Today, Cooper University Hospital became the first hospital in New Jersey to implant a ground-breaking new technology, the Edwards Sapien Percutaneous Heart Valve.<\/p>\n
Cooper University Hospital\u2019s Heart Institute has been selected as one of a handful of initial sites in the United States. This FDA approved technology offers a treatment option for patients unable to undergo valve surgery and is expected to transform the treatment of aortic stenosis and aortic valve disease. Aortic valve disease affects nearly 300,000 people annually.<\/p>\n
Thomas Augustin, 82, of Mays Landing, NJ had developed severe narrowing or aortic stenosis in addition to severe lung disease and other cardiac problems. \u00a0The combination of medical conditions had left Mr. Augustin with little quality of life, a very poor long-term prognosis, and ineligible for surgical repair of his valve. \u00a0In consultation with his physicians in the fall of 2011, Mr. Augustin learned of the new treatment option, and decided to pursue the revolutionary therapy.<\/p>\n