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Transcatheter Valve Therapies

Advanced Heart Valve Treatment Center

Lee Health’s cardiothoracic surgery in Southwest Florida, HealthPark Medical Center provides comprehensive care from diagnostics and interventional cardiology, minimmally invasive surgical procedures, specialized hospital care, and rehabilitation. 

In 2011, Lee Health constructed a hybrid surgical suite at HealthPark Medical Center to accommodate revolutionary transcatheter valve repairs and replacements. Later that year, HealthPark Medical Center became the first site in Florida to perform TAVR after FDA approval. More than 2,000 TAVR procedures have been performed, with 90% via the transfemoral approach. 

Surgical Outcomes: 30-Day Survival Rate: 97% and Stroke Rate: 1.7%

Transcatheter Surgical Options for Valve Disease

TAVR is a groundbreaking surgical procedure that eliminates the need for open-heart surgery and offers an option for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are otherwise considered inoperable. Performed by a team of cardiothoracic surgeons and interventional cardiologists, the surgery involves feeding an artificial valve to the heart via a catheter through an artery in the groin or chest. TAVR is now available to low-, intermediate- and high-risk patients at HealthPark Medical Center, offering patients a shorter recovery time, minimal discomfort after surgery, and discharge to home in as little as three days.

The MitraClip® device is a small clip placed on the leaflets of the mitral valve. It treats mitral regurgitation by allowing the mitral valve to close more completely, helping to restore normal blood flow through the heart. Unlike surgery, the MitraClip® procedure does not require opening the chest and temporarily stopping the heart. Instead, doctors access the mitral valve via a catheter that is guided through a vein in the groin. 

TMVR may be an option for critically ill patients with no viable surgical options, in order to improve his or her quality of life. Similar to TAVR, the mitral valve is replaced with an artificial valve via a catheter through a vein in the groin. The off-label compassionate use of TMVR is associated with improved valvular function postoperatively

Meet Shipley's Cardiothoracic Surgery Team

Our dedicated team brings extensive experience and exceptional care tailored to your unique health needs. A multidisiplinary strategy ensures support before, during, and after the procedure. We recognize heart health is a journey, and our valve clinic is here to guide you every step of the way.

Transcatheter Valve Therapies Team

Our multidisciplinary clinical team includes:

  • Cardiothoracic surgeons and interventional cardiologists
  • Specially trained anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs)
  • Critical care registered nurses
  • Neurological endovascular specialists
  • Cardiovascular technologists
  • Radiology technologists
  • Perfusionists
  • Valve clinic coordinator

Risks and Benefits

While transcatheter valve therapies, including TAVR procedures and MitraClip for mitral valve repair, offer significant benefits they also come with certain risks. Potential complications such as bleeding or valve malfunction are carefully managed by our experienced team. The minimally invasive nature of these procedures often results in reduced postoperative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.

The long-term outcomes are promising, with many patients enjoying improved symptoms and longevity. Continuous advancements in technology further enhance the safety and efficacy of these treatments, making them a compelling choice for many with heart valve conditions.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-procedure care is vital to successful recovery after transcatheter valve therapies. Our cardiac rehabilitation team prioritize your well-being with diligent monitoring and support following procedures like TAVR and TMVR. Our team ensures you're comfortable and recovering well, with most patients resuming normal activities within weeks.

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for assessing procedure success and heart function. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through recovery, addressing any concerns and helping you maintain optimal heart health.

Why Choose Lee Health for Cardiothoracic Surgery?

Our team of cardiothoracic specialists provides compassionate, innovative care tailored to your needs. With minimally invasive options, cutting-edge robotic tools, and a proven track record of treating even the most complex cases, Lee Health stands at the forefront of heart and lung surgery in Southwest Florida.

As part of the Heart Institute, we ensure continuity of care across every step of your journey. From diagnosis and surgery to rehabilitation and long-term health.

  • Heart Institute

    We provide award winning cardiovascular care with the most experienced experts and the largest heart program in the region.

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