HARTFORD, Conn. -- An investigation has prompted Saint Francis Hospital to voluntarily suspend its elective cardiac procedures, according to officials.

"In cooperation with the Department of Public Health, Saint Francis has voluntarily agreed to temporarily suspend elective cardiac surgery procedures," the hospital said in a statement released Monday.

The suspension was recommended by the DPH, officials said.

During the suspension, they said, the DPH plans to conduct a thorough review of the maintenance records of perfusion equipment in the operating room. They said the DPH also hopes to ensure that operating-room personnel are educated about policies, procedures and emergency measures.

"We will work with the DPH to ensure that the highest level of quality care continues to be delivered to our patients," the hospital said in the statement.