UC Davis Health performs world’s first transcatheter procedure with new valve repair system

UC Davis Health has become the first medical center in the world to treat patients with mitral and tricuspid regurgitation, or leaky heart valves, by using an innovative transcatheter valve repair device.

The Abbott MitraClip and TriClip G5 system provides advanced leaflet grasping control, optimized device orientation and streamlined deployment mechanics to enhance procedural precision and efficiency. Supported by extensive clinical evidence, these platforms demonstrate consistent safety, durable efficacy and significant improvements in patient-reported quality-of-life outcomes.

“We are excited to offer our patients this novel, minimally invasive approach to treating severe valvular regurgitation, a condition for which there are few safe and effective treatment options with this degree of efficiency,” said Gagan D. Singh, professor of cardiovascular medicine and director of the structural heart program. He performed the first procedure globally at UC Davis Medical Center.

“We are excited to offer our patients this novel, minimally invasive approach to treating severe valvular regurgitation, a condition for which there are few safe and effective treatment options with this degree of efficiency.”—Gagan D. Singh

Mitral regurgitation and tricuspid regurgitation occur when the valve between the top and bottom chambers of the heart fail to close completely. This can allow blood to leak backward into the atrium from the valves, causing a person’s heart to pump harder to move blood through the valve.

The condition affects approximately 4.7 million Americans. Symptoms include active pulsing in the neck veins, enlarged liver, fatigue and swelling throughout the body.

Current nonsurgical treatments include diuretics (medicines that help remove excess fluid and salt) and drugs aimed at easing symptoms. Left untreated, tricuspid regurgitation can lead to atrial fibrillation, heart failure, kidney disease and even death.

A national leader in valve repair

UC Davis Health has long been a pioneer in catheter-based valve repair procedures. The medical center was recently the first in the United States to treat tricuspid regurgitation using a previous Abbott TriClip system.

“The UC Davis Structural Heart team is among the most advanced and comprehensive in the nation,” added Singh. “Our commitment to delivering complete, efficient, and high-quality care drives our leadership in this field.”