Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) Specialist

What is TAVR?

TAVR is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive surgical procedure to repair a weak or damaged aortic valve using a replacement valve. Your cardiologist performs the entire procedure with a catheter, and instead of removing your existing valve, they wedge the replacement into place. 

Why would I need TAVR?

The team at Healing Hearts Clinic recommends TAVR when you have symptomatic aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis occurs when your aortic valve narrows and no longer opens fully.

This reduces the blood flow from your heart to the rest of your body. When your condition is symptomatic, it means that the malfunctioning valve is causing symptoms that you experience in your body. 

The warning signs and symptoms of aortic stenosis include:

• Chest pain
• Heart murmur
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

Over time, aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure. If you have any signs of cardiovascular disease, schedule an appointment right away to find out what’s causing your symptoms and get the treatment you need. 

The team at Healing Hearts Clinic provides comprehensive testing to evaluate your cardiovascular health and diagnose your condition. They discuss your treatment options and answer your questions so you can make the best choice for your health. 

How does TAVR work?

TAVR is similar to a stent. Your cardiologist uses a catheterization procedure to place a collapsible replacement valve in your heart. When the new valve is in place, it pushes the weak or damaged valve leaflets out of the way and starts working, which allows your heart to pump your blood more efficiently. 

What happens during a TAVR procedure?

Unlike conventional valve-replacement procedures, a TAVR procedure doesn’t require your cardiologist to open your chest and sternum. Instead, they make a small incision in your groin or chest and feed a catheter through your blood vessels until it reaches your aortic valve. Then, using special surgical instruments, they fit the prosthetic valve into your heart.

TAVR is similar to having an angiogram, balloon angioplasty, or stent placement. Depending on your needs, you might only have a sedative to keep you in a twilight state during the procedure. Most patients spend 3-5 days recovering in the hospital and can return to their regular activities more quickly than if they had a traditional surgery.

If you have aortic stenosis or are looking for expert cardiology care, call Healing Hearts Clinic or make an appointment online today.