Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that inserts a replacement valve into a damaged one through a catheter without the need to put the patient on a heart-lung bypass machine. The procedure helps to regulate blood flow, reducing unpleasant symptoms.

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Who Is A Candidate?

Currently TAVR/TAVI is for people for whom open heart surgery would be too dangerous, usually people in their 70s or 80s with other medical problems.

What Happens During Surgery?

Surgeons guide a deflated balloon with a collapsible replacement valve around it through a catheter via a large artery in the groin or chest. When it gets to the damaged valve, the balloon is inflated, securing the new valve over the old valve. The balloon and catheter are then removed.

What Are The Risks?

Patients who receive TAVR/ TAVI face a greater risk of stroke, major vascular complications, bleeding and death following the procedure. Although rare, patients may experience kidney failure or need a pacemaker.

To learn more, please call 833-271-0338.

SOURCES: AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CARDIOLOGY; AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION; NATIONAL HEART, LUNG, AND BLOOD INSTITUTE; THE SOCIETY FOR CARDIOVASCULAR ANGIOGRAPHY AND INTERVENTIONS