Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat aortic valve stenosis, a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, obstructing blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.
During the TAVR procedure:
Preparation: The patient is typically given anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The medical team inserts a catheter into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or chest, and guides it to the heart.
Valve Placement: Once the catheter is positioned within the heart, a replacement valve is delivered to the site of the diseased aortic valve. This replacement valve is typically made of biological material (such as cow or pig tissue) or synthetic material and is compressed onto a balloon at the end of the catheter.
Expansion of the Valve: Once the replacement valve reaches the site of the diseased valve, the balloon is inflated, expanding the replacement valve and pushing the diseased valve leaflets out of the way. The new valve effectively takes over the function of the old valve, allowing for improved blood flow.
Monitoring and Recovery: Throughout the procedure, the medical team monitors the patient’s vital signs and heart function. After the valve is successfully implanted, the catheter is removed, and the incision site is typically closed with stitches or a closure device. The patient is then monitored closely during the recovery period.
TAVR is considered a less invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery for eligible patients, particularly those who are at higher risk or considered inoperable for surgical valve replacement. It often results in shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery times, and reduced risk of complications compared to open-heart surgery.