Saint Francis completes 500th minimally invasive heart valve procedure

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The cardiovascular team at Saint Francis Healthcare System recently completed its 500th transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedure.

Commonly known as TAVR, the minimally invasive procedure treats severe aortic valve disease without traditional open-heart surgery.

The treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life.

Hospital officials said the milestone reflects expanded access to advanced cardiovascular care for patients throughout the region.