Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Celebrates Milestone Of 500 Successful TAVI Procedures

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group, has reached a milestone by completing 500 Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedures. This achievement highlights their dedication to offering top-tier cardiovascular care. The Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi began TAVI procedures in the UAE in 2015, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery for treating aortic stenosis.

Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve narrows, limiting blood flow from the heart and potentially leading to heart failure. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. TAVI offers a solution by replacing the narrowed valve with a bioprosthetic one via a catheter inserted in the upper thigh. This method avoids open-heart surgery and significantly reduces recovery time.

The procedure typically takes one to two hours and is performed by a team of interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons. Patients benefit from shorter hospital stays and quicker returns to daily activities. Research shows that TAVI often matches or surpasses surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) outcomes, boasting over 98% success rates with higher survival rates and fewer strokes.

Dr. George Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, stated, "Achieving this milestone is a powerful proof of our drive to advance care through innovation. By constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in medicine, we are reshaping the standard of healthcare in the region. Our broader commitment to leading with cutting-edge solutions that improve lives demonstrates what can be achieved when we combine expertise, technology, and a patient-first philosophy."

Dr. Gopal Bhatnagar, Chair of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi's Heart Institute, remarked on reaching this milestone: "Reaching the 500-procedure mark is a testament to our team's dedication and expertise. TAVI has transformed the landscape of aortic valve replacement, providing a safer and more effective option for our patients."

Expanding Cardiac Services

The Heart Institute has expanded its cardiac surgery department to handle over 500 heart surgeries and 250 structural cases annually. In 2023, they introduced new procedures and services while being designated as a Centre of Excellence for adult cardiac surgery by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi remains committed to advancing medical care through innovative technology and patient-focused strategies. Completing 500 TAVI procedures underscores their leadership in cardiovascular treatment and dedication to enhancing patient health across the UAE and beyond.

With inputs from WAM