What is TAVR?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement or TAVR is a less invasive catheter-based valve replacement procedure for patients with severe stenosis (narrowing) of the aortic valve. Severity of aortic valve disease is determined in part by an ultrasound (echo) of the heart. TAVR may be an option for patients who are deemed to be at elevated risk from a traditional open-heart surgery. A team of highly specialized physicians helps determine patient eligibility.
What are the benefits of TAVR?
TAVR has been proven in large medical trials to provide patients with a shorter recovery both in and out of the hospital, less pain, and in most circumstances less side effects, and improved longevity when compared to open-heart surgery. Aortic stenosis, if left untreated, is a lethal disease. TAVR is one option you and your doctor can discuss for treatment of aortic stenosis.
How does it work?
During the TAVR procedure, a team of physicians uses catheter or tube based system, typically inserted through a large artery in groin, and treaded up the blood vessels, guided by ultrasound and x-ray. Once in position, the dysfunctional, narrowed valve is crushed using a stented valve mounted on a balloon. The heart remains beating, and the chest remains closed during the procedure. Your TAVR team will explain the procedure, including the risks and benefits in detail when you meet with them in consultation. The average length of stay from TAVR in the hospital is 2-3 nights, less than half when compared to the average stay of open heart surgery. Most patient return to their usual activities within 1-2 weeks.
What Valves are offered?
McKay-Dee’s TAVR team currently uses the Edwards Lifesciences Sapien S3 balloon expandable transcatheter heart valve, one of two FDA approved TAVR valves. More details of this valve can be found in the resource section below.
How do I find out more about TAVR?
Please call McKay-Dee Cardiology at 801-387-3400.
Resources:
NewHeartValve.com
www.newheartvalve.com
Edwards Lifesciences Animated Procedure Video
https://edwardslifesciences.box.com/s/r08owz7v97ibfdyg6xqkuy5pdjpypma0
CardioSmart.org
https://www.cardiosmart.org/Heart-Conditions/Aortic-Valve-Stenosis