Introduction

Dr. Albert Starr, an iconic figure in the world of cardiovascular medicine and co-inventor of the first successful artificial heart valve, passed away on December 11 at the age of 98. His groundbreaking work not only revolutionized cardiac surgery but also saved countless lives globally, thanks to the development of the Starr-Edwards valve.

Tributes and Acknowledgments

Starr's family reported that he died due to complications following a recent surgical procedure. His contributions to medicine were celebrated by many, including Steve Stadum, interim president of Oregon Health and Science University, who praised Starr as “the embodiment of a physician, innovator, and teacher.” He added that even after achieving monumental success, Starr continued to seek ways to improve heart care through collaborations with scientists and engineers across the world.

The Starr-Edwards Valve

The Starr-Edwards valve has been implanted over 800,000 times worldwide, a testament to its life-saving ability. Starr was recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Lasker Award in 2007 and the Grand Prix Scientifique in 2015. His legacy includes performing Oregon's first heart transplant in 1985, further elevating cardiac care standards at both OHSU and Providence Health.

Advancements in Cardiac Surgery

Reflecting on the advancements in heart surgery since Starr's early work in the late 1950s, Joseph Goldstein, chairman of the Lasker Award selection committee, noted, “Fifty years ago, heart-valve replacement surgery did not exist. Today, it stands as the second-most common cardiac surgery in the United States.”

A Lifelong Commitment to Medicine

Dr. Starr’s remarkable career spanned six decades, during which he remained engaged in research and education as a professor emeritus at the OHSU Knight Cardiovascular Institute until his passing. Dr. Joaquin Cigarroa, director of the institute, underscored the profound impact of Starr’s work, stating that his invention of the artificial heart valve significantly enhanced the quality and longevity of life for patients worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 1, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, Starr studied liberal arts at Columbia College while working as a jazz pianist. He graduated from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1949. After serving as a battalion surgeon during the Korean War, Starr returned to complete his thoracic surgery residency.

Pioneering Work in Heart Surgery

His groundbreaking journey in open-heart surgery began when he was recruited by the University of Oregon Medical School in 1957, where he initiated the state’s first open-heart program. His collaboration with retired engineer M. Lowell Edwards led to the development of the Starr-Edwards valve in 1960, the same year they achieved the world’s first successful artificial heart valve replacement.

Legacy and Survivors

Dr. Starr is survived by his wife, Victoria; sons, David and Dr. Philip Starr; and three grandchildren. A celebration of his remarkable life and contributions to medicine is planned for a future date. As we reflect on his legacy, it’s clear that Dr. Albert Starr has left an indelible mark on the medical community and countless lives around the globe.