SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Geisinger Community Medical Center has reached a major milestone in cardiovascular care, completing more than 500 transcatheter aortic valve replacement, or TAVR, procedures at its Scranton hospital.
The achievement comes as healthcare providers continue to emphasize heart health and access to advanced cardiac care in northeastern Pennsylvania.
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat aortic valve disease, a condition that can restrict blood flow from the heart. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, the procedure uses a catheter inserted through an artery to replace a damaged valve, often resulting in shorter recovery times and reduced hospital stays.
“For many patients, TAVR can be life-changing,” said Dr. Yassir Nawaz, director of interventional cardiology for Geisinger’s northeast region. “It allows us to replace narrowed heart valves by feeding a catheter through an artery that leads to the heart. Because the procedure requires only a puncture rather than a major incision, patients return to their daily lives more quickly while remaining near their families and support systems.”
Hospital officials said surpassing 500 procedures reflects both the growing need for specialized cardiac care and Geisinger’s efforts to provide advanced treatment options closer to home.
Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Geisinger clinicians work with patients to identify and manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and heart disease through screenings, education and individualized treatment plans.
“This milestone represents Geisinger Community Medical Center’s commitment to providing the best care for Scranton and Lackawanna County,” said Nick Coleman, associate vice president of clinical operations for Geisinger’s northeast region. “Our expertise in interventional cardiology is one of the many reasons we’ve become a destination for care for so many in our community and beyond.”
Hospital leaders say the milestone underscores the continued expansion of specialized cardiovascular services in the region and the importance of ensuring patients have access to advanced heart care without traveling far from home.