Introduction to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), an innovative, minimally invasive procedure designed to replace a diseased aortic valve in the heart. TAVR offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery, particularly for patients who are at high risk for surgical complications. Whether you are preparing for the procedure or seeking to understand more about it, our goal is to provide clear and detailed information.
What is TAVR?
TAVR is a procedure used to treat aortic valve stenosis, a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a new valve within the diseased valve using a catheter, which is guided through the blood vessels to the heart.
When is TAVR Needed?
- Severe Aortic Stenosis: When the aortic valve is significantly narrowed, causing symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, and fatigue.
- High Surgical Risk: Patients who are considered high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery due to age, frailty, or other medical conditions.
- Failed Surgical Valve: For patients who previously had a surgical valve replacement that has failed over time.
The Procedure
- Preparation: Patients undergo a thorough evaluation, including imaging tests such as echocardiograms, CT scans, and cardiac catheterization to assess the severity of the valve disease and determine the best approach for the procedure.
- Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation.
- Catheter Insertion: A catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin, chest, or another access point. The catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the heart.
- Valve Placement: A collapsible replacement valve is positioned within the diseased aortic valve. Once in place, the new valve is expanded, pushing the old valve aside and taking over its function.
- Completion: The catheter is removed, and the access site is closed. The new valve immediately begins working to regulate blood flow through the heart.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: TAVR is less invasive than traditional open-heart surgery, resulting in shorter recovery times and reduced hospital stays.
- Symptom Relief: Quickly alleviates symptoms of aortic stenosis, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
- Improved Quality of Life: Enhances overall health and quality of life, particularly in patients with severe symptoms.
- Option for High-Risk Patients: Provides a viable treatment option for patients who are not candidates for traditional surgery.
Risks
- Complications at Access Site: Potential for bleeding or infection at the catheter insertion site.
- Valve Malfunction: Rarely, the new valve may not function properly, requiring additional intervention.
- Stroke: Small risk of stroke due to dislodgement of calcified debris during the procedure.
- Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms may occur, sometimes necessitating a pacemaker.
Recovery
- Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days to a week for observation and recovery.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks.
- Follow-up Care: Regular check-ups with a cardiologist to monitor the function of the new valve and overall heart health.
- Medication: Patients may need to take medications to prevent blood clots and manage other conditions.
Conclusion
TAVR is a groundbreaking procedure offering a life-saving option for patients with severe aortic stenosis, especially those at high risk for traditional surgery. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way.