RRI.CO.ID, Bali - The Sapporo Cardio Vascular Clinic (SCVC) has officially established its presence in Indonesia through a collaboration with Bali International Hospital, marking a significant step in advancing high-tech cardiovascular services in the region.

The partnership was inaugurated with the first Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedure performed at Bali International Hospital. This milestone allows Indonesian patients to access cutting-edge cardiac treatment that previously required traveling abroad.

Steven Tse, CEO of Hong Kong Asia Medical Group, emphasized the group’s commitment to expanding cardiac services across Asia.

“SCVC’s presence in Indonesia brings state-of-the-art medical technology. Our goal is to broaden access to advanced heart care in Southeast Asia,” he said during a press briefing in Bali, Monday, March 9, 2026.

Dr. Noel Yeo, Chief Commercial Officer of PT Pertamedika Bali Hospital, welcomed the collaboration, noting that the introduction of TAVI strengthens international-standard cardiac services in Bali. “The availability of this complex procedure here marks an important milestone,” he stated.

On March 7, 2026, two Indonesian patients successfully underwent TAVI following screening and preparation that began in December 2025. The operations were led by interventional cardiologist Dr. I Made Junior Rina Artha, alongside Prof. Lam Yat Yin and Prof. Su Xi, with all costs covered by Hong Kong Asia Medical Group.

Dr. Rina Artha, who heads the Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine at Bali International Hospital, highlighted the significance of the procedure. “TAVI offers a safer therapy with faster recovery for high-risk patients,” he explained.

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide and poses a serious health challenge in Indonesia. Among elderly patients, severe aortic stenosis -- a narrowing of the aortic valve -- can trigger shortness of breath, chest pain, and heart failure.

TAVI provides a modern alternative to open-heart surgery by replacing the aortic valve using a catheter inserted through the femoral artery. The method carries lower risks and enables quicker recovery, with most patients discharged within 48 to 72 hours.

Looking ahead, SCVC plans to deepen collaboration with local cardiologists through knowledge transfer programs and the development of international clinical standards. (Naura Sofia/Sri Wahyuni)