Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Helps Patient Return to an Active Lifestyle

A second medical opinion and minimally invasive cardiac Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery helped 71-year-old Bernie Fink overcome a heart valve condition and return to his everyday activities with renewed confidence. After receiving conflicting diagnoses about blockages in his heart arteries, Fink turned to The Valley Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Seeking Clarity Through a Second Opinion

Fink had initially received contradictory medical assessments, with one consultation indicating no arterial blockages and another suggesting otherwise. Following a recommendation from his lawyer, he scheduled an appointment with The Valley Hospital’s cardiac surgery team and shared his previous test results.

Further evaluation revealed that he had aortic regurgitation, a condition in which the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backwards towards the heart. This forces the heart to work harder and, if left untreated, can eventually lead to heart failure.

Habib Jabagi, MD, Director of the Aortic Aneurysm Program at The Valley Hospital, monitored Fink’s condition through the hospital’s Integrated Aortic Program. The Greenwood Lake, New York, resident underwent regular examinations every six months to track the progression of the valve disease.

Choosing a Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Approach

Although Fink understood that treatment would eventually be necessary, he was reluctant to undergo Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery. Being physically active and regularly attending the gym, he was concerned about losing his ability to maintain his lifestyle.

Dr. Jabagi recommended a right anterior mini-thoracotomy (RAM-T), a minimally invasive technique used for aortic valve repair or replacement. The procedure involves a small incision of less than six centimetres between the ribs, allowing surgeons to access the heart without performing a full sternotomy, which requires opening the breastbone.

In December 2025, Fink and his medical team decided to proceed with surgery.

Successful Recovery and Return to Normal Life

Fink successfully underwent the RAM-T procedure in January 2026. He spent three days at The Valley Hospital before being discharged with medical instructions. During recovery, he remained in contact with Dr. Jabagi and his cardiologist.

Today, Fink has returned to his regular activities and reports feeling better than ever. He credits the hospital’s medical team for making his surgical experience comfortable and reassuring.

He says friends and acquaintances are surprised to learn that he underwent heart surgery, often commenting that he looks healthier than before.

Also Read :- You Don’t Need 10,000 Steps to Help Protect Your Heart