Bernice Strompoly

In December 2021, 79-year-old Bernice Strompoly made history in the Kansas City medical community when she became the first patient in the city to undergo a Mitral Valve-in-Ring procedure since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the procedure earlier that same year.

“Dr. Eshcol told us about this new procedure, then I went through the testing and found it was a good option,” said Bernice.

After her cardiology team at Research Medical Center, led by Intervention Cardiologist Dr. Jayasheel Eshcol, MD, and Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Jason Van Meeteren, DO, explored options to repair the valve she had put in place more than 25 years ago, they determined this new procedure, which uses the Edwards Sapien 3 Transcatheter Valve, was the best option for her as it wouldn't require major surgical incisions.

“This is a valve delivered to the heart through the leg vein and implanted into the existing mitral valve,” said Dr. Eshcol. “We became the first program in the city to perform this procedure since FDA approval.”

An avid reader, puzzler, and member of a social circle that takes day trips and explores museums, Bernice felt she had more good years left in life. That's why she knew she was in good hands.

“I feel totally blessed to have had him as my surgeon," she said. "The nursing staff was very caring. My husband was totally impressed when Dr. Eshcol came out to see him after the procedure.”

More importantly for Bernice, who spent some time in and out of the hospital for various reasons in 2021, this procedure did not require a lengthy stay.

“I felt totally comfortable with the whole situation. My surgery was December 22nd, I was discharged the 23rd and was able to spend Christmas Eve with my family.”

Post procedure, Bernice says she’s doing well. She’s actively walking around when she can and is participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program.