What's Happening?
Blessing Hospital in Quincy has introduced a new minimally invasive procedure called Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) to treat patients with leaking mitral heart valves. The procedure was first performed on January 19 by cardiologist Dr. Jeffrey
Cook. TEER is designed to repair mitral valve regurgitation, a common heart valve disease affecting about 10% of adults, particularly those over 75. The mitral valve, which allows oxygen-rich blood to flow from the lungs into the heart, can malfunction, causing blood to flow back into the heart's atrium instead of out to the body. Symptoms of this condition include shortness of breath, heart murmur, and fatigue, and in severe cases, it can lead to heart failure or stroke. TEER involves guiding a catheter through the leg to the heart, where a clip is placed to reduce blood backflow. This procedure is less invasive than traditional open-heart surgery and is suitable for patients who cannot undergo such surgery due to age or other health issues.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of TEER at Blessing Hospital is significant as it provides a local option for patients who previously had to travel to Barnes Hospital in St. Louis for the procedure. This development is particularly beneficial for patients who are poor candidates for open-heart surgery due to advanced age or other health conditions. By offering a less invasive alternative, TEER can improve the quality of life for patients with severe mitral valve regurgitation, reducing symptoms and potentially preventing more serious complications like heart failure. The availability of TEER at Blessing Hospital also reflects advancements in cardiac care, allowing more patients to receive timely and effective treatment close to home.
What's Next?
With the successful implementation of TEER, Blessing Hospital is likely to see an increase in patients seeking this procedure. The hospital may also expand its cardiac care services to include other minimally invasive procedures, enhancing its reputation as a regional center for advanced heart care. Patients with mitral valve issues will undergo thorough evaluations to determine the most appropriate treatment, whether it be TEER or other interventions. As awareness of TEER grows, more patients may opt for this procedure, leading to further developments in minimally invasive cardiac treatments.
