University Hospital’s Structural Heart Program recently completed its 100th transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure, a major achievement that reflects the hospital’s efforts to expand access to minimally invasive cardiovascular treatments for underserved communities in Newark and surrounding areas.
“This milestone is a testament to the incredible collaboration and dedication of our entire heart team. Our team’s shared commitment has been the foundation of this program’s success,” said Abhishek Sharma, M.D., FACC, FSCAI, director of the Structural Heart Disease Program and Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory. “We are proud to bring this lifesaving treatment to patients who may not otherwise have access to this level of specialized care.”
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a narrowed aortic valve (aortic stenosis) without the need for open-heart surgery. Endorsed by both the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, TAVR has become the preferred option for elderly patients and those across all levels of surgical risk. The procedure has been shown to provide patients with reduced risk of complications, faster recovery and improved quality of life.
Each procedure is performed in the hospital’s state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Lab using real-time imaging and a highly coordinated care approach. A multidisciplinary team — including interventional cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, imaging specialists and specialized nurses — evaluates each patient to ensure optimal outcomes.
“What sets our program apart is the personalized experience we provide for every patient and family,” said Iris Herrera, M.D., MPH, FACP, chief medical officer. “From rapid evaluations to same-day consultations, University Hospital health-care providers strive to streamline cardiac care and tailor treatments to meet our patients’ unique needs. Our outcomes not only meet but often exceed national benchmarks.”
University Hospital’s program has also expanded to include transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) for patients with severe mitral regurgitation and is preparing to introduce transcatheter therapies for tricuspid valve disease. These additions reinforce the hospital’s program as one of the fastest-growing centers for advanced structural heart treatment.
“I want to thank you and ‘high five’ everyone in the cardiology department for the highly professional and very heartwarming care I received throughout the entire process,” said John Safran, a U.S. World War II Navy veteran, in his patient testimonial. “From all the tests I went through, to the procedures, the preparation and post-care I received, I could not ask for better care. Thank you once again for helping me get back to my feet and back to a more normal life.”
