The Valley Hospital Performs First Hybrid Graft and Stent Implant to Repair Aortic Aneurysms and Aortic Ruptures
Paramus, NJ, October 1, 2025 – The Valley Hospital has successfully performed its first implant of ThoraflexTM Hybrid, manufactured by Terumo Aortic. The graft and stent hybrid is used to replace the diseased portion of the aorta in patients who have an aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection. The implant was performed by Habib Jabagi, MD, Director of the Aortic Aneurysm Program at The Valley Hospital.
An aortic aneurysm is a bulge of the aorta, the largest artery in the body, which carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. If the aorta tears or ruptures, an aortic dissection occurs, which can be fatal. When a patient has either of these conditions, Thoraflex Hybrid can be implanted, similar to a graft, to repair or replace the diseased aorta, specifically the aortic arch and proximal (nearby) descending aorta.
The Thoraflex Hybrid is designed with a self-expanding stent and polyester (known for the effectiveness of graft material) graft, allowing for a single and safe operation when compared to traditional two-part – consisting of repair followed by stenting – surgery.
Benefits of the Thoraflex Hybrid include reduced post-operation complications, such as bleeding and required transfusions. In some cases, this implant allows for dissections to be repaired in a single-stage procedure.
Use of Thoraflex Hybrid was approved in the United States in 2022. With only a small patient population eligible for this procedure, this was the first case of aortic dissection at The Valley Hospital where use was appropriate.
Having completed a fellowship in Advanced Aortic Open and Endovascular Aortic Surgery at the University of Michigan, Dr. Jabagi has performed many cases using the Thoraflex Hybrid – both during his prior training and in Canada since 2016, where the device was approved for use much earlier.
“I am excited that we are able to offer this advanced technology at Valley,” said Dr. Jabagi. “Thoraflex Hybrid allows us to perform a complex procedure in a single operation with improved safety and outcomes for patients. It’s a step forward in the care we can provide to those with aortic disease, and I’m proud to bring this level of innovation to our community.”
Those who participate in Valley’s Integrated Aortic Program – a diagnostic, surgical, and surveillance program for the comprehensive care of patients with an aortic aneurysm – may also be recommended for Thoraflex Hybrid.
To learn more about the management of aortic aneurysms and Valley’s Integrated Aortic Program, please visit ValleyHealth.com/IntegratedAorticProgram.
Photo caption: Thoraflex Hybrid graft. Photo courtesy of Terumo Aortic.