CardiAQ Reports First Transapical Implantation of Its Second-Generation TMVI System

May 20, 2014—CardiAQ Valve Technologies, Inc. announced a successful initial procedure with the company’s second-generation transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI) system in an 88-year-old woman experiencing severe mitral regurgitation (MR 4+) using the company’s newly added transapical delivery system.

According to CardiAQ, the transapical TMVI procedure was performed on May 13 on compassionate grounds at The Heart Centre of Rigshospitalet University Hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark. The team performing the procedure included interventional cardiologist Lars Søndergaard, MD; echocardiographer Nikolaj Ihlemann, MD; cardiothoracic surgeons Peter Skov Olsen, MD; Susanne Holme, MD; and Arshad Quadri, MD; and anesthesiologist Peter Bo Hansen, MD.

In the company’s press release, Dr. Søndergaard commented, “We are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with the CardiAQ technology again in order to provide treatment to this patient for whom no other alternatives were available. Based on a number of risk and anatomical factors, neither traditional mitral valve surgery nor transcatheter repair with MitraClip were options for this patient. Through careful review and consideration, we determined that TMVI, using CardiAQ’s second-generation transcatheter mitral valve and its new transapical delivery system, could offer this patient a chance at a longer and more comfortable life. The valve was implanted successfully with excellent function. The patient is recovering uneventfully and already feels a marked reduction in symptoms.”

The company stated that its second-generation TMVI system builds upon the CardiAQ’s method for anchoring the implant through leaflet engagement, chordal preservation, and annular attachment while offering greater durability, improved flow properties, and a novel feature for the prevention of paravalvular leaks.

The CardiAQ TMVI system can be delivered through multiple delivery systems, including both transfemoral and transapical delivery. The device’s anchoring mechanism engages and uses the patient’s native mitral valve anatomy so that interventionists can accurately and securely implant a new mitral valve within a beating heart, stated the company.