SGMC Health recently celebrated the completion of its 100th Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure, a major milestone in its mission to provide advanced cardiovascular care to the region. The TAVR procedure, a cutting-edge, minimally invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery, offers hope to patients suffering from aortic stenosis, a life-threatening narrowing of the aortic valve.  

Aortic stenosis obstructs blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body, which can lead to severe symptoms including difficulty breathing, fainting, heart failure, and chest pain. If left untreated, it can be fatal. The TAVR procedure allows physicians to replace the diseased valve without the need for open-heart surgery, using small catheters instead of large chest incisions. This advanced technique offers significant benefits, such as a smaller incision, shorter hospitalization (usually just overnight), and rapid recovery, with patients typically returning to normal activities within a few weeks.  

“The completion of 100 TAVR procedures is a testament to our commitment to delivering world-class cardiovascular care,” said Luke Seibolt, MD, Interventional Cardiologist at SGMC Health. “This milestone reflects the skill and dedication of our team, and more importantly, it represents 100 lives improved thanks to this advanced, life-saving procedure.”  

Since performing its first TAVR in May 2022, SGMC Health’s expert heart team has revolutionized care for patients with aortic valve disease through its Structural Heart Clinic. The clinic is led by Dr. Seibolt, as well as Cardiothoracic Surgeon Patrick Murrah, MD, and a team of nursing and imaging specialists. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures patients receive personalized, high-quality care tailored to their unique needs.  

SGMC Health is a recognized leader in heart care as the region’s only hospital with an open-heart surgery program, a structural heart center, and a comprehensive electrophysiology program. As a designated Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center, SGMC Health continues to offer state-of-the-art treatments, including the TAVR procedure, to ensure patients have access to the best possible outcomes close to home.  

To learn more about SGMC Health’s heart and vascular programs, visit sgmc.org.