Minimally invasive technique requires shorter recovery time and briefer hospital stays

Heartwell LLP continues to be on the cutting edge of cardiology advancement.  The South Florida medical practice with 23 cardiologists features physicians who are skilled in the latest interventional techniques for heart care.   Case in point:  Ramon Quesada, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI, FCCP has developed a reputation for excellence with Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).  This relatively new procedure is approved by the FDA for high risk patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis who are not good candidates for standard open heart valve replacement. 

Dr. Quesada, who has successfully performed TAVRs on patients where open heart surgery is too risky, notes that this procedure has given hope to many who have limited options.

“TAVR is minimally invasive and requires far shorter recovery and hospital time than open heart surgery,” said Dr. Quesada.  “The success rate is very good, and offers an excellent alternative to those who cannot withstand open heart surgery.  Recently, it was also approved by the FDA for high risk and intermediate surgical risk patients.” 

Patients who may be considered too old for open heart surgery, or have other ailments that could create complications are good candidates for TAVRs. 

There are varying approaches for the TAVR procedure.  It can be performed by entering through the femoral artery, a large artery located in the groin so there is no incision in the chest – this is called the transfemoral approach.   As an alternative, a small incision in the chest can be used for a transapical or a transaortic approach.   In either case, the doctor implants a fully collapsible replacement valve into the aortic valve’s place.   Once the new valve expands, it pushes the old valve leaflets out of the way. The tissue in the replacement valve then regulates the blood flow. 

Dr. Quesada has performed TAVR on patients who have other medical conditions that would impact the outcome of traditional valve replacement. These patients are often senior citizens, where shorter recoveries and hospital stays are very important, and the more minimally invasive procedure is critical so the patient is not dependent on a ventilator.    He also noted that studies are currently evaluating the impact and option for TAVRs on patients of intermediate risk, and he believes that the use of this procedure will continue to expand. 

There are many reasons why aortic stenosis occurs, often from the build-up of calcium deposits that narrow the valve, impeding blood flow.   Patients will become easily tired, may feel chest discomfort, dizziness and weakness and may experience persistent coughing.    TAVR offers a solution where relief can be recognized quickly, and while all procedures present some level of risk, this is an option that is suitable for many patients who cannot be candidates for more invasive surgeries.

“We are happy to offer one of the newer effective methods of dealing with symptomatic aortic stenosis,” added Dr. Quesada.  “We believe a proactive approach is the best means to resolving most cardiac issues.”

Dr. Quesada noted that there are now many options for heart patients, including mitral clips, which have generated excellent results, and left atrial appendage procedure that presents a viable option for patients at risk for stroke. 

Ramon Quesada, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI, FCCP is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine with a specialization in cardiovascular diseases and by the American Board of Interventional Cardiology.  He is Medical Director of Interventional Cardiology at Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Baptist Hospital of Miami and has served as co-director of the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at the Hospital Centro de Diagnostico y Emergencias, San Salvador.      

About Heartwell, LLP

HeartWell, LLP is a medical practice consisting of 23 cardiologists in nine offices in South Florida, with a concentration in the Kendall/Coral Gables area.   Every patient of a HeartWell physician receives an accurate, thorough evaluation and diagnosis, followed up by the most advanced solutions available to appropriately manage cardiovascular diseases through the timely application of lifestyle changes, medical therapies, and interventional technologies.

HeartWell’s physicians are among the most skilled and respected doctors in the area who all provide personalized care—including education about preventive measures—for patients who have, or are at risk for, cardiac and vascular diseases.

Among the many services and specialties are office based services such as arrhythmia management, cardiovascular research, coronary disease management; diagnostics such as  carotid ultrasound studies, echocardiography, smoking cessation strategies; and hospital/outpatient services including cardiac catheterization, interventional cardiology and implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators.    For more information, visit www.heartwell.com