Northside Hospital Heart Institute has successfully implemented a new, minimally invasive procedure to treat patients suffering from severe tricuspid regurgitation. The procedure, known as tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER), was recently performed for the first time within the Northside system.
On Feb. 19, Dr. Fredy El Sakr with the Northside Hospital Heart Institute structural heart team at Northside Hospital Gwinnett, conducted the first TEER procedure using the Abbott TriClip.
Understanding the tricuspid TEER procedure
The TEER procedure treats tricuspid regurgitation, in which the valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the right atrium. This can cause symptoms like shortness of breath and swelling. Traditionally, open-heart surgery was the primary treatment option. However, TEER offers a less invasive alternative, providing relief for patients who may not be candidates for traditional surgery.
“TEER is a minimally invasive procedure performed in the heart catheterization lab rather than an operating room,” Dr. El Sakr explained. “We use a catheter, inserted through a vein in the leg, to guide a small device called a TriClip to the heart. Under ultrasound guidance, we clip two of the three tricuspid valve leaflets together to minimize backward blood flow. Most patients can go home the following day with minimal restrictions.”
TEER eligibility
TEER is particularly beneficial for patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation who are experiencing symptoms of heart failure. Those who are at high risk for traditional surgery due to factors such as advanced age, pulmonary hypertension, or multiple comorbidities may also be candidates.
“The primary indication for this procedure is for individuals with a severely regurgitated tricuspid valve who experience symptoms like shortness of breath or swelling,” said Dr. El Sakr.
Patient benefits and recovery
“The TEER procedure offers multiple advantages over open-heart surgery, including shorter recovery times, reduced postoperative pain, and a lower risk of complications” said Dr. Yeunjung Grant Kim, an interventional cardiologist at Northside. “It significantly improves patients’ quality of life by alleviating symptoms, enhancing exercise tolerance, and reducing hospitalizations related to heart failure.”
“By restoring normal valve function, TEER improves overall cardiac performance and reduces strain on the heart,” Dr. Kim continued. “This allows patients to return to activities they may have previously avoided.”
As Northside Hospital continues to expand its advanced cardiac care options, the successful implementation of TEER marks a significant step forward in providing innovative, patient-centered treatment for heart valve disease.
Learn more about Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
Pictured above: Dr. Freddy El Sakr and the structural heart disease and interventional cardiology surgical team at Northside Hospital Gwinnett.
