Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure to replace the aortic valve in patients who have severe aortic valve stenosis. TAVR may be an option for any patient with severe aortic valve stenosis or patients with previously implanted bioprosthetic valves that are no longer functioning well.

How does the TAVR procedure help severe aortic valve stenosis?

Once referred, patients will be evaluated and their case will be reviewed by the TAVR multidisciplinary team, which will determine the best method of treatment. The TAVR procedure is done by a catheter with access through the groin; the doctor will replace the aortic valve that is not functioning properly with a new valve to improve the patient’s quality of life. Typically, the patient experiences less pain or discomfort through this procedure, as well as quicker recovery as opposed to the traditional open heart approach.

What are the causes and symptoms presented with severe aortic valve stenosis?

When the aortic valve becomes stenotic, the three leaflets become thickened, resulting in the leaflets having difficulty opening and closing. Once the leaflets become thickened, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, which affects a person’s health and regular activities.

Patients with severe aortic valve stenosis typically have fatigue, shortness of breath, lightheadedness and/or chest discomfort.

Causes of severe aortic stenosis are age, calcium buildup, radiation therapy, heart infection and a failing aortic surgical valve.

How will the TAVR procedure benefit me?

Because every patient is different, the benefits after a TAVR procedure may occur immediately or take time, but a patient’s quality of life may be improved. In particular, patients who have had the TAVR procedure often report:

• Increased energy
• Improved ability to perform everyday activities
• Reduced shortness of breath
• Less pain