High-Risk Heart Patient Treated Without Open-Heart Surgery at Apollo Hospitals

A 58-year-old woman from Kenya had been living with a failing artificial tricuspid valve since 2011. Over time, the condition caused severe leakage in the valve and weakened the right side of her heart, making even simple activities difficult due to breathlessness. Because another open-heart surgery carried very high risks, several hospitals considered her condition inoperable.

At Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, Dr. Gautam Naik and team led a groundbreaking transcatheter valve-in-valve procedure, implanting a Sapien Ultra Resilia 29-mm valve inside the failing one without opening the chest. Advanced imaging confirmed immediate resolution of severe leakage, stabilizing her heart function.

The days following proved critical: pre-existing weak heart function caused low blood pressure and reduced urine output, requiring intensive care, inotropic support, and meticulous fluid management. Under Dr. Mukesh Goel, Dr. Deepa Sarkar, and the ICU team, her condition stabilized; blood pressure improved, right ventricular function recovered, and urine output normalized.

Discharged just six days later in stable condition, she reported less breathlessness at her one-week follow-up and returned home confidently. These catheter-based interventions are vital for high-risk patients, blending compassion with cutting-edge expertise. Apollo's evidence-driven alternatives reduce recovery time and risks, prioritizing outcomes for those unsuitable for open surgery.