Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve in patients with aortic stenosis, a condition where the aortic valve does not open properly and obstructs blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. TAVR is typically done in patients who are at high or intermediate risk for surgical aortic valve replacement and are not suitable for traditional open-heart surgery.

The procedure is typically performed by a team of interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in a catheterization laboratory or operating room. A small incision is made in the patient’s leg or chest, and a catheter is inserted through the incision and guided to the heart. The replacement valve, which is mounted on a balloon, is then guided through the catheter and positioned at the site of the narrowed aortic valve. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, and the new valve is deployed and takes the place of the narrowed valve.

TAVR has been shown to be a safe and effective alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement, with similar or improved outcomes in terms of survival and quality of life. The procedure has been shown to reduce the risk of death and complications, such as stroke, and to improve symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.

Good candidates for TAVR include patients with aortic stenosis who are not suitable for traditional open-heart surgery due to age, comorbidities, or other factors, and patients who are at high or intermediate risk for surgical aortic valve replacement.

Possible complications associated with TAVR include bleeding, infection, valve leakage, and blood clots.

After the procedure, patients are typically monitored in the hospital for several days, and they may need to take blood thinners and other medications to prevent complications. They may also need to follow up with their healthcare provider regularly to ensure that their new valve is functioning properly.

If you have questions, please see your doctor. 

References:

  1. https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2018/08/17/13/50/transcatheter-aortic-valve-replacement-tavr
  2. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-valve-problems-and-disease/treatments-for-heart-valve-problems-and-disease/transcatheter-aortic-valve-replacement-tavr
  3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/transcatheter-aortic-valve-replacement/about/pac-20384708
  4. https://www.medicinenet.com/transcatheter_aortic_valve_replacement/article.htm