Dr. Ahmed Al-Shatti, Head of the Cardiology Department at the Salman Al-Dubous Cardiac Center, announced the successful completion of an aortic valve replacement procedure for a 76-year-old patient suffering from severe aortic valve stenosis—a life-threatening condition particularly common among the elderly.
The groundbreaking procedure was performed using Medtronic’s latest aortic valve technology, which is being deployed for the first time in Kuwait. The operation at Al-Dubous Center coincided with the launch of the same advanced technology at Al-Amiri Hospital, marking a significant milestone in the country’s cardiac care capabilities, reports Al-Rai daily.
Dr. Al-Shatti emphasized that the newly introduced valve system differs from previous models in its design, which allows for easier insertion through the arteries and improved procedural efficiency. The surgery was completed with excellent outcomes in record time, he said.
Aortic valve stenosis, he noted, is among the most prevalent heart conditions affecting the elderly. Symptoms often include shortness of breath, chest pain, and episodes of fainting. He underscored the center’s ongoing commitment to adopting global advancements that enhance patient outcomes and improve quality of care.
In support of this achievement, Dr. Abdullah Ismail, Consultant Cardiologist and Catheterization Specialist, as well as Head of the Structural Heart Disease Program at Mubarak Hospital, highlighted the role of the specialized heart valve team in executing the procedure. He affirmed that the selection of the Salman Al-Dubous Center for this pioneering surgery reflects the team’s extensive experience and technical expertise.
Meanwhile, at the Sabah Al-Ahmad Cardiac Center in Al-Amiri Hospital, Dr. Nader Al-Asousi, Head of the Cardiac Catheterization Department, reported the successful completion of a similar catheter-based aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for a 71-year-old patient with multiple comorbidities. The patient was battling morbid obesity, diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure requiring dialysis, and severe peripheral vascular disease in her legs.
Dr. Al-Asousi described the surgery as a significant accomplishment given the patient’s complex medical profile. He noted that the center continues to lead in the adoption of transcatheter valve replacement techniques, which have proven to be lifesaving for many patients ineligible for open-heart surgery.
He further emphasized the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements, including the introduction of Medtronic’s latest Evolut FX Plus valve.
This cutting-edge device is equipped with three access windows that are four times larger than those in previous models, greatly enhancing access to the coronary arteries during complex interventions.
These successful operations reflect a growing synergy among Kuwait’s leading cardiac centers and reaffirm their commitment to elevating healthcare standards through the adoption of innovative, life-saving technologies.
