The National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS) has made a groundbreaking advancement in cardiac care by performing Southeast Asia’s first PASCAL transcatheter valve repair. This minimally invasive procedure offers a new lease on life for patients with severe mitral valve regurgitation, who were previously considered too high-risk for traditional surgery.
Mrs Ong, a 77-year-old retired teacher, was among the first to benefit from this innovative treatment. Diagnosed with severe mitral valve regurgitation, a condition where the heart valve fails to close tightly, Mrs Ong faced significant health challenges. The PASCAL procedure, performed in February 2025, allowed her to return home the next day and resume her daily activities with minimal discomfort.
This development is particularly significant for Singapore’s ageing population, where approximately 3% of those over 70 suffer from moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation. The PASCAL procedure, which involves a small incision in the leg and the use of a specialised device to repair the valve, offers a safer and less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery.
Assistant Professor Wong Ningyan, part of the multidisciplinary team at NHCS, highlighted the benefits: “The PASCAL device’s innovative design allows us to repair damaged heart valves with precision and control, all through a small incision.”
NHCS continues to expand its suite of advanced cardiac treatments, reinforcing its position as a leader in heart valve management in Asia. Professor Yeo Khung Keong, CEO of NHCS, emphasised the centre’s commitment to personalised care, stating, “This advancement could mean the difference between continued suffering and a significantly improved quality of life.”
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