http://www.or-live.com/McLeodHealth/1782 Dr. Jamie Holland, a cardiothoracic surgeon with McLeod Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgical Associates performed a mitral valve replacement procedure for rheumatic mitral stenosis during the fifth surgical webcast at McLeod Health. Dr. Holland performed the mitral valve replacement procedure in the McLeod OR of Tomorrow. The webcast, moderated by Diane DeVaugh-Stokes a local TV personality, showcases this delicate procedure, along with highlights of the cardiac surgical collaboration between McLeod Health and Cleveland Clinic. Known for world-class heart care, the Ohio-based Cleveland Clinic has been rated #1 in heart care by U.S. News and World Report since 1995. "Through this collaboration, the cardiothoracic surgeons of McLeod and Cleveland Clinic share knowledge, skills and best practices to continue to provide optimal treatments and therapies to patients as well as to accelerate mutual advancements in cardiac surgery," said Rob Colones, McLeod Health President and CEO. "The affiliation between McLeod Heart and Vascular Institute and Cleveland Clinic Heart Surgery program allows us to share clinical policies, treatment protocols and research opportunities." "The purpose of this affiliation is patient focused," said Dr. Bruce W. Lytle, Chairman of Cleveland Clinic's Heart and Vascular Institute. "We have twelve cardiac surgeons on staff at Cleveland Clinic. The cardiac surgeons at McLeod are now part of that group and interact with our physicians in matters specific to patient care. "We chose McLeod for this affiliation because of their commitment to quality and continuous clinical improvements," added Dr. Lytle. The surgery will be archived for an entire year. Mitral Valve Repair and Replacement The mitral valve is the inflow valve for the left side of the heart. With a healthy mitral valve, blood flows from the lungs, where it picks up oxygen, and continues into the heart through the mitral valve. When th...