Ascension Saint Thomas Heart Leads with First of its Kind Heart Procedure in Nashville

Ascension Saint Thomas Heart is proud to announce a groundbreaking advancement in heart treatment, bringing a new, less invasive FDA-approved procedure to Tennessee for the first time. This groundbreaking procedure signifies a pivotal development in treating heart valve disorders, offering a less invasive alternative that promises enhanced patient outcomes.

The successful implementation of the TriClip TEER procedure is attributed to the collaborative effort of Ascension Saint Thomas Heart's Structural Heart team. Interventional cardiologist Dr. Andy Morse, cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Evelio Rodriguez, and advanced imaging cardiologist Dr. Sasan Rassi have played pivotal roles in this achievement.

Revolutionizing Treatment for Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR), a condition where the valve between the heart's right ventricle and right atrium fails to close properly, leads to backward blood flow. This can cause debilitating symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, progressing to more severe conditions such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure, potentially culminating in death. Historically, the treatment options for TR have been limited to complex surgeries or insufficient medical therapies.

With the introduction of the TriClip TEER procedure, developed by Abbott and recently approved by the FDA, Ascension Saint Thomas Heart is setting a new standard in minimally invasive cardiac care. Dr. Morse elaborates on the procedure's significance: "By adopting the TriClip TEER, we're offering a transformative solution for patients with TR, reducing the need for traditional surgery and fostering a quicker, smoother recovery."

A Pioneering Step in Cardiology

The introduction of the TriClip TEER procedure at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart signifies a major milestone for cardiac care in Tennessee, highlighting a dedication to adopting innovative technologies to enhance patient well-being and recovery, and setting new standards for patient care and medical excellence.