See this story at BrooklynDaily.com.
By Joanna DelBuono
Brooklyn Daily
Park Slope
Medical marvels at New York Methodist Hospital are on the cutting edge of treatment for life-threatening aortic stenosis, or narrowing of the heart valve.
The procedure, known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (whew, that’s a long one), is performed on-site in the catheterization laboratory by a team of experts (is there any other kind?) from Methodist and New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center — another giant of medical advancement.
The treatment is a heartwarming one for patients unable to go the conventional route, claimed Dr. Terrence Sacchi, Methodist’s director of Cardiology.
“It offers a new lease on life,” he said.
Dr. Sacchi explained that open heart surgery — the preferred course to replace a failing aortic valve — is not an option for some patients.
“They might be too sick, too elderly, unable to go on cardiopulmonary bypass, or have another condition that rules out an open procedure,” he said, adding that previously those patients had to rely on medication to manage their condition. “But now, minimally invasive, transcatheter aortic valve replacement offers a safe and far more effective option.”
The procedure is a rare find in the medical minefield, according to Methodist’s Dr. Steven Silber.
“Only a handful of New York City hospitals are able to offer this procedure,” he told Standing O, which is very happy that Methodist is among them.
Dr. Anthony Tortolani, director of surgery and cardiothoracic surgery added, “We’re thrilled to be able to offer this life-saving procedure to our community, and to all who put their trust in our hospital for their care.”
Standing O is doing heart-healthy cartwheels!
New York Methodist Hospital [506 Sixth St. between Seventh and Eighth avenues in Park Slope, 718) 780–3000].