Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

What Is TAVR?

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat severe aortic valve stenosis, a condition in which the heart's aortic valve becomes stiff and narrowed. When this happens, the valve cannot open fully, making it harder for blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

TAVR is an alternative to traditional open-heart surgery and may be an option for many patients, including those considered low risk for surgery.

Symptoms of Aortic Valve Stenosis

People with aortic valve stenosis may experience:

• An abnormal heart murmur
• Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Fatigue or low energy
• An irregular heartbeat
• Dizziness or fainting

Because this condition often gets worse over time, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider when symptoms begin. Saint Alphonsus performs testing to determine whether TAVR is the right treatment option for each patient.

How the TAVR Procedure Works

In most cases, the procedure is performed through a large blood vessel in the leg. A doctor guides a catheter through the blood vessel and into the heart. The new valve is compressed onto a balloon and carefully positioned inside the damaged aortic valve.

Once the valve is in the correct position, the balloon is inflated. This expands the new valve and secures it in place. The balloon and catheter are then removed, leaving the new valve working inside the heart.

Recovery After TAVR

Because TAVR is minimally invasive, recovery is typically faster than with open-heart surgery. Most patients are able to go home the day after the procedure.

As patients recover, many experience:

• Less shortness of breath
• More energy
• Improved ability to perform daily activities
• Better overall quality of life

Benefits of TAVR

For eligible patients, TAVR offers several advantages:

• A less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery
• Shorter recovery times
• Reduced symptoms caused by aortic valve stenosis
• Improved blood flow throughout the body
• Better quality of life after treatment

TAVR is an advanced treatment option that can help restore normal blood flow and improve daily life for people living with severe aortic valve stenosis.

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