Structural heart disease
The Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine at the Benjamin Franklin Campus of the Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC) offers a comprehensive range of services for the treatment of structural heart disease. These diseases primarily affect the heart valves, which play a central role in the function of the cardiovascular system. Functional disorders such as heart valve stenosis (narrowing) or insufficiencies (leaks) are widespread and can put considerable strain on the heart. Our clinic offers a wide range of state-of-the-art treatment options, which are based in particular on minimally invasive and catheter-based procedures. These procedures are gentle and are particularly suitable for patients who have an increased risk of complications during open heart surgery.
Catheter-based heart valve treatment
A particular focus is on the catheter-based treatment of aortic and pulmonary valve diseases. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is used here, which makes it possible to insert a new aortic valve via a catheter without the need for open surgery. This method is particularly suitable for older patients or patients with severe health problems for whom conventional surgery is too risky. Catheter-based replacement of the pulmonary valve (TPVI) is also minimally invasive and offers a gentle treatment option for patients with pulmonary valve defects.
The Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC) is one of the world's largest TAVI centres and has an exceptionally high level of expertise in this field. More than 1,300 TAVI procedures to replace the aortic valve are performed at the DHZC every year.
The Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC) is one of the world's largest TAVI centres and has an exceptionally high level of expertise in this field. More than 1,300 TAVI procedures to replace the aortic valve are performed at the DHZC every year.
State-of-the-art techniques for mitral and tricuspid valve treatment
We also use state-of-the-art techniques for the treatment of mitral and tricuspid valve diseases . Among other things, we offer edge-to-edge repair for the repair and replacement of these valves, which is used for both the mitral valve (M-TEER) and the tricuspid valve(T-TEER). This method uses a clip that brings the leaflets of the leaky valve together to prevent the backflow of blood. The procedure is performed via a catheter, which means a faster recovery and less stress for the patient
In addition to edge-to-edge repair, we also offer direct and indirect annuloplasty. In direct annuloplasty, such as that performed with the Cardioband system, a band is placed around the affected valve to improve its function. Indirect annuloplasty, for example of the mitral valve using the Carillon system, is performed by selectively altering the valve ring without directly touching the valve. Both procedures are minimally invasive and aim to restore valve function and relieve the heart.
Innovative procedures for the tricuspid valve
For patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation for whom open surgery would be too risky, we offer transcutaneous tricuspid valve replacement. In this procedure, a new valve is inserted into the heart via a catheter to take over the function of the diseased tricuspid valve. This is also a gentle procedure that is characterised by a shorter recovery time and a lower risk of complications.
Closure of atrial septal defects (ASD)
We also offer innovative procedures such as the transcutaneous closure of atrial septal defects (ASD). This procedure is minimally invasive and closes a hole in the dividing wall between the two atria of the heart to normalise blood flow and relieve pressure on the heart. This is particularly important to prevent long-term damage and improve the patient's quality of life.
Catheter-assisted mitral valve replacement
Another advanced procedure that we offer is catheter-based mitral valve replacement (valve-in-valve). This procedure is primarily used for patients who have already had a surgical mitral valve prosthesis but who develop a functional disorder over time. In such cases, a new valve can be inserted into the existing implant using a catheter in order to restore functionality. In addition, catheter-supported procedures are currently available as part of studies that allow the native mitral valve to be replaced.
Interdisciplinary collaboration in the Heart Team
A key component of our treatment approach is interdisciplinary collaboration in the so-called Heart Team. This team consists of experts from various medical disciplines such as cardiology, cardiac surgery, radiology and anaesthesia.
A key component of our treatment approach is interdisciplinary collaboration in the so-called Heart Team. This team consists of experts from various medical disciplines such as cardiology, cardiac surgery, radiology and anaesthesia.
Together, we develop individualised treatment concepts for each patient based on the latest scientific findings. This close collaboration and the ability to provide care to patients across campuses ensures that every patient receives customised and precise treatment.
Outpatient care for structural heart disease
Ourspecialised outpatient clinic for structural heart disease(heart valve outpatient clinic)enables us to treat patients on an outpatient basis and develop individual treatment concepts. We attach great importance to comprehensive counselling and care in order to ensure the best possible therapy for each patient.
Conclusion: State-of-the-art and individualised therapy at the DHZC
Overall, the Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine at the Benjamin Franklin Campus of the DHZC offers a wide range of state-of-the-art treatment procedures for structural heart disease. Thanks to our advanced technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, we can offer you a gentle and effective therapy that is individually tailored to your needs. Our expertise in minimally invasive procedures, particularly in the field of TAVI, and our cross-campus care make the DHZC a world-leading centre in the treatment of structural heart disease.
