The Medical City Cardiovascular Institute performs its 11th Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) Procedure

By The Medical City (TMC), Ortigas | August 01, 2023

The Medical City TAVI Team achieves another milestone for the cardiovascular landscape of minimally invasive procedures.

Pasig City -- July 12, 2023, The Medical City Cardiovascular Institute achieved a significant milestone by successfully performing its 11^th Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedure, boasting a consecutive success rate of 100%.

Led by Dr. Paolo Prado, Director of the Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) Clinical Care Program and an experienced Interventional Cardiologist, The Medical City TAVI Team performed their first unproctored TAVI procedure. The team also included Dr. Adrian Manapat, leading the TVCS Team, together with Dr. Alduz Cabasa, Dr. Donato Marañon, Dr. Vic Lazaro, Dr. Rafael Poblete, and a competent Cath Lab team comprised of skilled nurses and allied operating staff.

“As the procedure of TAVI becomes more and more mainstream, and made available to the older patients, who may have high surgical risk, we will now be able to help those, who may otherwise be considered as inoperable.”

— Dr. Paolo Prado, Director of the Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) Clinic Care Program

Dr. Paolo Prado shares how the team prepared for this groundbreaking procedure: “We had to study the patient’s case very well. We had to make sure the procedure is right for the patient; the anatomy is favorable and that fixing the aortic stenosis will relieve the patient of his heart failure symptoms and add years of good quality of life. As expected, after we implanted the valve, the patient started to feel better, his symptoms improved, and he was able to do more in life.”

The patient who underwent this life-saving procedure is an 86-year-old male, suffering from Massive Pleural Effusion, Severe Calcified Aortic Stenosis, and Acute Decompensated Heart Failure. Before qualifying for TAVI, the patient underwent confirmatory diagnostics imaging, particularly Cardiac MRI with TAVI protocols.

“The procedure went smoothly, and each member of the team performed well as expected. Teamwork is important when dealing with cases like this, which involves each member of the team doing his/her best in a concerted effort, with the goal of making the patient well again.” Dr. Prado mentioned when asked about his expectations of the TAVI procedure in terms of team workflow, patient’s prognosis, and health management.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that utilizes state-of-the-art advancements for patients with severe aortic stenosis. It aims to restore the blood flow of the heart by deploying a bio prosthetic valve over the diseased valve, using a groin artery approach.

“When we open the Stenosis (Narrowing) the symptoms of breathlessness, fainting and chest pain are relieved. The patient can now do normal activities of daily living (bathing, grooming, self-care, walking around the house), without the debilitating symptoms of Aortic Stenosis. Life expectancy is also extended since patients with aortic stenosis die sooner if the problem is not treated.” Dr. Prado added.

Compared to traditional surgical methods, TAVI only requires a few small incisions, resulting in reduced chest and heart trauma, and a quicker recovery period, allowing the patient to swiftly return to their healthy normal routine.

Dr. Paolo Prado in action during the 11^th TAVI Procedure

From left Interventional Cardio Fellow, Dr. Joseph Garcia and Dr. Khristine Gonzales; TCVS, Dr. Adrian Manapat; Interventionist, Dr. Donato Marañon; and The Director of The Medical City Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) Program, Dr. Paolo Prado.

Individuals with Severe Aortic Stenosis often experience frequent chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to heart failure. TAVI offers a solution to these patients, providing renewed hope and improved quality of life. If you have more questions about TAVI procedure or would like to contact our excellent team of medical experts, you may call The Medical City Cath Lab at (02) 8988-1000 or 8988-7000 ext. 6278 / 6320.