By: Shaan Kunwar, DO
As a physician here at East County Internal Medicine, my goal has always been to ensure our community has access to the highest level of care without needing to trek across the bridge to Tampa or down to Miami. Today, I’m incredibly proud to highlight a massive milestone for Bradenton: Manatee Memorial Hospital has performed the county’s first-ever tricuspid valve replacement using the Edwards EVOQUE system.
Why This Matters to You
For years, the tricuspid valve was often called the “forgotten valve.” When it fails—a condition known as tricuspid regurgitation—it leads to heart failure, fatigue, and swelling. Traditionally, the only fix was high-risk open-heart surgery, which many of our senior or high-risk patients simply couldn’t undergo. This new procedure is a total game-changer. Using a minimally invasive catheter-based approach (entering through a small incision in the leg), surgeons can now replace the valve without ever opening the chest.
Your PCP should be Aware
As an Osteopathic Physician, I look at the “whole person.” Seeing this level of technology arrive in Bradenton means: • Faster Recovery: My patients can get back to their families and their daily walks in Lakewood Ranch much sooner. • Local Excellence: You don’t have to leave your support system. Your doctors, your hospital, and your recovery are all right here. • Proven Capability: This proves that Bradenton is no longer a “small town” in terms of medical capability—we are operating at a Tier-1 cardiac level.
We’re Here to Help You Navigate Your Health
If you or a loved one have been told you have heart valve issues or are struggling with symptoms like shortness of breath and leg swelling, let’s talk. My role is to help you navigate these advanced options and ensure your heart is getting the care it deserves. We are proud to be part of a community that is leading the way in Florida’s medical future. Stay healthy, Bradenton.