surgery in June 2024, marking a breakthrough in facial reconstruction. A teenage patient’s advanced facial tumor was removed, and their jaw was fully reconstructed in a single procedure—eliminating the need for multiple surgeries over months or years.

Using advanced 3D imaging and microscopic precision, the team rebuilt the jaw with bone and blood vessels from other parts of the body and placed prosthetic dental implants the same day.

“This procedure dramatically shortens treatment time, reducing recovery and improving quality of life,” said Dr. Anas Eid, chief of Facial Plastic Surgery at UTHSC.

Methodist University Hospital and UTHSC remain the only institutions in Tennessee offering this cutting-edge procedure.

Methodist North Hospital, in partnership with Concorde Career College and Remington College, is offering free blood pressure screenings in North Memphis barbershops—trusted community spaces where important conversations happen.

Trained students provide screenings and education, helping identify hypertension risks. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the region, as noted in MLH’s 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment. By meeting people where they are, this initiative encourages men to take charge of their heart health.

“We know preventive care is most effective when it’s accessible,” said Marcus Ross, director of Community Engagement at Methodist North. “By offering screenings in these trusted spaces, we hope to drive more proactive healthcare.”

Patients with abnormal readings are encouraged to follow up with a primary care provider.

Le Bonheur Children's Hospital has opened Tennessee’s first hybrid MRI and cardiac catheterization (cath) lab, one of only eight in the nation. The new suite enhances pediatric cardiac care by eliminating contrast dye and radiation exposure, offering a safer approach with reduced anesthesia times.

And update sentence: In 2023, Le Bonheur’s Heart Institute treated 433 inpatients, performed 11 heart transplants and implanted 11 ventricular assist devices. The hybrid lab allows real-time imaging, reducing patient transfers and streamlining procedures.

“This technology is a game changer,” said Dr. Jason Johnson, chief of Cardiology. “It improves safety and accuracy while eliminating traditional radiation risks.”

The lab supports both diagnostic and interventional procedures, and Le Bonheur plans to use its live-streaming capabilities for training healthcare providers worldwide—further cementing its status as a leader in pediatric cardiology.

Methodist Olive Branch Hospital is among just 82 hospitals nationwide to receive the National Cardiovascular Data Registry Chest Pain – Myocardial Infarction Registry Silver Performance Achievement Award for 2023.

“Our cardiology team treats every patient like family,” said Taylor Payne, RN, patient care coordinator. “We are committed to providing top-tier, compassionate care.”

With heart disease the leading cause of death in DeSoto and Shelby Counties, this recognition highlights the hospital’s dedication to improving heart attack treatment through data-driven, quality care initiatives.

Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown and Methodist University Hospitals have been recognized as HeartCARE Centers by the American College of Cardiology—the only Memphis-area hospitals to earn this elite distinction.

To achieve this designation, both hospitals met rigorous criteria, including key accreditations in three cardiac specialty areas. They also became the only hospitals in the Mid-South to receive ACC accreditation for outpatient heart failure treatment.

“This honor recognizes our team’s commitment to delivering unmatched cardiac care,” said Dr. Michael McDonald, medical director of Cardiovascular Services.

The HeartCARE distinction highlights MLH’s leadership in heart care, from prevention and treatment to long-term disease management.

On May 8, 2024, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital unveiled a $95 million expansion designed to enhance critical and cardiac care. The 128,000-square-foot project adds four new floors, increasing capacity for the hospital’s growing number of pediatric patients.

"This expansion ensures we continue providing cutting-edge care for children who need us," said Dr. Trey Eubanks, Le Bonheur’s president and CEO.

Key additions include:

• A 31-bed cardiovascular unit with intensive and step-down care
• A newly expanded 70-bed NICU—the largest in the region
• As one of only three Level IV NICUs in Tennessee, Le Bonheur offers the highest level of care for critically ill newborns.

“This project symbolizes the hope that Le Bonheur represents for families,” said Le Bonheur Club President September Eason.