TAVR: A Less Invasive Option for Treating Severe Aortic Stenosis

When the aortic valve becomes narrowed or calcified, the heart must work harder to pump blood to the body. This condition is called aortic stenosis. It is one of the most serious and common heart valve problems, and when symptoms become severe, valve replacement is often needed.

For some patients, a less invasive treatment option is TAVR, which stands for transcatheter aortic valve replacement. TAVR replaces the damaged aortic valve by guiding a new valve to the heart through a catheter, usually through a blood vessel in the groin, rather than through traditional open-heart surgery.

What is TAVR?

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat severe aortic stenosis, a condition in which the leaflets of aortic valve become calcified, or stenotic, and the valve does not open the way it should. During the procedure, a replacement valve is placed inside the diseased valve. Once expanded, the new valve takes over the job of regulating blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

Signs and symptoms of aortic stenosis

Aortic stenosis can reduce blood flow and place extra strain on the heart. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, dizziness, or fainting. Some people may not notice symptoms until the condition becomes more advanced.

Who may be a candidate for TAVR?

TAVR may be an option for patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis. Cardiology Associates structural team collaborates and evaluates each patient carefully to determine whether TAVR, surgical valve replacement, or another treatment is the best choice. That evaluation will include imaging, testing, and a review of the patient’s overall health, symptoms, and treatment goals.

Benefits of a less invasive approach

Because TAVR is less invasive than traditional surgery, many patients may benefit from smaller incisions, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery. For appropriate patients, TAVR can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

What happens during the procedure?

During TAVR, the interventional cardiologist guides a catheter through a blood vessel to the heart and positions the new valve inside the diseased aortic valve. The replacement valve is then expanded, pushing the old valve leaflets aside and allowing blood to move more normally through the heart.

What to expect after TAVR

After the procedure, patients are monitored closely by their structural heart care team. Recovery instructions vary, some patients can go home the same day, others may need an overnight stay.  Follow-up visits are important to make sure the new valve is working properly and healing is progressing as expected. Patients will be given information about activity, medications, and ongoing care before going home.

Expert heart valve care close to home

The structural heart team at Cardiology Associates provides evaluation and treatment for patients with advanced valve disease, including severe aortic stenosis. We work closely with patients and families to determine the right treatment plan and offer experienced, comprehensive heart care close to home.

Cardiology Associates was the first to perform TAVR in Mobile Alabama in 2011, soon after the procedure received FDA approval.  Our team includes the most experienced structural heart specialists in on the Gulf Coast, helping patients access advanced treatment options in the communities we serve.

When to talk with a cardiologist ‍ ‍

If you have been told you have aortic stenosis or are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest discomfort, fatigue, or fainting, it is important to seek evaluation. Early diagnosis and expert assessment can help determine whether TAVR or another treatment may be right for you.

To learn more or request an appointment , call 251-340-6852 or visit https://www.cardassoc.com/structural-heart