Naples Hospital Performs First U.S. PASCAL Valve Repair
The NCH Rooney Heart Institute completed a pioneering tricuspid valve procedure using the newly FDA-approved PASCAL system.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Heart Disease
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The NCH Rooney Heart Institute in Naples has successfully performed the nation's first tricuspid valve repair using the PASCAL Precision system. This breakthrough procedure offers a new catheter-based option for patients struggling with severe tricuspid regurgitation.
Why it matters
This procedure provides a critical alternative for patients suffering from severe tricuspid regurgitation who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy. It specifically targets those at intermediate or greater surgical risk, expanding treatment access in Southwest Florida.
As the highest-enrolling clinical trial site for this treatment, NCH handles the largest volume of tricuspid regurgitation cases in Florida. The hospital system supports its cardiovascular services with 700 beds and an alliance of 750 physicians.
The players
NCH Rooney Heart Institute
This facility is a leading cardiovascular medical center in Naples that treats more patients with tricuspid regurgitation than any other center in Florida.
The details
Physicians perform this transcatheter edge-to-edge repair by using a catheter to bring portions of the heart valve leaflets together, effectively reducing leakage. Candidates undergo an individualized evaluation of their valve anatomy, symptoms, and overall health to determine if they meet the criteria for this minimally invasive intervention.
Timeline
October 29, 2026: NCH performed the first tricuspid valve repair using the PASCAL Precision system.
Health Landscape
This procedure follows the momentum established by the first percutaneous tricuspid valve replacement in Florida, marking a further expansion of minimally invasive cardiac options in the state. It signifies a continued shift toward catheter-based interventions over traditional open-heart surgery.
Patients in Southwest Florida who were previously limited by surgical risks now have access to a minimally invasive alternative for treating severe tricuspid regurgitation. Those experiencing persistent symptoms should consult their cardiologist to determine if they meet the criteria for this catheter-based evaluation.
The takeaway
This medical milestone highlights the growing availability of catheter-based heart valve repairs as a standard of care for high-risk patients. Individuals with chronic valve issues should monitor for worsening symptoms and discuss emerging treatment options with their medical providers.
Further reading
Find more updates on regional cardiac advancements in the Heart Disease section.
More information
Learn more about the program at NCH cardiovascular care information.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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