TULSA, Okla. –
A new robotic-assisted procedure developed at Cleveland Clinic replaces a damaged aortic valve through a small incision in the neck, allowing surgeons to avoid major chest surgery and shorten recovery for patients.
- Cleveland Clinic surgeons developed a new robotic-assisted procedure to replace a damaged aortic valve through a small incision in the neck.
- The technique, called transcervical robotic aortic valve replacement, avoids cutting through the breastbone required in traditional open-heart surgery.
- Surgeons use robotic instruments controlled by the doctor to perform precise movements inside the chest.
- Because the chest wall remains intact, patients may experience less pain and faster recovery than with traditional surgery.
A new robotic-assisted procedure developed at Cleveland Clinic replaces a damaged aortic valve through a small incision in the neck, allowing surgeons to avoid major chest surgery and shorten recovery for patients.
What is aortic valve disease?
Aortic valve disease occurs when the valve that regulates blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body becomes damaged or does not function properly.
When the valve fails, it can strain the heart and increase the risk of serious complications.
Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
If the condition progresses beyond mild or moderate stages, doctors typically recommend replacing the valve.
A new surgical option
Aortic valve disease occurs when the valve that regulates blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body becomes damaged or does not function properly.
When the valve fails, it can strain the heart and increase the risk of serious complications.
How the robotic surgery works
During the procedure, surgeons use a robotic system that translates the surgeon’s hand movements into precise movements by specialized instruments inside the body.
The robotic system allows for highly precise movements while the surgeon maintains full control.
Patients are placed on a heart-lung machine during the operation so surgeons can safely remove the damaged valve and implant a new one.
Because the chest wall remains intact, the procedure avoids cutting the ribs or sternum and eliminates the need to spread the chest.
Faster recovery for patients
Avoiding major chest incisions can significantly reduce postoperative pain and shorten recovery time.
Doctors say discomfort following the surgery can often be managed with common medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Many patients can return to normal daily activities within about a week and may leave the hospital sooner than with traditional open-heart procedures.
Where the procedure is available
The transcervical robotic valve replacement procedure was introduced at Cleveland Clinic in 2025.
According to Cleveland Clinic, it is currently the only medical center offering the surgery.
FAQs
- What is aortic valve disease? Aortic valve disease occurs when the valve that controls blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body becomes narrowed or damaged. When the valve does not open or close properly, it can strain the heart and reduce blood flow to the body.
- What are the symptoms of aortic valve disease? Common symptoms include: Chest pain, fatigue, dizziness or fainting, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, doctors say symptoms often worsen as the disease progresses.
- How is aortic valve disease usually treated? If the disease becomes severe, doctors often recommend replacing the damaged valve. Traditionally, that requires open-heart surgery that involves cutting through the breastbone.
