The operation was performed using a new Israeli development: a tiny knife a few millimeters in size that is inserted into the catheter and allows surgery to be performed through the catheter without stopping the heart's activity. The knife was developed by Shaare Zedek's heart specialists, led by director of the cardiac catheterization department Dr. Danny Dvir, who specializes in unique catheterization methods, in collaboration with the Israeli company Picardia.
During catheterization for a heart valve transplant, the valves are pushed aside by the new valve. In patients where the coronary arteries are right next to the valve, the pushing can block the flow to the heart and cause a dangerous heart attack, according to Dvir.
"The new development provides a range of unique solutions in the field of cardiac catheterization, bringing it into an era in which all possibilities are open," he said.
Caron was released to her home within 48 hours of the surgery, and is expected to recover shortly.
"The world of medicine has evolved so much in recent years," she said. "In my thirties, when I started working as a nurse, medicine was very basic. Today it is possible to perform complex operations without even cutting. It's just amazing! Thanks to this innovative treatment, I will be able to swim and go on light walks.
"I miss spending time with my grandchildren and children, and I call on everyone to go out and get vaccinated," she said. "I feel wonderful. I have already been vaccinated and I invite everyone to do it to get back to normal."