A First at Adventist Heart & Vascular Institute

Minimally invasive heart procedure marks new chapter in advanced cardiovascular care at Adventist Health St. Helena

Adventist Health St. Helena is proud to announce the successful completion of its first Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR), an important milestone in bringing leading-edge cardiovascular treatments to the region.

The procedure was performed by Leonardo Clavijo, MD, PhD, Medical Director of the Adventist Heart & Vascular Institute (AHVI), and Monica Divakaruni, MD, Interventional Cardiologist, in collaboration with the structural heart team. TMVR offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery by using a catheter-based approach to replace a damaged mitral valve. In many cases, it eliminates the need for general anesthesia, a heart-lung machine, or extended recovery time.

Unlike conventional surgery, TMVR does not require opening the chest, using a heart-lung machine, or a lengthy hospital stay. For patients who are considered high-risk for surgery due to age or other health concerns, TMVR provides a life-changing option that reduces complications and improves recovery outcomes.

“This achievement reflects our commitment to making advanced cardiovascular care available not just for our local community, but for patients throughout the broader region who are seeking expert care in a trusted setting,” said Steven Herber, MD, President of Adventist Health St. Helena. “We’re proud to offer this level of innovation and clinical excellence right here in the Napa Valley.”

This procedure is not yet widely available and is performed at a select number of hospitals across the country that have the specialized expertise and infrastructure required. Adventist Health St. Helena’s ability to offer TMVR is a testament to its clinical leadership, advanced imaging capabilities, and the strength of its structural heart program.

Mitral valve disease affects millions of people, often leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart failure. The availability of TMVR means more patients in our region can be treated effectively without the burden of traveling to larger urban centers.

“TMVR represents a significant advancement in our ability to care for patients with complex valve disease,” said Dr. Clavijo. “We’re proud to offer this leading-edge treatment option here in the Napa Valley, supported by a multidisciplinary team dedicated to heart health.”

By expanding access to TMVR, AHVI continues to solidify its role as a center for comprehensive, high-quality cardiovascular care in Northern California. This milestone underscores a broader commitment to offering advanced treatments closer to home, improving outcomes, and elevating the standard of care for our patients and community.