A new cardiology intervention has been introduced at Mater Dei Hospital, with the insertion of a clip to correct mitral heart valve issues, Health Minister Chris Fearne said.

Two such operations have been held so far, and another two are planned for later this month, Fearne said when visiting the medical team, led by cardiologist Robert Xuereb.

Each intervention costs around €70,000, with each clip costing €25,000.

One of the patients who underwent this type of surgery, Joseph Farrugia, said that his life has changed since the intervention. “I used to stop three times while climbing up the stairs, now I do it in one go,” he said.