Trinity Health Celebrates Major Milestone

Steubenville, OH (WTRF) Trinity Heath celebrated their 200 ^th TAVR procedure, or Transcatheter Valve Replacement.

The TAVR procedure is used to replace an aortic valve that has become narrow without opening the patient’s chest.

Instead, a flexible catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or chest area, to reach the heart.

The biologic valve is sent through the catheter and then a balloon opens to put it in place.

“These are 200 patients who did not have to leave the area to seek care. Not just 200 patients who didn’t have to leave the area, but 200 patients who have successfully undergone transcatheter aortic valve replacement right here in the valley.”

Dr. Triston Smith – Cardiovascular Medical Director

“I needed to have this done right away, that they put me on this fast track to have my valve replaced. And I was very impressed with the cardiologist staff that he sent me to. Everyone was very friendly, very knowledgeable, was willing to answer your questions and talk to you and explain all the services to you.”

Connie Cunningham – TAVR Patient

The procedure is a good alternative to open heart surgery due to the decreased recovery time.

Patients can usually go home the day after their procedure if complications do not arise.

This procedure is now more widely available and accessible for many people to receive.

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