Pioneering French Cardiologist, Inventor of TAVI techique, Dr Alain Cribier no more

New Delhi: Pioneering French interventional cardiologist, Dr Alain Cribier, credited with performing the world's first transcatheter aortic valve implantation in 2002 has reportedly died at the age of 79 years.

His death was confirmed on X, formerly known as Twitter by President EAPCI (European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions), who wrote " The #EAPCI community mourns the sudden loss of Alain Cribier, a pioneering #IC known for numerous 'firsts' including the first-in-man #TAVI on April 16, 2002. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends + colleagues. His wisdom, expertise and guidance will be greatly missed."

Cribier’s medical training started at the University of Paris and it was here that he decided to specialise in cardiology. From an early stage in his career, Alain was drawn towards cardiology and cardiac surgery, significantly influenced by leading figures at Hopital Broussais, Hopital Saint Antoine, and Hôpital Tenon. Between 1962 and 1968, he dedicated much of his time at Hôpital Broussais working as an 'instrumentist' for Professor Charles Dubost and his cardiac surgery team. Then, from 1969 to 1971, he was at Hôpital Tenon, where he gained initial exposure to cardiac catheterization and Intensive Care Units (ICUs), mentored by Professor Chiche during the pioneering days of left heart catheterization.

After earning his certification in Cardiology, along with a diploma in law and health economics, Alain chose to complete his residency at Charles Nicolle University Hospital in Rouen, France. There, he joined the Department of Cardiology, led by Professor Brice Letac. Thereafter he rose up in his career in cardiology, while also making several groundbreaking contributions to the field.

Since 2013, Alain Cribier was overseeing the Medical Training Center (MTC) in Rouen. This center focuses on medical education and training of doctors through various methods such as simulation, video conferences, and interactive training sessions involving surgeons, physicians, and specialists.