Edwards Lifesciences Launches Next-Generation Transcatheter Heart Valve in India

The platform incorporates a balloon-expandable valve with proprietary calcification-resistant tissue designed to prevent calcium buildup on valve leaflets, a primary cause of structural valve deterioration.

Edwards Lifesciences has launched its next-generation transcatheter heart valve platform in India, providing a minimally invasive treatment option for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are not candidates for open-heart surgery.

The platform incorporates a balloon-expandable valve with proprietary calcification-resistant tissue designed to prevent calcium buildup on valve leaflets, a primary cause of structural valve deterioration.

The valve also features dry tissue storage to streamline hospital workflows and a taller, textured outer sealing skirt aimed at reducing paravalvular leak.

Clinical data from one year of experience with the platform indicate lower all-cause mortality, reduced paravalvular leak, fewer life-threatening bleeding events, and a rare need for reintervention. Long-term data show 99.3% freedom from structural valve deterioration at seven years.

Clinical Perspectives on Durability and Access

Dr. Ravinder Singh Rao, Interventional Cardiologist, Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, said, “The newer transcatheter heart valve, which is more durable and long-lasting, will allow us to safely and effectively treat younger patients with severe aortic stenosis.”

“Durability is the key to evaluating any transcatheter heart valve. With a strong clinical record of proving to be the most durable valve in the market, the patients will benefit from long-term disease management with this launch,” remarked Dr. G. Sengottuvelu, Interventional Cardiologist, Apollo Hospital, Chennai.

Adding insights, Dr. A B Gopalamurugan, Interventional Cardiologist, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, said that we have waited a long time for this technology to reach India. With this launch, patients here will now have access to the best-in-class transcatheter heart valve technology, within the comfort of their own country.

Focus on Lifetime Management

Edwards Lifesciences emphasizes a ‘lifetime management’ principle that plans the patient’s treatment journey from the initial procedure. A key feature is the valve-in-valve technique, enabling placement of a new transcatheter valve within an existing valve, reducing the need for future open-heart surgeries.

Mr. Parameswaran Nair, Country Leader, India and Southeast Asia, said, “By integrating minimally invasive techniques with exceptional durability, we are delivering therapies that meaningfully enhance survival and quality of life for patients with aortic stenosis in India. This milestone reflects our dedication to empowering clinicians, expanding access to care, and addressing the distinct needs of younger patients requiring lifelong treatment strategies.”

As cardiovascular disease rates rise in India alongside an aging population, Edwards continues to collaborate with clinicians to expand access to advanced heart therapies.

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