A Landmark Achievement in Heart Care
A breakthrough in Rajasthan’s cardiac treatment history was achieved with the successful performance of the state’s first Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement (TTVR) at Eternal Hospital. This critical procedure was performed by Dr. Prem Ratan Degawat, Interventional Cardiologist and TAVI expert, offering hope to patients previously considered inoperable.
A High-Risk, Inoperable Case
The patient was a 57-year-old man from Jayal, Nagaur, who had undergone two prior open-heart surgeries — one in 1985 and another in 2017. His latest surgery had led to significant complications, particularly heavy bleeding, making another surgical attempt highly risky and life-threatening.
He presented with:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Swelling in the legs
- Fluid accumulation in the abdomen and lungs
Given the critical condition, open-heart surgery was ruled out. After careful evaluation, TTVR was selected as a minimally invasive alternative, and the procedure was carried out successfully.
The Procedure: Minimally Invasive and High-Impact
Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement is performed through a vein using catheter-based technology. It does not require cutting open the chest or stopping the heart.
Key highlights of the case:
- The valve was successfully implanted through a percutaneous route
- The entire procedure took approximately 30 minutes
- The patient was discharged within 3 days
- Recovery began immediately with noticeable improvement in symptoms
This approach drastically reduces recovery time, pain, and the risk of complications associated with open-heart surgery.
Why This Milestone Matters
This case is significant not just because of the technical success, but also for its broader impact:
- It is the first successful TTVR performed in Rajasthan
- Offers a viable option for patients with a history of multiple surgeries or who are not fit for traditional open-heart procedures
- Demonstrates the growing accessibility of cutting-edge cardiac care in the region
- This achievement has been recognized and covered by over 300 media platforms across India
About Dr. Prem Ratan Degawat
Dr. Prem Ratan Degawat is a senior Interventional Cardiologist with a specialization in structural heart interventions. His expertise lies in performing minimally invasive procedures for high-risk patients.
Key procedures performed include:
- TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)
- TMVR (Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement)
- TTVR (Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement)
- MitraClip and other valve repair interventions
He has led over 600 successful TAVI cases, and is one of the few specialists in India to offer a full spectrum of transcatheter-based heart valve treatments.
Media Coverage and Recognition
This case received widespread recognition in national and regional media, with over 300 platforms reporting on the achievement. The overwhelming response reflects the growing importance of transcatheter therapies in Indian cardiology and the trust placed in Eternal Hospital for managing complex cardiac cases.
What It Means for Patients
The successful use of TTVR in this case opens new possibilities for patients who:
- Have undergone previous heart surgeries
- Are considered inoperable due to age or other medical conditions
- Are looking for faster recovery and fewer complications
This marks a shift toward minimally invasive solutions in heart care, ensuring better outcomes for patients who were previously left with limited options.
If you are exploring treatment options for structural heart disease or would like to consult about advanced procedures like TTVR, TAVI, or TMVR, feel free to schedule a consultation with Dr. Prem Ratan Degawat.
FAQs:
1. What is TTVR?
TTVR stands for Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement. It is a non-surgical procedure used to replace a damaged tricuspid valve through a catheter, without opening the chest.
2. Who is the ideal candidate for TTVR?
Patients who have had prior heart surgeries, are elderly, or are deemed unfit for open-heart surgery due to other medical risks can be considered for TTVR.
3. How long does the TTVR procedure take?
The procedure usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the patient’s condition and anatomy.
4. What is the recovery time after TTVR?
Most patients are able to leave the hospital within 2 to 4 days and experience noticeable improvement in symptoms within the first week.
5. Is TTVR a safe alternative to open-heart surgery?
Yes. In high-risk patients, TTVR offers a safer, less invasive alternative with fewer complications and faster recovery.
