Subiaco Hospital performs 100th transcatheter aortic valve implantation

21 Feb 2020

In addition to saving Irene’s life, the operation marked the 100^th procedure conducted by St John of God Subiaco Hospital’s TAVI Team.

TAVI is a minimally invasive surgery which enables elderly patients with aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the aortic valve, to avoid traditional open heart surgery and benefit from a quicker recovery and less discomfort.

Symptoms of aortic stenosis include shortness of breath, chest pain, lack of energy, dizziness, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

St John of God Subiaco Hospital’s TAVI Team is led by Interventional Cardiologists Dr Eric Yamen and Dr Michael Muhlmann, and Cardiothoracic Surgeon Associate Professor Jurgen Passage.

Commenting on the milestone, Dr Yamen said the team was incredibly proud to have conducted 100 TAVI procedures and positively impacted the lives of so many patients and their loved ones.

“In addition to clinical excellence, patients who undergo the procedure at St John of God Subiaco Hospital receive continuous, personalised care from the moment they enter the program,” he said.

“Our TAVI coordinator Rob Lampard has many years’ experience as a cardiology nurse and is passionate about providing the very best care and support to patients before and after their procedure.”

“He even greets them in theatre, offering familiarity and comfort at a time that we know can feel uncertain.”

Irene was exceptionally complimentary about the hospital’s care throughout her journey.

“From the moment I met my specialist team I knew I was in safe hands. Not only that, I was incredibly appreciative of the support I received.” she said.

“I couldn’t fault the hospital or my doctors and nursing staff. They were exemplary and looked after me incredibly well.” 

St John of God Subiaco Hospital Chief Executive Prof Shirley Bowen added that the hospital was a centre of excellence in the treatment of structural heart disease.

“Our hospital’s experienced team of dedicated doctors, nurses and allied health professionals provide patients the latest in cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, coronary care and cardiac rehabilitation,” she said.

“TAVI is an integral part of this service and a way that we can provide high quality care to members of our community who are not suitable candidates for open heart surgery.”

Learn more about our cardiac services.