Maryland has reached a medical milestone with its first artificial heart valve replacement performed without open-heart surgery. Joan Mertz, 83, became the first patient in the state to undergo this minimally invasive procedure at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital.
For years, Mertz struggled with shortness of breath caused by tricuspid valve regurgitation, making even simple tasks exhausting. Instead of requiring open-heart surgery, doctors implanted a self-expanding artificial valve using a catheter, significantly reducing recovery time.
Led by Dr. John Wang and Dr. Brian Bethea, the procedure lasted under an hour and required no incisions, offering patients a safer and quicker alternative. Mertz, initially nervous, was amazed by her swift recovery, calling the outcome her “miracle.”
This breakthrough provides new hope for those suffering from valve conditions, demonstrating the power of innovation in modern heart care.