What is Mitral Regurgitation?
Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a heart condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, causing blood to leak backward into the left atrium. Over time, this can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and even heart failure if left untreated.
For many years, the primary treatment for severe MR was open-heart surgery. However, not all patients are suitable candidates for such invasive procedures, especially older adults or those with other medical conditions.
The Rise of Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER)
Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (M-TEER) is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical mitral valve repair. Using a catheter inserted through a vein in the groin, cardiologists guide a device to the heart to clasp together parts of the mitral valve and reduce the leak.
M-TEER has become an established treatment option for MR, especially for patients who are considered high-risk for surgery, or for patients with poor heart function and severe MR. And now, with the PASCAL device, this procedure has reached a new level of precision and safety.
Introducing the PASCAL Mitral Valve Repair System
The Edwards Lifesciences PASCAL System is a device developed for mitral valve TEER procedures. It allows for more controlled and gentle leaflet grasping, improved navigation, and optimised coaptation of the valve tissue. These features help improve patient outcomes and minimise risks.
In February 2025, Dr. Paul Chiam and Dr. Lim Choon Pin of The Heart & Vascular Centre successfully performed two mitral valve TEERs using the PASCAL device in Singapore’s private healthcare sector. These were the initial cases using this innovative device in private hospitals in Singapore, and only the second centre in Singapore and Southeast Asia – after the National Heart Centre Singapore.
Why Choose the PASCAL Device for Mitral Valve Repair?
- Minimally invasive: No need for open-heart surgery
- Faster recovery times
- Improved leaflet capture for better sealing of the mitral valve
- Designed with patient safety in mind
- Option for high-risk surgical patients
This procedure is particularly beneficial for elderly patients or those with additional health risks that make traditional surgery less feasible.
Our Experience at The Heart & Vascular Centre
At The Heart & Vascular Centre, we are dedicated to structural heart therapies in Singapore. Dr. Paul Chiam has extensive experience in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) and structural heart interventions.
With access to this latest technology and a committed cardiovascular team, we remain focused on providing high-quality care to our patients.
Is the PASCAL Procedure Right for You?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with moderate to severe mitral regurgitation and are looking for a less invasive solution, consult with our heart specialists. We will evaluate your condition and determine if TEER with the PASCAL device is suitable for you.
Conclusion
Mitral valve regurgitation no longer has to mean a long recovery from open-heart surgery. The PASCAL Mitral Valve Repair System offers a minimally invasive approach to treatment.
With proven expertise and access to this technology, The Heart & Vascular Centre is committed to helping more Singaporeans improve their heart function and overall quality of life.
References:
- Edwards Lifesciences. (n.d.). PASCAL Transcatheter Valve Repair System. Available at: https://www.edwards.com [Accessed 28 April. 2025]
- National Heart Centre Singapore. (2024). Minimally Invasive Heart Valve Procedures.
- Feldman, T., et al. (2018). Transcatheter Mitral-Valve Repair in Patients with Heart Failure. NEJM. Available at: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1806640 [Accessed 28 April. 2025]
- The Heart & Vascular Centre Singapore. (2025). Clinical Update on PASCAL Device TEER Cases.
