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Boston Scientific Corp., a leading maker of medical devices for the heart, is visiting Minot this week with a mobile simulated cardiac catheterization lab.

The simulated catheterization lab shows how catheterization is performed, using a make-believe patient. Students and the general public will have a chance to view the procedure.

"First and foremost, it gives students a great hands-on tool to see what we actually do. Hopefully, it's a springboard for them if they're thinking about medical careers," said Dr. Robert Percell, cardiologist with Trinity Medical Group.

"For the public, hopefully this will be a motivating tool for them to start making lifestyle changes, so they don't end up as the patient on the table getting these things done," he added.

Angie Volk, sales representative for Boston Scientific, explained that the company has two buses touring the U.S., with the buses visiting different cities and hospitals five days a week throughout the year.

"The biggest reason we bring this to different towns and open it to the general public is that we want people to be aware of the symptoms (of coronary artery disease), and if they have risk factors, either through lifestyle or through family history, that they should recognize their symptoms and get a screening," Volk said.

"It also lets the public see that the procedure (cardiac catheterization) is very minimally invasive, it's very low risk. People shouldn't have to be afraid of what they're going to go through during a screening," she added.

Meyers explained that patients undergoing the procedure would have a small incision made in their leg artery, with dye injected into it that would allow the cardiologist a clear map of the arteries of the heart. If any blockages are seen, a stent can be implanted to keep the artery open.

Percell explained that the simulator closely shows what a patient would undergo. He explained that the procedure is usually finished within 20 to 30 minutes and the patient is up and walking in 2 to 4 hours.

Trinity Health is hosting the simulated cath lab's visit, and the bus is parked near Trinty's CancerCare Center in the Town and Country mall. The bus will be available for public tours today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.