Percutaneous Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (PARTNER)
In Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), a synthetic valve is transported to the heart through the groin. Aortic valve replacement via open heart surgery is usually an invasive procedure with considerable mortality and morbidity especially in more fragile patients. Cedars Sinai physicians were the leading investigators in the trial comparing percutaneous versus open heart surgery for patients with aortic stenosis. Dr. Eshaghian is highly active in the assessment, evaluation, and management of patients to determine if they qualify for this method of aortic valve replacement.
Mitral Clip for Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair (E-Clip)
A novel device, the Evalve MitraClip, is being evaluated against surgical valve repair or replacement. In particular situations where the mitral valve does not close properly and leaks (mitral regurgitation), patients require a surgical procedure to repair or replace the leaky valve. Dr. Eshaghian works closely with patients to see if they qualify for this method of mitral valve repair.
Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device (WATCHMAN)
Left atrial appendage occlusion is an investigational treatment strategy to prevent blood clot formation in patients with atrial fibrillation by placing a small device to occlude this appendage. Since the greater majority of blood clots are formed in the left atrial appendage, patients who cannot use oral anticoagulants such as warfarin, can be considered candidates for this minimally invasive procedure.