Calgary team performs unique valve replacement procedure

Structural interventional cardiologist Dr. Nishant Sharma, MD, and cardiac surgeon Dr. Corey Adams, MD, recently performed the first transeptal mitral valve replacement (TMVR) in Calgary. Dr. Matthew Cheung, an expert in imaging, also played a critical role. 

The minimally invasive technique involves implanting a TAVI valve (transcatheter aortic valve implantation) in the mitral valve position using a catheter.  It offers patients a less invasive option for complex valve interventions. 

“This is an exciting development because it offers high-risk patients a less invasive option,” says Sharma. 

Traditionally, mitral valve replacements required open-heart surgery. TMVR is performed by inserting a catheter through a small vein in the leg, guiding it to the heart and through the septum using fluoroscopy, and deploying the valve in the correct position. 

Because of the nature of the surgery, recovery time is much quicker. 

According to Sharma, the first Calgary patient to undergo the procedure had previously had open heart surgery and required a redo procedure after his previously replaced mitral valve failed over time. He was a high-risk patient, due to his heart failure diagnosis, so the TMVR procedure proved to be a good option. 

Sharma said the complex procedure required a team effort. 

“This is a great example of an innovative technique that requires a great deal of collaboration,” he says.  “Many people come together to ensure the patient receives the best outcome.” 

Adams agrees. 

“This is a great story of collaboration, and it was made possible by the mitral and tricuspid innovations clinic and team,” he says. “This involved experts in cardiology, interventional cardiology, imaging, cardiac surgery, and nursing.”