Independence Health System Celebrates Major Milestones in Cardiovascular Medicine

BUTLER, Pa.: Independence Health System announced, April, 9, 2026, that its multidisciplinary structural heart teams in Butler and Westmorland have both achieved significant milestones. Butler Memorial Hospital, which began offering minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures to treat aortic stenosis nearly ten years ago, completed its 1,000th case this month. Westmoreland Hospital, which began performing TAVR procedures five years ago, has completed its 600th case.

“This remarkable achievement underscores the incredible skill, collaboration and dedication of our physicians, providers and staff to ensure patients receive high-quality, expert heart care close to home, “said Dr. Michael Fiorina, DO, chief medical officer of Independence Health System.

George Davliakos, MD, director of cardiothoracic surgery at Butler Memorial and Clarion Hospital, added, “Reaching our 1,000th and 600th cases is a testament not only to our teams but also to the trust that our patients place in us.”

Aortic stenosis is a common heart valve condition in which the aortic valve narrows due to calcium buildup and scarring, reducing blood flow from the heart to the body. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and death. Aortic stenosis most commonly affects older adults 65 and older but can also affect individuals with congenital heart defects. According to the American Heart Association, more than 13 percent of Americans 75 and older have aortic stenosis.

“These achievements highlight the strength of our multidisciplinary team and our commitment to outstanding patient outcomes,” said Nevin Baker, DO, medical director of catheterization lab quality at Westmoreland Hospital. ”TAVR offers a less invasive approach to treating severe aortic stenosis, prompting faster recovery and a quicker return to normal life.”

TAVR is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open-heart aortic valve replacement. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel through a small incision in the groin. A new valve is then guided toward the heart and positioned inside the damaged valve. Once in place, the replacement valve expands and immediately begins to function, improving blood flow and easing symptoms caused by the narrowed valve. TAVR often results in a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery time.

“These continued achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to keeping the highest level of cardiovascular care in our region,” said Joseph Kusick, DO, interventional cardiologist and lead physician of the structural heart program at Butler Memorial Hospital. Every milestone is the direct result of teamwork, innovation and a shared dedication to helping patients live longer, healthier lives.”

Common symptoms of aortic stenosis include chest pain, a rapid or fluttering heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness or trouble walking short distances. Some individuals experience mild or no symptoms, which can delay diagnosis. For this reason, routine visits with a healthcare provider are recommended. Age is the most significant risk factor for aortic stenosis. Smoking, high blood pressure and high cholesterol also increase the risk of developing aortic stenosis.