Karolinska University Hospital First in the Nordics with New Technology for Heart Valve Leakage Procedure

Leakage in the tricuspid valve is a common heart problem. Many patients with this valve defect suffer from swollen legs, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatment options have so far been limited. Only a few patients are suitable for heart surgery, and medical treatment consists only of diuretics.

In recent years, Karolinska University Hospital has built up the largest operation in the Nordics for catheter-based repair of the tricuspid valve with good results. However, not all valves are suitable for repair, which is why there has been a long-awaited desire to use a catheter-based prosthesis.

"A tricuspid valve prosthesis without open surgery improves the quality of life for these patients whom we have not been able to help before. We have built a strong team with extensive experience, not only surgeons but also doctors specialized in ultrasound, which is crucial during these procedures. That is why we have been able to start early with these advanced procedures," says Andreas Rück, Senior Consultant at the Medical Unit of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital.

Karolinska University Hospital has Sweden's largest and most comprehensive operation for heart valve procedures. Annually, about 600 heart valve surgeries and 600 catheter-based valve procedures are performed.

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Text: Anton Andersson.