Saint Agnes Health first in Valley to perform Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement

Fresno, CA - Saint Agnes Health has achieved another milestone in cardiovascular care, becoming the first hospital in the Central Valley to successfully perform a Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement (TTVR), a minimally invasive procedure that treats severe tricuspid valve disease without the need for open-heart surgery. The first procedure was performed by interventional cardiologist, Dr. Usman Javed, of The Heart Group, in collaboration with Saint Agnes' Heart & Vascular team.

TTVR is an advanced catheter-based procedure that allows physicians to replace a diseased tricuspid valve by inserting a flexible tube through a small access point in the groin rather than traditional open-heart surgery. For some patients, this approach can reduce physical trauma and shorten recovery times while providing access to a life-changing alternative treatment closer to home.

"This achievement reflects Saint Agnes Health's commitment to bringing the most advanced, evidence-based treatments to the patients we serve," says Dr. Gurvinder Kaur, Saint Agnes Health President and Market Leader. "Being the first in the Valley to perform this procedure demonstrates our continued investment in advanced clinical capabilities and reinforces our mission to provide exceptional care close to home."

"Tricuspid valve disease has historically had limited treatment options for many patients, particularly those who may not be ideal candidates for open-heart surgery," says Dr. Javed. "The ability to offer transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement provides a new, minimally invasive option that can improve quality of life and outcomes for appropriate patients."

This achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Saint Agnes Care cardiothoracic surgeons Dr. Richard Gregory and Dr. Peter Birnbaum, whose partnership and clinical expertise are instrumental to the program's success.

As Saint Agnes continues to invest in advanced technologies and clinical excellence, this achievement reflects a commitment to delivering innovative, compassionate care that improves the lives of the patients and communities we serve.