What is it?
The MitraClip is a small clip that is attached to the mitral valve to help it close, avoiding regurgitation or leakiness. The procedure allows doctors to repair a valve through a small incision in a leg vein as opposed to opening a patient’s chest, the news release states.
This reduces a patient’s recovery time to a little over a week. The recovery time for a traditional open-heart surgery is typically 6-8 weeks, the release states.
Brannon Hyde—a cardiovascular surgeon with CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System—said the Mitraclip procedure is used to treat significant mitral regurgitation, which occurs when the heart’s mitral valve is not working properly, causing the lunges to become congested from reverse blood flow.
Hyde said the hospital’s ability to offer such a “robust” cardiology program in the New Braunfels community means patients can stay and be cared for close to home.
Notable quote
Genifer Rucker, president of CHRISTUS Santa Rose Hospital — New Braunfels said she was proud of the work their team is doing to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients.
“Our team continues to exemplify our mission by offering the most comprehensive and compassionate care in the New Braunfels community,” Rucker said in the release.
