Penang Adventist Hospital Achieves Breakthrough in Cardiac Care with First Self-Expanding Aortic Valve Implantation

Penang Adventist Hospital (PAH) continues to set new benchmarks in healthcare by successfully completing its first self-expanding aortic heart valve implantation using the minimally invasive Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR/TAVI) technique. This groundbreaking procedure, performed on September 5, 2024, marks a milestone in cardiac care, further solidifying PAH’s role as a leading institution for advanced medical treatments.

The procedure was led by Dr. Lee Kuo Ting, a visiting cardiologist specializing in structural heart care and internal medicine, who skillfully implanted the Evolut™ PRO+ valve. A committed team behind him included Dr. Choo Gim Hooi from Cardio Vascular Sentral (CVS), Kuala Lumpur, whose expert guidance was crucial in ensuring the success of this challenging procedure. The Operating Theater team, comprising Dr. Simon Yeoh, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, and Dr. Teoh Swee Heap, Consultant Anaesthesiologist, played a vital role in providing exceptional support throughout the surgery.

This achievement not only underscores the hospital’s commitment to excellence but also aligns with the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to share the love of Jesus through compassionate healthcare. PAH, deeply rooted in Adventist principles, strives to exemplify the church’s health message, which has long been regarded as the "right arm" of the gospel. By promoting holistic wellness and preventive care, the hospital remains focused on extending Christ’s healing ministry to its patients.

“At Penang Adventist Hospital, we believe in more than just treating illnesses—we aim to care for the whole person,” said Albin Phua, Chief Executive Officer of the Penang Adventist Hospital. “Rooted in the Adventist health message and grounded in our mission to reflect Christ’s love and healing ministry, we combine medical excellence with compassionate spiritual and emotional support. Through our chaplaincy services, healthy lifestyle education, compassionate care, and community involvement, the hospital creates an integrated supportive space where patients can find healing and hope all under one roof,” Phua added.

The minimally invasive TAVR/TAVI technique offers significant benefits, particularly for patients who may not be suitable for traditional open-heart surgery. This innovative procedure, coupled with the hospital’s faith-based approach to health, reflects PAH’s ongoing dedication to bringing cutting-edge medical care to the community while also sharing the hope and love of Jesus.

As PAH celebrates this remarkable medical achievement, it remains steadfast in its mission to not only advance in healthcare but also to introduce others to the Great Physician. By offering state-of-the-art treatments and emphasizing whole-person care, Penang Adventist Hospital continues to be a beacon of hope in this generation, pointing individuals to the ultimate source of healing, Jesus Christ.

“Penang Adventist Hospital balances the integration of advanced medical technology with a compassionate, patient-centric approach. While we leverage the latest medical advancements to ensure optimal physical health outcomes, we also prioritize the holistic needs of patients by providing comprehensive care that addresses both physical and non-physical aspects of health,” Phua explained. 

“We believe that true healing encompasses the body, the mind and the spirit, so while we provide the most advanced treatments, we also ensure that patients feel supported, understood, and genuinely cared for throughout their healing journey with us,” he added.

This breakthrough in cardiac care is just one of the many ways in which PAH embodies the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s commitment to holistic health, demonstrating that physical healing and spiritual growth go hand in hand in fulfilling Christ's mission on earth.