Charleston Residents Celebrate Life-Changing Heart Treatment Innovation

Charleston Shines Bright with New Heart Treatment for Patients

Charleston is buzzing with good news as a groundbreaking heart treatment has given a new lease on life to local residents suffering from a common yet often overlooked heart condition. Many are smiling after experiencing remarkable improvements, including 82-year-old Corine Wilson, who was the first patient to receive the newly approved TriClip heart valve device.

It all started for Wilson back in October when she faced constant breathlessness and fatigue. “I was always out of breath,” she shared. “But I didn’t let that stop me! I love being active!” Her determination didn’t waver even when doctors diagnosed her with tricuspid regurgitation, a condition where blood leaks backward through the heart’s tricuspid valve. This heart issue is surprisingly common—affecting over 1.6 million people in the U.S., yet surprisingly, only about 8,000 surgeries are performed each year to fix it.

A Hopeful Innovation Emerges

The TriClip device, which Wilson received on October 1, is a game-changer in treating this condition. Before its approval by the Food and Drug Administration, the only viable option was surgery, which can be risky and has alarmingly high complication rates. As Dr. Nick Amoroso, an interventional cardiologist at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), explained, the “30-day mortality rate can be as high as 12 to 14 percent following surgery.” In contrast, the catheter-based procedure that Wilson underwent boasts a lower than 1 percent risk.

For Dr. Amoroso, the success of this new device is thrilling. He praised Wilson’s recovery, stating, “She’s feeling good, and her tests look great!” Wilson echoed his sentiment, saying, “I’m doing well, I sleep great, and I’ve definitely got my appetite back!”

Why This Matters

What’s even more exciting is that the TriClip can help not only patients like Wilson but also those in need of kidney transplants or facing other organ failure issues. The new treatment opens doors that were previously closed, providing a path for better health and successful treatments in patients who thought they had few options.

As Dr. Amoroso highlighted, many individuals suffer in silence due to vague symptoms like shortness of breath or leg swelling, which can easily be attributed to a variety of other health problems. “They suffer at home, rather than being diagnosed in the hospital,” he noted.

A Challenge to Ignorance

One of the key challenges with tricuspid regurgitation is that many people don’t even know it exists. While the numbers are staggering, awareness has been lacking—hence, why some call it “the forgotten valve” of the heart. As treatment options expand thanks to innovative devices like the TriClip, more patients are getting the help they desperately need, improving their quality of life.

Now, over a month after her procedure, Wilson is basking in the glow of recovery. “I’m so grateful to be the first at MUSC to receive this treatment. I check on friends and family, ensuring everyone is doing well—you know, doing what my grandparents taught me: don’t just sit around, be active and help others!” she beamed.

Looking Forward

As MUSC continues to grow its innovative programs, patients, caregivers, and medical professionals are buzzing with excitement about the future of heart treatments. The TriClip device acts as a beacon of hope, enabling doctors to address issues that were once overlooked.

“It’s all about giving patients like Corine a fighting chance,” Dr. Amoroso concluded. Wilson isn’t just living life; she’s ready for more! “Lord, I know you have some more work for me to do, and I’m ready!” she said, inspiring all with her determination and vibrant spirit.

Charleston is truly on the cutting edge of healthcare, and with stories like Wilson’s, we see innovation in action, bringing smiles and brighter days for many!