BluePearl Pet Hospital in Tampa Offers Minimally Invasive Heart Procedure for Pets

BluePearl Pet Hospital in Tampa, Florida, is making waves in the veterinary world by offering a cutting-edge procedure for pets with severe mitral regurgitation. The transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) procedure is a minimally invasive beating-heart intervention that can significantly improve the quality of life and extend the lifespan of pets suffering from chronic valvular disease.

Chronic valvular disease is a common heart condition in dogs, especially in small breeds and older dogs. The disease causes a backward flow of blood into the atrium, leading to regurgitation and other complications. BluePearl Tampa is now the 8th hospital in the United States to offer the TEER procedure, thanks to their dedicated cardiology team who underwent specialized training to provide this advanced treatment.

Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, the TEER procedure is more cost-efficient, less invasive, and has a success rate of 95% in animal patients. This groundbreaking procedure involves making a small incision in the chest wall of the dog under general anesthesia and using a device to connect the edges of the mitral valve, reducing or eliminating leakage. Patients require up to 6 weeks of restricted activity during recovery, with follow-up appointments scheduled for up to a year post-procedure.

Dr. Bradley Harris, a cardiologist at BluePearl Tampa, expressed his excitement about offering this industry-leading procedure to pet owners, highlighting the positive impact it can have on the lives of pets with heart disease. The TEER procedure has been performed in over 150,000 human patients worldwide, showcasing its effectiveness and potential to revolutionize treatment options for pets as well.

With BluePearl Tampa leading the way in providing advanced cardiac care for pets, the future looks bright for furry companions facing heart-related challenges. This innovative procedure offers hope and healing for pets and their owners, demonstrating the hospital’s commitment to pushing the bounds of medical excellence and improving the lives of animals in their community and beyond.