Dr. Albert Starr: Pioneer of Cardiovascular Medicine and Co-Inventor of the First Successful Artificial Heart Valve Dies at 98
Dr. Albert Starr, a trailblazer in cardiovascular medicine and co-inventor of the first successful artificial heart valve, passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 98. His death, caused by complications from recent surgery, marks the end of a monumental career that transformed heart surgery and saved countless lives worldwide.
A Legacy of Innovation and Dedication
Dr. Starr’s groundbreaking work began in the late 1950s when he partnered with retired engineer M. Lowell Edwards to develop what would become the Starr-Edwards valve. This pioneering device, first implanted in 1960, revolutionized treatment for patients with severe heart valve disease. By the time of his death, the valve had been used in more than 800,000 implants globally, setting the stage for modern cardiac surgery.
“Albert Starr embodied the highest qualities of a physician, an innovator, and a teacher,” said Steve Stadum, interim president of Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). “Through his commitment, he touched the lives of hundreds of thousands of patients and families over the years.”
Early Life and Education
Born on June 1, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, Starr’s path to medicine began with studies at Columbia University. After earning his medical degree in 1949 from Columbia’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, he served as a battalion surgeon during the Korean War. The hands-on experience at Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) units honed his surgical skills and cemented his interest in cardiovascular medicine.
In 1957, Starr joined the University of Oregon Medical School (now OHSU) to establish its first open-heart surgery program. His partnership with Edwards began shortly thereafter, culminating in the first successful mitral valve replacement in 1960.
Breakthroughs and Milestones
The Starr-Edwards valve’s success was just the beginning. In 1963, Starr performed the world’s first successful triple valve replacement. In 1985, he conducted Oregon’s first heart transplant, establishing the state’s premier heart transplantation program.
Beyond surgical achievements, Starr’s collaboration with Edwards Lifesciences advanced minimally invasive heart valve procedures. This work enabled quicker recovery times and greater accessibility to life-saving treatments, cementing his legacy as a forward-thinking innovator.
Teaching and Mentorship
Starr’s contributions extended beyond the operating room. He mentored generations of surgeons and inspired students by inviting them to observe heart surgeries. His passion for education led him to assume leadership roles at OHSU and the Providence Heart Institute, shaping the next wave of medical advancements.
Recognition and Honors
Dr. Starr’s work earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Lasker Award for Clinical Medical Research in 2007 and the Grand Prix Scientifique in 2015. These honors underscored the global impact of his innovations in cardiovascular medicine.
A Lasting Impact
“Dr. Starr transformed the approach to caring for cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Joaquin Cigarroa, director of the OHSU Knight Cardiovascular Institute. “The invention of the artificial heart valve increased both the quality and quantity of life for people around the world.”
Dr. Starr’s connection to Nike co-founder Phil Knight helped secure a $125 million philanthropic investment for the establishment of the OHSU Knight Cardiovascular Institute. His role as executive chairman of the institute underscored his enduring commitment to advancing cardiovascular research and care.
Remembering a Pioneer
Dr. Starr is survived by his wife Victoria, sons David and Dr. Philip Starr, and three grandchildren. His contributions to medicine will continue to resonate, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.
Private burial services will be held, with a memorial celebration planned at a later date. As the world remembers Dr. Albert Starr, his life’s work stands as a testament to the power of innovation and compassion in medicine.
References:
- Dr. Albert Starr, Oregon co-inventor of the first successful artificial heart valve, dies at 98 – Oregon live – (Accessed on Dec 21, 2024)
- OHSU remembers Albert Starr, M.D. – OHSU – (Accessed on Dec 21, 2024)
- Dr. Albert Starr, who developed the first artificial heart valve at OHSU, dies at 98 – KGW8 – (Accessed on Dec 21, 2024)
