Abu Dhabi (Aletihad)
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 network, recently achieved another medical milestone as a leader in world-class cardiac care by saving the life of a young patient suffering from aortic valve stenosis.
Explaining the condition of the patient, the hospital said that upon arrival at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a patient in his mid-thirties was in life-threatening shock due to multiple organ failure as a result of aortic valve stenosis, a condition that causes narrowing of the aortic valve. His condition was triggered by a congenital abnormality and led to significant difficulties in his heart’s ability to pump blood.
After being evaluated for emergency treatment, the patient was quickly placed on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) to stabilise his condition before going into surgery. Following treatment, the patient showed significant improvement post-surgery and was discharged a few days later, returning to work in less than ten days.
Intricate procedure
Recounting the life-saving surgery, Dr. Mahmoud Traina, Staff Physician of Cardiovascular Medicine in the Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said that in this case the intricate procedure was of particular concern due to the age of the patient.
“In this case, we were confronted with a condition where the patient’s aortic valve was critically narrowed, impeding blood flow and threatening heart function. His age was also a factor as aortic valve stenosis usually affects the older demographic. The aortic valve replacement procedure lasted a little under two hours, involving the insertion of a biological valve supported by a stainless-steel frame into the heart using a catheter.
"After confirming the valve's functionality, the catheter was removed, and the 5mm incision was closed," she added.
Dr Traina applauded the team for it's prompt response action in the success of the surgery.
"Our team’s prompt response and subsequent decision-making to employ advanced techniques like ECMO and transcatheter aortic valve replacement were pivotal in the successful treatment of this young patient."
What is aortic valve stenosis
Aortic valve stenosis is typically associated with elderly patients and often remains undetected until it becomes severe, posing a significant health risk. Rapid progression to critical conditions like heart failure and organ dysfunction can occur if it is not addressed timeously.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the procedure, Dr. Traina stated, “This successful intervention for aortic valve stenosis is not just a milestone for us but brings hope to many patients from the region. The impact of such advanced procedures fundamentally enhances the quality of life for patients, allowing them to return to their daily activities with improved heart function and overall health."
Highlighting the importance of regular check-up, the senior specialist advised: "This case underscores the importance of regular check-ups for early diagnosis”.
He also stressed the importance of increasing public awareness and medical vigilance in providing prompt and efficient treatment.