In a medical milestone, Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, has performed India’s first implantation of the Edwards SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA transcatheter aortic valve (TAVI) on a 70-year-old patient with severe aortic stenosis.

The procedure was led by Dr. G. Sengottuvelu, Senior Interventional Cardiologist and Head of Structural Interventions. The patient, who also had a prior coronary stent, was considered too high-risk for open-heart surgery.

The new RESILIA valve is designed to last longer, resist calcification, and reduce the need for repeat surgeries. It also allows for a safer, minimally invasive treatment option for patients with severe heart valve disease.

Ms. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Group, said the breakthrough gives Indian patients access to advanced global technology with proven durability and better long-term outcomes.

Dr. Sengottuvelu explained that the valve reduces key risks such as structural valve deterioration and paravalvular leak. “This marks a new chapter in cardiac care in India,” he said.

Clinical studies show the valve has over 99% freedom from deterioration at eight years, making it one of the most durable options available worldwide.