Breakthrough valve clip procedure offers new hope

Until recently, the only cure for Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation, a condition where the valve does not close properly and results in blood leaking back into the heart chamber, was surgery, ruling out older patients or those with co-existing health issues. 

Alfred cardiologist A/Prof Tony Walton says the new procedure involves clipping the valve flaps together with a small device that is guided into the heart via catheter and represents a significant breakthrough in the treatment of this common yet debilitating valve condition. 

“With this evolving technology, we now have a very good option for patients who have been living with the condition but who are unsuitable for surgery,” A/Prof Walton said. 

“Compared to open heart surgery, there are significant benefits for patients in terms of the procedure being far less invasive, less risky and requiring less recovery time.” 

The procedure, which takes an hour and a half, is performed while the patient is under a light general anaesthetic, and means the patient is in most cases able to be discharged home within a day or two. 

A/Prof Walton said that despite its prevalence, the signs and symptoms of Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation, such as shortness of breath, lack of energy and ankle swelling, are often mistaken as part of ‘the ageing process’.

“The symptoms of the condition can be tricky to pick up, and might not present until the condition is severe, so it’s really important we have the option to perform procedures like this to enhance people’s quality of life and life expectancy," said A/Prof Walton.

"Many patients can be controlled with medication, but if that fails, then either surgery or clipping the valve are options."