New Delhi, September 24, 2025: In a major breakthrough for cardiac care in India, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute (FEHI), New Delhi, has successfully performed one of the country’s first implantations of the TRIA™ Mitral Valve – the world’s first heart valve made from a specially engineered polymer. The surgery was led by Dr. ZS Meharwal, Chairman & Head, Adult Cardiac Surgery, Heart Transplantation & VAD Program, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute.
Until now, patients needing valve replacement had to choose between:
Tissue valves, which often wear out too quickly, especially in younger patients, leading to repeat surgeries.
Mechanical valves, which last longer but require lifelong blood-thinning medicines, impose lifestyle restrictions, and produce a “clicking” sound with every heartbeat.
The TRIA™ Mitral Valve, developed by U.S.-based Foldax® Inc. and manufactured locally in India by Dolphin Life Science, offers a new alternative. Made from a next-generation material called LifePolymer™, the valve is:
Metal-free and animal-free - eliminating concerns linked to animal tissue use.
Designed for durability - lasting longer than tissue valves.
Free from lifelong blood thinners - making it safer for women of childbearing age and younger patients.
Robotically manufactured - ensuring precision, consistency, and safety.
India has one of the highest burdens of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) globally, affecting more than 40 million people and causing over 300,000 deaths every year. Many of those affected are young adults and women, who face difficult choices with current valve options.
The TRIA™ Mitral Valve represents a breakthrough by offering:
Longer-lasting results compared to tissue valves.
Durability without the need for repeat surgeries.
Freedom from lifelong medication that can complicate pregnancy and daily life.
Better quality of life with fewer lifestyle restrictions.
The valve has already been tested in Indian patients through clinical studies at leading hospitals, including Fortis Escorts Heart Institute.
Results after one year showed:
Over 50% improvement in blood flow through the heart.
0% valve-related deaths or repeat surgeries.
A 42% increase in walking distance in the six-minute walk test.
Significant improvements in patients’ ability to carry out daily activities and overall quality of life.
These findings have been published in the prestigious Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC).
India is the first country in the world where the TRIA™ Mitral Valve is being made available commercially, positioning the nation as a global leader in adopting breakthrough cardiac technologies.
Speaking about the achievement, Dr. Meharwal said: “We are proud to be among the first to bring this next-generation heart valve to our patients. For many young patients and women, the TRIA™ Mitral Valve offers hope for a longer, healthier life without the challenges of lifelong blood thinners or repeated surgeries. This launch reinforces India’s role as a pioneer in advanced cardiac care.”
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