Excela Health: Patients May Not Have Needed Stents

GREENSBURG (KDKA) -- Excela Health says 141-patients who received stents in 2010 didn't medically need them.

The announcement comes after a self-initiated internal review conducted at the Westmoreland County hospital.

The CEO today apologized to those affected.

The unnecessary procedures were performed by Doctors Ehab Morcos and George Bou Samra over the last 12 months. The doctors are no longer practicing at the hospital and their names will be turned over to the Office of the Inspector General in the Department of Health and Human Services.

Excela has assigned a personal liaison to all affected patients and is urging them to make an appointment with one of the hospital's cardiologists.

Letters were sent via overnight mail to patients. Those affected are expected to receive the letters today.

The hospital has established a number where people can call for more information: 1.800.237.6220.

If you or someone you know receives one of those letters and would like to share your experience with KDKA, please contact the news desk at (412) 575-2245.